University of michigan health-west:

christmas & Holiday traditions | Gather

November 21, 2023 through January 7, 2024

Warm up this winter as we celebrate what it means to Gather in a colorful community across the world.

This exhibition—honoring cultures and holiday traditions from around the world—has grown to more than 40 unique displays depicting fact and folklore, past and present. University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions is a hallmark Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park exhibition. Dedicate time to appreciate the stunning presentations of winter plantings, the artistry of our adorned Christmas trees, intriguing cultural displays and the beloved Railway Garden. Venture outdoors and discover the beauty of nature with wintertime walks. Indoors and out, our magnificent grounds sparkle with 350,000 lights.

Gather for the season

University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions | Gather

November 21, 2023 through January 7, 2024

A hallmark of the holidays at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, our anticipated annual exhibition marks 29 years this November. This year, University of Michigan Health–West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions spotlights the meaningful ways people Gather for the season.

As you wander our winter wonderland illuminated by 300,000 glistening lights and 42 artfully adorned Christmas trees and cultural displays, note the diversity in festivities that bring people together to recognize time-honored traditions. From feasts and festivals to ceremonies and stories to crafts and carols, folks near and far flock to celebrate in good company. 

Winter Glow

December 18-22 and 26-30, 2023 | 5:30-8:30pm
DeVos Van Andel Piazza

Only a short distance from the main building, venture out to the DeVos Van Andel Piazza to enjoy a NEW immersive and majestic winter lighting experience surrounding The American Horse.

Beacons of colorful light pull you in to begin the journey, color-changing light sabers come alive with undulating and chasing dance-like choreography, playful patterns of light projected onto the hilled topography give the feeling you’ve stepped inside a snow globe or another world, and a custom soundtrack accompanies this theatrical experience. Gather outdoors with family and friends to cozy up around firepits and hot drinks as you celebrate the season at Winter Glow.

Railway Garden

The Railway Garden creates a winter wonderland during the University Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition. Trains weave their way around holiday-themed horticulture and dozens of West Michigan and Sister Cities miniature landmarks—made of natural materials—within the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse.

sponsors

title sponsor

Lead Railway Garden Sponsor

GMG_SponsorLogos1-Warner

Additional Sponsors

  • The Meijer Foundation
  • Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation
  • Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
  • Michigan Arts and Culture Council, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts
  • Life EMS
  • Star 105.7
  • FOX17

Christmas & Holiday Traditions Exhibition Programming

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HOURS

Sunday 11 am - 5 pm
Monday 9 am - 5 pm
Tuesday 9 am - 9 pm
Wednesday 9 am - 5 pm
Thursday 9 am - 5 pm
Friday 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm

RATES

Members (with ID) FREE
Adults (14-64) $20.00
Seniors (65 and older) $15.00
Students (with student ID) $15.00
Museums for All $2.00
Children (3-13) $10
Children (2 and younger) FREE

CONTACT US

Holiday Hours

We are closed on November 23, 2023, December 24, 2023, December 25, 2023, December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2024. 

Extended Hours

Enjoy extended holiday hours until 9 pm on December 18-22 and 26-30, 2023

Extended Member Early Hours

Members can enjoy early morning hours on Sundays 9-11 am from November 26 through January 7

HOURS

Sunday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

RATES

Members (with ID) FREE
Adults (14-64) $20.00
Seniors (65 and older) $15.00
Students (with student ID) $15.00
Museums for All $2.00
Children (3-13) $10
Children (2 and younger) FREE