Winter Festivities Along The Art Coast® of Michigan

Situated along Lake Michigan, the coastal towns of Saugatuck and Douglas—collectively known as The Art Coast of Michigan—offer a winter escape filled with enchanting activities and quiet beauty. Here, forested dunes and scenic shorelines meet charming downtowns lined with LGBTQ-friendly galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, creating the perfect setting for art lovers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone craving a serene seasonal getaway.

Winter in Saugatuck/Douglas shines bright with community traditions, festive gatherings, and cozy moments that bring people together. The season kicks off on November 28 with Saugatuck’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Wicks Park, followed by Douglas’s Light Night ceremony the next evening in Beery Field. Sweeten your weekend on November 29 with the Saugatuck Douglas Holiday Cookie Tour, where charming inns open their doors for visitors to sample seasonal treats, admire dazzling décor, and vote for their favorites.

December brings a joyful lineup of events that capture the holiday spirit of the Art Coast. On December 6, the whimsical Saugatuck Whootville Christmas Parade fills downtown with laughter, color, and community cheer. Afterward, families can head to the nearby Felt Estate for Winterfest, a free afternoon of music from carolers, Santa visits, horse-drawn wagon rides, and children’s activities. That same day, the Saugatuck Center for the Arts hosts its Outdoor Holiday Market, featuring art, décor, and gifts—perfect for checking off your holiday list while supporting local artisans.

Holiday magic continues throughout the month at the historic Felt Estate, decked out in more than 20 Christmas trees and 5,000 twinkling lights for its annual holiday events, including special themed Candlelight Tours, Tea & Tours, and Coffee & Cocoa Tours. And for those looking to toast the season with friends, the Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl on December 6 offers festive fun for a cause—benefiting local families in need. Cap off your stay with a stroll through our light-filled downtowns or a drive through the illuminated mile-long Drive-Through Light Show at Crane Orchards, open Wednesday through Sunday evenings from November 28 to December 28. For more details on these events, please visit: https://www.saugatuck.com/explore/seasonal/winter/