February things to do: Theater, ballet, music, ice carving, Valentine’s events, dancing, and nature

Will the groundhog see his shadow? Will you get a Valentine from that special someone? Do you like the outdoors? If so, you’re in luck. You can attend Holland’s ice-carving event, head to Snowfest, visit Hemlock Crossing Park for a family nature day, or celebrate Mardi Gras in Saugatuck with a pub crawl.

If you prefer indoor entertainment, you will not be disappointed. Dancing with the Local Stars is back in Muskegon, and there’s a gun and knife show in Holland. The Holland and West Michigan symphony orchestras have performances this month, including concerts featuring pianist Michell Cann.

World-renowned dancers will perform “The Sleeping Beauty” at The Frauenthal Center in Muskegon, the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in Grand Haven presents its Victorian Valentine’s tea, and there’s a daddy-daughter dance on the calendar in Holland.

Libraries along the Lakeshore are offering arts and crafts, movies, and more, including several events marking Black History Month. And, of course, there’s more. February offers a wide variety of things to do in Allegan, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties. This list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.  

Muskegon presents its annual Dancing with the Local Stars competition fundraiser and once again hosts Snowfest, with scores of family-friendly activities.

There’s a gun and knife show in Holland and a family nature day at Hemlock Crossing Park in West Olive.

Ongoing

Crossroads: Intersections of Black Family Culture
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Through March 15
Cost: Free with admission
This interdisciplinary exhibition explores the cultural significance of Black family dynamics in the Americas. In response to forced separations and disrupted biological ties, Black communities developed unique family structures centered on communal relationships, extended networks, and collective responsibility. The show comprises the works of 20 artists from the Detroit area. 
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/intersections-of-black-family-culture/

Indoor Farmers Market
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Saturdays through April 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Come inside out of the cold and find the widest selection of Michigan-grown fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants. You’ll also find locally made baked goods, honey, maple syrup, meats, gourmet foods, and so much more. There will be no indoor market on Feb. 28 or March 14,
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/indoor-holland-farmers-market/4386/

Farmers Market
Market, 242 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Saturdays through April 25, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Step indoors this season and keep enjoying your favorite local goods all winter long. Browse stalls overflowing with fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, flowers, handicrafts, and baked goods. Music performances add to the lively spirit of the market.
Details: https://muskegonfarmersmarket.com/

POW! The Art of Comics
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Through May 17
Cost: Free with museum admission
Explore the artists who have brought superheroes and villains to life for generations of readers. The exhibit features more than 100 original comic drawings from the 1970s to today. Hollywood movie art, vintage comics, and original comic strip drawings from the 1950s are on view. Related events include a members-only preview (RSVP required) on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 5-7 p.m.; an opening reception on Thursday, Feb. 5, 5-7 p.m.; and a Community of Heroes Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 5, 5-7 p.m.
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/the-art-of-comics/

Week 1 (February 1–8)

Monday Movies and More
Muskegon Area District Library Branches
Beginning Monday, Feb. 2
Cost: Free
Enjoy popular movies — and scores of other family-friendly activities — at various branches of the MADL at multiple times. Click the link below to find dates, times, and locations of film screenings. Just set the date parameters on the MADL events site using the link below.
Details: https://tinyurl.com/2sz269ye

Celebrating Black Inventors
Norton Shores Branch of MADL, 705 Seminole Road, Norton Shores
Monday, Feb. 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
What would we do without stoplights, peanuts, refrigeration, or super soakers? These are just a few creations by Black inventors. Check out these hands-on activities and crafts as you learn more about Black inventors. This program will also be offered from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Egelston Branch of MADL. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/68f10b582ea1b13000802f32

Storytime with Barry the Bear
Saugatuck-Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Tuesdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17, and 24, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Cost: Free
Enjoy a morning of books, music, and play. Listen to stories, sing songs, and get moving with action rhymes and silly dances. Stick around for open play.
Details: https://www.sdlibrary.org/programs-events/instances/itFonRCACi/

