Flint Township View

Christmas at Crossroads ushers in holiday season




The Huckleberry Railroad train is one of many experiences awaiting visitors at Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic. File photo

The Huckleberry Railroad train is one of many experiences awaiting visitors at Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic. File photo

MT. MORRIS TWP. — Holiday memories will once again be made amid the sparkling of Christmas lights and the whistle of a steam engine at Crossroads Village.

Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic, one of Genesee County’s biggest Christmastime events, is back in full swing this month with yuletide festivities in the historic 19th century village and enchanting train rides along Huckleberry Railroad. Christmas nights at the village kicked off Thanksgiving weekend and will continue Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (with the exception of Dec. 25, Christmas Day) until Dec. 30.

Due to COVID- 19, Genesee County Parks held drive-thru Holiday Magic nights at Crossroads Village last year and drew over 21,000 vehicles. But with restrictions rolled back this season, visitors will once again be able to roam the village and patronize its shops and historical buildings.

“It’s a big deal to have people out walking in the village again and enjoying the crisp winter weather,” said Barry June, Director of Genesee County Parks and Recreation. “Hopefully, we’ll have a dusting of snow to make the environment just a little more special.”

Drive-thru only nights this year will be held on Dec. 6, 13, 20, 24 and 27 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost to enter will be $10.

On regular Holiday Magic nights, villagegoers can hop on the evening train and take a scenic tour of the Huckleberry Railroad or view a showing of “Frosty Follies” at the Colwell Opera House. Thousands of lights and numerous Christmas displays are also up for display, including traditional 12 Days of Christmas figures along the eastern loop of the railway.

Families can also meet the Grinch, wave to Santa Claus along the railway, watch village artisans make vintage crafts and partake in a Christmas dinner buffet at the Mill Street Warehouse. Reservations for the buffet are suggested but walk-ins will be accepted based on availability. Visit geneseeparks.org to see a full menu and prices.

Guests are also advised to book their train rides in advance, due to high demand and a growing number of early reservations. Masks are required to be worn on the train by federal mandate but are only recommended and not required on the grounds and in the buildings of Crossroads Village.

Admission for Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic is $15 for adults (13-59), $14 for seniors (60-plus), $13 for children and free for children 24 months and under. Tickets can be purchased at the gate, by phone at 810-736-7100 ext. 6 or 800-648-PARK or online at geneseeparks.org.

Crossroads Village is located on 6140 Bray Road in Mt. Morris Township.