Whether you have a free Saturday morning or a full weekend of festivities to plan – if you’re looking for fun things to do with your kids in Metro Detroit this weekend, LittleGuide Detroit has you covered! From FREE museum admission to Santa and holiday shows  – there’s lots to do this weekend.

ALL WEEKEND

WILD LIGHTS

November 16 – January 5

@ Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak

Experience the magic of the Detroit Zoo in winter as you take in the lights and the sights and enjoy holiday entertainment and special activities for guests of all ages.

WAYNE COUNTY LIGHT FEST

November 21 – December 31

@ Merriman Hollow Park, Westland

The Wayne County Lightfest is a holiday tradition for families all over the Metro Detroit area! The Lightfest offers five miles of colorful displays! Don’t forget to stop at the Santa’s Shelter for refreshments and photos with Santa at the end of the Lightfest, which is Warrendale Park.

SANTA’S ROCKIN’ LIGHTS

November 22 – December 31

@ Red Oaks Waterpark, Madison Heights

Santa’s Rock n Lights is a drive thru Christmas light show experience. This is a totally new tradition in which the lights are animated to Christmas music instead of just your traditional still displays. We invite you to load up family and friends to watch the action of lights dancing to music all from the warmth of your car!

HOLIDAY WALK: FINAL WEEKEND

December 20 – December 23

@ Meadowbrook Hall & Gardens, Rochester

You can almost taste the magic in the air as the holiday season reaches its zenith. But before it does, there is one final weekend of holiday joy at Meadow Brook Hall featuring special experiences for the young and the young at heart.

DROP-IN WORKSHOP: CARDS AND ENVELOPES

December 20 – December 22

@ Detroit Institute Of Arts, Detroit

Explore creative possibilities with paper as you learn to make your own envelopes, and cards.

BLAKE’S FAMILY HOLIDAY: U-PICK TREES

December 20 – December 22

@ Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, Armada

Find your Christmas Tree at Blake’s! Enjoy our Apple Barn Holiday Market featuring warm donuts, peppermint hot chocolate, holiday gifts, wreaths, Christmas decor, bonfires, craft beer, hard cider, and much more!

SANTA’S MAGIC FOREST

December 20 – December 22

@ Heritage Park, Taylor

This magical winter wonderland includes hundreds of animated characters, dozens of Christmas scenes and beautiful holiday light displays. Visitors have an opportunity to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

CHRISTMAS AT CROSSROADS HOLIDAY MAGIC 

December  20 – December 22

@ Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, Flint

One of Mid Michigan’s favorite holiday traditions. You’ll find costumed villagers, live entertainment, model trains and craft demonstrations, holiday music and, of course, visits with Santa himself.

ROBOLIGHTS

December 20 – December 22

@ Museum Of Contemporary Art, Detroit

In Robolights Detroit, visitors are invited to wander along pathways inside of a dazzling carnival filled with sculptures of towering robots, dinosaurs, alien spacecraft, and fantastical creatures from the future, all painted in a wondrous array of vivid colors and wrapped up in thousands of lights.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

December 20 – December 22

@ Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Detroit

Share Detroit’s favorite holiday musical tradition with family and friends and thrill to the spectacle of the season.

FANTASYLAND

December 20 – December 22

@ Fantasyland, Lincoln Park

See what it’s like up at the North Pole, where Santa’s elves are busy building, repairing, polishing, baking, tending reindeer, and all of the other chores that go into making Christmas happen.

COOKIES WITH MRS. CLAUS

December 20 – December 22

@ Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, Armada

Join Mrs. Claus this holiday season for some delicious hot chocolate and cookies! Children will be able to decorate 6 holiday cookies, listen to a story read by Mrs. Claus herself and endless photo opportunities.

THE NUTCRACKER – MACOMB BALLET COMPANY

December 20 – December 22

@ Macomb Center For The Performing Arts, Clinton Township

The Nutcracker will entertain and delight audiences of all ages from the moment they get caught up in the party scene to the final waltz with all the cast members. There is a cast “Meet and Greet” following all five shows.

HERITAGE HOLIDAYS

December 20 – December 21

@ Wolcott Mill Metropark, Ray

Create a new family tradition! Stroll through the park and enjoy the holiday decorations and spectacular lights, visit with Santa in the mill and make crafts in our heated holiday tent.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE

December 20 – December 21

@ Redford Theatre, Detroit

Don’t miss Frank Capra’s holiday fable about a man at the end of his rope (James Stewart) who discovers from a guardian angel what his town would be like if he was never born.

FRIDAY

PRESCHOOL YOGA STORYTIME

Friday, December 20 / 10:30am – 12:00pm

@  Detroit Public Library Main Branch, Detroit

Learn some relaxing yoga stretches then listen to some stories with Andrew Simmons.

TROY GYMNASTICS PRE-K OPEN GYM

Friday, December 20  / 12:00pm – 4:00pm / 4:30pm – 7:30pm

@ Troy Gymnastics Center, Troy

Kids 12 months through 5 years are invited to come tumble around for a few hours.  If it’s your first time going, it’s absolutely free!

DETROIT CITY CHESS CLUB OPEN PLAY

Friday, December 20  / 4:00pm – 8:00pm

@ Detroit Institute Of Arts, Detroit

Join the Detroit City Chess Club in their regular Friday meet-ups in Prentis Court. Watch as these young players hone their craft or even sit down to test your own skills.

HOLIDAY DROP-N-SHOP

Friday, December 20 / 5:30pm – 8:30pm

@ Community House, Birmingham

Bring your little elf to The Dance Academy for a special day filled with dance, games and crafts while you finish your holiday shopping!  A ton of fun for everyone!.

TROY GYMNASTICS “REC” OPEN GYM

Friday, December 20 / 6:00pm – 7:30pm

@ Troy Gymnastics, Troy

Kids 5 years through 23 years are invited to come tumble around for a few hours. If it’s your first time going, it’s absolutely free!

FUNTASTIC NIGHT

Friday, December 20 / 6:00pm – 7:30pm

@  Northville Community Center, Northville

Parents, drop your kids off and finish up your holiday shopping while the kids enjoy a night of cookies, hot chocolate, a classic holiday movie, making crafts and writing letters to the North Pole. You never know who may stop by and visit…a guest appearance by Santa!

MINECRAFT NIGHT

Friday, December 20 / 6:00pm – 8:30pm

@ The Robot Garage, Rochester Hills

Come hang out and play Minecraft on our custom server! There will be both survival and creative areas to enjoy either individual play or with friends. Play at your own level and explore all the aspects of a multi-player MineCraft experience within the safe, controlled environment of The Robot Garage. For Grades 1-9.

KIDS NIGHT OUT AGES 5-12

Friday, December 20 / 6:00pm – 10:00pm

@ Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center, Livonia

Parents, enjoy a night to yourselves while we provide food and entertainment for your children. Every third Friday of the month your kids can have fun in the leisure pool, rock climbing wall, playing games, watching a movie, and munching on pizza and pop.

SATURDAY

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Saturday, December 21 / 9:00am – 11:00am

@ Four Towns United Methodist Church, Waterford

The event will include a pancake breakfast, meet and greet with Santa with photo op, and some fun Christmas crafts and activities!

PRE-BALLET DROP-IN

Saturday, December 21 / 9:45am – 10:45am

@ Lil Dumplins, Detroit

3.5 – 5 year old’s “Pre-Ballet” class introduces basic vocabulary, positions, concepts and rhythms of ballet.

KID’S FALL COOKING CLASSES

Saturday, December 21 / 10:00am – 11:30am

@ Eastern Market Shed 5, Detroit

We have classes for kids, at beginner & intermediate levels.  Reserve your tickets early as classes fill up quickly. Each class will be a different theme! Recommended ages 8-12.

THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CRITTER STYLE

Saturday, December 21 / 10:00am – 2:00pm

@ Lake Erie Marshlands Museum, Brownstown

Take a light-hearted look at the 12 Days of Christmas with an animal twist. Enjoy cocoa and cookies during the program too. Please preregister.

OPEN GYM

Saturday, December 21 / 10:00am – 2:00pm

@ Ganbaru Detroit Ninja Gym, Detroit

Every Saturday adults and kids alike can learn how to leap, jump, and fly through our obstacle course and training apparatus.

CLARA AND THE NUTCRACKER’S WINTER CAMP

Saturday, December 21  / 10:00am – 2:00pm

@ Community House, Birmingham

A special Nutcracker camp for your little snowflakes and the perfect opportunity for dancers still a little too young to perform in our Nutcracker production! For ages 5 +

MAKE SOMETHING: SATURDAYS

Saturday, December 21 / 10:00am – 4:00pm

@ Henry Ford Museum, Dearborn

Motivate your kids to be the next great inventors or entrepreneurs with stories of past and present-day changemakers at this weekly program in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Explore the innovations — big and small — that make the world what it is today, and learn by doing with hands-on, minds-on activities designed for youth ages 8-12.

