December marks a time to celebrate the holidays with friends and family, ugly Christmas sweaters, gift-giving, holiday feasts and treats, and cheer. Tis the season of winter wonder, majestic holiday splendor, and traditions that come alive during the month of December. One unique holiday custom in Charlevoix is the Boss family’s annual Christmas light display.

This event spans decades, welcoming back generations of family and friends. Beginning in 1978, Dale and Marilyn Boss turned their home into a winter wonderland. Marilyn was a talented artist who loved classic Disney characters. Marilyn would cut out and paint each character which leads to hundreds of characters for their wintertime display. Over the years, Marilyn amassed quite a collection of cartoon characters and elves--many of these figures can be viewed today!

Guests can sit around the campfire on the front porch near the Model T to warm up, listen to classic holiday songs, and view the 25ft Christmas tree erected in honor of Dale and Marilyn's memory. Newer features include: Snoopy driving a Zamboni on an ice rink, Minion inflatable, and a huge SpongeBob inflatable.

The Boss family welcomes you to come out to their house to celebrate the holiday season. Did you know that each year, the characters have a new arrangement, creating a new wintertime display? You are encouraged to walk around the chalet to discover all of Marilyn’s wonderful creations. 

Visit Charlevoix would like to thank the Boss family for keeping this amazing tradition going. It is a great way to honor the memory of Dale and Marylin and their lasting impact on Charlevoix.

For more information about this event, click here.

Directions: The house is located, on the corner, at 9336 Pearl Street in Charlevoix. If you have issues with your GPS, you can also find the house by going to 13065 Maple Street, which is the house next door. Another major landmark is the Mt. McSauba Ski Hill (the house is located one block north).