The holiday season is a magical time, and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is inviting visitors to experience the joy of the season through the University of Michigan Health–West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions Exhibition. Running from November 27, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this event is a cornerstone of Michigan’s tourism calendar, drawing visitors from across the nation to celebrate diverse cultural traditions and the debut of the ENLIGHTEN Experience.

A Premier Holiday Destination in West Michigan

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, a renowned cultural attraction in Grand Rapids, Michigan, transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season. Visitors are greeted by more than 40 decorated trees and cultural displays representing traditions from around the world. This year, the gardens unveil ENLIGHTEN, an immersive evening event featuring breathtaking light displays, interactive exhibits, and music, enhancing the appeal for visitors seeking unique holiday experiences.

Highlights of the Christmas & Holiday Traditions Exhibition:

• Cultural Celebrations: Experience the traditions, stories, and festive decorations of countries from every continent, making it a truly global event.
• Seasonal Horticulture: The gardens are adorned with fresh poinsettias, evergreens, and amaryllis, creating an enchanting botanical holiday experience.
• Railway Garden: A favorite attraction, featuring handcrafted replicas of 40 West Michigan landmarks alongside miniature trains looping through three indoor gardens, including the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse.

This annual event positions Grand Rapids as a must-visit destination for holiday enthusiasts, offering a blend of culture, nature, and family-friendly activities.

Introducing ENLIGHTEN: A New Evening Experience

This year, Frederik Meijer Gardens debuts ENLIGHTEN, a one-mile illuminated pathway that blends art, light, and nature. Running during evening hours from November 27, 2024, to January 4, 2025, ENLIGHTEN promises a memorable experience with:

• Stunning light installations that transform the gardens into an illuminated wonderland.
• Interactive displays for visitors of all ages.
• World-renowned sculptures integrated into the light and sound displays.

This new attraction is expected to draw significant tourism interest, particularly among families and couples seeking magical evening experiences.

Special Holiday Programs and Cultural Events

Frederik Meijer Gardens enhances its holiday offerings with unique programs that spotlight diverse traditions and family-friendly fun. These activities provide visitors with additional reasons to explore Grand Rapids during the holiday season:

Family-Friendly Activities

• Santa Visits: Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in a beautifully lit setting near the Welcome Center.
  Tuesdays (Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, and 17) | 5–8 PM
• The Original Dickens Carolers: Enjoy roaming carolers singing classic holiday tunes.
  Saturdays (Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, and 21) | 1–4 PM
• Rooftop Reindeer: A chance to meet and interact with reindeer at Michigan’s Farm Garden.
  Saturdays (Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, and 21) | 1–4 PM

Cultural Celebrations

Frederik Meijer Gardens collaborates with local organizations to highlight international traditions:

• Ghanaian Holiday Traditions – Dec. 1, 2–3 PM
• Mexican Holiday Traditions – Dec. 8, 2–3 PM
• Ukrainian Holiday Traditions – Dec. 15, 2–3 PM

These events showcase the diverse cultural heritage of West Michigan and strengthen Grand Rapids’ reputation as a hub for cultural tourism.

Supporting Local Tourism and Community Partnerships

Frederik Meijer Gardens’ holiday programming is a cornerstone of Grand Rapids’ tourism appeal during the winter months. The event is supported by the University of Michigan Health–West, The Meijer Foundation, and other prominent organizations, underscoring its importance to the local economy. Volunteers also play a critical role, dedicating hundreds of hours to create the stunning displays that visitors enjoy.

About Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is not just a local treasure but a nationally recognized destination. Named the Best Sculpture Park in the U.S. by USA Today and ranked as one of the most-visited art museums in the world, it draws thousands of tourists annually. Highlights include:

• Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory.
• The 8-acre Japanese garden, combining traditional design with contemporary sculpture.
• A 1,900-seat amphitheater that hosts world-class performances each summer.
• Iconic sculptures from global artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Ai Weiwei, and Alexander Calder.

The gardens also welcome more than 80,000 students and guests for educational programs each year, further enriching the visitor experience.

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