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

The stories of these prominent and not-so-prominent figures are shared at their burial sites during Muskegon's City of the Dead.
October things to do: Halloween and history, arts and entertainment, adventures and theater

On tap this month are the Idlewild exhibition, the Pumpkin Train, a gallery stroll, papermaking, a Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble, and — of course —  trick-or-treating. They’re all on the West Michigan calendar for October.

Broadway performer Capathia Jenkins brings her salute to the Queen of Soul for one night on Sept. 29.
September things to do: Art shows and music, bridge walks and festivals, day trips and comedy

Don’t miss the art, music, classes, shopping, library events, and cultural celebrations on the September calendar along the Lakeshore.

Coopersville Car Show & Summerfest is Aug. 9-12.
Things to do in August: Festivals and music, fundraisers and movies, car shows and sand sculpture
Show and Shine Car Show & Cruise spectators can line up anywhere along the Main Street cruise route.
Things to do in July: Fireworks and music, car shows, Fiesta and magic

Independence Day is celebrated across the country, and the Lakeshore is no exception. Fireworks will streak across the sky in many Lakeshore communities. July events also include LAUP’s Fiesta, theater, garden walks, and street performances.

A USO-style swing dance and D-Day commemoration event will be held in Muskegon.
Things to do in June: D-Day, Pride events, baseball, trail race, parade of homes

Whether you’re into walking tours, fun runs, or something altogether different, there is plenty to do along the lakeshore in June, including a D-Day commemoration, Pride Month events, music, old-time base ball.

Tulip Time celebrates tulips, Dutch heritage, and the Holland community.
Things to do in May: Festivals, exhibits, shows, Memorial Day observances

There are many things to do along the Lakeshore in May, from Tulip Time in Holland to the annual Kite Festival in Grand Haven. There are also plays, concerts, exhibits, a craft fair, an adventure run and Memorial Day observances.   

Douglas Easter parade
Things to do in April: Toy show, dance, art, egg hunts, Cowboy Junkies on Lakeshore calendar

Whether your jam is theater, egg hunts, art, birds of prey and beer, or — of course — music, The Lakeshore has it all this April. 

For 30 years, Spanish Brass has remained one of the most dynamic quintets on the international musical stage.
Things to do in March: St. Patrick’s Day, girlfriends weekend, music on the Lakeshore calendar

A polar plunge, theater, music, and a discussion of Michigan’s connection to mosquitoes and malaria. The Lakeshore has it all this March.

Spoons & Tunes is a Soup-Tasting Fundraiser
February along the Lakeshore: Museum exhibits, Valentine’s celebration and ice carving

A beer-tasting fundraiser, art exhibits, swanky dinners, a kids’ program, and a lecture on the future of the nonprofit sector, The Lakeshore has it all this February. 

The Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing Park has reopened with special winter hours and offers snowshoe rentals. (Mike Lozon)
January Along the Lakeshore: MLK celebrations, museum exhibits and outdoor activities

Museum exhibits, outdoor activities, history programs, children’s projects, and concerts — January along The Lakeshore has it all.

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