SATURDAY STORYTIME: ITS GRINCH DAY!

Saturday, December 21 / 10:30am – 11:15am

@ Waterford Township Public Library, Waterford

It’s Grinch Day!  Wear green.  Hear the classic story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss.  Decorate an ornament to keep.  Play Pin the Heart on the Grinch and Grinch Heart Hunt games.  Enjoy a Grinchy treat and juice.  Stay for the movie in the afternoon!

ENGLISH-ARABIC STORYTIME

Saturday, December 21 / 10:30am – 11:30am

@ Arab American National Museum, Dearborn

Children ages 2-6 and their parents are invited to attend storytime in the Library at AANM. A storyteller will read picture books in both English and Arabic, teaching a few Arabic words and phrases. Following the story, there will be time for free play, crafts or games in the library.

FREE ADMISSION SATURDAYS

Saturday, December 21 / 10:00am – 5:00pm

@ Flint Institute Of Arts, Flint

Huntington celebrates the Flint Institute of Arts by providing everyone access free of charge every Saturday.

YOUNG EXPLORERS

Saturday, December 21 / 11:00am -12:00pm

@ Michigan Science Center, Detroit

The Young Explorers program, for children ages 2 – 5 and their caregivers, is held alternating Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11 AM with stories, science-themed activities and socialization time.

NATURE HOLIDAY CRAFTS

Saturday, December 21 / 11:00am – 1:00pm

@ DNR Outdoor Adventure Center, Detroit

Drop in and make paper snowflakes and ornaments using natural materials. Take your creations home to decorate just in time for the holidays! All ages welcome. While supplies last.

HEILMANN HOLIDAY BREAKFAST

Saturday, December 21 / 11:00am – 1:00pm

@ Heilmann Recreation Center, Detroit

Children 12 and under are invited to a holiday celebration at Heilmann.

DROP-IN TUMBLING & NINJA DROP-IN

Saturday, December 21 / 1:00pm – 2:00pm

@ Troy Gymnastics, Troy

Every Saturday Troy Gymnastics offers Drop-In tumbling for ages 5 years and up. Participants do not need to be enrolled in a tumbling class to participate.

BITTERSWEET WREATHS

Saturday, December 21 / 1:00pm – 3:00pm

@ Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center, New Boston

Join us as we turn an invasive plant into a beautiful decorative wreath to hang on your door just in time for the holidays.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN

Saturday, December 21 / 1:00pm – 6:00pm

@ Trenton Cultural Center, Trenton

Santa will be visiting the Trenton Cultural Center! Bring your camera and while you’re there, make sure to play the Christmas Scavenger Hunt!

DROP-IN WINTER CRAFTS FOR KIDS: MAKE AN ADORABLE DOILY SNOWMAN

Saturday, December 21 / 2:00pm – 3:00pm

@ Northville District Library, Northville

Kids of all ages get creative building a snowman from paper doilies. No registration required, just drop in!

FAMILY MOVIE: THE GRINCH

Saturday, December 21 / 2:00pm – 3:30pm

@ Waterford Township Library, Waterford

Dr. Seuss’ classic children’s book returns to the screen in a new animated feature.  Feel free to bring pillows, blankets, drinks, and snacks.  No peanuts, please.  We’ll provide the “green” popcorn.  Children’s under 9 need to be accompanied by an adult.

SANTA SKATE

Saturday, December 21 / 2:00pm – 4:00pm

@ Campus Martius Ice Rink, Detroit

Put on your festive attire and spend the afternoon skating with Santa in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Standard admission rates apply.

CHOW TIME AT THE FARM

Saturday, December 21 / 3:00pm

@ Kensington Metropark Farm Center, Milford

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why.

ONCE UPON A PRINCESS CHRISTMAS

Saturday, December 21 / 4:00pm – 6:00pm

@ Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, Armada

Come out to the orchard for an exclusive dance and sing along with the princesses. This event will feature princess karaoke and dancing, story time, gifts, and crafts as well as endless photo opportunities.

HOLIDAY EXPRESS

Saturday, December 21 / 4:30pm – 7:30pm

@ Joy Park, Clinton Township

Clinton Township Parks and Recreation and the Michigan Transit Museum recreate the magical Holiday Express train ride for children of all ages.  The Polar Express story will be read as the train begins its journey, while families feast on hot chocolate & cookies, sing carols and more!

HOOPER’S HOLIDAY PARTY

Saturday, December 21 / 4:30pm – 10:00pm

@ Little Caesars Arena, Detroit

Join Hooper for his Holiday Party before the Pistons take on the Chicago Bulls.  The pre-game ticket includes photos with Santa and Hooper, hot cocoa and cookies to decorate, your game ticket and a Detroit Piston’s holiday frame.

GYMTACTICS OPEN GYM

Saturday, December 21 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm

@ Gymtactics, Highland

Saturday Night Open Gym (Ages 6+) is an open play time for our older athletes. Come explore, flip, jump, and play!

HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHT

Saturday, December 21 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm

@ Stars & Stripes Kids Activity Center, Clarkston

The holidays are right around the corner. What better way to get in the spirit than by enjoying the movie The Polar Express with popcorn, pajamas and of course, pizza for dinner!

GLOW SKATE

Saturday, December 21 / 7:00pm – 9:00pm

@ Garden City Ice Arena, Garden City

Glow skate is offered every Saturday night! Admission includes a complimentary glow necklace.

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS

Saturday, December 21 / 8:00pm -11:00pm

@ Fox Theatre, Detroit

Come enjoy the 35th year celebratory show! This year’s show will feature the original classic Christmas hits from the first Mannheim Steamroller Christmas along with multimedia effects in an intimate setting.

SUNDAY

MENORAH IN THE D

Sunday, December 22 / 8:00am – 5:30pm

@ Campus Martius Park, Detroit

The Menorah In The D is a 26′ menorah which stands in downtown Detroit during Chanuka. The evening of festivities include strolling entertainment, Chanukah Gelt for the children, dancing dreidels & dreidel mascot, Mitzvah station and horse-drawn carriage rides and more.

TRICERATOTS PUPPET THEATRE-STORY OF PRESENTS

Sunday, December 22 / 10:00am – 11:00am

@ Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, Rochester Hills

This holiday inspired class will feature a short puppet tale introducing a topic, a hands-on craft and a game to assist with the puppet’s needs and an outdoor walk guided by, you guessed it, puppets!

CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

Sunday, December 22 / 10:00pm – 3:00pm

@ Sterling Inn & Banquet Center, Sterling Heights

Shop for those last minute items with our amazing Vendors..Something for everyone!

SANTA SKATE & SKATING EXHIBITION

Sunday, December 22 / 12:00pm – 4:00pm

@ Kennedy Recreation Center, Trenton

Enjoy an entertaining afternoon of skating performed by our very own Skate Trenton Recreation Figure Skaters! Skaters will perform solo, duo and group features as a special holiday gift to you. Bring your skates along for a Skate with Santa following the exhibition!

CHANUKAH WONDERLAND

Sunday, December 22 / 12:00pm – 5:00pm

@ Chanukah Wonderland, West Bloomfield

This two day Chanukah event is sure to be wonderful and fun for the whole family with tot town, crafts, dreidel bounce and a menorah parade!

MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER

Sunday, December 22 / 12:00pm – 8:00pm

@ Fox Theatre, Detroit

Step into a simpler time filled with sweet dreams and Christmas magic. With world-class artists, over 200 dazzling costumes, stunning sets, towering puppets and soaring birds, don’t miss your chance to ring in the holidays with this acclaimed Christmas extravaganza.

ARCHERY 101

Sunday, December 22 / 1:45pm – 3:00pm

@ DNR Outdoor Adventure Center, Detroit

Each week students will focus on a different part of the shot process with fun drills and games to help you learn the sport of archery! The program will cover equipment care and maintenance, the steps of shooting, basic score-keeping, and of course will provide plenty of shooting opportunities for students to refine their skills.

FLINT KNAPPING BASICS

Sunday, December 22 / 2:00pm

@ Lake Erie Marshlands Museum, Brownstown

This simple and ancient technique has been used by man and his relatives for thousands of years. Join us and learn a little more on how this dying art kept mankind alive and fed for millennia.

PROJECT ART SUNDAYS

Sunday, December 22 / 3:00pm – 4:00pm

@ Detroit Public Library Main Branch, Detroit

Free art classes for children and teens ages 8 -14. Please pre-register.

DETROIT RED WINGS HOME GAME

Sunday, December 22 / 7:00pm

@ Little Caesars Arena, Detroit

Come watch the Detroit Red Wings take on the  Arizona Coyotes at Little Caesars Arena!

For MORE EVENTS happening this weekend, please check out our full EVENT CALENDAR!

Find Fall Favorites HERE! Check out these ideas for more fun:

• GIVEAWAY: Family Night With USA Hockey
• 5 Family-Friendly Christmas Break Activities
• Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events In Metro Detroit

Photo credit: Facebook

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