The Henry Ford is the perfect destination to make lasting holiday memories – from Santa visits and festive programs inside the museum to the timeless tradition of Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village, families can experience the wonder, warmth, and joy of the season all in one place.
Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village
December 4–7, 12–14, 16–23 & 26–28
Step into a winter wonderland and experience the magic of the past at Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village, where more than 80 acres come alive with twinkling lights, carolers, fiddlers, and the nostalgic scent of roasting chestnuts. Wander down lantern-lit streets, hop aboard a horse-drawn wagon, and feel the festive spirit that has made this one of Michigan’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Make the evening even more memorable with premium dining packages, including Supper with Santa, Holiday Nights in Eagle Tavern, and Mummers’ Dinner at Stand 44. Members can also enjoy exclusive perks, such as the Members-Only Eagle Lane Shuttle and 15% off tickets.
Visit Santa at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Member-Exclusive Dates: November 21–23
Public Dates: November 28–30, December 5–7
Start your holiday season with a visit to Santa in his new location — the Arctic Alcove in the Heroes of the Sky exhibit. Families can join the line near the iconic 1925 Fokker Tri-Motor Airplane, where holiday cheer begins before you even meet Santa. Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities designed to keep spirits bright while you wait for your special moment.
Holiday Celebrations of Light and Tradition
Throughout the season, The Henry Ford Museum will highlight the many ways cultures around the world celebrate winter holidays through food, music, and light. A Featured Artifact Display (November 21–January 4) will showcase special pieces representing Las Posadas, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s traditions.
Families can also enjoy themed programs, performances, and crafts on select dates:
- Saturday, December 13 – Christmas
Decorate gingerbread play dough cookies and enjoy performances by the Handbell Ensemble of Royal Oak at 11am and 1pm - Sunday, December 14 – Hanukkah
Learn about Hanukkah traditions with the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan, join in on Israeli dance lessons with Gail Posner, and enjoy live klezmer music from Klezundheit at 11am and 1pm - Saturday, December 20 – Las Posadas
Celebrate with Ballet Folklorico de Detroit at 11am and 1pm, and get hands-on with cultural crafts, including play dough tamale making. - Sunday, December 21 – Winter Solstice
Welcome back the light with Detroit Waldorf School’s Spiral of Lights, held at 10am, 11am, 12pm and 1pm in the Anderson Theater. - Saturday, December 27 – Kwanzaa
Join Mama Jahra for stories and music celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa, plus hands-on activities like candle making. - Wednesday, December 31 – Family-Friendly Noon Year’s Eve Party
Perfect for little ones! Enjoy crafts, music from Spin Inc., and a bubble wrap stomp at noon to ring in the new year early. (Programming runs 10am to 12pm)
GIFT A MEMBERSHIP
Skip the toys and give time instead – time together to make memories at The Henry Ford all year long with a family membership. Membership includes unlimited admission to The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village and discounts to special events, dining and the gift shop all year long. Daily admission for both locations is $57 for guests 12 and older and $42.75 for kids ages 5 to 11 (younger kids are free), these are online prices – a membership pays for itself in two visits! Find a complete list of special events your family with enjoy the entire year.
