906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935
Iron County comes alive every December with parades, Santa breakfasts, craft fairs, and tree lightings that bring small-town spirit to the Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or looking for a festive local experience, here’s what you’ll find this season.
Iron River and Crystal Falls roll out the red carpet every December with their beloved holiday parades, lighting up main streets with sparkling floats, local music, and plenty of small-town charm. These celebrations are perfectly timed for families and visitors held on cozy winter weekends so you can easily enjoy the festivities, pop into nearby markets, and catch the magic of a community tree lighting, all in one memorable evening
Date & Time: December 6th, 9am - 7pm
Location: Downtown Iron River. The route usually runs along Genesee Street, beginning near the Post Office and ending at the RV Park circle
Audience Fit: Ideal for families and visitors who want vibrant lights, Santa, and a festive main street experience
Tip: Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early for curb-side parking or a front‑row view. Bring a folding chair and some hand‑warmers if it’s cold.
Date & Time: December 13th, 6pm - 9pm
Location: Superior Avenue is the heart of the action, lined with lights and decorated floats
Audience Fit: Perfect for families, couples, and visitors who enjoy Northwoods charm, creative floats, Santa, and community spirit
Tip: rrive early to claim a great spot along Superior Ave, especially if you want to snap photos of the floats and fireworks. Dress warm for the outdoor festivities and stroll downtown to enjoy decorated storefronts.
Iron County turns into a Northwoods holiday playground each winter, and Santa makes plenty of stops along the way. From cozy breakfasts and small town fire halls to festive museums and community gatherings, families can find the perfect place for photos, treats, and holiday magic. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or joining a single event, these Santa appearances help make the season bright for visitors of all ages.
Follow Santa’s trail across Iron County! Each stop has its own charm
Iron River Masonic Lodge: Saturday, November 29th | 8 am – 12 pm CST | Crystal Falls
Iron County Museum: Monday, December 1st | 5 - 7 pm CST | Caspian
Forslund Building Supply: Sunday, December 14th | 8 am – 4 pm CST | Iron River
Forest Park Schools: Sunday, December 14th | 8 – 11 am CST | Crystal Falls
Caspian Fire Hall: Sunday, December 14th | 11am – 3pm | Caspian
Young’s: Saturday, December 20th | 11 am – 1 pm CST | Crystal Falls
If you love handmade gifts, small-town charm, and the feeling of walking into a room filled with wreaths, ornaments, baked goods, and local artistry, Iron County is the perfect place to shop this season. Our communities host a mix of cozy church markets, bustling craft fairs, and festive museum fundraisers each one offering something unique. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect holiday centerpiece, a handcrafted U.P. keepsake, or a warm bowl of soup while you browse, these markets bring the spirit of the season to life across the county.
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Time: 9am- 2pm
Location: Iron County Museum
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
Time: 5pm - 7pm
Location: Iron County Museum
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 9 am - 2 pm CST
Location: Windsor Center, Iron River
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 10 am - 2 pm CST
Location: West Iron District Library, Iron River
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Time: 9 am - 2 pm CST
Location: United Luther Church, Crystal Falls
Make your trip easy by staying right here in Iron County. The Iron County Lodging Council represents locally owned hotels and lodging options that put you close to the area’s top attractions, events, trails, and outdoor recreation.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, attending a local event, or building a longer Upper Peninsula adventure, staying in Iron County means less driving, more time exploring, and comfortable places to unwind at the end of the day.
Planning a trip to Iron County doesn’t have to be complicated. Our AI Travel Assistant is here to help you build a personalized plan whether you’re visiting for an event, outdoor adventure, weekend escape, or seasonal getaway.
In seconds, you can get recommendations for things to do, where to stay, nearby attractions, and how to make the most of your time in Iron County. It’s like having a local guide available whenever you’re ready to plan.
There’s always something happening in Iron County. From seasonal festivals and community celebrations to live music, outdoor events, and family friendly activities, our events calendar keeps you up to date on what’s going on during your visit.
Before you finalize your plans, take a moment to explore upcoming events and see what aligns with your trip dates. It’s the easiest way to turn a simple stay into a full Iron County experience.
Iron County's 2025 holiday season promises unforgettable moments: festive parades, cozy Santa breakfasts, charming craft markets, authentic small town traditions and exciting winter recreation. Whether you're traveling with family, as a couple, or seeking outdoor adventure, our local guide connects you with the events, activities and lodging that make your Upper Peninsula holiday truly special.
Events and tagged christmas, family fun, things to do.
906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935
906-265-9244
1700 County Road 424
Gaastra, MI 49917
906-265-3611
1257 W Ice Lake Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
800-362-7853
373 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
800-DO-BRULE
906-265-4957
397 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
906-822-7713
1968 US 141 Highway
Amasa, MI 49903
Iron County is one of the Upper Peninsula’s best kept secrets. From camping to fishing, hunting to canoeing, mountain biking to forest bathing – no matter your interests, the great outdoors and clear crisp air await you here.