Frankenmuth, Michigan

Frankenmuth describes itself as Michigan’s Little Bavaria. Most buildings in the commercial district, as well as many homes, are reminiscent of timber-framed buildings found in the Bavaria region of Germany. The German word "Franken" represents the Province of Franconia in the Kingdom of Bavaria, and the German word "Mut" means courage. Thus, the city name Frankenmuth means "courage of the Franconians." The names of the nearby villages (Frankenlust, Frankentrost, and Frankenhilf) also illustrate the strong German influence in this area.
Frankenmuth celebrates several festivals each year including the World Expo of Beer, the Dog Bowl and Great Lakes Regional Hot Air Balloon Championships, Bavarian Fest and Oktoberfest. It is also host to one of the top snow-sculpting events in North America, the Frankenmuth Ice Festival.
Outside of Frankenmuth is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland – which claims to be the World’s Largest Christmas Store. If you suffer from Claus-trophobia (fear of Santa Claus), this store will make Frankenmuth your Frankenstein. This store celebrates Christmas 365 days a year. I’ll bet the employees are glad when leap year arrives. EARNS OUR HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION.