Meijer Gardens Family Christmas Activities
Holiday Decorations and Traditions from Around the World
Nov 11, 2008
Each year the Frederick Meijer Gardens come alive with 300,000 lights and a wide variety of activities to be treasured by every member of the family. This annual event runs from November 19, 2008, through January 4, 2009.
Christmas Trees
There are over 40 different Christmas trees and presentations that highlight holiday celebrations from every corner of the globe. The towering evergreens lining the halls display ornaments of significance for each country represented whether it is Sweden, Ukraine, Philippines or Mexico. There is a description next to each tree that explains the various elements as well as traditions celebrated that are not specifically on the tree.
Children’s Railway Garden
A favorite display for children of all ages is the Railway Garden. Each year an intricate train display is created that runs throughout one of the garden rooms from the ground level to high above everyone's heads. This year the railway will be constructed by a nationally known garden railway designer, Paul Busse. The buildings, all reproductions of Grand Rapids buildings, will be constructed entirely out of natural materials such as twigs, nuts, bark, and cinnamon sticks.
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
For an extra fee, people can enjoy a twenty-minute horse-drawn carriage ride throughout the decorated outdoor gardens. Available only on certain evenings in November and December, reservations are required and can be made through the Meijer Gardens website.
Other Activities for Children
The Children’s Garden Information Center offers a variety of hands-on activities for children located indoors. Santa will be stopping by on some evenings as will the Rooftop Reindeer. Dates, times and costs are all available on the Meijer Garden website.
Shopping and Eating
The Meijer Gardens have a lovely gift shop with sections devoted to children, gardeners, art lovers and general gift items. The Cafe offers a fairly extensive menu of light items such as sandwiches, soup, salads and daily specials.
Avoiding the Crowds
The Meijer Gardens offer many special events and extended hours throughout the holiday season. The displays are spectacular in the evening, but the crowds are also much larger. If an evening event spent shuffling along with throngs of people doesn’t sound like an enjoyable holiday experience, try going during the late afternoon on a cloudy day. The displays will stand out more on a cloudy day, but the crowds will be drastically smaller.
Hours and Rates
The rates and hours vary widely during the holiday season. Some activities are included with the payment of general admission and others require an extra fee. The hours also vary daily throughout the season depending on the special attraction for the day or whether it is a day with extended hours. All of this info can be found on the Meijer Gardens website.
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