Copyright M Live Michigan
HOLLAND, MI -- The best part of snuggling up with a Hallmark Christmas movie is escaping into a snow globe fantasy set in a quaint downtown, streets bustling with holiday shoppers. But what if it didn’t have to be all fantasy? Holland is leaning into its own small town charm and bringing Christmas magic from the screen to the streets. There’s just something special about the beach town during the holidays when tourists trade sunscreen for snow gloves and the whole downtown is glowing with lights. “I’ve heard time and time again that it’s like a town from a Hallmark movie and I couldn’t agree more,” Downtown Holland marketing coordinator Kara de Alvare said. This month Holland’s new ice rink opens up to the public for its first skaters and curlers. Meanwhile downtown’s heated sidewalks will be packed with early shopping deals. Both events kick off the holiday season 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14. The festivities carry on all month and for all ages. Check out a kids’ color contest perfect for snow days or take a Small Business Saturday selfie for a chance at $100 gift card. Once the calendar flips to December, Tulip Time’s new Dutch Winterfest begins weaving holiday cheer with downtown events and Windmill Island magic. Mark your calendars for these Holland events: Shop ‘Til You Drop: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14. The annual late-night shopping spree promises discounts up to 30% off. Holiday Open House: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22. Pose for a photograph with Santa and his favorite elf, pet a reindeer and even try a freshly roasted chestnut. Parade of Lights: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2. Downtown’s annual holiday procession always promises lights, characters and candy. Sinterklaas Shuffle: Friday, Dec. 5 - Saturday, Dec. 6. Pick up a lantern and passport downtown to explore five festive stops including the Sinterklaas’s Lodge, Ozosnel’s Stable. Magic at the Mill: Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 5-20. See thousands of illuminated LED tulips create a magical effect at the mill. Breakfast with Sinterklaas: Saturday, Dec. 6. Enjoy traditional Dutch treats and storytelling with Sinterklaas. Strolling Santa: 1-4 p.m. Saturdays, December 6, 13 & 20. The word from the North Pole is you can find Santa popping into his favorite downtown spots leading up to Christmas. Shopping Jam: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. Early birds get the deals. Participating retailers will start with 30% discounts at 8 a.m. and work their way down to 20% by 11 a.m.
