Week of Events
2026 Countdown to New Year
Celebrate the season in Saint Joseph with St. Joe Today's Countdown to New Year holiday giveaway running through December 13. Earn entries with every $25 spent at participating member businesses—present your receipts at the Welcome Center downtown to qualify. Daily prize drawings award $50 gift certificates, with double entries on special shopping days including Small […]
2026 Merry & Bright Weekend
Experience the magic of the season at Saint Joseph's Merry & Bright Weekend, running December 4-6 throughout Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. The downtown celebration features Light up the Bluff with a tree lighting ceremony, a festive Reindog Parade, Santa's House visits, and a Holiday Artisan Market. Extended shopping hours and special offers await across the […]
The Nutcracker
Looking for Community Events in Benton Harbor? The Nutcracker runs on Saturday, December 5 at Grand Upton Hall at The Mendel Center in Benton Harbor, Michigan. When: Saturday, December 5 (all day) Where: Grand Upton Hall at The Mendel Center — 1100 Yore Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Hosted by: Fusion Center for Dance Category: […]
Christmas in the Village
Celebrate the season at Christmas in the Village in Stevensville, where families gather for sleigh rides, free photos with Santa, food trucks, games, and festive fun. This family event brings holiday cheer to the Village of Stevensville on Saturday, December 5, with activities for all ages to enjoy together. When: Saturday, December 5 (all day) […]
Monday, November 30, 2026
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November 30, 2026 –Swear Word Coloring
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November 30, 2026 –NEW Mixed Media Art Course
Swear Word Coloring
Shake off Monday blues at Lazy Ballerina Winery in St. Joseph, where this food and drink event invites you to color away stress with a swear word coloring book and […]
NEW Mixed Media Art Course
Explore mixed media art at JLN Studio in Stevensville this fall with a five-week course combining acrylics, watercolors, markers, gel pens, acrylic ink, and oil pastels on various surfaces. Perfect […]
Tuesday, December 1, 2026
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December 1, 2026 –LIGHTS at Fernwood
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December 1, 2026 –Science with Sara: SOUND
LIGHTS at Fernwood
Experience the magic of LIGHTS at Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve in Niles, where thousands of sparkling lights transform the gardens into a festive wonderland. Stroll through glowing pathways, […]
Science with Sara: SOUND
Explore the science of sound this holiday season at St. Joseph's Palenske Memorial Library. Science with Sara brings hands-on activities for all ages, diving into how sound works and inviting […]
Wednesday, December 2, 2026
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December 2, 2026 –Fall Storytime at the Library!
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December 2, 2026 –Out of the Box Open Mic Night
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December 2, 2026Karaoke at Sandbar & Grille
Fall Storytime at the Library!
Storytime at the Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library in St. Joseph welcomes babies through school-age children for an hour of theatre and dance magic. Expect reading, laughter, dancing, singing, and rhyming as librarians guide young audiences through stories that spark imagination. Each session concludes with a fabulous craft, creating cherished memories while building a foundation […]
Out of the Box Open Mic Night
Where: Main Stage, Box Factory for the Arts St. Joseph's Box Factory for the Arts hosts Open Mic Night every Wednesday, where musicians, singers, poets, writers, and storytellers take the […]
Karaoke at Sandbar & Grille
Head to St. Joseph for Karaoke at Sandbar & Grille, on Wednesday, December 2 at 9 PM, at Sandbar & Grille in St. Joseph, Michigan. A Community Events pick along […]
Thursday, December 3, 2026
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December 3, 2026 –Jazz Evenings at Plank’s
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December 3, 2026 –Christmas Tree Painting
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December 3, 2026 –Fall Finale & Annual Meeting
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December 3, 2026 –Mandala Ornament Making Night
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December 3, 2026 –AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
Jazz Evenings at Plank’s
Experience live jazz at Plank's Tavern on the Water in Benton Harbor this Thursday, December 3, from 5–8 PM. Enjoy saxophone, guitar, and upright bass performances featuring holiday favorites with […]
Christmas Tree Painting
Paint a festive Christmas tree at JLN Studio in Stevensville this holiday season. During this three-hour acrylic art class, you'll master color mixing, layering, blending, and brushwork techniques while creating a cheerful holiday painting on canvas. Add embellishments to personalize your piece, perfect for decorating your home or gifting to loved ones. Beginner-friendly and suitable […]
Fall Finale & Annual Meeting
Celebrate art and community at the Krasl Art Center in Saint Joseph this Thursday evening. Explore student artwork from fall semester studios featuring drawing, painting, and ceramics while hearing updates […]
Mandala Ornament Making Night
Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast turns out for Mandala Ornament Making Night at Evermore Juice Bar in St. Joseph, Michigan, on Thursday, December 3 from 6 PM–8 PM. A standout on the Holiday calendar. When: Thursday, December 3, 6 PM–8 PM Where: Evermore Juice Bar — 319 State St., St. Joseph, MI 49085 Hosted by: Evermore […]
AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
AVENUE Q - Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick comes to Ghostlight Theatre in Benton Harbor, Michigan on Thursday, December 3 from 7:30 PM–10 PM. Part of the Sunset Coast's Theatre & Dance lineup. When: Thursday, December 3, 7:30 PM–10 PM Where: Ghostlight Theatre — 101 Hinkley Street, […]
Friday, December 4, 2026
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December 4, 2026 –Movie Matinee At The Library: “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story”
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December 4, 2026 –Warm Up During Light Up the Bluff
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December 4, 2026 –Light Up The Bluff
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December 4, 2026 –Candlelight Christmas Parade
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December 4, 2026 –AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
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December 4, 2026 –Twin City Players Presents Prancer
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December 4, 2026 –The Chris White Trio presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Movie Matinee At The Library: “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story”
Celebrate the season at St. Joseph's Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library with a holiday movie matinee featuring "The Homecoming: A Christmas Story." This Friday, December 4 from 1–3 PM, settle […]
Warm Up During Light Up the Bluff
Warm up at Krasl Art Center during Saint Joseph's Annual Light Up the Bluff on Friday, December 4 from 6 PM–8 PM. This community event features hot chocolate, live artists […]
Light Up The Bluff
Light up the Bluff transforms Saint Joseph's Lake Bluff Park into a winter wonderland this holiday season. The St. Joseph High School Choir performs Christmas carols at 6 PM, followed […]
Candlelight Christmas Parade
Kris Kringle makes his festive return to Dowagiac for the Candlelight Christmas Parade, presented by the Chamber of Commerce and City of Dowagiac. The holiday procession steps off from Front […]
AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
AVENUE Q - Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick comes to Ghostlight Theatre in Benton Harbor, Michigan on Friday, December 4 from 7:30 PM–10 PM. Part of the Sunset Coast's Theatre & Dance lineup. When: Friday, December 4, 7:30 PM–10 PM Where: Ghostlight Theatre — 101 Hinkley Street, […]
Twin City Players Presents Prancer
Twin City Players brings the beloved holiday classic Prancer to life in St. Joseph this December. This heartwarming theatre production follows young Jessica as her faith is tested when she discovers a wounded reindeer she believes belongs to Santa. Greg Taylor's stage adaptation blends touching themes of resilience and healing with wonder, creating magic for […]
The Chris White Trio presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Experience the magic of the season at Acorn Theater in Three Oaks as the Chris White Trio performs Vince Guaraldi's beloved score from "A Charlie Brown Christmas" in its entirety. […]
Saturday, December 5, 2026
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December 5, 2026 –Reindeer Day at the Library
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December 5, 2026 –Holiday Open House
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December 5, 2026 –BOWL WITH SANTA
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December 5, 2026 –Acoustic Holiday Music with Kody Bryant
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December 5, 2026 –Wreath Workshop
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December 5, 2026 –Saturday Stitchers
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December 5, 2026 –Drinks & Links with Wine Knot Jewelry at Lazy Ballerina Winery
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December 5, 2026 –Reindog Parade Book Signing and Story Time with Kelly DiPucchio
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December 5, 2026 –2026 Reindog Parade
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December 5, 2026 –2026 Santa’s House
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December 5, 2026 –Live Music at Local Pour
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December 5, 2026 –Eden Springs Park Holiday Train Rides
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December 5, 2026 –A CHRISTMAS CAROL – LIVE READING
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December 5, 2026 –Andrews University Christmas Extravaganza
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December 5, 2026 –AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
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December 5, 2026 –Twin City Players Presents Prancer
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December 5, 2026 –Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts
Reindeer Day at the Library
Celebrate the season at the Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library in St. Joseph with reindeer-themed activities perfect for the whole family. Create edible reindeer food with The Culinary Cottage, enjoy storytime and crafts, and play festive reindeer games throughout the afternoon. This community event offers holiday fun before heading downtown for the parade with your […]
Holiday Open House
Holiday Open House lands at Morton House Museum in Benton Harbor, Michigan on Saturday, December 5 from 11 AM–2 PM, adding to West Michigan's Holiday calendar. When: Saturday, December 5, 11 AM–2 PM Where: Morton House Museum — 501 Territorial Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Hosted by: Morton House Museum Category: Holiday, Cultural Events About […]
BOWL WITH SANTA
Santa arrives at Peat's Cider Social in Stevensville on Saturday, December 5 from noon to 3 PM, bringing festive holiday cheer to Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. Visit with Santa, warm up with hot cocoa and cider, and receive a special North Pole gift. Reserve your lane by emailing [email protected] to secure your spot for this […]
Acoustic Holiday Music with Kody Bryant
Kody Bryant returns to Filkins Vineyards in Coloma for an intimate live music performance in the tasting room, where seasonal songs fill the air while you sip wine and soak in the festive atmosphere. No tickets required—just arrive and enjoy this beloved musician's return to the vineyard on Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. When: Saturday, December […]
Wreath Workshop
Celebrate the season at Sarett Nature Center in Benton Harbor with a festive wreath-making workshop. Craft your own holiday creation with provided evergreens, tools, wire, and ribbons while breathing in the crisp winter air. Bring your own wreath frame or purchase one on-site. This hands-on holiday experience welcomes both members and non-members to create a […]
Saturday Stitchers
West Michigan turns out for Saturday Stitchers at St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library in St. Joseph, Michigan, on Saturday, December 5 from 1 PM–3 PM. A standout on the Community Events calendar. When: Saturday, December 5, 1 PM–3 PM Where: St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library — 500 Market St., St. Joseph, MI 49085 […]
Drinks & Links with Wine Knot Jewelry at Lazy Ballerina Winery
Sip and sparkle at Wine Knot's pop-up at Lazy Ballerina Winery in St. Joseph this Saturday, December 5th from 2–5 PM. Design your own custom permanent jewelry—bracelets, anklets, and necklaces—by selecting chains and decorative connectors perfectly suited to you. Purchase a new piece and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting or beverage. Book your appointment online […]
Reindog Parade Book Signing and Story Time with Kelly DiPucchio
Saint Joseph's Forever Books hosts the annual Reindog Parade this holiday season, featuring creatively costumed pets and owners celebrating in festive attire. Bestselling children's author Kelly DiPucchio will be on hand for a book signing and story times before and after the parade, sharing tales from her beloved collection of over forty books that have […]
2026 Reindog Parade
Saint Joseph's annual Reindog Parade brings holiday cheer to Downtown St. Joseph Michigan with costumed pets and their owners parading in festive attire. From "Santa Bernards" to "Reindeer Rottweilers," this beloved holiday tradition showcases creative costumes before welcoming Santa's arrival. After the parade, children can visit Santa's House to share their wish lists, making it […]
2026 Santa’s House
Capture holiday memories at Santa's House in downtown Saint Joseph this December! Located at State and Pleasant Streets outside the St. Joe Welcome Center, this festive holiday attraction invites visitors to bring their own cameras for picture-perfect moments. Santa's House operates select weekends throughout the month, offering families a charming seasonal tradition on Southwest Michigan's […]
Live Music at Local Pour
Local Pour in Sawyer hosts live music on Saturday afternoons, featuring rotating local talent performing along Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. Settle in with a drink and experience the region's vibrant musical scene in an intimate setting. This Saturday, December 5, catch the performance from 4–5 PM and soak in the evening atmosphere as talented musicians […]
Eden Springs Park Holiday Train Rides
Experience holiday magic at Eden Springs Park in Benton Harbor with a scenic ride on the historic miniature train illuminated by festive lights. This beloved family tradition runs select evenings throughout December, offering the perfect opportunity to create winter memories while enjoying the Sunset Coast's seasonal charm. Dress warmly and bring cash for this enchanting […]
A CHRISTMAS CAROL – LIVE READING
Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' timeless tale at Sister Lakes Brewing Company in Dowagiac this holiday season. Professional storyteller Greg Weiss returns for his annual live reading of "A Christmas Carol," bringing the beloved classic to life. Settle in with seasonal cheer as this cherished story unfolds on Saturday, December 5 from 5:30 PM–8:30 […]
Andrews University Christmas Extravaganza
Andrews University's Department of Music presents a Christmas Extravaganza at the Howard Performing Arts Center in Berrien Springs, featuring the University Singers and Chorale, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Symphony, and student ensembles. This festive holiday concert celebrates the season with diverse musical performances from talented student musicians. Check howard.andrews.edu for repertoire details as the concert date […]
AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
On Saturday, December 5 from 7:30 PM–10 PM, Ghostlight Theatre in Benton Harbor, Michigan hosts AVENUE Q - Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick — one of West Michigan's Theatre & Dance happenings. When: Saturday, December 5, 7:30 PM–10 PM Where: Ghostlight Theatre — 101 Hinkley Street, Benton […]
