Dow Gardens invites the Midland community to walk through a winter wonderland this holiday season. Their upcoming Christmas Walk tours provide a festive look at the gardens and grounds all lit up.
The annual Dow Gardens Christmas Walk has been a tradition for many families since 1983. Typically, the event draws anywhere from 700 to 2,500 attendees each evening. Marketing Manager Kristen Inman says it’s extra special this year as they’re celebrating the 40th anniversary.
The 2023 Christmas Walk takes place Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 7-9 featuring reindeer and choirs, and on Dec 14-16 as a silent night from 5:00-8:00 pm.
![]()
Many different musical groups perform at the Christmas Walk.
“Christmas Walk is a gift to the community and its visitors,” Inman says. “Everyone is welcome to wander along the luminary-lit pathway. Indulge in a cup of cocoa from Traveling Tom’s, encounter live reindeer, and savor the festive tunes sung by carolers. The gift shop will be open with curated Michigan-made items, beautiful consignment pieces, and lots of holiday gift options.”
The event is provided free of charge, and there is no registration required, but visitors are encouraged to visit the website for a
full schedule.
Inman says the Gardens and their 40-foot-high forest Canopy walk, iconic red bridges, famous sculptures and historic Pines Home hold many special memories for Midland residents and visitors alike.
![]()
“Many in our community share a special connection to the Gardens, whether they exchanged vows here, captured homecoming memories, or fondly remember holding a butterfly as a child during Butterflies in Bloom. Christmas Walk has become a part of their story and tradition,” she says.
Dow Gardens also provides a cart tour event, inviting those who may need special accommodations on Dec. 6 and 13. Guests are chauffeured in golf carts along an illuminated pathway to the Conservatory.
“There, they have the option to warm up and enjoy seasonal melodies,” Inman says. “Due to popularity, these spaces do fill up quickly, and those interested are encouraged to call to secure a reservation.”
![]()
The half-mile loop is mostly paved trails, but guests are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear and warm layers. “The event offers the opportunity to explore the winter beauty of the landscape, the unique texture of the plants are illuminated in a way that you might not have the opportunity to experience during normal operating hours.”
Inman also recommends to follow the Gardens
online, chat via email:
info@dowgardens.org or by phone: 989-631-2677 for the most accurate information, as sometimes an inauthentic event pops up on social media.
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.