Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions

Winter is a season rich in symbolism. At its heart are the time-honored traditions expressed through iconic holiday signs and celebrations. Join us as we explore those symbols that evoke a deeper meaning and connect us all.

There’s a timelessness about the holidays that’s captured in treasured traditions. We slow down and come together to honor faith, family and fellowship in celebrations steeped in symbolism.

What better time to joyfully honor these signs of the season than with the 25th annual Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition, this year with new title sponsor Metro Health! It’s a milestone we’re marking at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park with the artistry of 27 adorned Christmas trees, 15 cultural displays, an enchanting Railway Garden and special events sure to spark holiday cheer.

As you stroll our indoor corridors and outdoor walkways, lose yourself in the spectacle of 300,000 sparkling lights illuminating festive winter plantings that connote life, resilience and growth. This year’s curated displays are especially exquisite—your sense of wonder will come alive with all the signs of the season. Wreaths have deep history across many cultures. Their circular shape signifies eternity, as they have no beginning and no end. Evergreen wreaths, in particular, represent strength and everlasting life, since evergreens retain their leaves through the harshest of West Michigan winters. Look for bird ornaments and olive wood carvings, both tokens of peace. An evergreen native to the Middle East, the olive tree can live up to 2,000 years and its wood is considered sacred in many religions. Another symbol of note is the ringed Celtic cross, which has become the symbol of Ireland.

The ringed Celtic cross is the symbol of Ireland.

Photo by Johnny Quirin.

The star shape is a nod to the star of Bethlehem that sits atop Christmas trees and in several holiday displays like the one from the Philippines, whose unique parol is a star-shaped lantern that serves as the main symbol of Christmas. Candles symbolize great miracles and family. Their glowing light signifies purity, goodness and good fortune, as seen in India, where the meaning of Diwali is to rejoice in inner light. Families light small lamps known as diyas to bring prosperity and good health.

No visit is complete without a stop at our magical Railway Garden and a screening of our original film, joy!, in the Hoffman Family Auditorium. This awardwinning film was shot in Grand Rapids and highlights centuries-old celebrations that are still honored today, opening with our own Lena Meijer decorating her beloved German tree.

Our holiday family events are anchored in symbolism, too. Join us on November 25 for the annual Christmas tree lighting or for one of five additional Member Holiday Parties on December 1, 8, 15 and 16 and an adults-only party on December 2, RSVP required. Stop by for an evening visit with Santa and the Dickens Carolers on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17, or come during the afternoon and mingle with Santa’s reindeer on November 30 and December 7, 14 and 21. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!