The holidays are magical no matter where you live, but there’s something extra special about celebrating them right here in the Great Lakes State. After all, Michigan is home — and there’s nothing more wonderful than spending the season with loved ones. While every Michigander is different, there are a few thoughts most of us have when the holidays roll around. Here are 11 of our favorites.
1. "Ah, Thanksgiving. Time to watch the Lions blow it on national television."
Okay, okay — they don’t ALWAYS lose, but every Michigander knows the familiar feeling of realizing that the Lions are going to play on a national stage each Thanksgiving. Given our record of managing to lose for the most ridiculous reasons, we’re always prepared for the worst when it comes to football. Would you like a side of humiliation with that turkey?
2. "Why is it 70 degrees and sunny on Christmas?"
If you’ve lived in Michigan for most of your life, we’re sure you’ve experienced this at least once: you’ve woken up on Christmas morning eager to gaze out at the beautiful snow, only to realize that the weather is balmy and warm. The unpredictably of nature in Michigan can really put a damper on that whole "white Christmas" thing!
3. "Is Santa even going to make it here with all this snow?"
On the flip side of that coin, every Michigander has experienced their fair share of blizzard-like conditions. During the holidays, we have to exercise caution when planning our travels and adventures — because there’s nothing worse than being stranded on the side of the highway due to ice and snow. Oh, Michigan.
4. "I never want to hear the phrase ‘lake effect’ ever again."
Unless you’re a kiddo hoping for a snow day, the phrase "lake effect" probably isn’t your favorite thing to hear uttered by a local meteorologist. For most Michiganders, lake effect snow means extra shoveling, extra hassle, and extra coldness this holiday season. We’ll take it on Christmas day — but that’s about it!
5. "The holidays are too stressful. I’m going up north."
No matter what "up north" signifies to you, one thing is for sure: venturing northward always seems to add a sense of joy and excitement to a weekend. While most of us prefer to use our cottages or favorite destinations in the summer months, there’s a certain joy in going up north during winter — especially when the holidays start to take their toll.
6. "Why are there so many potholes on the drive to Grandma’s house?"
If you’re a driver in the Great Lakes State, this one probably hits close to home. Nothing says "Michigan roads" like a large assortment of potholes, and somehow we all manage to come across the worst culprits when we’re trying to make good time on the road. In fact, we bet you’ve encountered a few car-damaging holes en route to a family holiday party.
7. "Let’s book tickets to Florida ASAP."
As much as we love Michigan, there’s nothing better than escaping to a warmer climate from time to time. With plenty of direct flights from the Great Lakes State to the Sunshine State, Florida is a popular destination for many Michiganders. When the holidays get a bit too stressful, daydreams of tropical beaches and soft sand dance in our heads.
8. "I better stock up on Vernors after all these desserts."
The holiday season brings its fair share of desserts and other indulgent treats. While there’s nothing better than digging into a few slices of pumpkin pie and munching on Christmas cookies, our stomachs might not always agree with this sugary overload. When nausea sets in, nothing soothes a Michigander’s stomach quite like a fizzy sip of Vernors.
9. "Let’s go out and see some lights!"
Michigan is overflowing with awesome spots to explore holiday lights and other Christmastime displays. Take a drive through one of our state’s countless decor hotspots, stroll through downtown Rochester as it sparkles with millions of lights, or venture to Binder Park Zoo for one of their holiday events. What’s not to love?
10. "I’m out of sugar. Better make a Meijer run!"
Or, if we’re being more accurate, a "Meijers" run. Here in Michigan, we depend on our beloved 24-hour Meijer stores to sustain us when we’re missing ingredients, scrounging for last-minute gifts, or in need of a few basics. During the hectic holiday season, Meijer is jam-packed with people — but that doesn’t stop us from heading in!
11. "There’s no place like Michigan for the holidays."
If there’s one thing that remains constant throughout the minds of Michiganders during the holiday season, it’s this: "I'm so glad to be home." Whether you’re a longtime Michigander who’s never left, a recent transplant, or a former resident making your way back to your hometown, there’s something truly special about spending the holidays in Michigan. After all, home is where the heart is.
Are there any other thoughts you frequently have during the holiday season in Michigan? We’re always eager to hear from you, so feel free to share your the thoughts and ideas in the comment section below. Happy holidays, Michigan!
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