Visit Monroe County | Michigan's Cornerstone

Christmas In Ida Festival and Parade of Lights

Holiday Fun in Small Town America

Every year, people from all over the region descend on the small town of Ida, Michigan for one of largest Christmas events in the Midwest.  The Christmas in Ida festival has been a tradition for years, and it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit! From the spectacular parade of lights to the many fun and festive activities, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly event.

Often called the granddaddy of all light parades, The Christmas in Ida Parade of Lights is one of the highlights of the festival. Featuring parade units from all over Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Canada, the parade regularly clocks in at around two hours.  It features 130-illuminated and animated parade entries that light up the entire village for nearly two hours. 

After the parade, be sure to check out some of the other great festivities happening around town. There are caroling sing-alongs, holiday craft workshops, visits with Santa Claus, and so much more. Top name national music acts are regular performers.  You can even go on a horse-drawn wagon ride through Ida’s beautiful downtown area. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic of Christmas in Ida!

 This annual event is a great way to create lasting memories with your friends and family. From the dazzling parade of lights to all of the fun and festive activities happening around town, you’re sure to have a blast at Christmas in Ida!

See more at christmasinida.com

Where To Stay

Christmas in ida is truly a two day event to experience everything there is to do and see.  Looking to stay the night?  There are many hotels in nearby Dundee and Monroe, a short drive from Ida.  Search Here

 

2023 Christmas in Ida Schedule

Friday, December 1 
5:00pm
Jingle Bell Rockout – Country and Rock Concert
Entertainment Stage


6:00pm
Downtown Craft & Vendor Show (Friday)
Christmas Mall


6:00pm
Family Video Game Adventure
Lewis Avenue


6:00pm
The World of Robotics
Lewis Avenue


6:00pm
More Friday Events & Tents
Lewis Avenue


6:00pm
Holiday Art on the Avenue (Friday)
Christmas Mall


7:00pm
Friday Night Commemorative Concert
St. Joseph Catholic Church


7:15pm
High Flying BMX Show
Lewis Avenue


8:20pm
Monroe County 4-H Benefit Auction
Ida Farmers Co-Op


Saturday, December 2 
8:30am
Indoor Craft Show – Prince of Peace
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church


8:30am
4-H Coat Collection
Ida High School


8:30am
Indoor Craft Show – Ida High School
Ida High School


8:30am
Food Pantry
Ida High School


8:30am
Food Service
Lewis Avenue


9:00am
More Saturday Events & Tents
Lewis Avenue


9:00am
Downtown Craft & Vendor Show (Saturday)
Christmas Mall


10:00am
Chicken Bowling
Lewis Avenue


10:00am
Ice Sculpting and Chain Saw Art
Ida Township Fire Hall Parking Lot


10:00am
Storytime With Mrs. Claus
Ida Township Library


10:00am
Family Video Game Adventure
Lewis Avenue


11:00am
Children’s Lunch with Santa

11:00 am
St. Joseph Catholic Church Hall


11:00am
Santa’s Zoo
Ida Farmers Co-Op


11:00am
Carriage Tour of the Hamlet of Ida
Lewis Avenue


12:15pm
Christmas in Ida Theater Center Stage Shows and Entertainment
Entertainment Stage


1:00pm
Children’s Lunch with Santa

St. Joseph Catholic Church Hall


1:30pm
Holiday Photos with your Canine Friend
Ida United Methodist Church


2:15pm
Holiday Hounds on Parade & Photos
Lewis Avenue


4:25pm
Young Country Music Concert
Entertainment Stage


5:25pm
Country Music Concert
Entertainment Stage


6:00pm
Light Up the Night Fun Run
Lewis Avenue


6:30pm
Pre – Show Parade of Lights
Lewis Avenue


6:30pm
Family Fireworks Show
Ida Farmers Co-Op


7:00pm
Parade of Lights
Lewis Avenue


Sunday, December 3 
2:00pm
Ida Public School Christmas Collage Concert
Ida High School