There’s something extra special about spending the holidays where fresh lake air meets cozy small-town charm. In Southwest Michigan, we invite you to slow down and savor a season filled with gratitude, indulgent eats, and festive local traditions. Best of all, you can enjoy it all from the comfort of a Juniper Holiday + Home vacation rental. Want to plan a trip for Thanksgiving or the December Holidays? We’ve gathered food ideas, shopping events, and seasonal experiences to make your stay unforgettable.
Celebrate with Effortless, Catered Holiday Dining
Hosting Thanksgiving or a holiday dinner doesn’t have to mean spending the day in the kitchen, not when you’re in vacation mode. Whether you’re planning an intimate meal or a family-style feast, Southwest Michigan has excellent catering options that bring flavor, ease, and seasonal flair right to your table. Let someone else handle the cooking while you enjoy more time connecting with your guests in a beautiful lakeside setting.
Creative Catering Services: A trusted, family-owned caterer offering custom holiday menus throughout Southwest Michigan. Their Thanksgiving and seasonal offerings can accommodate a range of tastes and dietary needs.
Thanksgiving Dinner from Alibi: Enjoy a chef-prepared holiday meal without the stress. Their menu features brined turkey breast, creamy fondant potatoes, focaccia stuffing, and pumpkin bread pudding with salted caramel. All available for pre-order and pick-up. Perfect for groups of 4 to 8.
Granor Farm - Three Oaks - Pick Up- Skips Restaurant & Catering - New Buffalo - Buffet
- Jackie's Cafe - New Buffalo - Pick Up
Casey's - New Buffalo - Take 'N' Bake- Whistle Stop - Union Pier - Pick Up
Once the plates are cleared and leftovers packed away, it’s time to embrace the joy of the season. Southwest Michigan’s towns come alive in early December with twinkling lights, tree lightings, artisan markets, and cozy shopping strolls that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a snow globe. Here’s what to look forward to this year:
Luminary Festival - St. Joseph, MI - Nov 21: Kick off the holiday spirit with a glow-filled evening of luminaries, live music, and late-night shopping.
Gobble Gobble Turkey Walk - Michigan City, IN - Nov 27: Beginning at 11:00 a.m., start your Thanksgiving morning with a lighthearted walk through Michigan City The Gardens. It’s family-friendly and a great way to kick off the day.
Merry & Bright Weekend - St. Joseph, MI - Dec 5–7: This weekend-long event includes the official tree lighting, extended shopping hours, live music, and a festive pet parade.
Light Up the Bluff - St. Joseph, MI - Dec 5: At 6:00 p.m., carolers fill Lake Bluff Park as the community gathers for the lighting of over 1 million twinkling lights. A true highlight of the season.
Whether you're sipping cocoa at the tree lighting or browsing boutiques for local gifts, these events offer a delightful way to experience the season.
Make Yourself at Home With Juniper Holiday + Home
When the celebrations wind down, there’s nothing better than returning to a space that feels both elegant and inviting. Juniper Holiday + Home’s Southwest Michigan rentals are designed for relaxation, with fully equipped kitchens, cozy living areas, and warm, thoughtfully styled interiors.
Whether you're gathered around a long table with friends or curled up with a book and a lake view, our homes are made for moments that linger. When you stay with Juniper, you're not just booking a place to sleep. You're immersing yourself in lakeshore living, local charm, and the joy of a holiday well spent.
