Battle Creek Event Guide: Dec 24 – Jan 7

The next two weeks mark the peak of the holiday season and the fresh start of 2026.

 

While Christmas Week brings a few quiet days for family, the calendar heats up quickly with major casino giveaways, a classic rock legend, and a diverse lineup of New Year’s Eve celebrations ranging from high-energy concerts to traditional Pow Wows.

 

Week 1: The Holiday Peak & NYE (Dec 24 – 31)

Between unwrapping gifts and popping champagne, there is plenty of action—especially at FireKeepers, which is stacking the deck with events leading up to the 31st.

 

• HDI Federal Center Food Truck Parking

  • When: Dec 24, 26, 29, 30, 31 (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

  • Where: Champion Street Parking Lot

  • The trucks are rolling almost every weekday (skipping Christmas Day) to keep you fed while you run last-minute errands.

• FireKeepers Post-Christmas Drawings

  • When: Dec 26 & Dec 27

  • Where: FireKeepers Casino Hotel

  • The details: The casino isn't slowing down after Christmas. Friday (Dec 26) features escalating cash & credit drawings from 6–10 PM. Saturday (Dec 27) is the "No Boundaries Bronco Giveaway," where someone will win a rare throwback 2025 Stroppe Edition Bronco.

  • Concert: Jefferson Starship

    • When: Monday, Dec 29, 8:00 PM

    • Where: FireKeepers Casino Event Center

    • Catch the legendary classic rock band performing hits that have spanned decades. A perfect high-energy show to bridge the gap between Christmas and New Year's.

     

• Noon Year's Eve (Family Event)

  • When: Wednesday, Dec 31 (Daytime)

  • Where: Kids 'N' Stuff Children's Museum (Albion)

  • A countdown for the kids who can't quite make it to midnight, complete with crafts and noise-makers.

• NHBP NYE Sobriety Pow Wow

  • When: Wednesday, Dec 31, 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM

  • Where: Kellogg Arena

  • A powerful, community-centered way to ring in 2026. This traditional Pow Wow features drumming, dancing, and a sober environment to celebrate the new year with clarity and culture.

• New Year's Eve: Haute Chile

  • When: Wednesday, Dec 31, 9:00 PM

  • Where: FireKeepers Casino Hotel

  • The casino's main event features the high-octane show band Haute Chile. Expect a packed dance floor and a massive balloon drop at midnight.

• NYE at Villa on Verona

  • When: Wednesday, Dec 31

  • Where: Villa on Verona (Marshall)

  • If you prefer a more intimate, elegant vibe, the historic villa is hosting a boutique party with beer, wine, and spirits.

 

Week 2: Ringing in 2026 (Jan 1 – 7)

After the confetti settles, the first week of January offers a chance to reset with creative workshops and local blues.

 

• First Day Hikes

  • When: Thursday, Jan 1

  • Where: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Self-guided)

  • Start your "New Year, New You" resolution immediately with a brisk winter hike on the trails. (Check the park office for guided hike times).

• Saucy Snowman Paint n' Sip

  • When: Saturday, Jan 3

  • Where: The Busy Paintbrush (Marshall)

  • A relaxed, guided painting session perfect for unwinding after the busy holiday season. BYOB and paint a winter-themed masterpiece.

• Blues at the Bohm: Keith Scott Blues Band

  • When: Monday, Jan 5, 7:00 PM

  • Where: Bohm Theatre (Albion)

  • The 2026 blues season kicks off with Chicago blues veteran Keith Scott. Stick around afterward for the local jam session.

• Winter Art Class: AS1 T@4

  • When: Tuesday, Jan 6, 4:00 PM

  • Where: Eastend Studio & Gallery (Marshall)

  • A great way to get the kids (ages 5-8) back into a creative routine as school breaks wind down.

Save the Date

 

• Next Level Gymnastics Podium Challenge: Coming to Kellogg Arena Jan 9–11.

• Irish Pub Night: Coming to the Franke Center (Marshall) Jan 10.