Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Christmas at The Pines
Step back in time at Christmas at The Pines, a delightful holiday tour of the historic Dow family home. Adorned with fresh garland and festive decor, the Pines offers a sensory journey with scents of cinnamon and clove, and the warm glow of candlelight. Discover how the Dow family celebrated Christmas and explore cherished holiday traditions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What to Expect
Historical holiday tour of the Dow family home
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Dow Gardens & Midland Center for the Arts Lot (1809 Eastman Avenue) - Available 8AM–11PM daily. Bike racks available. St. Andrews Street (parallel parking on both north and south sides starting at MSU St. Andrews) - Available anytime. Grace A. Dow Memorial Library - West End Lot (1822 W. St. Andrews) - Available 8AM–11PM. Grace A. Dow Memorial Library - Main and Staff Lots - Available 7PM–11PM. Bike racks available. Dow Gardens Café Lot (2303 Eastman Ave.) - Available 7PM–11PM. Dow Gardens Education Center Lot (2303 Eastman Ave.) – During regular operating hours, this lot is reserved for accessibility-limited guests (by reservation only). After regular operating hours until 11PM, this lot may be used for general parking. Bike racks available. MSU St. Andrews STEAM (1910 W. St. Andrews) - Parking allowed according to posted signs. MDOT Public Carpool Lot (209 Jerome St., approximately .9 miles from Dow Gardens Entrance) - Available anytime.
- Accessibility: Dow Gardens strives to ensure accessibility throughout the property. However, due to varied topography and the historic nature of some buildings, portions of the landscape may be inaccessible. An approximately .7 mile walk is required to access Canopy Walk. Special parking accommodations can be made for those who might not otherwise be able to visit due to an accessibility limitation. Please call ahead for more information. Accessible restrooms are available. A limited number of standard wheelchairs are available to reserve.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Other Christmas Events Near Midland
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, history buffs, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, historical, cozy
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Reservations recommended
- Hear stories of how the Dow family experienced Christmas
- Learn about holiday traditions widely celebrated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1-2 hours per tour
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Dow Gardens
Food & Drink
Festive refreshments available during Holiday Open House. Concessions available at the Whiting Forest Café.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets in advance, especially for weekend tours, as reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
- Arrive early to allow time for parking and navigating any temporary construction-related detours.
- Consider visiting during the 'Holiday Open House' or 'Tales of Christmas Past' events on December 6th for additional festive experiences.
- Dress warmly as the tour is primarily indoors, but the gardens offer beautiful winter scenery to explore before or after your visit.
- Check the Dow Gardens website for the most current parking information due to ongoing construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with admission?
Admission to Christmas at The Pines includes the tour of the historic home. General admission to Dow Gardens is required separately for adults and children/students.
Are there any discounts available?
Adult students with a valid ID receive a discounted rate. Dow Gardens does not offer senior citizen or teacher discounts.
Can I bring my pet?
No pets are allowed at Dow Gardens, with the exception of service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is welcome and encouraged, but please be mindful of other guests and do not obstruct walkways. Drones are not permitted.
What are the holiday hours for Dow Gardens?
Dow Gardens has specific holiday hours, including closures on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day, and reduced hours on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Check their website for details.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.