Twin City Players Presents Prancer
Twin City Players brings the beloved holiday classic Prancer to life this season in St. Joseph, with a heartwarming stage adaptation that follows young Jessica and her discovery of a wounded reindeer. This family-friendly theatre production blends touching themes of resilience and healing with wonder, capturing the magic of believing in miracles. Experience the enchantment […]
Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts
Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts bring their dynamic sound to the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks for an evening of community entertainment. Known for their tight harmonies, diverse musical range, and compelling songcraft, the band delivers everything from compact pop songs to expansive jams. Their dedicated fanbase, the Rusted Herd, continues to follow their […]
Sunday, December 6, 2026
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December 6, 2026 –Brunch With Santa
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December 6, 2026 –2026 Holiday Artisan Market
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December 6, 2026 –2026 Santa’s House
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December 6, 2026 –Twin City Players Presents Prancer
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December 6, 2026 –Christmas with the Rat Pack
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December 6, 2026 –AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
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December 6, 2026 –Harbor Country Singers Holiday Concert
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December 6, 2026 –Eden Springs Park Holiday Train Rides
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December 6, 2026 –Andrews University Christmas Extravaganza
Brunch With Santa
Gather your family for a festive brunch experience in Benton Harbor this December at Plank's Tavern on the Water. Savor à la carte brunch selections from a special holiday menu while Santa visits to meet guests and pose for photos. This Food + Drink event blends seasonal cheer with waterfront dining on Southwest Michigan's Sunset […]
2026 Holiday Artisan Market
Celebrate the season at Union + Social's indoor Holiday Artisan Market in Saint Joseph, where over two dozen makers and artisans showcase handcrafted goods from candles and jewelry to baked treats, natural remedies, and woodwork. Browse unique gifts and creations from local vendors, perfect for holiday shopping on Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. When: Sunday, December […]
2026 Santa’s House
Capture festive memories at Santa's House in Saint Joseph this holiday season. Located at State and Pleasant Streets outside the St. Joe Welcome Center, Santa welcomes visitors throughout December weekends. Bring your own camera to photograph picture-perfect holiday moments with the man in red in downtown's charming setting on Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. When: Sunday, […]
Twin City Players Presents Prancer
Twin City Players brings the beloved holiday classic Prancer to life in St. Joseph this theatre season. Follow young Jessica Riggs as her unwavering faith is tested when she discovers a wounded reindeer she believes belongs to Santa. This heartwarming stage adaptation blends resilience and healing with wonder, captivating audiences of all ages. Experience the […]
Christmas with the Rat Pack
On Sunday, December 6 from 3 PM–4:45 PM, The Mendel Center Mainstage at Jenkins Theater in Benton Harbor, Michigan hosts Christmas with the Rat Pack — one of West Michigan's Holiday happenings. When: Sunday, December 6, 3 PM–4:45 PM Where: The Mendel Center Mainstage at Jenkins Theater — 2755 E. Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, MI […]
AVENUE Q – Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick
Head to Benton Harbor for AVENUE Q - Music and Lyrics by Jeff Marx & Robert Lopez; dir. by Paige Mulick, on Sunday, December 6 from 3 PM–5:30 PM, at Ghostlight Theatre in Benton Harbor, Michigan. A Theatre & Dance pick along the Sunset Coast. When: Sunday, December 6, 3 PM–5:30 PM Where: Ghostlight Theatre […]
Harbor Country Singers Holiday Concert
Celebrate the holiday season at Three Oaks' Acorn Theater as the Harbor Country Singers deliver a free concert blending Christmas and Hanukkah music. This festive evening features the community choir alongside area musicians performing with a brass quintet and piano, guitar, and bass trio, creating an atmospheric musical experience on Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. The […]
Eden Springs Park Holiday Train Rides
Experience holiday magic at Eden Springs Park in Benton Harbor with a scenic miniature train ride through a dazzling light display. This beloved family tradition runs select evenings throughout December, offering the perfect opportunity to create festive memories under the winter sky. Bundle up and enjoy an enchanting evening on Southwest Michigan's Sunset Coast. When: […]
Andrews University Christmas Extravaganza
Celebrate the holiday season at Berrien Springs' Howard Performing Arts Center as Andrews University's Department of Music presents a Christmas Extravaganza featuring the University Singers and Chorale, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Symphony, and student ensembles. This festive performance showcases talented musicians in a memorable evening of seasonal music on Sunday, December 6. When: Sunday, December 6, […]