Albion is gearing up for one of its most festive evenings of the year as Albion Aglow and Albion College’s SAAC Winter Carnival return this Friday, December 5, 2025. With events spanning the late afternoon into the night, the community is invited to embrace the magic of the season with live music, family activities, local shopping, and of course—the beloved Albion Aglow Parade. Read on to learn more about all the festivities this Friday!
Winter Carnival Fun at Albion College (4–8 p.m.)
Kick off the afternoon at Albion College’s SAAC Winter Carnival, hosted by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and held from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Dow Recreation Center. This family-friendly celebration features crafts, food, games, and face painting—perfect for keeping kids entertained before the evening’s downtown festivities. Families are encouraged to bring their cameras when their children visit Santa if they would like a photo. Admission is free, though monetary donations and non-perishable food items are welcomed to support local families during the holiday season.
Frozen Open House at Albion District Library (5:30 – 7:30 p.m.)
Just before the parade, the Albion District Library will welcome families for a Frozen Open House from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Visitors can enjoy a Hot Cocoa station, sweet treats, winter-themed crafts, and a special meet-and-greet with one of Disney’s frostiest princesses. The guest princess will appear from 5:30–6:30 p.m. only—timed carefully so she doesn’t have to compete with the parade outside.
The event is free and open to all ages. Community members with questions may contact the library at 517-629-3993.
Free Holiday Photos at The Foundry (6–8 p.m.)
From 6 to 8 p.m., head to The Foundry for free holiday photos—a popular Albion Aglow tradition. Families, couples, and friends are all welcome to stop in and capture a keepsake moment of the season.
Albion Aglow Parade Returns at 6:30 p.m.
The highlight of the evening—the Albion Aglow Parade—steps off at 6:30 p.m., presented by Ford BlueOval Battery Park MI.
This year’s theme invites the community to journey to “The North Pole”.” Enjoy the holiday lights shining bright downtown and the two new wreath skylines, thanks to the donors that gave to this year’s X-mas in July fundraising campaign.
Kids ’N’ Stuff After-Parade Celebration (Immediately Following the Parade – 8 p.m.)
After the Albion Aglow Parade, families are invited to head to Kids ’N’ Stuff Children’s Museum for a festive, activity-filled after-party—free for all guests. Children can explore the museum’s brand-new winter exhibit, Chill Out!, glide across the custom sock-skating rink, write letters to the North Pole, and enjoy a variety of winter crafts and activities. From gingerbread cookie decorating (6–8 p.m.) to a magical visit with Santa in the museum’s Winter Wonderland, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
This free community celebration is generously supported by Caster Concepts and Homestead Savings Bank.
Live Music to Keep the Celebration Going at Albion Malleable
As the parade winds down, the festivities continue at the Albion Malleable where the M.A.P. Trio will perform beginning at 7 p.m. and continuing after the parade. Featuring Ben Maloney on keys, Travis Aukman on percussion, and Dan Palmer on bass, this trio blends classic holiday tunes with jazz and rock that entertains for all ages.
A Night to Celebrate Community
With lights, music, winter fun, and cherished traditions, Albion Aglow and the SAAC Winter Carnival create a magical start to the holiday season. Whether you’re gathering with friends, enjoying time with family, or exploring downtown Albion for the first time, this Friday promises to be an unforgettable community celebration.
Bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and join Albion as it shines brighter than ever!
Albion Life Today 