1. The first recorded celebration of Christmas in Michigan was in 1679, when French explorer and missionary Father Jacques Marquette held a midnight mass on the shore of the St. Joseph River near present-day Niles.

2. In 1825, the first Christmas tree in Michigan was reportedly lit by German settler John Merz in Detroit. The tradition of decorating Christmas trees spread rapidly in the state and became a popular holiday activity.

3. On December 25, 1836, Michigan officially became the 26th state of the United States. This event is celebrated every year as "Michigan Day", and is marked by parades, fireworks, and other festivities across the state.

4. In 1874, the Detroit Tigers baseball team played their first-ever game on Christmas Day, defeating the Cincinnati Reds 3-0. This was part of a 10-game series held in Detroit during the winter, known as the "Christmas Eve League".

5. On December 25, 1990, the Detroit Lions football team played their first-ever Christmas Day game, losing to the Miami Dolphins 27-20. The game was played at the Pontiac Silverdome and was broadcast live on national television. Since then, the Lions have played several more Christmas Day games.