November is when Southwest Michigan holiday events really get going. Parades, turkey trots, and holiday markets fill the calendar from Kalamazoo to St. Joseph. In fact, it’s one of our favorite times of year. However, more people on the road and on foot also means more crashes and injuries.
At Keller & Keller, our St. Joseph office helps people across the region after serious accidents. Here’s a look at what’s happening this month, plus a few simple ways to keep your family safe.
Southwest Michigan Holiday Events This Month
- Kalamazoo Holiday Parade, Saturday, November 21 at 11 a.m. in downtown Kalamazoo
- Dowagiac All Trail Turkey Trot, Sunday, November 22 at 1 p.m. at Southwestern Michigan College
- Niles-Buchanan YMCA Thanksgiving Day Run, Thursday, November 26 at 8 a.m.
- St. Joseph Turkey Trot, Thursday, November 26 at 9 a.m. at the Margaret B. Upton Arboretum
- Makers Market at the Box Factory for the Arts in St. Joseph, Saturday, November 28
- Countdown to New Year shopping promotion in downtown St. Joseph, November 20 to December 13
Then, in early December, Light Up the Bluff brings the community tree lighting to Lake Bluff Park on December 4. The Reindog Parade follows in downtown St. Joe on December 5.
Thanksgiving Weekend Is a Dangerous Time to Drive
The night before Thanksgiving is often called “Blackout Wednesday,” because so many people head out to celebrate with friends who are home for the holiday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 164 people died in drunk driving crashes nationwide over the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Drunk driving is a serious problem in Michigan, too. In 2024, Michigan had 8,542 crashes that involved drinking, and 307 people died in alcohol involved crashes, according to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts. That’s more than one in four traffic deaths in the state.
So if you’re celebrating, plan your ride home before you go out. Use a rideshare, pick a sober driver, or stay the night.
Stay Safe on Foot at Southwest Michigan Holiday Events
In addition, parades, races, and downtown shopping all put a lot of people on foot near traffic. In 2024, 156 pedestrians died and 1,809 more were injured in Michigan crashes. Many Southwest Michigan holiday events happen early in the morning or after dark, when drivers have a harder time seeing people.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing for early morning turkey trots
- Cross at marked crosswalks and follow directions from race and parade volunteers
- Hold hands with young kids in crowded parking lots
- Meanwhile, drivers should slow down near event areas and watch for road closures
- Put the phone away, especially when you’re driving through downtown St. Joe or Kalamazoo
What to Do if You’re Hurt
If you’re hurt in a crash, get medical care first, even if you feel okay. Then take photos of the scene and your injuries. Also get contact information from the other driver and any witnesses, and ask for the police report number.
Michigan’s no fault insurance system has its own rules and deadlines, and it can be confusing. Insurance companies may also try to settle quickly for less than you need. That’s why it’s smart to talk to a lawyer before you sign anything.
How Keller & Keller Can Help
Keller & Keller has helped injured people since 1936. Our Southwest Michigan team handles car crashes, drunk driving cases, and wrongful death claims in St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, Niles, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, and nearby towns. Your first consultation is free, and we’ll meet at your home, at the hospital, or virtually. With our Zero Fee Guarantee, you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win.
If you or someone you love was hurt this holiday season, call our St. Joseph office at (269) 983-7333 or 1-800-253-5537. Enjoy all the Southwest Michigan holiday events, and get home safe.
This post is for general information only and isn’t legal advice. Event details are based on local listings as of November 2, 2026, so check each organizer’s website for current times. Crash data comes from Michigan Traffic Crash Facts and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
