Residents of Dearborn and visitors alike will have a couple of eye-catching reasons to celebrate the winter months, as the city lights up with two major events: MI Bright Lights and Dearborn Wanderlights. Starting on Nov. 14 and running through Dec. 30, 2025, Camp Dearborn will play host to MI Bright Lights at 1700 General Motors Rd. According to an announcement on the City of Dearborn's website, families can expect to indulge in a drive-through holiday light display that features over a million lights, perfectly synchronized to seasonal tunes. Doing so, visitors can enjoy enrobed in the comfort of their own vehicles.
The experience is nightly, with doors opening at 6 p.m. Not to be missed, special drone shows will burst into the darkened sky on Nov. 26, Dec. 10, and Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m. For those seeking warmth, the historic Camp Dearborn Canteen will be serving hot chocolate, alongside a chance to snag memorabilia of the event. Tickets for MI Bright Lights are on sale now, available both online and at the gate, as detailed by the City of Dearborn.
Not to be outdone, starting just a few days later on Nov. 20, the brand-new Dearborn Wanderlights will take center stage at PEACE Park West. The City of Dearborn itself highlighted the free event, slated to run well into the new year until Feb. 20, 2026, as a "brand-new city tradition." Showcasing creative installations from globally recognized artists Amigo & Amigo and Two Eagles Marcus, Wanderlights promises to merge interactive light artwork with the fabric of community celebration.
The initial festivities, including the Dearborn Wanderlights Holiday Kickoff and Christmas Tree Lighting, are scheduled from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 20, 2025. Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud expressed the communal anticipation saying, "Between the magic of MI Bright Lights, the artistic wonder of Dearborn Wanderlights, and our new Christmas tree at PEACE Park West, Dearborn is shining brighter than ever this holiday season," according to details provided on the City of Dearborn official website. The city promises live entertainment, complimentary treats, and a surprise that's yet to be revealed for those who attend the kickoff. For those looking to get more information or plan their visit to either of the festive events, details can be found on their respective websites, listed at CampDearborn.com and Dearborn.gov/Wanderlights.