Black History Month Kick-Off Event
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 5:30-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Come for an evening of stand-up comedy with Darius Walker, a tap dance performance from Jordyn Jackson, and more. Refreshments will be available during the program. Registration is required.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/bhm-kick-off-event/

Chocolate Talk
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Come join Patty Christopher from Patricia’s Chocolates as she introduces participants to all things chocolate, explaining the percentages of chocolate and what they mean, and the rise in chocolate pricing around the world. There will be samples and chocolates for sale.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/instances/057ubGzRlI/

Light Years from Andromeda
Carr-Fles Planetarium, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon
Tuesdays and Thursdays, through March 26, 7-7:35 p.m.
Cost: Free
The 35-minute planetarium show, suitable for ages 6 and older, explores cosmic distances, the concept of the light-year, and humanity’s scientific journey to understand the universe. The program features narration by Michael Dorn, of “Star Trek.” The planetarium is fully accessible.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/free-planetarium-show/12241/

Sculpt & Paint Your Pet, Parts 1 and 2
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Thursday, Feb. 5, 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Adults and teens are invited to learn the basics of sculpting as they create a clay figurine of their favorite pet or animal. Participants will sculpt the clay on the first night and paint the sculptures on the second night.
Details, part 1: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908f4f875911f28001ad148
Details, part 2: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908f51504e183f660377717

Halfway to Walk the Beat
East End locations, Grand Haven
Thursday, Feb. 5, 6-10 p.m. 
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
Shake off the winter blues with this walkable music event, featuring live performances across the East End. Hop between local businesses, discover new bands, and enjoy a night of music and community. Harbor Transit will provide free trolley service from 6-10 p.m.
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/events/halfway-to-walk-the-beat/

Holland on Ice
GDK Park, Eighth Street, between Central and River Avenues, Holland
Friday, Feb. 6, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 7, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free; $40 for Snowmelt 5K; $10 for Kids’ Mini Melt
Watch the nation’s best professional ice carvers in action. You won’t believe your eyes as they transform more than 10,000 pounds of ice into an incredible large-scale work of art. Get your selfie smiles ready and play interactive ice sculptures and games for the whole family. Get active with the Snowmelt 5K fun run and walk, which starts at 8 a.m. Saturday. Register here. For kids age 7 and younger, there’s also a Kids’ Mini Melt, a 0.2-mile dash at Eighth Street Marketplace, starting at 9 a.m. Saturday. Register here.
Details: https://downtownholland.com/holland-on-ice/

Freedom Songs: The Music of Black History
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, Feb. 6, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
From the work songs of those who endured the bonds of slavery to Ragtime, Jazz, R&B, and the spirituals of the Civil Rights Movement, this play follows the compelling story of the music played in the history of Black Americans.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908e9d104e183f660377589

Fire Garden Nights
Luge Adventure Sports Park, 462 Scenic Drive, North Muskegon
Fridays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, and 27, 6-10 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend with state park sticker
Experience winter evenings under the stars with glowing bonfires, live music, and seasonal drinks in a family-friendly outdoor setting. Beverages will be available for purchase. Grab your winter gear and enjoy a cozy time by the fire.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/fire-garden-nights/12490/

Pregame Tailgate Party
Downtown Douglas
Saturday, Feb. 7, noon
Cost: Free to attend
Cheer on your favorite team with small-town charm, where fans gather for festive fun, friendly competition, and plenty of local flavor. Enjoy game-day bites and refreshing beverages in a lively atmosphere.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/football-tailgate-in-douglas/

HSO Trio
Harderwyk Ministries, 1627 W. Lakewood Blvd., Holland
Saturday, Feb. 7, 4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join violinist Amanda Dykhouse, cellist Lee Copenhaver, and pianist Allison Shinnick Keep in a concert of two masterpieces, Beethoven’s Piano Trio in D major, Op. 70. No. 1 (“Ghost”) and Fauré’s Piano Trio in D minor, Op. 120. Donations will be accepted. The trio will perform a second concert from 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, at Second Reformed Church, 225 E. Central Ave., in Zeeland.
Details: https://hollandsymphony.org/events/hso-piano-trio-at-harderwyk-ministries/

