Michaels and Hallmark to Launch Holiday Unplugged
The partnership will offer screen-free creative workshops and a themed collection starting in November.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Arts & Crafts
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Do you believe prioritizing screen-free holiday activities improves family connections during the season?
Michaels and Hallmark are launching the Holiday Unplugged project on November 7, 2026, to promote hands-on holiday crafting. The initiative includes an exclusive product line and a series of in-store creative workshops.
Why it matters
The collaboration aims to address the needs of families seeking alternatives to digital entertainment during the festive season. Both brands hope to encourage connections through shared, hands-on holiday experiences.
Retail data indicates that 80 percent of parents actively seek out screen-free holiday activities for their families. The initiative includes an exclusive holiday collection available for purchase both in-store and online.
The players
Michaels
Michaels is an arts and crafts retail chain headquartered in Irving, Texas, that specializes in DIY supplies and home decor.
Hallmark
Hallmark is a global media and retail company known for its greeting cards and the Hallmark Channel television network.
The details
Customers can participate in in-store workshops to create personalized holiday décor and handmade gifts. Additionally, the Michaels website provides access to on-demand Hallmark content and specific project tutorials to support home crafting.
Timeline
Nov. 1: Hand-stitched card workshops begin at Michaels stores.
Nov. 7: Holiday Unplugged premieres on Hallmark Channel and workshops begin.
Nov. 8: The film becomes available for streaming on Hallmark+.
December: Creative workshops continue in-store through Dec. 19.
Culture Shift
This collaboration aligns with the growing societal trend of families seeking to limit screen time in favor of tactile, creative experiences. By prioritizing hands-on projects, the companies are catering to a shift toward intentional, slower-paced holiday traditions.
Shoppers can visit local Michaels stores starting in November to participate in scheduled workshops and browse the new holiday collection. These sessions allow families to build custom gifts and decor as part of their holiday preparations.
The takeaway
Families looking to minimize digital distractions can utilize in-store workshops to foster creativity this season. These collaborative activities provide a structured way to engage in holiday traditions while supporting local retail efforts.
Further reading
Find more inspiration for your next project in our Arts & Crafts section.
More information
View full details and workshop schedules at the Hallmark x Michaels partnership information page.
Live Poll
Do you believe prioritizing screen-free holiday activities improves family connections during the season?
