December in and around Genesee County brings a special kind of holiday magic — community traditions, twinkling lights, and festive moments to share with family and friends. Below, you'll find a curated list of standout seasonal events, plus a useful calendar to help you plan your outings.
What’s Going On This December
Holly Dickens Festival Step into a storybook Christmas at the Holly Dickens Festival, held in historic Downtown Holly. This long-running, volunteer-driven event brings Victorian charm to life with horse-drawn carriage rides, costumed carolers, street performers, and holiday vendors. Michigan+1
-
Dates: December 6–7 and December 13–14, 2025 Michigan
-
Where: Battle Alley, Downtown Holly hollydickensfestival.org
-
Why go: It’s a delightful, immersive experience — perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves the nostalgia of a Dickensian holiday. hollydickensfestival.org
Fenton Jinglefest On Saturday, December 6, downtown Fenton transforms into a festive wonderland for Jinglefest— a full day of holiday fun. Michigan
-
Events include:
-
Breakfast with Santa fentonlindenchamber.com
-
A 5K run/walk (JingleJog) business.fentonchamber.com+1
-
Ice sculptures, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a warming tent business.fentonchamber.com+1
-
The Holiday Lighted Parade begins at 6 PM, followed by the tree lighting and fireworks business.fentonchamber.com+1
-
After the fireworks: cookies and photos with Santa at the community center business.fentonchamber.com
-
-
Where: Leroy Street, Downtown Fenton fentonlindenchamber.com
-
Why go: It’s a heartwarming mix of family traditions, local shopping, and community celebration — a signature Fenton holiday experience.
Christmas at Crossroads – Holiday Magic Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad in Flint goes all out in December with Christmas Holiday Magic. Genesee County Parks
-
Running Dates: November 28 through December 29, 2025 Genesee County Parks
-
Evening Schedule:
-
Village & train nights: December 5–7, 12–14, 17–21, and 26–28 (4: 00 PM – 9: 00 PM)Genesee County Parks
-
Drive-through nights: December 1, 8, 15, 22, and 24 (5: 00 PM – 9: 00 PM) — $10 per vehicle.Genesee County Parks+1
-
-
Dinner Option: Select nights include a Christmas dinner buffet (reservations recommended).Genesee County Parks
-
Why go: It’s a nostalgic, lantern-lit journey through history — wander through historic buildings, enjoy live carolers, and ride a vintage train for a truly timeless Christmas feel. Midland Daily News+1
December 2025 Events Calendar
| Date | Event | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 24 | Christmas at Crossroads – Drive‐Through | Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, Flint |
Drive your car through the historic village and enjoy holiday lights from the comfort of your vehicle. Genesee County Parks |
| Dec 6 | Fenton Jinglefest | Downtown Fenton, Leroy Street |
Full-day holiday celebration: 5K, parade, tree lighting, ice sculptures, and fireworks. fentonlindenchamber.com |
| Dec 6–7, 13–14 | Holly Dickens Festival | Downtown Holly, Battle Alley |
Victorian Christmas experience with carolers, horse-drawn carriages, seasonal vendors. Michigan+1 |
| Dec 5–7, 12–14, 17–21, 26–28 | Christmas at Crossroads – Village & Train Nights | Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, Flint |
Walk through the historic village with vintage décor, costumed characters, and a train ride. Genesee County Parks |
Why These Events Make December So Special Here
-
Rooted in Tradition: Crossroads Village recreates the warm, nostalgic feel of Christmases past, while Holly’s Dickens Festival brings Victorian charm right to our doorstep.
-
Community Connection: Fenton’s Jinglefest is a true hometown gathering — parade, lights, and shared moments that feel like what the holidays are all about.
-
Something for Everyone: Whether you want a leisurely walk under lanterns, a fun run, or a horse-drawn ride, December offers experiences that suit all ages and styles.
Final Thought
As the year draws to a close, take time to lean into the local traditions that make our area feel special. These December events are more than just pretty lights — they’re opportunities to build memories, slow down, and celebrate community.