From Here to There
Museum of History & Science, 484 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Saturday, Feb. 7, through May 9, open hours
Cost: Free with admission
This interactive experience invites visitors of all ages to explore the forces, motion, and mechanics that help people move people and things across land, sea, and air. The exhibit promises discovery, creativity, and fun for all.
Details: https://lakeshoremuseum.org/from-here-to-there/

Week 2 (February 9–15)

Eco-Immersion Explorers
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive
Mondays, Feb. 9, 16, and 23, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: $45 for Ottawa County residents, $55 for non-residents
Homeschool students in 9th through 12th grades are invited to this hands-on, nature-based program, which seeks to develop an understanding of ecological principles and the interconnectedness of ecosystems while fostering an understanding of the role we play  in the natural world. This month’s topics include Feathers, Beaks, and Food on Feb. 9, All About Owls on Feb. 16, and Where’s the Nest? On Feb. 23.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/735R58

The Beatles in 1966: Off the Road and in the Studio
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, Feb. 9, 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
1966 was a pivotal year for the Fab Four. Join Dr. Robert Keeley, professor emeritus of education at Calvin University and West Michigan’s No. 1 Beatles aficionado, to explore this moment in the career of one of the most iconic bands of all time.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/690903a675911f28001ad3b4

Holland History Program
Pillar Church, 57 E. 10th St., Holland
Monday, Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join the Holland Area Historical Society as Linda Walvoord, from the Holland Historic District, as she looks at some of the historic homes and buildings within the district and how preservation enriches the community. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/holland%20area%20historical%20society

Gumball Machine Candy Jars
Ravenna Branch of MADL, 12278 Stafford St., Ravenna
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Nothing says Valentine’s Day like a personalized candy jar. Paint it, decorate it, and make it yours. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/68f3c4b0831f063d00528916

Echoes of Harlem
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Enjoy a presentation and music performed by Edye and Mike. This program showcases the contributions and songs of Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Fats Waller, James P. Johnson, and Eubie Blake. Registration is preferred.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/echoes-of-harlem/

Life & Legacy of Cora Bliss Taylor and Nat Steinberg
Saugatuck Douglas History Center, 130 Center St., Douglas
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join Dr. Eric Gollannek and Annie Hayes as you learn about the life and legacy of two important founders/members of the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club. Several works by each artist will be on display. 
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/life-legacy-of-cora-bliss-taylor-and-nat-steinberg/

‘The Sleeping Beauty’
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m.
Cost: $39-$88.50
Follow the journey of Princess Aurora, from her christening and the wicked curse of Carabosse to a century-long slumber and her awakening by true love’s kiss. Featuring hand-painted sets and exclusive costumes, the ballet is presented by an international cast of world-renown artists. Buy tickets here.
Details: https://frauenthal.org/event/the-sleeping-beauty-by-international-ballet-stars/ 

Arts & Culture Happy Hour
Arts Council of White Lake — Nuveen Center, 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall
Thursday, Feb. 12, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Business leaders and elected officials are invited to attend and discover the powerful connection between arts and cultural institutions and the local economy. Participants will network, learn how to leverage the arts and culture sector to attract and retain employees, enjoy a snack and light beverage, and tour the venue. All in attendance will be entered into a drawing for a gift. Space is limited and RSVP is required to attend.
Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/connect-networking1980480192569

Unplugged: Navigating Technology with Purpose
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Thursday Feb. 12, 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free; $10 with meet-and-greet
Join writer, editor, and speaker Katherine Martinko for an insightful evening on digital minimalism and the importance of a “childhood unplugged.” Martinko offers a refreshing, down-to-earth roadmap for families seeking to unplug and reconnect, as well as actionable guidance on questions such as when to give a child a smartphone, how to handle social media and FOMO, and how to nurture independence and real-world play. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/unplugged/4639/

‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Trivia
Odd Side Ales, 41 Washington Ave., Grand Haven
Thursday, Feb. 12, 7-9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join Loutit District Library and Odd Side Ales for an evening of trivia. Gather your crew of scallywags, put on your best pirate attire, and get ready for some swashbuckling fun — and a chance at winning some gold “doubloons.”
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/BjByFItbhb/

Robert Johnson & Friends — Baroque Chamber Music
The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $25-$60
Join Robert Johnson, principal bass of the West Michigan Symphony, along with violinist Letitia Jap, soprano Jennie Judd Reyes, and organist Alexis VanZalen as they bring an inspiring night of music from Bach, Couperin, Telemann, and more.  Buy tickets here.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/robert-johnson-and-friends/10813/

Día del Amor y la Amistad
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Saturday, Feb. 14, 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
All ages are invited to share sweet treats on this day of love and friendship, and make a gift for someone you adore.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908eec675911f28001ad0d7

Victorian Valentine’s Day
Tri-Cities Historical Museum, 200 Washington Ave., Grand Haven
Saturday, Feb. 14, 1-3 p.m.
Cost: $14, free for ages 14 and younger
Let’s party like it’s 1889. Get dressed up and join TCHM to celebrate a Victorian Valentine’s Day. This family-friendly event will let you learn and play parlour games, make 19th-century valentines, and enjoy a Victorian-era tea-time spread.
Details: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/victorianvalentinesday/

‘Love, Loss, and What I Wore’
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday-Sunday, Feb. 14-22
Cost: $21.50-438
Muskegon Civic Theatre presents a play that shares women’s stories through the clothing they wear, exploring the humor, challenges, and memories that come with life’s wardrobe choices. Lean into the humor, highs, and lows of women who share the secret worlds behind their wardrobes. Buy tickets here.
Details: https://frauenthal.org/event/mct-love-loss-and-what-i-wore/

Week 3 (February 16–22)

‘Barefoot in the Park’
Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland
Monday, Feb. 16, 7-10 p.m.
Cost: $10
In this film based on a Neil Simon play. Newlyweds Corie and Paul share a sixth-floor walk-up apartment in Greenwich Village. In an effort to find a companion for her lonely mother, Corie sets Mom up with a neighbor. Inappropriate behavior on a double date causes conflict, and the young couple considers divorce. Starring Jane Fonda and Robert Redford, the 1967 movie is rated G.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/barefoot-in-the-park/4681/

Saugatuck Second Line — A Mardi Gras Pub Crawl
Saugatuck watering holes
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 3-9 p.m.
Cost: Varies
This annual brass band parade and pub crawl celebrates cultural traditions of New Orleans through our Midwestern lens. Costumes, cocktails, and a festive stroll through local favorites make for an unforgettable evening — all while supporting mental health and wellness initiatives in the community through the Red Horse Center. The event kicks off at Wally’s Bar & Grill. Afterward, participants are welcome to enjoy a buffet and after party at The Southerner.
Details: https://redhorse.red/events/ssl/

‘42: The Jackie Robinson Story’
Saugatuck-Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join library staff for movie night, including popcorn. The film, which is rated PG-13, is based on baseball player Jackie Robinson, the first Black athlete to play in Major League Baseball and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers. 
Details: https://www.sdlibrary.org/programs-events/423tPSxy24/

School Bell Series
New Groningen Schoolhouse, 10537 Paw Paw Drive, Zeeland
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
The Zeeland Historical Society’s School Bell Series presents author and educator Erica Emelander, who writes under the pen name Marie La Pres. She will share how researches and develops nonfiction narratives, drawing on historical sources, place-based research, and archival materials to bring the past vividly to life.
Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/school-bell-series1978629115949

Artful Afternoons
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 3:30-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Kids ages 6-10, are you feeling artistic? Drop in to do some creating, from paper crafting to painting.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908e2ca2edc686d00f67a6a

