Nickels Arcade at the Holidays

Winter Fun

Winter Wonderland in A2

Things To Do in the Ann Arbor Area This Winter

Winter is a time for relaxation. With the cooling air, snowy trees, and an infinite list of fun activities, winter in the Ann Arbor area is an experience within itself. Make Ann Arbor your dream destination this winter with exciting attractions, warming experiences, and memorable events. 

1 - Go Ice Skating  

Arctic Breakaway Ice RinkEnjoy the winter wonderland by ice skating at U-M’s Ice Cube or Chelsea's Arctic Breakaway. Ice Skating is a top winter activity, so visiting the Ice Cube is an exhilarating retreat for a date night or family fun. Find more ice arenas here


2 - Holiday Markets downtown Ann Arbor 

Kindlefest ann arborThe annual Kindlefest, Midnight Madness and Moonlight Madness holiday events are snow much fun!  Downtown Ann Arbor is the place to be for seasonal fun and shopping. Three holiday markets take place simultaneously, perfect for exploring Ann Arbor while having fun. These special events invite you to visit shops and restaurants open late and offering exclusive deals for the evening. Browse Ann Arbor holiday events.


3 - Enjoy Ann Arbor Restaurant Week 

Ann Arbor Restaurant WeekDuring this event in January, fine dining lunch and dinner fixed-course menus are offered with delicious vegetarian and vegan options at discounted rates so you can participate in the city’s booming restaurant experience. Learn more about experiencing restaurant week.
 

4 - Wolverine Athletic Events 

Crisler CenterTake a moment to experience one of the University of Michigan’s athletic events. From basketball to hockey,  there is no shortage of events to attend, as multiple sports are always happening throughout winter. Catch the Maize and Blue earn their next victory. Check out these upcoming events if you're looking for more than sports.  
 

5 - Order a Warming Beverage 

tea tasting at teahausThere is nothing quite like hot drinks in cold weather. Visit one of the city’s cozy cafes, such as TeaHaus, offering more than 260 flavors of tea.  Ann Arbor restaurants like Slurping Turtle and Tomukun Noodle Bar offer hot, soothing ramen with flavorful broth.   
 

6 - Winter Fun in Surrounding Destinations

Saline Holiday ParadeMake the most of your winter getaway and celebrate with surrounding destinations like Saline, hosting their annual Winter Wonderland parade with crackling fire pits, angelic choir performances, reindeer games, and delicious s’mores. Check out the Annual Dexter Ice Festival in Dexter, featuring over 80 ice sculptures and live demonstrations. Find more annual winter events


7 - Heat Up at a Theater 

Michigan Theater in the snowThe Ann Arbor area theater experience is a great way to beat the brisk cold. Catch the latest blockbuster at the State Theatre to escape the Michigan winds.Just a few buildings down, see what's playing at the Michigan Theater, hosting live performances and themed film series.  


8 - Experience The Ann Arbor Folk Festival 

Band playing at The ArkThe Ann Arbor Folk Festival is a two-day event featuring the best and brightest folk musicians. This January festival is a treat for visitors, who receive performances from renowned folk artists and bands. Along with this entertaining weekend, the city has a highlight of concerts and music events for you to check out.   


9 - Attend a Tree Lighting Ceremony  

Chelsea hometown holiday santa clausWhat better way to get in the festive mood than attending a tree-lighting event? There are numerous ceremonies across Washtenaw County to fit your schedule. We encourage you to join one of these fun formalities to kick off the holiday season and community festivities! Discover more family friendly events here. 


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