A Calhoun County Holiday Tradition Returns December 2!
‘Tis the season, and the countdown is on! We’re making our list and checking it twice as the Calhoun County Agricultural and Industrial Society (CCAIS) prepares to light up the Calhoun County Fairgrounds for Merry Mile 2026 – Stars, Stripes & Merry Mile Bright!
The holiday festivities begin December 2 with the annual Eggnog Jog (REGISTER HERE), followed by the opening night of Merry Mile on December 3. The mile-long drive-through Christmas light display will welcome visitors Thursday through Sunday, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., throughout December.
What began as a holiday attraction has grown into a beloved community tradition, bringing families and generations together to experience the magic of Christmas. Visitors travel from across Calhoun County, neighboring counties, Indiana, and throughout Michigan to enjoy the dazzling lights, creative displays, and special activities. For many families, one visit simply isn’t enough!
This year, Merry Mile will add an extra sparkle as we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, featuring patriotic-themed displays throughout the fairgrounds. The combination of holiday magic and American pride promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Behind every illuminated display is a tremendous amount of community support. As a nonprofit organization, CCAIS relies on dedicated volunteers, staff, local businesses, and community partners who generously contribute their time, talents, resources, and creativity. Countless hours go into planning, building, decorating, and installing displays, all with one shared purpose: bringing joy to others and creating lasting holiday memories.
More Than Christmas Lights – Making a Lasting Difference
- While Merry Mile creates holiday magic for thousands of visitors, its impact reaches far beyond the Christmas season. The event has become an important fundraiser supporting improvements throughout the Calhoun County Fairgrounds.
- Revenue generated through Merry Mile has helped fund significant infrastructure projects, including fencing repairs, a new horse arena, updated fronts for the animal barns, new gates, and a storage barn. Each year, the Merry Mile Committee and CCAIS Board have the opportunity to reinvest in another fairgrounds improvement, helping preserve and enhance our 177-year-old fairgrounds for generations to come.
Community Support Keeps the Tradition Shining
- As Merry Mile continues to grow, we invite local businesses, organizations, families, and individuals to be part of this special tradition. Sponsorships play an important role in keeping the lights shining, supporting future improvements, and ensuring Merry Mile remains a treasured community event.
- Sponsorship opportunities are available for Merry Mile 2026. Community members and businesses can explore the available options through our Merry Mile 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities information.
- There are also opportunities for businesses and their employees, community groups, and individuals to volunteer during the event. In addition, we welcome donations of gently used Christmas decorations and displays. If you have decorations looking for a new home, we would love to put them to good use!
Get Involved:
- Sponsorships: Merry Mile 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
- Volunteer Opportunities: SignUpGenius – Merry Mile Volunteers
- Christmas Decoration Donations & General Information: ccaisoffice@gmail.com
Event Information:
- Theme: Stars, Stripes & Merry Mile Bright!
- Location: Calhoun County Fairgrounds, 720 Fair Street, Marshall, MI 49068
- Opening Event: Eggnog Jog – December 2, 2026, race starts at 6:00pm
- Opening Night: Merry Mile – December 3, 2026
- Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 5:30–9:00 p.m.
- Contact: ccaisoffice@gmail.com
Merry Mile is more than a drive through Christmas light display. It is a celebration of community, generosity, tradition, and the joy of bringing people together. Every sponsor, volunteer, donation, and visitor helps make a difference.
From our CCAIS family to yours, thank you for helping us keep this tradition alive and bright. Together, let’s make Merry Mile 2026 our brightest year yet!
