Join Millions at Lagniappe in Rochester, MI, for Holiday Fun

It doesn’t matter whether you live in the metro Detroit area or are just passing through—anyone is welcome to enjoy Lagniappe in Rochester, MI. From the brilliant light displays and festive performances to the enticing sales and sense of community, our annual downtown tradition has something for everyone. This year, experience a little Christmas magic and kick off the holiday season with the whole family!

What Does Lagniappe Mean?

Lagniappe, pronounced lon-yap, is a French Creole word meaning “a little something extra.” Traditionally, this refers to a small, free gift added onto a customer’s purchase to show a merchant’s thanks and appreciation. This generous practice made its way up to our little town over 50 years ago and now coincides with everyone’s favorite Rochester Christmas lights show!

Lagniappe: Everyone’s Favorite Rochester Holiday Tradition

Lagniappe has remained the most anticipated holiday event ever since it first began in 1935. At first, the locals were the only ones in attendance, but word has since gotten out, and now it draws over one million people each year! During the event, local business owners offer special discounts and free treats and goodies to thank the community for all their support and help throughout the year.

But that’s not all! Lagniappe is the first day of The Big, Bright Light Show, which begins, illuminating the buildings of downtown Rochester with more than 1.5 million colorful and brilliant light bulbs. This Christmas light display in Rochester turns on every evening from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM through the middle of January and is a fun and free thing to do in the metro Detroit area.   

When is Lagniappe this Year?

Get your calendars ready! The 52nd anniversary of Lagniappe will take place on Monday, November 24th, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. If you can’t make the official celebration, don’t worry—the Christmas lights in Rochester will remain on full dazzling display for the next few months.

Lagniappe Rochester Schedule and Location

The event will start at 6:00 PM at the main stage located on the crosswalk of W. 4th Street and Main Street. There, the Mayor, Channel 7 News, and Santa Claus himself will make an appearance! An hour later, at 7:00 PM, The Big, Bright Light Show begins, followed by a colorful fireworks display sponsored by Fox Automotive.

If you have young ones with you, don’t miss the opportunity to help them share their biggest Christmas wishes with Santa from 7:15 PM to 9:00 PM. If they’re good, maybe they’ll get every graphic novel and picture book on their list!

What to Expect at Lagniappe

If this is your first time experiencing the thrilling Christmas light show in Rochester, be prepared for these festive experiences (and so much more):  

• Strolling carolers
• Santa Claus (and his reindeer!)
• Live performances
• Horse-drawn carriage rides
• Sales from local businesses
• Delicious food and drink vendors

A Local’s Tips for Attending Lagniappe

Whether it’s your first or your 20th time experiencing Rochester’s annual Christmas light celebration, you’re in for a treat! As locals, we’ve attended countless times with our friends and family. But now, with Novel, we’re right in the middle of the chaos! Take it from us and follow these five helpful tips to make the most out of your visit:

• Tip #1: Arrive early to secure a good parking spot. Even though Main Street is closed off to cars by 5:30 PM, stores are still running business as usual. Consider getting there ahead of schedule and spending a few hours window shopping (and stopping by Novel for a bite to eat off the menu) before the fun begins!
• Tip #2: While we normally love seeing everyone’s pups, we recommend leaving your dogs at home to protect them from the sound of fireworks and the excitement of the large crowds.
• Tip #3: If you can’t make it to the opening ceremony, don’t worry—the festive feeling remains in the air and the same Rochester Christmas lights illuminate Main Street for the next few weeks.
• Tip #4: Get ahead of the game and do some Christmas shopping on Lagniappe—you never know what deals, sales, and bonuses the local businesses will be giving out during the celebration. Make your list, check it twice, and support small businesses!
• Tip #5: Check the weather and bundle up (or bring your umbrella)! Since the majority of events occur outside, and we’re in Michigan, you’ll want to be prepared for the current weather, whatever it is.

How Does Lagniappe Make a Difference in Rochester’s Local Businesses

Even though, by definition, Lagniappe is a way for merchants to give back to their clientele, the beautiful Christmas lights in Rochester really benefit small businesses, like Novel, in the long run. Each year, the tradition creates a massive influx of customer traffic, giving each small business downtown a financial boom at the beginning of the holiday shopping season. This increase in sales helps local stores survive in the slower months, ensuring your favorite shops remain open to see next year’s celebration!

If you’re local to the area, Lagniappe is also the perfect way to build a relationship with your favorite business owners. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to the lovely people running the stores, as they shower you with appreciation for all your support. When you spot them on Main Street outside of the Rochester Christmas lights party, you’ll be able to say hi!

Will Novel Stay Open During Lagniappe?

Novel, like many of our neighboring businesses, will be open late on Monday to accommodate the hustling, bustling crowds. Stop in for a hot coffee to stay caffeinated for the Rochester Christmas lights show or snuggle up with a good book in our cozy chairs—the choice is yours. From festive romance novels to WWII historical fiction and more, there’s something for everyone waiting on our shelves.

Try as we might, Lagniappe is almost impossible to describe—you’ll have to experience it for yourself! Whether you’re a Michigander entertaining a relative for the weekend or a traveler looking to make holiday memories, the Rochester Christmas lights display is fun for all. Stop by Novel on your way in to shop different book genres, enjoy an artisanal sandwich, and say hello!