Carter’s Christmas Wonderland brings holiday spirit to the neighborhood

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. - - With over 100,000 Christmas lights and hundreds of blowups, Carter’s Christmas Wonderland is a holiday experience for all ages to enjoy and the best part is that it’s free.

Carter’s Christmas Wonderland creator Nicholas Carter said it started as a childhood tradition, and he plans to share it with the community of Benton Harbor until Christmas Day.

“Growing up it just stuck. I enjoy putting a smile on everyone’s face and enjoy to kids and families and parents and community.” said Nicholas.

Live reindeer will be at the holiday attraction Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. where visitors will be able to pet them, take photos, and learn about their impressive antlers.

A gingerbread man and the Grinch will make a special appearance during hot chocolate from 6 to 8 p.m. on the weekends.

Saturday will have a variety of giveaways, raffles, gifts for your pets, and free candy and hot chocolate.

This is a festive experience you don’t want to miss out on making holiday memories with your families.

“We truly do it from our heart and don’t expect anything in return our hearts are filled with what we see the families being together, but the donations do help to replenish candy canes, hot chocolate, help towards the electricity bill and buying things for the next year.” said Carter. Supporters have encouraged them to accept donations to expand and make it bigger for years to come but the cost adds up quickly from the electricity bill down to gifts for the kids' giveaways," said Julie Carter, Nicholas' wife.

To ensure that this remains a holiday staple in Benton Harbor you can donate on Cash App or Venmo to help replenish candy canes, hot chocolate, help with the electricity bill, and prepare for next year.

You can view the full event schedule below.