Author

Melody Wilson

Melody Wilson

Melody Wilson is enjoying her second act, following a long career in journalism. The longtime Holland resident enjoys exploring hidden gems along the Lakeshore, doing freelance work, and spending time with friends and family.

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Melody Wilson's Latest Articles

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.  

May things to do: Festivals, fundraisers, Memorial Day, an Anne Frank exhibit — and don’t forget Mom

Tulip Time in Holland and the Grand Haven’s Kite Festival return, as does the Prom with a Purpose in Spring Lake and several Memorial Day events across the lakeshore. 

The Easter Egg Scramble, set for April 5 at Roosevelt Park Community Center in Muskegon, is just one of several egg-related activities in the April calendar for West Michigan.
April things to do: A student art exhibition, Easter events, theater, and spring break activities

It’s April, time for spring flings, spring breaks, Arbor Day, Earth Day, and several egg-stra special events this Easter. And don’t forget art, music, theater, and crafts.

St. Patrick’s Day is here, and several Lakeshore communities are hosting celebrations in honor of the Celtic saint, including the Erin — Go — Bark Parade in Douglas on March 8.
March things to do: Dine in the dark, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (and Pi Day), and so much more

Whether you like history discussions, dressing in green and marching in a parade, getting together with your girlfriends, taking a quick dip in an icy lake, or something entirely different, you’ll find plenty of options for fun in this month’s calendar.  

Individuals of all abilities can experience adaptive ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and luge at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park on Jan. 4.
February things to do: Theater productions, festivals, music, movies, chili contests, documentaries

This month, you can make candles, learn about Michigan mushrooms, see a play, participate in an indoor triathlon, get out some energy by dancing, and celebrate Black History Month, the Lunar New Year, and Valentine’s Day.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents its exhibit “We Hope You Fail Better,” featuring works by picture book authors Brad and Kristi Montague.
January things to do: It’s time for Winterfest, a home show, farm markets, a chili cookoff, and more

Don’t miss the movies, exhibits, art, theater, and music — including a couple of tribute bands — happening this month. The calendar also includes activities for kids at local libraries.  

From vintage ornaments and trains to holiday Barbies and a forest of bottlebrush trees, the MMA Festival of Trees is sure to spark your joy.
December things to do: Tours, shopping, ballet, parades and a lot of lights

Buckle up. A majority of events this month include the word “holiday.” There are theater productions, exhibits, movies, crafts, music, a live nativity, Santa sightings, and more light displays than you can shake a stick at.

If you’re looking for unique and delightful gifts to give this holiday season, look no further than the Kerstmarket (Christmas market) in Holland.
November things to do: Theater, shopping, music, food drives, crafts, Thanksgiving, and turkey trots

There’s no reason to stay home this month. From Día de los Muertos celebrations to Thanksgiving gatherings, there are concerts, plays, nature, art, comedy, tree-lightings, and so much more on our November calendar.

Communities across the Lakeshore are getting ready for Halloween, including many opportunities for trick-or-treating. A list of events — slated from Friday, Oct. 25, to Thursday, Oct. 31 — planned across West Michigan is at the bottom of thi
October things to do: Goose Fest, music, history, theater, pumpkins, Day of the Dead, and Halloween

Exhibitions, musical programs, comedy, a film festival, fall-themed events, a hike, and a couple of cemetery tours top this month’s jam-packed list of things to do along the Lakeshore.

Experience the sights and sounds of Civil War battles during the popular Van Raalte Farm Civil War Muster, taking place Sept. 21-22 on the farm property in Holland.
September things to do: Labor Day, runs, climbs, history, film, music, and a Civil War muster

Highlights for this month include an Irish music festival, an international festival, tree-climbing championships, run/walks, and a symphony performance. There’s also art, movies, history, and craft shows.

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