Holland Michigan

Brighten your holidays with a visit to Downtown Holland during this fun-filled time of year. The city comes alive with dozens of events reminiscent of the joyful holidays of yesteryear.

ANNUAL DATES
November 22-December 13, 2008

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE – Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008
Walk in the glow of 1,500 luminaries lining the sidewalks of downtown Holland. You’ll enjoy carolers, roasting chestnuts, and one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, and eateries.

PARADE OF LIGHTS – Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008
Santa arrives escorted by bands, floats and individuals decked out in holiday lights. The parade begins at Eighth & College and ends at the Eighth Street Market Place where children will be greeted by Santa.

SINTERKLAAS EVE – Friday, Dec. 5, 2008
Just like in towns across the Netherlands, you’ll find Sinterklaas in tall mitre hat and long robes arriving on his white horse. Frolicking alongside will be the elfin Zwarte Piet helpers and their mischievous antics. The progression begins at the Holland Area Arts council with a brief appearance by Sinterklaas, and ends at the Eighth Street Market Place where Sinterklaas will greet children of all ages.

SANTA’S HOUSE – Enjoy a favorite holiday tradition with Santa in his Downtown Holland home on Eighth Street. View a list of Santa’s house open dates & hours.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Stroll the heated sidewalks of Downtown Holland to find the perfect holiday gifts from our unique shops and galleries. You can also venture to the specialty shops at Dutch Village and DeKlomp Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory. There you’ll enjoy a wide assortment of imported items including Delftware, Dutch lace, wooden shoes, ornaments, and hand-carved candles.

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT Delight in musical reviews, concerts, and a holiday play. Each is performed by a local arts group, including the Holland Civic Theatre children’s troupe, the Holland Chorale, and the Holland Symphony Orchestra.

HOLIDAY EXHIBITS Don’t miss the special holiday exhibits at the Holland Museum and Holland Area Arts Council. And experience an 1860’s Christmas, complete with holiday decorations, in two very different homes—the Victorian Cappon House and the simple home of a working-class family, the Settler’s House.

SPECIAL SERVICES Surprise your group with a visit from Sinterklaas, the Dutch St. Nicholas, and his mischievous Zwarte Piet helpers, bringing treats for all. Dutch-costumed step-on guides are also available to share Holland’s rich history and Dutch holiday traditions.