Message from Buddy the elf: "I planned out our whole day: First, we'll make snow angels for two hours, and then we'll go ice skating, and then we'll eat a whole roll of Toll-House cookie dough as fast as we can, and then to finish, we’ll snuggle.”

We’ve all seen the classic scene from the movie, “Elf,” and wished that the fictional holiday spirit would become our reality. But what if it could? Frederik Meijer Gardens (FMG) invites you to revel in the spirit of the season by bringing you “Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World,” an exhibit in which more than 40 international trees and holiday arrangements are on display around the Gardens.

“Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World” is held at FMG from Nov. 20, 2018 to Jan. 6, 2019. Each fall, beginning in early November, a team of exceptional volunteers gathers at the Gardens to decorate the trees and cultural displays on view for the exhibition. Each tree and display represents the holiday traditions of various countries and cultures from around the world featuring authentic ornaments and celebratory elements. Throughout the month, visitors may also enjoy the sweet sounds of the original Dicken’s Carolers, visits with Santa, 400,000 stunning lights and rooftop reindeer.

“The public’s response to this exhibition is overwhelming,” John VanderHaagen, public relations manager of FMG, said. “Visitors from all over the world attend the Gardens to experience the joy of the holiday season.”

What: Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World When: Nov. 20, 2018 — Jan. 6,2019 Where: Frederick Meijer Gardens Cost: Members | Free Adults (14 – 64) | $14.50 Seniors | $11 Students | $11 Children (5–13) | $7 Children (3–4) | $4 Children (2 and younger) | Free