Enjoying the Holiday Season in Frankenmuth
If you’ve ever wanted to step right inside a Hallmark holiday movie, pack your winter coat and set your GPS for Frankenmuth, Michigan. During the holiday season, the village of Frankenmuth transforms into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, Bavarian architecture, hot cocoa, and classic winter traditions perfect for all ages.
At the center of it all is the Frankenmuth Ice Rink alongside the town’s famous season-long holiday events.
Skating in the Heart of Little Bavaria: The Frankenmuth Ice Rink
Located in downtown Edwin L. Zehnder Park (at Main and Mill Street), the outdoor ice rink offers an authentic winter experience right in the center of town. Because the rink is built with its own dedicated chilling system, you can skate smoothly throughout the holiday season even if temperatures fluctuate. Admissions are $10 for a general day pass and skate rentals are available for just $3. Season passes are available for $50. The rink is open November 17, 2026 through February 28, 2027.
Dress Up and Go Skating During One of the Rink’s Scheduled Themed Nights:
- 1/6/27 – 90s Night
- 1/13/27 – Wild, Wild West Night
- 1/20/27 – Super Hero Night
- 1/27/27 – Disco Night
- 2/3/27 – Sports Night
- 2/10/27 – Twin Night
- 2/17/27 – 2000s Night
- 2/24/27 – Beach Party Night
Visit HERE for rink tickets, details and hours.
Must-See Holiday Events in Frankenmuth
Skating is just one part of the town’s holiday charm. The entire community comes alive with celebrations for all ages:
- The Frankenmuth Musical Tree Show – November 27, 2026 (the day after Thanksgiving), featuring a 40-foot musical tree show at the visitor center, a complimentary holiday shuttle, light tours, and German-style food, shopping and craft traditions throughout town.
- Merry & Bright: The Heritage Christmas Market – Held on November 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Harvey Kern Pavilion (599 Weiss St). It features over 200 vendors, food trucks, and free photos with Santa. Admission is $5 (children 12 and under are free).
- World’s Largest Christmas Store: Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland – No trip to Frankenmuth is complete without visiting Bronner’s. Spanning the size of several football fields, it features over 50,000 ornaments, light displays, and holiday decorations and is open 365 days of the year. Don’t forget to drive down 25 Christmas Lane at night to admire the glowing display of lights.
- Holiday German Shopping – Experience and enjoy authentic German Christmas treats and goods, Glühwein, bratwurst, and handmade ornaments at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the Bavarian Inn Castle Shops, and local downtown gift shops. Holiday displays begin the first week of November!
What do you plan on doing with the family this Holiday season?
