Noel Night returns to Midtown Detroit for a magical evening of food, music, and holiday shopping

Detroit is kicking off the holiday season with the 49th Annual Noel Night, a free event full of music, food, and shopping local. The showcase of diverse traditions is set for Saturday, Dec. 2 in the Midtown district.

Produced by Midtown Detroit Inc., the evening will see more than 100 institutions participating in a city-wide open house, including the College for Creative Studies, Detroit Public Library, Detroit Institute of Arts, the Magic Stick, Michigan Science Center, MOCAD, and Wayne State University, as well as local businesses offering holiday specials.

“Noel Night has become a beloved tradition that celebrates the magic of the holiday season and showcases the incredible array of small, unique businesses, restaurants, bars, and Cultural Center institutions that make our city truly exceptional,” Sue Mosey, executive director of Midtown Detroit Inc., said in a press release.

Other family-friendly activities during Noel Night include pop-up winter marketplaces, make-and-take crafts, food trucks, and holiday drink stands.

Visits with Santa will be happening at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, City Bird/Nest, Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Hannan Center, The Scarab Club, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University Old Main Building, among other locations.

Performances by over 80 music, theatre, and dance groups in the area will also take place, including sets featuring the Detroit Youth Choir, Detroit Puppet Company, and Detroit Opera.

Many restaurants and businesses participating this year are joining Noel Night for the first time.

“This event not only illuminates the spirit of the season but also highlights the diverse and thriving community that defines Detroit,” Mosey added. “It’s a testament to the resilience, creativity, and togetherness that make our city shine.”

For Noel Night, Detroit’s Cultural Center will be open from 5-9 p.m. and venues south of Warren Avenue will be open from 5-10 p.m. Free shuttles will be available to and from participating locations, but attendees can expect to pay around $7-$20 for parking.