The Circle of Fifths
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 4-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Adults and teens are invited to join this beginner-friendly music theory workshop. No music reading required; this visual aid will help you understand all major and minor keys, as well as chords and scales. Bring your curiosity and your love of music. Registration is required.
Detailed: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/fOSy2id07C/

Silhouette Art Project
Muskegon Township Branch of MADL, 1910 Apple Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Feb. 19, 4-5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Create your silhouette while learning about some important Black Americans, such as LeBron James, Serena Williams, Amanda Gorman, John Lewis, and Jason Reynolds. Decorate your silhouette with words and pictures to create a collage of you. This project also will be offered from 1-2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6, at the Library for the Visually & Physically Disabled of MADL; from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Muskegon Heights Branch of MADL; from 4-5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Holton Branch of MADL; and from 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Montague Branch of MADL. Registration is required for each class.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/68f101492ea1b13000802d8e

Black History Month Storytime
North Muskegon Branch of MADL, 1522 Ruddiman Drive, North Muskegon
Friday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Join library staff for a special storytime and learn about Black History Month through reading, singing, talking and playing with your children. For ages 5 and younger and their caregivers. This event also will be offered from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Egelston Branch of MADL; from 11 a.m. to noon on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Ravenna Branch of MADL; from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Dalton Branch of MADL; from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Montague Branch of MADL; from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Norton Shores Branch of MADL; and from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Holton Branch of MADL.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/68f90d059b8793410092116e

Daddy Daughter Dance
Tulyp, 61 E. Seventh St., Holland
Friday, Feb. 20, 5:30-8 p.m.
Cost: $20
Put on your dancing shoes and create memories that will last a lifetime. Dads and daughters are invited to enjoy a night of dancing, snacks, activities, and photos. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/daddy-daughter-dance/4667/

Valentine Vibes: Electric Love EDM Night
The Lotus Room Event Center, 919 E. Sherman Blvd., Norton Shores
Friday, Feb. 20, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Cost: $10
Enjoy a night of electronic dance music featuring DJROOMBA, WUBZYT, ROYALITY, BEEYAE, and PRXYZ.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/valentine-vibes-a-electric-love-edm-night/

Nature Buds
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive
Saturday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m. to noon
Cost: $10 for Ottawa County residents, $15 for non-residents
Children ages 6-9 are invited to experience outdoor adventures and investigate wildlife and habitats through the lens of winter. Participants will look for animal tracks and follow the trail maps for a hike through the woods and meadow. Registration is required.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/E735R58

Snowfest
Downtown Muskegon
Saturday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Ticket prices vary by event
JCI Greater Muskegon Jaycees presents the 40th annual Snowfest, featuring activities that include a Euchre tournament, ax-throwing, and snow volleyball. The jam-packed Saturday also features popular events for all ages, such as the Battle of the Bowl soup and chili cook-off, a cocktail competition, Boys & Girls Club games, and the beloved cornhole tournament. 
Details: https://www.jcimuskegon.org/snowfest

Researching African American Roots
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Saturday, Jan. 21, 10:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
Discover new strategies for tracing African American ancestry with this 45-minute Zoom program led by A. Danielle Pritchett, genealogy librarian at the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room. Pritchett will share key methods, resources, and tips to help you overcome common challenges. Registration is preferred.
Details: https://docs.google.com/viewform

Mushroom Foraging
Saugatuck-Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Fungi enthusiast Chris Swindon will guide participants on foraging wild mushrooms and growing them at home. 
Details: https://www.sdlibrary.org/programs-events/QNGRfc6OLO/

The Great Rotary InterNational Cookoff
Midtown Center, 96 W. 15^th St., Holland
Saturday, Feb. 21, 6-8:30 p.m.
Cost: $5-$1,000
Take part in a joyful celebration where neighbors gather over food, music, and dance from around the world. Families enjoy affordable tickets while restaurants showcase their cultures and sponsors power youth leadership programs. 
Details: https://givegrove.com/the-great-rotary-international-cookoff

