Art Coast® Holiday Bucket List
As the holiday season approaches, there's no better place to embrace the festive spirit than the Art Coast of Michigan. Offering a unique blend of natural winter beauty, artful experiences, and holiday cheer, this charming destination is the perfect backdrop for creating cherished holiday memories. If you're planning a visit, you'll want to make the most of your time here by experiencing a holiday bucket list like no other. From classic performances to outdoor adventures, here's your guide to the ultimate Saugatuck/Douglas holiday experience.
1. Kick Off The Holidays With Lights, Cookies, And Cheer
Get into the holiday spirit starting November 28 with our annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Wicks Park from 6–8 pm, a heartwarming community tradition that fills downtown Saugatuck with festive cheer. The celebration continues on November 29 from 1–3 pm with the Saugatuck Douglas Holiday Cookie Tour. Wander through charming inns and lodging establishments, each beautifully decorated for the season, and enjoy a specialty holiday cookie (plus the recipe) at every stop. Along the way, cast your vote for the best cookie and most dazzling décor, and revel in the festive atmosphere. It’s a sweet and memorable way to celebrate the season while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Art Coast. And if you miss the tree lighting on the 28th, don’t worry—Douglas hosts its Light Night ceremony the next evening at 6 pm in Beery Field.
2. See A Nostalgic Christmas Parade
Gather your family together and celebrate with the community on December 6 from 11 am to 12 pm during our Saugatuck Whootville Christmas Parade filled with festive cheer. Get caught up in the joyous atmosphere of this annual event that captures the essence of the small-town holiday spirit. Attendees are encouraged to dress in whimsical Whootville or Christmas-themed attire to add to the cheer. After the parade, bring the kids to Winterfest at the Felt Estate, an annual free event for children from 1 pm to 4 pm, where they can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, get their faces painted, listen to music from the Holland Chorale Dickens Carolers, and go on a horse-drawn wagon ride. More holiday magic happens in Fennville from 11 am until 7 pm with a Holiday Celebration where kids can see reindeer, mail a letter to the North Pole, meet Santa, and create holiday-themed crafts.
3. Go To A Holiday Artisan Market
For a truly unique holiday shopping experience, visit one of our festive holiday markets. Local artisans and crafters gather to showcase their handmade treasures, from one-of-a-kind home décor, exquisite jewelry, and artwork to Michigan-made edible delights. Support local talent and find the perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones while immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene the Art Coast is known for. Events for 2025 include the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club Holiday Market held at the historic Saugatuck Women’s Club on November 28-29, Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Outdoor Holiday Market on December 6, the Holiday Artisan Market at Fenn Valley Vineyards and Winery on December 13, and the Holiday Artisan Market at Modales Winery on December 20.
4. Take A Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride in the Allegan Woods
Embrace the enchantment of a winter wonderland by embarking on a private 40-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride through the scenic Allegan Woods with Wild West Ranch. Cozy up under blankets, listen to the gentle jingle of sleigh bells, and take in the pristine beauty of the snow-covered landscape.
5. See the Holiday Lights And Christmas Trees At The Felt Estate
The historic Felt Mansion comes alive during the holiday season with a dazzling display of lights and decorations. Stroll through the mansion’s picturesque grounds during the month of December, admire the festive trimmings, and savor the nostalgic ambiance of a lavish, bygone era. This annual tradition is perfect for families and couples alike and features self-guided tours, including special themed Candlelight Tours, Tea & Tours, and Coffee & Cocoa Tours. With more than 20 decorated Christmas trees and over 5,000 twinkling lights to gaze upon, a visit to the estate is sure to brighten your holiday season.
6. Go Snowshoeing at Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Experience the serene beauty of winter and our own version of peace on earth by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and exploring the Saugatuck Dunes State Park or the Saugatuck Wilds Nature Preserve. The pristine snow-covered dunes and Lake Michigan’s frozen shores provide an ideal backdrop for a winter adventure. Whether you’re a novice or experienced snowshoer, the park offers trails for all skill levels. Snowshoes can be rented from Landsharks for your tranquil, wintry walk.
7. Participate In An Annual Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl
Start or cap off your Saugatuck/Douglas holiday adventure on a spirited note by joining us for our 6th Annual Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl on December 6 from 12:30 pm – 6 pm. This festive event is not only fun but also deeply meaningful, with 100% of profits dedicated to supporting local families during the holiday season through the work of Operation Hope for Allegan Youth. Don your tackiest holiday sweater and hop from one local watering hole to another, enjoying holiday-themed drinks, camaraderie, and good-natured competition for the title of “ugliest sweater.” The Pub Crawl kicks off at Wicks Park Bar & Grille, where you’ll receive a player card and a mission—to visit five different bars, each featuring a festive elf ready to challenge you with fun tasks. The crawl concludes once you’ve found the five elves, successfully completed all five tasks, and turned in your card. Cash prizes for the “ugliest” holiday outfit, raffle items, and additional prizes will be awarded. This event combines merriment with giving back, making it a heartwarming way to celebrate the season.
8. See a Live Performance of A Christmas Carol
No holiday experience is complete without the heartwarming tradition of attending a live performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic, “A Christmas Carol.” Brought to life each year—2025 commemorates its 39th year—by community performers at the Saugatuck Women’s Club, there are eight performances December 12-21, where you can see our captivating local rendition of this beloved tale. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and let Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation inspire you. For specific dates and times, see the event listing here.
9. Get Dazzled By The Holiday Lights
Experience the wonder of the season with festive lights all around. Our downtown areas become simply magical, with twinkling lights adorning the tree-lined streets. Take a leisurely stroll and admire all the holiday displays as you window shop our charming boutiques. Then, head to Crane Orchards for an extra dose of holiday sparkle with their mile-long Drive-Through Light Show, open Wednesday through Sunday from November 28 to December 28. Dazzling light displays turn the orchard into a holiday wonderland, letting you take in the magic from the cozy comfort of your car.
