Frankenmuth

LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES? Christmas Guide and Driving Light Tour Maps are available at the Visitor Center, 7 days a week, and additional information is always available at frankenmuth.org. I t has now been six years since the transformational Frankenmuth Christmas Experience project launched, and the holidays in Frankenmuth have never been the same. Each season shines a little brighter, bringing even more joy to residents and visitors alike. But the magic you see and feel throughout town doesn't simply "happen." It takes countless hours of planning, collaboration, and creativity. Each year, the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau, City of Frankenmuth, Frankenmuth DDA, City Beautification Committee, and many local businesses work together to bring the joy you experience all across town. Every wrapped tree, twinkling light, holiday event, and special experience is the result of a community committed to creating something truly memorable. A commitment we proudly welcome thousands of visitors to enjoy—but, more importantly, a commitment we hope each and every one of you has the chance to experience this Christmas season. Whether you gath- er around the Spectacular Tree for a show, lace up your skates for frozen fun on the ice, or simply stroll through town taking in the glow, we invite you to pause and offer a quiet "thank you" to those who make this joy possible. By Lydia Walker, Director of Operations & Service, Frankenmuth Chamber & CVB On Tuesday, November 18th, the Christmas season kicked off with Local Light the Night. Celebrations began at the Ice Rink with live music from the Frankenmuth High School Jazz Band, ice skating performances, and Chuck-a-Puck. Locals were invited to skate for free and to warm up in the Event Haus with free hot chocolate and cookies. At 7 o'clock the Annual Candlewalk began - but this time with a glowing twist. The German Heritage Committee—a committee of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and promoting Frankenmuth's Bavarian heritage—launched a new program this year to create lanterns inspired by Germany's St. Martin's Day traditions. Students at both St. Lorenz and Frankenmuth Schools crafted lanterns of their own, and community members were also invited to participate through lantern-making workshops hosted at a city facility and Fischer Hall. These lanterns illuminated and led the community candlewalk. The warm glow of candles and lanterns lit the path from the Gunzenhausen Riverwalk entrance, along a stretch of the riverwalk, up the pedestrian bridge stairs, and onto Main Street before reaching the Chamber Platz. The walk ended at the stage where the St.Lorenz worship team joined local clergy in sharing the Christmas Story and the night concluded with the lighting of the Spectacular Christmas Tree. With a chill in the air, a sense of magic all around, and a community gathered in celebration, it was an evening to remember. If you were unable to join us, you were certainly missed—and we hope you'll join us for the 2026 Local Light the Night. LOCAL LIGHT THE NIGHT - A Glowing Success 4

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