Christmas Wonderfest at Campus Martius Park in Detroit

This urban gathering spot offers southeast Michigan family holiday fun Nov. 16-25, 2012 in a second annual event with skating, music, holiday shopping and more

Mike Espejo

Come make some new holiday traditions with the Christmas Wonderfest. This downtown holiday happening is a 10-day festival in the heart of Detroit inspired by European Christmas Markets that emphasize the importance of community and the Christmas spirit.

The Detroit Christmas Tree Lighting kicks off the festivities at 5 p.m. on Nov. 16, with the official lighting scheduled for 8 p.m. Enjoy live music from the Michigan Opera Theatre's Children Chorus, Michigan Philharmonic Brass Ensemble and more, along with ice skating shows featuring the Arctic Figure Skating Club and the Detroit Skating Club.

New this year will be the "Family Arts with the Elves" craft event. Make candles, cutout snowflakes for your tree at home, write letters to take to Santa and more, all with the help of Santa's crafty elves.

Throughout Wonderfest, shop for gifts in a classic downtown market environment. You'll find items from The Henry Ford, Pewabic Pottery, The Parade Company, Detroit Artists Market, The Heidelberg Project and more.

To warm up, step into the Holiday Cheer Tent, where you can drink some holiday craft beers, wines and spirits while listening to live music and participating in giveaways.

The event is free and takes place at the following times:

Nov. 16: noon-11 p.m.

Nov. 17: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Nov. 18: noon-8 p.m.

Nov. 22: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Nov. 23: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Nov. 24: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Nov. 25: noon-8 p.m.

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