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You Have Not Experienced Michigan Until You've experienced Bronner's Christmas Wonderland
June 25, 2006
What is it? A store in Frankenmuth that bills itself as the "world's largest Christmas store," offering more than 50,000 gifts and trims. Inside, there are more than 350 decorated Christmas trees and 6,000 styles of ornaments. There also are more than 100,000 lights. (The electric bill is huge, averaging $900 a day.)
Who invented it? Frankenmuth native Wally Bronner, left, who started a sign-painting business in his parents' basement and later began selling Christmas decorations to merchants from Clare. He founded the store in 1945, and the business gradually expanded, with a building covering 5 1/2 football fields.
What makes it special? It's Christmas there year-round. More than 2 million people visit the store annually.
How do I get there? It's about 7 miles off I-75 in Frankenmuth, on Christmas Lane.
When is it open? Hours expand from June through December as the Christmas season approaches.
Where can I get the particulars? For complete hours, directions and more, visit www.bronners.com or call 989-652-9931.
By Frank Witsil
Got an idea for "You haven't lived here until"? E-mail it to livedhere@freepress.com
Copyright © 2006 Detroit Free Press Inc.
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