About the Festival
Nite Lites is a drive-through Christmas light show in Brooklyn, Michigan, featuring displays filled with colorful holiday lights and depicting familiar seasonal scenes that families and friends can enjoy throughout the yuletide season.
Aside from the drive-thru experience, Nite Lites also features a Train ride thru show, giving guests the chance to enjoy all the illuminated attractions and exhibits from the comforts of the festival’s resident train.
Here are the lighting attractions you can catch up at Nite Lites Brooklyn:
- Fairy Lights: Delicate strands of tiny lights sparkle throughout the grounds, adding a warm, whimsical glow to the venue.
- Tunnel of Lights: A fully lit tunnel wraps you in shifting colors as you pass through, creating a fun, immersive moment that’s hard to forget.
- Themed Light Displays: Playful scenes featuring animals and classic Christmas symbols bring extra charm and personality to the route, with each section offering something new to discover.
When is Nite Lites Brooklyn
Nite Lites is a yearly holiday event that usually runs from November into January, setting the perfect backdrop for Christmas celebrations as well as bringing warmth to the cold winter nights.
The latest season took place from November 21, 2025 to January 4, 2026, giving past attendees enough time to enjoy all the lighting displays and attractions at the event.
With dates spread over several weeks, the festival’s schedule works well for both busy weekends and quieter nights, making it easy to fit a visit into almost any holiday plan.

Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The festival is held at the Michigan International Speedway, located in Brooklyn, Michigan USA. This venue has wide-open racetrack grounds that provide plenty of space for cars to cruise through the glowing displays at an easy pace.
The nearest major airport to the festival location is Toledo Express Airport (TOL) in Ohio, which is a convenient option for out-of-state visitors arriving by commercial flight before continuing the drive to Michigan.
Getting to the speedway is straightforward once you’re in the region, and most visitors choose to arrive by car since the venue sits just outside town and is clearly marked during event nights.
How to Get to the Festival from Toledo Express Airport (TOL):
- By rental car: Pick up a rental car at the airport and drive northwest via US-223 toward Adrian, then connect to US-127 North and US-12 West for a smooth trip to Michigan International Speedway.
- By rideshare or taxi: App-based rideshares and local taxi services are available at the airport and can take you directly to the festival, though travel time and cost may vary depending on traffic.
- By shuttle or private transfer: Some visitors opt to pre-book a private car or shuttle service from Toledo, which offers door-to-door convenience for families or groups traveling together.
Train Travel:
- There is no direct train service to Brooklyn, Michigan, so rail travel requires a short drive from a nearby station.
- The closest Amtrak station is in Jackson, Michigan, which is about a 25-minute drive from the speedway by taxi, rideshare, or rental car.
- Other regional Amtrak stations include Ann Arbor and Niles, Michigan, both of which connect to Jackson or allow visitors to continue by car toward Brooklyn.
If you liked this festival, you might want to check out these other drive-thru lighting events as well:
Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival

Festival Hours
Nite Lites is open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, which works well for a laid-back evening visit after the sun goes down.
On Fridays and Saturdays, the gates stay open later from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm, giving weekend crowds a little more time to enjoy all the attractions.
If you wish to make the most of this wonderful holiday celebration, take note of these festival schedules.
How Much Does It Cost to Attend Nite Lites
Experiencing Nite Lites requires the buying of a ticket. Ticket prices are laid out in a straightforward way so visitors can quickly choose the option that best fits their group size and how they want to enjoy the night.
Along with the drive-through entry, there’s also a separate train ride ticket for those who prefer to sit back and take in the lights at a slower pace, making it a nice alternative for families and anyone looking for a different perspective.
Here are the ticket prices for Nite Lites Brooklyn:
- $35 per car or vehicle (one ticket covers everyone in the car and can be purchased at the event)
- $50 for limos, motorhomes, and minibuses (available for purchase at the ticket booth only)
- $100 per tour bus (ticket booth purchase required)
- Train ride: $15 per person plus a credit card service fee (no drive-through ticket needed; seats sold individually with four seats per bench and limited availability)
For more details, you can visit the event’s official website and social media pages.

