8 Winter Festivals And Events MI Residents Shouldn’t Miss

Winter festivals make cold weather fun for Michigan residents seeking an antidote for cabin fever that can set in at this time of year.

One of the more popular winter festivals in the Detroit area is the annual Plymouth Ice Festival, where the downtown area is lined with ice carvings.

We’ve rounded up seven other winter events that bring people together and create warmth against the cold. Before we get to them, a reminder:

If you’re planning a winter event, feature it, so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!

Rochester Fire and Ice Festival

The festival kicks off Friday, Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. It will run through Sunday, Jan. 17, 2026 around East Third Street and Water Street. Activities include Snowzilla Jr.’s winter slide, Frosty the world’s tallest bounce house and a synthetic skating rink.

Grand Rapids World of Winter

The free outdoor festival in downtown Grand Rapids opens Friday. It is mostly known for its immersive art from local and international artists.

St. Clair Shores Aqua Freeze Festival

The free festival kicks off Jan. 23 and runs through Jan. 24 at Blossom Heath Park. It features ice carving, horse drawn wagon rides, food trucks and beer tent, putt-putt, live music and more.

Birmingham BRRmingham Blast

Saturday, Jan. 24 in the downtown area, there will zip line rides, warming tents with savory favorites and warm sweets from local food trucks.

Winter Carnival Oakland Township

Saturday, Jan. 24 from noon-4 p.m. at Bear Creek Nature Park. There will be ice carving demonstrations, sled dog displays, ice skating, live entertainment, and more.

Winterfest Oak Park

Jan. 25 at Oak Park Recreation Community Center Grounds. It will feature ice sculptures, live music, hot cocoa and family-friendly activities.

Zehnder's Snowfest Frankenmuth

Jan. 28 through Feb. 1 in Frankenmuth. There will be larger-than-life snow sculptures, ice carvings, fireworks and children’s activities

Plymouth Ice Festival

Jan 30 through Feb. 1, the downtown area will be lined with ice carvings.