Festivals

Among events taking place on Labor Day (Sept. 1) throughout the Lakeshore are the White Lake Community Walk (pictured), bridge walks in Grand Haven and Saugatuck-Douglas, and a truck parade from Zeeland to Holland.

September things to do: Labor Day events, car shows, an international fest, and a kiteboarding event

From a historic Civil War battle reenactment to a Hispanic Heritage Festival, there’s something for everyone this month, no matter where you live along the Lakeshore. 

Latest in Festivals
The Gentex Block Party is a free, family-friendly celebration packed with games, giveaways, food, and live music.
Gentex brings community together with street performers, block party

The Gentex Block Party, a free family event with games, giveaways, food, and music, will be held Aug. 14 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the Holland Civic Center Place.

There’s no better place to get fresh produce — and a lot more — than the Holland Farmers Market. If you live in another town, don’t fret. There also are summer farmers markets in Muskegon, Douglas, Grand Haven, Montague, and Saugatuck.
August things to do: Big theater productions, the uniting power of music, and a Polish festival

History, music, movies, and theater compete with sport fishing, a volleyball tournament, pro wrestling, and street performers for our time and attention this month. 

Communities throughout the Lakeshore are hosting Fourth of July events, many ending the day with fireworks, such as these from Grand Haven.
July things to do: Holidays, festivals, concerts and county fairs make this a month for celebration

Summer is in full swing, with Bike Time in Muskegon, LAUP Fiesta week in Holland, the Coast Guard Festival and beach volleyball in Grand Haven, and a car show in Zeeland.   

The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.
Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

June things to do: Pride events, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, and Father’s Day

June brings Father’s Day, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, movies, music, summer camps, 5Ks, and theater. Libraries have a lot of free activities, too.  

The Miskelleys have turned their journey of grief and transformation into a service to counteract the disconnect often found in traditional mental health care.
Family that turned grief into lifesaving mental health support is expanding services

At its annual gala, nonprofit Be Better; will celebrate four years of saving student‑athletes’ lives with innovative, personalized mental health care solutions.

For Les Tucker, playing Santa is about making people feel seen, heard, and loved in some small way, even for just a few minutes.
Shore Story: My journey as Santa Claus and bringing holiday magic to life

Les Tucker shares his experience at an iconic Santa Claus school and his love for bringing Santa's joy to children each Christmas.  

Families can enjoy the illuminated carousel, seasonal photo spots, and a chance for children to meet Sinterklaas, the Dutch predecessor of Santa Claus, on select days.
Magic at the Mill returns to Windmill Island Gardens for the holidays

Magic at the Mill returns to Windmill Island Gardens with dazzling lights, festive activities, and treats, creating a holiday wonderland in Holland.  

Sisters Emily and Chelsy Millner drive school bus for Allegan Area Educational Services Agency.
Sisters know the rewards of driving a school bus

Being a bus driver isn't always the easiest job, but it certainly has its rewards as sisters Chelsy and Emily Millner know so well.

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