Robin Connell Jazz Trio
Saugatuck Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Sunday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Head to the library for this live music performance. Pianist and vocalist Robin Connell will perform with Paul Brewer (trombone and vocals) and Rob Hartman (bass).
Details: https://www.sdlibrary.org/programs-events/hc53YckglF/

Week 4 (February 23–March 1)

Hair and Health Care
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Monday, Feb. 23, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
This panel discussion, an annual Black History Month program, shares expert insight into hair and health care from Nietra Hood, as well as other valuable information from special guests. Registration is preferred.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/hair-and-health-clinic-bhm/

Labor of Love Silent Paint Party
Library for the Visually & Physically Disabled of MADL, 4845 Airline Road, Muskegon
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 5:30-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Paint and sip, and honor the Black labor movement. Using personal earpieces, enjoy a curated playlist featuring soulful music, spoken word, and historical narratives in peaceful silence. This program also will be offered from 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, at the Norton Shores Branch of MADL. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/68f0fb82c313c23700dd78c3

Art Critique Collective
Saugatuck-Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Bring some art you’ve made and the group will talk about it. Open to any of the arts and all ability levels. Enjoy, loose, informal, and good-natured conversation.
Details: https://www.sdlibrary.org/programs-events/

Bring the Baby Craft
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Friday, Feb. 27, 10-11 a.m.
Cost: Free
While babies play, grownups will create a DIY painted door mat. Bring your little one along for a relaxed session just for caregivers. There will be toys and a baby-friendly art activity to keep little hands busy. Best for little ones younger than 2. Registration is required.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/3lrDwcGF8U/

Family Fort Night
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, Feb. 27, 5:45-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Bring your flashlights, pillows, blankets, and any other fort-making materials to the library for this special after-hours program. Participants will read a few stories together then go off to create their reading fort.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908ea5104e183f6603775c0

Dancing with the Local Stars
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, 460 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 28, noon and 7 p.m.
Cost: $75 for the evening performances, $50 for the matinee
Enjoy this community fundraising event where local business leaders, public figures, and community members team up with professional dancers for live performances. The show features choreographed routines, friendly competition, and family-friendly entertainment. Proceeds support local food pastries and food programs in Muskegon, Ottawa, and Oceana counties. Buy tickets here.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/dancing-with-the-local-stars/12509/

Michelle Cann — Gershwin’s Piano Concerto
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $35-$77.50
Enjoy an evening with the West Michigan Symphony. Pianist Michelle Cann joins conductor Kellen Gray for a program inspired by American jazz, African American spirituals, and folk themes. Buy tickets here. Following her WMS appearance, Cann will present a solo recital on Saturday, Feb. 28, at 7:30 p.m., at The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. Buy tickets ($35-$60) here.
Details: https://westmichigansymphony.org/events/gershwins-piano-concerto/

Gun & Knife Show
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Saturday, Feb. 28, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $9 or less
Attend Holland’s original gun and knife show and browse items from at least 135 vendors. Ticket price includes a chance for those 18 and older to win a door prize from Winchester. Learn more here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/hollands-gun-%26-knife-show/4643/

Family Nature Day
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive
Saturday, Feb. 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Bring the whole family for informal nature exploration with a mix of self-guided outdoor and indoor activities, hands-on fun, and a seasonal craft. Drop in whenever it’s convenient for you.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/570I015F503X090C4S57

Natural Pigments with Theresa Gray
Holland Area Arts Council, 150 E. Eighth St., Holland
Saturday, Feb. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 
Cost: $120
Work with the artist to paint with sustainably sourced natural earth pigments. Participants will work with fresh greenery and blooms to create a painting and leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty of earth-friendly art-making. All materials supplied; beginners welcome. Sign up here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/natural-pigments-with-theresa-gray/4746/

Need suggestions for specific destinations or activities? Check out these tourism resources for details:
Holland Area Visitors Bureau
Grand Haven CVB
Ottawa County Parks & Recreation
Saugatuck CVB
Allegan County Parks & Recreation