By Skyla Jewell-Hammie | SJewell-Hammie@mlive.com
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Lights on Creston will return to Grand Rapids’ Plainfield corridor next week, bringing neighbors, artists and more than 40 local businesses together for an evening of holiday cheer.

The annual event kicks off from 4 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 17, transforming the neighborhood into a walkable winter celebration filled with family-friendly experiences and opportunities to explore what makes Creston unique.

“Lights on Creston is what happens when more than 40 local businesses pull together—shops open their doors, artists share their craft and neighbors show up for one another,” said Gregg Hampshire, corridor manager for the North Quarter/Creston Corridor Improvement Authority. “It’s community, collaboration and holiday spirit all in one night.”

Neighbors and visitors are encouraged to shop local and support small businesses while enjoying a wide range of festive activities.

Corridor-wide highlights

• Santa and Mrs. Claus at Kingma’s Market Greenhouse
• Live reindeer
• Tree lighting ceremony and choir performances
• Crestkindl holiday market with local artist vendors
• Aerial performances by Zeal Aerial Fitness
• Trolley service connecting corridor stops
• Hot cocoa & Glühwein stations
• Business bingo card with prizes from local shops
• Window decorating contest (community voting available at lightsoncreston.org)

“We love taking our art off the rig and into the neighborhood,” said Christina VanDam, owner of Zeal Aerial Fitness. “Performing in our community lets families experience movement, strength and a little wonder up close—it’s a joyful reminder that creativity lives right here on our corridor.”

As guests make their way through the event, they’re encouraged to stop into local shops, dine at neighborhood restaurants and pick up gifts from independent makers.

From handmade goods and thrift finds to books, art and treats, organizers say there’s something for everyone.

Participating businesses

• Alive Again
• Arcane Pizza
• Black Cat Bodega
• Blue Bridge ABA
• Boomtown Records
• Cafe Mamo
• Clique Coffee Catering Co. (The Clique Space)
• Coit Creative Academy / New City Church
• Grand Rapids Public Library – Van Belkum Branch
• Graydon’s Crossing
• Great Matter Books
• Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy
• Jaylei Art
• Kingma’s Market
• Lucy’s
• Mission India Super Thrift
• Mizizi by Street Chef Shaw LLC
• Noxx Cannabis
• Papa John’s
• Renee Austin Wedding
• Stonesthrow
• The Natural Order
• Three Blue Brushes
• Transfigure Print Co.
• Zeal Aerial Fitness

“This event shows what happens when businesses, neighbors and partners pull in the same direction,” said Nate Phillips, chair of the North Quarter/Creston Corridor Improvement Authority. “Lights on Creston is about connection—supporting small businesses, celebrating local creativity, and making our corridor shine.”