There is one undeniable truth about living in the state of Michigan: the winters here suck. They are too long, too cold, too gray, and too depressing. However, there is one bright spot in the depths of the long Michigan winter. That bright spot is the holidays. There are so many fun and affordable holiday activities to do here in Michigan during Christmastime that it almost makes the rest of the winter worth it. These are the Michigan holiday attractions you have to check out this Christmas season.

Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village

A favorite holiday event in Metro Detroit Area, Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village in Dearborn creates the illusion of stepping into Christmas' of the past. The village is beautifully decorated with elaborate Christmas trees and lighted streets, and full of jolly holiday activities. A Holiday Night at Greenfield Village is the perfect way to get in the Christmas spirit, and is also the perfect December date night.

Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo

For magical winter night, take a walk through the Detroit Zoo during Wild Lights. The zoo is illuminated by the millions of lights covering the trees, buildings, and animal sculptures. This is a great family event and would also be perfect for a night out with friends. With all the different featured entertainment and events throughout the park, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Frankenmuth and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland

About an hour north of Detroit, Frankenmuth is one of Michigan's favorite Christmas destinations. In addition to the famous Zehnder's chicken dinner, visitors can check out all the adorable shops in the downtown area. If you want something bigger, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland is a must-see. How can you pass up the largest Christmas store in the world?

Ice Skating in Campus Martius

Cities like Chicago and New York are famous for their Christmas cheer, but Detroit never gets any props for their holiday spirit. Metro Detroiters love coming downtown to enjoy all the decorations, including the huge tree at the top of Campus Martius Park. In addition to the ice skating rink, be sure to check out some of the great restaurants in Greektown, just a 10 minute walk away.

Noel Night in Midtown Detroit

A December tradition for over 40 years, 70 different Detroit institutions offer free admission on Noel Night. Take advantage of this event to see some favorite Detroit cultural spots, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, The Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center. In addition to these attractions, the open house also offers carriage rides, craft sales, theater and dance performances, and many more fantastic Christmas activities!

The Big Bright Light Show in Downtown Rochester

Similar to Wild Lights at The Detroit Zoo, the city of Rochester lights up the storefronts their downtown for the holidays. This downtown area offers more Christmas cheer than just a lights show, with events like the Festival of Trees, Lagniappe, and visits from Santa all through December. If you're not feeling the zoo light experience and want some more shopping, be sure to make a trip to Rochester.

America's Thanksgiving Day Parade on Woodward Avenue

While the Thanksgiving Parade is not technically a holiday event, it truly kicks off the Christmas season in Metro Detroit. A tradition in Detroit starting in 1924, the parade is one of the biggest and most beloved events of the year for the city of Detroit. This year, Michigan native Tim Allen will be serving as the Grand Marshal. If you're feeling really ambitious, you can get up bright and early to run the Turkey Trot and then stick around to watch the parade live!