Lowell, Michigan is a friendly and cozy town of just under 4,000 residents. It is located just east of Grand Rapids and is known for its vibrant art community, unique boutique shopping, and an excellent education system. Each November, the population more than doubles for the one-of-a-kind Christmas Through Lowell holiday event. Thousands of people from Michigan and the Upper Midwest make their way to Lowell to experience this unique holiday celebration. Twenty four years ago, the wives of local hunters were looking for a fun event to participate in while many of the men were away hunting. Over time, the event has been embraced by the majority of town residents and establishments participating in this unique and festive celebration.
Christmas Through Lowell features 300 different artists and crafters spread over 45 different locations who are looking to sell their goods and art. All the different locations are uniquely decorated and welcome all the visitors who wish to participate in the holiday fun. During the three-day event you’ll find a wide range of handmade items to purchase for holiday gifts or for yourself. There is something for everyone here with items for sale including jewelry, candles, folk art, bags, rugs, quilts, and fine art. All the activities and shopping will work up an appetite so it’s a good thing that many of the local restaurants are festively decorated and ready to serve patrons of the festival. If you're looking for a fun event to get your holiday season started, few places compare to Christmas Through Lowell. We interviewed Liz Baker, the Executive Director of the Lowell Area chamber of Commerce, to learn more about Christmas Through Lowell.
RAL: How long has the event been running and who attends?
LB: This is the 24th annual Christmas Through Lowell celebration. On average, we attract over 5,000 people to the event. The attendees are made up mostly of ladies and couples, but all are welcomed and encouraged to attend.
RAL: What makes Christmas Through Lowell unique?
LB: When this event began 24 years ago it was for deer hunting widows. The gals that created the event thought the ladies needed a break as long as the guys were away. The event happens on or very close to November 15, and still coincides with deer hunting. Another important fact to mention is that this tradition started in private homes. We’ve grown to a point now where homes still play an important role in the event, but we’ve had to include additional locations at churches, our very large local ballroom, and several businesses on our historic Main Street.
RAL: What can attendees expect during a typical day at the event?
LB: As far as the activities go, this is a true shopping extravaganza. We have over 300 different different artists and crafters on-hand showcasing and selling their art and wares. For a complete list of the vendors and artists please visit our website. When it comes to food, we have several wonderful eating establishments in Lowell and several of the event locations include luncheons. Some of them include the Lowell Women’s Club (here at the Chamber), The Grand Volute Ballroom, First Congregational United Church of Christ, and the Red Barn Market, just to name a few.
The overall environment of the celebration is definitely holiday-themed. I prefer to say Christmas! Lowell is beautifully decorated in a festive Christmas fashion. We have over 45 different homes and businesses that are uniquely decorated and are waiting for you to check them out.
RAL: What can visitors expect to find for local lodging, any specials set up for the event?
LB: No specials, but we have a beautiful inn located in Downtown Lowell with limited space called Main Street Inn. There is also a couple B & B’s, Witt’s Inn and River Edge B & B. The other lodging we recommend,Candlestone Golf & Resort, is located to north of Lowell. It’s a short drive to Lowell and it’s also very close to some of our northern locations. The local lodging hits maximum capacity during our celebration so make sure to make your reservations in advance! I have checked the locations I just mentioned recently and they still do have openings (for now).
RAL: Is there one place in particular that visitors tend to flock to?
LB: Yes, we have a few homes that people love to return to year after year because they are true shopping destinations for their customers. Homespun Holidays, Lil’ Red Barn, and Hangin’ With Friends have all attracted a healthy annual following.
RAL: Does the event drive business to the local economy?
LB: Yes, most certainly. This is the largest retail event held in our community. Visitors come here to buy. Whether it’s art, crafts, gifts, food, or gas, the impact is significant.
RAL: Why should people come to Christmas Through Lowell?
LB: I would say that if you like to shop and browse, if you love art and folk art, crafts, antiques, refound treasures, and a holiday theme, this event is for you. Lowell has been described as a quaint and lovely little town, kind of like a Norman Rockwell or Thomas Kincaid painting. Lowell is the Next Place to Be!
For more information on Christmas Through Lowell and the community visit their website.