Courtesy Photo A child gets a close-up look at a Christmas village on display at the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan.

ALPENA — The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan invites the community and visitors to experience the magic of the holidays at its annual Season of Light Exhibit, now open through January 6, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

This year’s theme, “A White Christmas,” transforms the museum into a festive wonderland of elegance and tradition. Guests will be enchanted by over 40 beautifully decorated trees, including the beloved Trees of Nations, which celebrate global holiday customs from countries such as Germany, Brazil, Japan, Russia, Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania.

Adding a local touch, the Community of Trees exhibit features decorations by 17 area nonprofits and organizations, reflecting Alpena’s vibrant spirit of generosity and service. Visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to place under the Community Tree, supporting Grace Lutheran Church’s Little Food Pantry. This unique food pantry is open 24 hours a day to help those in need.

The holiday magic continues with the Avenue of Shops exhibit, meticulously staged to delight guests of all ages.

“The Season of Light Exhibit is truly a community effort to bring Christmas magic to our Northeast Michigan visitors,” said Christine Witulski, Executive Director of Besser Museum. “Every corner of the museum offers something special, from cultural displays to whimsical decorations.”

As part of the festivities, Besser Museum has partnered with the Thunder Bay Arts Council to present Yuletide at the Historic Village, a one-day event on Saturday, November 29, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Thanks to generous sponsorship from Alpena Power Company and Lori Stephan at Real Estate One, admission is free. Visitors can enjoy:

· Season of Light exhibits

· Christmas carolers in the historic church

· MellyPop puppet shows in the one-room schoolhouse

· Santa visits in the Maltz Bank

· Horse and carriage rides

· Children’s activities, petting zoo, seasonal artwork, and more