The arrival of the holiday season is accompanied by all sorts of magnificent and heartwarming events, whether you’re on the hunt for a family-friendly outing or simply seeking a dash of seasonal charm. A candidate for the most unique Christmas festival in Michigan offers guests the opportunity to embrace the spirit of the holiday while celebrating a beloved historical figure: Charles Dickens. Head to the small town of Holly for the Holly Dickens Festival in Michigan, a dreamy adventure that feels like part of a Hallmark Christmas movie. It might just be the perfect way to spend Christmas in Michigan.

The Holly Dickens Festival happens annually in the small town of Holly, Michigan. This fest, which pays homage to Charles Dickens, bustles with glee on weekends through the second week of December.
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Whether you’ve visited this one-of-a-kind event for years or you’re a newcomer, you’ll quickly feel like you’ve stepped into a picture-perfect Hallmark movie. Costumed carolers, bright lights, and smiles abound.
Flickr/Wigwam Jones
Since the early 1970s, this unforgettable festival has celebrated Dickens and his iconic holiday story, "A Christmas Carol." From shopping to roasted chestnuts to photo ops with Scrooge, there’s much to love.
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League
Take time to appreciate the dreamy atmosphere of Battle Alley, a history-rich spot in the heart of Holly that twinkles with string lights. There’s even a horse-drawn carriage available if you’re looking for a ride.
Facebook/Holly Dickens Festival

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Make a visit to the fascinating Hadley House Museum to experience Victorian life or catch an interactive performance of A Christmas Carol itself -- we can’t imagine a better way to ring in the holiday season.
Facebook/Holly Dickens Festival
If that weren’t enough, younger guests will be delighted by the opportunity to meet with Santa himself, while older visitors will be impressed by classic Christmas carols and period-appropriate costumes.
Flickr/Wigwam Jones
Snag a few bites to eat or sip a drink from the pub tent before rounding out your experience with a photo op in front of the historic (and purportedly haunted!) Holly Hotel, which is now an enchanting restaurant.
Google Reviews/Ron Rigby
As you plot out your seasonal adventures here in the Great Lakes State, be sure to include the marvelous Holly Dickens Festival. This timeless event will transport you to a wondrous world of family fun.
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League

 

This year’s festival will take place on November 24th through 26th, December 2nd through 3rd, and December 9th through 10th. The beloved Lighted Parade will take place on the opening night. The Holly Dickens Festival is a little different every year, but YouTube account That 1870’s Homestead captured this video of the 2022 event for a preview of the upcoming festivities.

To learn more about the Holly Dickens Festival in Michigan, visit the official website. You can also visit the Holly Dickens Festival Facebook page for up-to-the-minute details on the 2023 event. Have you been lucky enough to stroll through this delightful town during previous visits to the area or even attend the festival, itself? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend your other favorite holiday festivals in Michigan by completing our official nomination form.

If you love the holiday season, you’ll want to read about these charming Christmas towns in Michigan. And if you’re searching for the ideal gift for that traveler in your life, check out our guide to the perfect holiday gifts for travelers.

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Featured Addresses
Holly Dickens Festival, Battle Aly, Holly, MI 48442, USA