Weather and What to Wear
The weather in Brooklyn, Michigan from November through January is typical winter weather, with cold air, long evenings, and occasional snow that adds to the seasonal atmosphere around the festival.
Temperatures during the day usually sit between 0°C and 7°C, while evenings often dip lower, hovering around -7°C to -1°C, so dressing for the cold is part of the experience.
What to Wear for a Comfortable Experience at Nite Lites:
- Warm winter coat: A thick, insulated coat helps you stay comfortable during slower parts of the drive or while waiting for the train ride. Wind-resistant options work best on colder nights at the speedway.
- Layers like sweaters or thermal tops: Wearing layers gives you flexibility throughout the evening. You can stay warm outdoors and still feel comfortable inside the car or train.
- Hat and gloves: Cold nights can be tough on exposed skin, especially your hands and ears. A good pair of gloves and a snug hat can help you protect from the chilly temperature.
- Scarf or neck warmer: Covering your neck helps block the cold air and keeps warmth in. It’s a small addition that adds a lot of comfort.
- Warm shoes or boots: Closed-toe shoes help keep your feet warm if you step out briefly. Boots with good grip are useful if the ground is wet or lightly icy.
Where to Stay Near the Festival
For visitors planning to stay overnight, the area around Nite Lites offers several comfortable and convenient hotel options that offer relaxation after a festive evening. Here are some of the hotels to consider:
- Super 8 by Wyndham Brooklyn: Located on South Main Street in Brooklyn, this hotel covers the basics with free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and on-site parking. It’s a solid pick for guests who want to stay close to the festival and keep travel time to a minimum.
- Holiday Inn Express Adrian by IHG: This clean, modern hotel features free Wi-Fi, a daily hot breakfast, an indoor pool, and a hot tub that’s especially welcome on cold winter nights. You’ll find it just off US-223 in Adrian, close enough for a quick drive back after the show.
- Carlton Lodge Hotel & Suites: Offering spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and free breakfast, this three-star hotel works well for families or anyone wanting a little extra comfort. The property sits along West Maumee Street in Adrian, right in the middle of shops and local dining spots.
Restaurants Nearby
If a night of glowing displays works up your appetite, Brooklyn offers a few welcoming spots where you can sit down, warm up, and enjoy a satisfying meal. These are the places you can try out:
- Atlas Restaurant & Bar: Located along North Main Street, this welcoming spot serves familiar comfort dishes like onion soup, a satisfying chicken sandwich, and lighter Mediterranean-style salads. It’s a nice option when you want something filling.
- Poppa’s Place: Known for its family-friendly vibe, this local favorite offers classic comfort food such as roast beef sandwiches, Belgian waffles, and a solid lineup of burgers. You’ll find it on South Main Street, right in town.
- Jerry’s Pub & Restaurant: Set near the water, this casual pub delivers familiar American fare including clam chowder, lobster grilled cheese, and crispy onion rings in a laid-back setting. The restaurant sits along Egan Highway, just a short drive from the festival.
More Places to Explore in the Area
If you feel like stretching the trip beyond the festival itself, here are some of the local attractions you can drop by:
- Michigan International Speedway: Aside from being the festival’s location, this iconic motorsports venue is known for its wide oval track and a long history of hosting major racing events. Even outside of race weekends, the sheer size of the speedway makes it worth seeing up close.
- Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve: This quiet outdoor space is great for a break in nature, with walking trails, picnic areas, and room to enjoy some fresh air. The park is set off Arnold Road, a short drive from the village of Brooklyn.
- Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Packed with historic vehicles and interactive exhibits, this museum offers a deep dive into American invention and culture. It’s located in Dearborn, Michigan.
A Sparkling Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Nite Lites Brooklyn
Nite Lites stands out as a winter tradition that blends simple holiday fun with just enough sparkle to make a cold night feel special, offering an easygoing experience that works for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys seeing familiar places dressed up for the season.
The trip doesn’t end at the festival gates either, since the surrounding towns and nearby cities offer plenty to explore, from quiet outdoor spaces to well-known attractions and cozy spots to eat that round out the visit nicely.
So if you’re looking for a festive reason to get out of the house and enjoy winter in a different way, add Nite Lites to your plans and let the lights guide the rest of your evening.
FAQ
Is parking available at Nite Lites?
Yes, parking is available on-site for guests who choose the train ride, while drive-through visitors remain in their vehicles for the duration of the experience.
Is smoking or alcohol allowed at the festival?
Smoking, alcohol, and coolers are not permitted on the train ride, and guests are expected to follow posted event rules throughout the festival grounds.
Are pets allowed at Nite Lites?
Only service animals are allowed at the festival, including on the train ride, and other pets are not permitted.
Can visitors take photos during the event?
Photography is allowed from inside your vehicle or while seated on the train, provided it’s done safely and without leaving designated areas.
Is food available on-site?
There are no full food vendors along the light route, so many visitors choose to eat before arriving or head to nearby restaurants afterward.
Is Nite Lites accessible for guests with disabilities?
The drive-through format offers an accessible option for most guests, and anyone with specific accessibility questions is encouraged to contact the event organizers in advance.
Are restrooms available at the festival?
Portable restrooms are typically located near the entrance and ticket booth area for guest use before starting the experience.
Is Nite Lites family-friendly?
Yes, Nite Lites is designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to guests of all ages.

Sources: https://nitelitesshow.com/
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