We’re all getting a bit of cabin fever by now, and that is without even getting into the frigid temps of winter. So, be sure to get outside and enjoy some fresh air with a walk, hike, bike, or camping trip. For other ideas, here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in November 2020.

Nov 3 Election Day – Statewide

While it may not in fact be the most fun you can have, arguably the most important event of the month, and year is coming up on Nov 3. Cast your ballot in an effort to secure the type of government and officials that you want. Voting by mail is an outstanding option this year, but if you do not have a ballot, or love the feeling of going out on election day, then mark your calendar. If you want to register, confirm your polling place, or get a preview of the ballot, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center. Make your voice heard.

Nov 9-13 Veterans Week at U of M – Ann Arbor

This patriotic month continues as we honor and thank our vets. This annual University of Michigan celebration features a week of educational programming that honors the experiences and sacrifice of those who have served our country. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, and concern for the health of the community and veterans, most of the events will be virtual this year. Join in for some respectful, educational, and inspirational panels, lectures, and stories. Download a printable calendar for links and details.

Nov 13-20 Traverse City Beer Week – Traverse City

This annual celebration, like many, may be a little different this year, but it’s still a week where great beer flows throughout Traverse City. Visit the website for coupons to save on dining and drinking throughout the week. Participating breweries include Jolly Pumpkin, Right Brain, Short’s, Stormcloud, The Workshop, and more.

Nov 13-21 Cocktail Week – Grand Rapids

It’s also all about sipping local in Grand Rapids this November, where the focus is on spirits and mixology. Explore specially made Michigan cocktail features and their recommended appetizer pairings at area distilleries and restaurants. Enjoy a full schedule of cocktail events and special offers available during Cocktail Week GR.

Nov 14-Dec 31 Jackson and the Roaring 20s Exhibition – Jackson

The 1920s was a decade driven by prosperity, shifting social norm, and new technology. This exhibit explores some of the major individuals and events which made Jackson, Michigan roar during the 1920s. The exhibit was developed by Ella Sharp Museum as a supplement to the traveling exhibit Spirited: Prohibition in America.

Nov 20 The Nightmare Before Christmas – Detroit

The famed Redford Theatre in Detroit is at it again with a flick for the whole family. Transition from Halloween to Christmas with Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. This Walt Disney animated film starts out with Jack Skellington, King of Halloween Town, discovering Christmas Town. He’s so attracted to the idea of Christmas that he tries to get the resident bats, ghouls, and goblins of Halloween Town to help him put on Christmas instead of Halloween. Showtime is 8pm.

Nov 20-22 Downtown Rochester Festival of Trees – Detroit

To keep things safe during the pandemic, the Downtown Rochester Festival of Trees is moving to the grounds of the Royal Park Hotel! The Festival is al fresco so break out your winter woolies and get your holiday spirit on. There will be a Cocktail Charity Preview on Friday, November 20, 7pm-10 pm at the hotel. Tickets are $50 each and proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations and thew town’s famous Big, Bright Light Show. Be sure to pop into Downtown Rochester while in the area to see all the incredible lights and support some local shops and eateries.

Nov 20-Jan 3 Wild Lights – Royal Oak

Boy could we all use some magic this year. The Detroit Zoo has you covered. It will be aglow for 40 magical nights with more than five million LED lights illuminating trees, buildings and over 280 sculptures throughout the front half of the Zoo. Experience the magic of the Detroit Zoo in winter as you take in the lights, sights and sounds of the season for guests of all ages. Children younger than 2 are admitted free.

Nov 21-Dec 31 Wayne County Lightfest – Westland

For decades, families have been enjoying this spectacle on Hines Drive. This year, the demand may be even higher, so bring some hot cocoa and some snacks, and enjoy the ride. Displaying nearly 50 animated themed displays and more than 100,000 lights, this family fun runs Wed-Sun from Nov 21 until the end of the year, with the exception of Christmas. Admission is just $5 per car, and the show lights up from 6pm-10pm.

Nov 24, 29 Eastern Market Holiday Markets – Detroit

With all the amazing art, eats, and shops, there’s never a bad time for a trip to Eastern Market. The opportunities increase during the Holiday Markets. They have even curated a special store for the holiday, separate from the regular Saturday Curbside offerings. The star of the show is a huge Thanksgiving food box literally overflowing with all your Turkey Day cooking vegetable essentials as well as a limited amount of fresh, Michigan-grown turkeys from Charlotte, MI. Order by November 19 and pick up on Tuesday, November 24. You will also find a variety of food vendors on that day. The market on Sunday, November 29 features plenty of Michigan-made gift options including clothing, art, jewelry, beauty products, and more.

Nov 26-Dec 31 Nite Lites – Brooklyn

You may never get a chance to round the corners and hit the straightaway at Michigan International Speedway, but you can still take a thrilling ride this season. This drive-thru Christmas light show is one of the most magnificent in the state. There are two entrances off US-12. For westbound traffic, use the Lot 8 Entrance. For eastbound traffic, use the Graves Farm Entrance. The show takes place Sun-Thu 5:30pm-9pm with admission at $25 per car or Fri-Sat 5:30pm-10pm with an admission of $30 per car.

Nov 28 Chateau Chantal Virtual Winetasting – Virtual

Add some extra fun to your Thanksgiving celebration with this online event for oenophiles. Gather the family around your computer and join Certified Sommelier and CEO of Chateau Chantal, Marie-Chantal Dalese, for a fun-filled tasting of each bottle in the winery’s Thanksgiving Day Packs. To participate, simply order the Thanksgiving pack that fits your palate, and log in on Nov 28.

We’re grateful for all of you who Tweet @BuyMichiganNow to tell us about activities you’re getting out and enjoying. We’d especially like to hear which of our 12 things to do in Michigan in November 2020 you enjoyed. For next month’s events, or to get ideas for your Michigan travel bucket list, be sure to visit our Michigan Tourism page.

Author: BMN Staff