November 22, 2011 – January 8, 2012

Excitement surrounds us this time of year as Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World brings the glow of 300,000 lights, strolling carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides and more than 40 international trees and displays. A new feature this year is the redesign of the Diwali display honoring the Hindu Festival of Lights, along with the enhancement of Nativity displays including the new-to-the-exhibition Polish szopka.

Enjoy the Spirit of the Season

Have fun reminiscing with family memories throughout the entire Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition, including the Railway Garden, or bundle up and head out to the Children’s Garden for hands-on holiday fun with several interactive daily activities.

Railway Garden

The Railway Garden, beloved by children of all ages, will again travel through lush gardens, over bridges and past buildings—all made using only natural materials. This year features five new structures: the Van Andel Institute, Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Maya Lin’s Ecliptic sculpture at Rosa Parks Circle, and Alexander Calder’s sculpture La Grande Vitesse, including the city and county government buildings.

For Teachers

Download a teacher packet to create a self-guided tour for your class. Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World Teacher Packet

Extended Holiday Hours

December 20-23 and 26-30, 2011

Entire Facility is open until 9 pm.

For More information visit: http://www.meijergardens.org/calendar/christmas_around_world.php