Your guide to christmas tree farms, light shows, festive shopping and local events
Harbor Country feels extra magical this time of year. Snow falls softly over Lake Michigan, small towns glow with twinkle lights, and local shops turn into cozy holiday havens.
Whether you want to cut your own Christmas tree, stroll through a sparkling garden display, or enjoy a weekend of holiday shopping and seasonal events, Southwest Michigan is the perfect place to spend the season.
Plan a winter getaway in New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Sawyer, Baroda or Union Pier and enjoy all the festive moments that make Harbor Country unforgettable.
Christmas Tree Farms in Southwest Michigan
Coming to Harbor Country for a fresh cut Christmas tree? Turn it into a weekend getaway! Here are few of our favorite local tree farms and what you can enjoy this holiday season.
A longtime family favorite in Galien, Pinecrest offers a classic holiday tree-cutting experience with beautiful varieties, festive activities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Precut and U-cut varieties include Norway Spruce, Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, Canaan Fir, Concolor Fir, Fraser Fir, and Korean Fir
- Horse-drawn wagon rides on weekends and select weekdays starting before Thanksgiving
- Check out the large Christmas shop filled with decor, wreaths, and greenery and snack on some cinnamon glazed nuts
- Shaking and Baling Available
Located in Rolling Prairie, Dudek’s is an 80-acre family-run tree farm offering both U-cut and pre-cut evergreens in a charming countryside setting.
- Varieties include Canaan Fir, Concolor Fir, and Frasier Fir, Red Pine, Scotch Pine, White Pine, Black Hills Spruce, Colorado Blue Spruce, and Norway Spruce
- Starting Thanksgiving weekend enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides and visits with Santa.
- Shaking and baling available
Holiday Shopping in Harbor Country
Support local makers and find the most thoughtful gifts while enjoying festive storefronts and small town charm.
- Glik’s New Buffalo: This go-to spot downtown for warm sweaters, winter layers, boots, and easy gift ideas for the whole family. The shop is known for its cozy seasonal styles, great basics, and friendly small-town service.
- Commune + Market in Three Oaks offers curated home goods, artisan gifts and small-batch items from independent makers. It is a perfect place to find thoughtful gifts, stylish holiday accents, and unique pieces you will not see anywhere else.
- Blue Anchor Vintage Goods is a treasure hunter’s paradise filled with hand-picked vintage decor, furniture, clothing, and eclectic finds. Every visit feels like a new discovery, with constantly refreshed selections and truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Flourish Books and Plants
Books blends a cozy bookshop with a lush plant store, creating one of the warmest shopping experiences in the area. Shop new reads and charming small gifts, it's a peaceful place to browse on a snowy afternoon or pick up a book-and-plant pairing.
- Alapash in Three Oaks offers home goods, handmade decor, textiles, ceramics, and curated seasonal displays inspired by global design. Every corner feels intentional, warm, and beautiful with unique gifts, holiday decor, and items that add a touch of style to any home.
ONGOING CHRISTMAS EVENTS & LIGHT SHOWS
- The Vickers Theater: The historic Vickers Theatre in Three Oaks is one of Harbor Country’s coziest winter traditions, especially during the holidays. This year's selection includes favorites like 'A Christmas Story' and 'Love Actually.'
- LIGHTS at Fernwood Botanical Gardens: One of the area's most popular light shows, Fernwood Botanical Gardens offers festive garden displays, and nature-inspired light installations. Families enjoy workshops, kid-friendly activities, and warm drinks as they wander the peaceful, wintry grounds. Dress warmly and take in the quiet magic of the gardens at night.
Upcoming Christmas Events
Harbor Country is filled with festive things to do all season, from Christmas strolls and tree lightings to winter markets, Santa brunches, and cozy winery events across New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Sawyer, Baroda, Bridgman, and Michigan City.
Season Highlights:
- Christmas parades, strolls, and tree lighting ceremonies
- Holiday markets and artisan craft shows
- Santa brunches, family workshops, and kids activities
- Trivia nights, live music, and special dinners
- Garden light displays, farm events, and classic holiday films
Looking for dates, times, and full details?
Click here to view our complete Harbor Country Events Calendar and plan your holiday getaway.
Plan Your Holiday Getaway With Third Coast Vacations
Make the most of the season with a cozy winter stay in Harbor Country. Our warm cottages, stylish retreats, and family friendly vacation homes offer fireplaces, hot tubs, wooded views, and close proximity to all your favorite holiday events. Whether you are cutting your Christmas tree, shopping for local gifts, or enjoying classic winter moments by the fire, Harbor Country offers everything you need for a festive getaway.
Book with Third Coast Vacations. Stay with the local experts in Harbor Country. At Third Coast Vacations, you will enjoy concierge services, discounts on beach gear rentals, and insider tips on the best local spots. Whether you are here to relax, explore, or reconnect, your Harbor Country holiday starts with Third Coast Vacations.