Detroit has a way of making November feel like the start of something bigger. The city’s holiday traditions begin returning, local businesses roll out their seasonal markets, and downtown prepares for some of its busiest and most recognizable celebrations of the year.
From shopping at Eastern Market to skating beneath the lights at Campus Martius and celebrating the 100th edition of America’s Thanksgiving Parade, the month offers plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the city.
Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a little holiday shopping or something different to do over the weekend, here are several events worth putting on your calendar.
All Things Detroit Holiday Experience
November 8 | Eastern Market
Eastern Market will welcome more than 200 small businesses and independent makers for the All Things Detroit Holiday Experience. Shoppers can browse handmade gifts, clothing, accessories, specialty foods and other products while enjoying music and food trucks.
The event offers an opportunity to discover local businesses and get an early start on holiday shopping. VIP admission begins at 10 a.m., followed by general admission at noon.
More information: All Things Detroit Holiday Experience — tickets and info
Downtown Detroit Markets
Beginning November 11 | Cadillac Square
Downtown Detroit’s seasonal markets return with small businesses offering gifts, clothing, specialty products and locally made goods.
Visitors can browse the pop-up shops, stop at Cadillac Lodge and explore nearby restaurants and businesses. It’s an easy outing to build around an afternoon downtown, whether you’re shopping for someone else or simply enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
More information: Downtown Detroit Markets
Detroit Tree Lighting
November 20 | 4–9 p.m. | Campus Martius Park
One of Detroit’s biggest holiday traditions returns with the 23rd annual tree lighting at Campus Martius Park.
The free celebration includes live entertainment, skating performances, food and the lighting of a 70-foot Christmas tree. Thousands of visitors are expected downtown, making it one of the season’s most festive evenings.
More information: 23rd Annual Detroit Tree Lighting
The Rink at Campus Martius
Opening November 21 | Campus Martius Park
Outdoor skating returns to the heart of downtown Detroit as the rink opens for another season.
Surrounded by the city’s holiday decorations and downtown skyline, the rink offers a winter outing for families, couples and groups of friends. Visitors can check the official schedule for admission, skate rentals and special programming throughout the season.
More information: The Rink at Campus Martius
Detroit Turkey Trot
November 26 | Downtown Detroit
Before the Thanksgiving Parade begins, thousands of runners and walkers will take part in Detroit’s annual Turkey Trot.
The morning includes a 10K, 5K and family-friendly mile, with many participants arriving in costumes. The 10K and mile begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:30 a.m.
It’s a Thanksgiving tradition that brings together serious runners, families and plenty of spectators.
More information: Detroit Turkey Trot
America’s Thanksgiving Parade
November 26 | Woodward Avenue
Detroit’s Thanksgiving Parade reaches a major milestone this year with its 100th edition.
The celebration begins at 8:45 a.m. at Woodward and Kirby, bringing marching bands, colorful floats, giant balloons and performers through the heart of the city.
Generations of Detroit families have made the parade part of their Thanksgiving morning, and this year’s anniversary promises to be especially meaningful.
More information: America’s Thanksgiving Parade
With so many activities happening downtown, November is a good time to rediscover familiar places and make a few new traditions. The holiday season brings a different energy to Detroit, with opportunities to support local businesses, enjoy longtime traditions and spend time together.
