Festival of Lights
Visitors can explore vast outdoor displays featuring thousands of custom-designed twinkling lights set against the city's official Christmas tree. The festivities include visits from Santa Claus, live musical performances, and photo opportunities. Guests can also enjoy seasonal snacks and hot chocolate from local food vendors.
See more Christmas lights near Michigan City
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
The festival is at no cost.
Hours
Parade: 5pm on December 5, 2026.
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
Local food vendors offer seasonal treats, including hot chocolate and festive snacks.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- On December 5, start with the parade on Franklin Street through the Uptown Arts District, then walk over to the light displays in Washington Park.
- Bring the whole group, because the festival is free and has lights, Santa visits and live music for families and friends.
- Get hot chocolate or a festive snack from the local food vendors near the city's official Christmas tree while you walk the displays.
- Bring a charged phone or camera, because the lights, the official Christmas tree and Santa's visits make for lots of photos.
- Dress warmly for an evening outdoors by the lake, since the light displays and vendors are all outside in Washington Park.
Special Events & Promotions
- Opening-day parade on December 5 along Franklin Street through the Uptown Arts District.
Links & Contact
Run by Michigan City Parks & Recreation Department
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 website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at the Festival of Lights?
Walk through big light displays in Washington Park with thousands of custom-designed lights. There are also visits from Santa Claus, live music and lots of photo spots.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. Local food vendors set up, and you can get seasonal treats like hot chocolate and festive snacks around the city's official Christmas tree.
Is there a parade?
Yes. The festive parade on December 5 goes down Franklin Street through the Uptown Arts District to start the festival.
What is the centerpiece of the festival?
The City's official Christmas tree, with food and treat vendors around it.
Who is the festival for?
Families and friends. It's an annual event put on by Michigan City Special Events and the Parks & Recreation Department.
Browse Christmas in Michigan City
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.