Illustration of a small village Christmas market at night with a brass band and children holding lanterns (Tree Lighting & Kris Kringle Market)
Christmas Markets

Tree Lighting & Kris Kringle Market

Visitors gather in Downtown Highland to celebrate the season with a tree lighting ceremony and performances by a children's choir. The event offers horse-drawn wagon rides, visits and photos with Santa, and a stroll through the Festival of Trees. Guests can also browse gifts at the Kris Kringle Market, snap pictures at holiday selfie spots, and enjoy complimentary popcorn and hot chocolate.

Mon, Dec 7, 2026 All ages Popcorn and hot chocolate are free.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Event: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm; Tree Lighting Ceremony: 7PM; Kris Kringle Market: 5-9PM.

Neighborhood

Downtown Highland

Food & Drink

Complimentary popcorn and hot chocolate are available at the event.

Parking

Parking is available at Highland Elementary.

Location

Veterans Park/Steeple Hall · Highland, MI 48357 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Use the listed parking at Highland Elementary; the event page identifies it as the available parking location.
  • Arrive before 7 p.m. if you want to catch the tree-lighting ceremony, scheduled during the 5–9 p.m. market.
  • Find the Kris Kringle Market at the HVCA, which is its listed location within the celebration.
  • Wear warm layers for the evening celebration, which includes activities around Veterans Park and horse-drawn wagon rides.
  • Leave time to stroll through the Festival of Trees and visit holiday selfie spots, both listed among the event features.

Links & Contact

Run by Highland DDA

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I park?

Parking is available at Highland Elementary.

What is there to do?

You can watch the tree lighting and hear a kids' choir. You can also visit Santa for photos, ride a horse-drawn wagon, walk through the Festival of Trees and stop at the holiday selfie spots.

Is there food and drink?

Yes. Popcorn and hot chocolate are free, and you can shop and dine in Downtown Highland.

How can I sell at the Kris Kringle Market?

Fill in the 2026 Kris Kringle Market vendor application before Friday, November 13. Selected vendors hear back on Tuesday, November 17.

Browse Christmas in Waterford

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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