Falling into Winter in Birmingham

Fall has been off and running - literally - in Birmingham, and what goes faster than something with horsepower?

On Nov. 25, the city held its annual Holi­day Tree Lighting in front of City Hall, accompanied by the opening of the Santa House and arrival of the Jolly Elf. That included caroling, hot cocoa and the kickoff of free carriage rides as part of a local retail brainstorm. The rides, in effect on weekends through Dec. 18, board near the Santa House at the corner of Henrietta and Merrill and conveniently travel past local businesses and restaurants. Those enterprises co-sponsor the annual Fall into Birmingham event and Principal Shopping and Community Action for Education - and offer discounts and support area schools and organizations.

This weekend, the debut of Winter Markt in Shain Park is on everyone's must-do list. Traditional holiday art, decorations and crafts, holiday greens, gifts and home accessories top the list of offerings. There are also traditional German foods and drinks served on the Community House patio, along with live entertainment from local musicians and school groups. Ice sculptures abound, balanced by the presence of hot drinks, and special attention to children's activities and fun is highlighted by live reindeer and more.

The streets are alive - with the sounds of hoof-prints. "...neighs, brays we have heard on high..."

http://www.metroalive.com/michigan/birmingham/BirminghamTreeLighting/

http://www.enjoybirmingham.com/pdf/2010_Free_Carriage_Hours.pdf