January things to do: 2026 is here, and there’s plenty of fun to be had — indoors and outdoors

 It’s a new year, and The Lakeshore has scores of interesting, fun events and activities to put on your calendar this month. Some events end early in January, including the Spring Lake Sparkle and the Muskegon Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees.

There’s a New Year’s Day run in Saugatuck for those looking to start 2026 with some exercise, but plenty of low-key options are also available. Movies, exhibits, live music, and nature programs are on the calendar, while some farmers’ markets and sidewalk sales have moved indoors.

There’s also a mother-son date in Holland, and Winterfest is back in Grand Haven. January 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.  

Week 1 (January 1–11)

Spring Lake Sparkle
Downtown Spring Lake
Through Thursday, Jan. 1, all day
Cost: Free to attend
Experience the magic as you walk the streets of the town. See holiday lights and displays throughout the community, including the community Christmas tree, Santa’s house, and a fireplace and seating.
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/event/spring-lake-sparkle/

Winter Break Skate
Rollxscape Skating Center, 12521 James St., Holland
Through Saturday, Jan. 3, hours vary
Cost: $8
Have some family fun and let the kids burn off energy.
Details: https://www.rollxscape.com/promotions

Snowed In: A Family Escape Room
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Through Sunday, Jan. 4, all day
Cost: Free
Fun for all ages. You came to the cabin for a weekend of fun, but a surprise winter storm struck and now you’re snowed in. Can your family (or friend group) uncover clues, solve the puzzles, and find a way out before you’re trapped for the night? Teams of up to 10 people. Registration is required.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/Mu5dqDFbgm/instances/jFZz5nErLv/

Festival of Trees
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Through Sunday, Jan. 4
Cost: $5-$15, free to kids 5 and younger
This beloved annual fundraiser brings sparkle, creativity, and holiday cheer to MMA galleries. The museum will be transformed into a winter wonderland with an artistic take. Trees created by local artists and designers are each a unique work of art on their own. The Festival of Trees celebrates the season in the most artful way possible. For a full list of MMA Festival of Trees activities, 
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/festival-of-trees-2/

Home Front Heroes: World War II Exhibit
Muskegon Museum of History & Science, 430 W. Clay Ave., Muskegon
Through Saturday, Jan. 10
Cost: Free to Muskegon County residents, active military, those 2 and younger; $5 for non-residents
Explore Muskegon’s significant contributions to the war effort in this 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. From manufacturing wartime goods to supporting local volunteer initiatives, county residents played a crucial role in victory. Reflect on how the conflict reshaped the community and how residents celebrated the war’s end.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/home-front-heroes-world-war-ii-exhibit/10268/

Art Nouveau: Age of Elegance
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon 
Through Sunday, Jan. 11
Cost: Free with admission
This exhibition brings the Art Nouveau era to life with a stunning collection of rare and decorative pieces, including original Mucha posters, rare Amphora ceramics, elegant furniture of the era, glowing Tiffany glass lamps and vases, Japanese prints, colorful French and Czech posters, bronze sculptures, paintings and drawings from the Gilded Age, and more. 
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/art-nouveau-the-age-of-elegance/

Project De Zwaan
Holland Museum, 31 W. 10^th St., Holland
Through Monday, Jan. 26
Cost: Free with museum admission
Explore the background and transport of the 18^th-century De Zwaan (The Swan) windmill — purchased in the 1960s by a group working with the Dutch government — from the Netherlands to Holland. 
Details: https://hollandmuseum.org/exhibition/project-de-zwaan/

Winter Reading Challenge
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Jan. 1-31
Cost: Free
LDL is challenging the community to read and log at least 300 minutes (5 hours) this month to earn prizes. Any type of reading counts — even listening to an audiobook. Participate using the Beanstack app or with a paper reading log, and don’t forget to earn badges to win at bingo, which will earn you a hot cocoa kit. Those who complete the challenge and clear the bingo board will be entered in a grand prize drawing. To conclude the challenge, LDL is hosting an all-ages Read-A-Thon on Jan. 31.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/winterreading/

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/

Hair of the Dog 5K Run/Walk
Spectators Bar, 6432 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck
Thursday, Jan. 1, registration begins at 11 a.m.; the run starts at 1 p.m.
Cost: $15 for kids, $35 for adults, $40 for adults with a dog
Sign up for this fun run, which raises money for the Saugatuck Education Association. All proceeds for this fundraising event go to scholarships. All participants will receive a commemorative pint glass before the run. After the run, participants will receive a free beer or root beer, and a free bowl of chili, and there will be a fire pit to warm up. Sign up here.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/hair-of-the-dog-fun-run/

Craft Club
Muskegon Township Branch of MADL, 1810 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon Township
Fridays, Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 1-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Meet at the library to work on craft projects — either alone or with friends and neighbors.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/690a05c761706d280020ff61

Intro to Drawing Manga
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, Jan. 2, 2-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Calling all aspiring artists who want to learn the basics of drawing manga. Join this workshop, where staff will cover the basics of drawing figures, perspective, and the basics of paneling. There will also be time for questions. For all ages.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908e8a4683f18f7608c6e5e

‘Jurassic Park’
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Sunday, Jan. 4, 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Step into a world where science and adventure collide. When a group of visitors tours an island theme park filled with genetically resurrected dinosaurs, chaos ensues in this thrilling classic. This movie is rated PG-13.
Details: https://frauenthal.org/event/jurassic-park-1993/

Genna & Jesse
Salt of the Earth, 114 E. Main St., Fennville
Sunday, Jan. 4, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: $26
These international touring artists are bringing their quirky chemistry, intricate vocal harmonies, and ardent storytelling to West Michigan. Your ticket purchase is also your dinner reservation. Get tickets at the link below 
Details: https://www.exploretock.com/salt-of-the-earth-fennville/genna-jesse

Monday Movies and More
Muskegon Area District Library Branches
Beginning Jan. 5
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. 
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?_January-2026/

Coffee with Council
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 5-6 p.m. 
City Hall, 270 S. River Ave., Holland
Saturday, 9-11:30 a.m.
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland 
Cost: Free
At this annual open forum, members of the public may speak with elected and appointed officials on topics related to the city of Holland. Come and share suggestions, comments, and concerns as preparations begin for the next fiscal year budget. Light refreshments will be served.
Details: https://www.cityofholland.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1008

Playtime Power Hour: Woodland Campout
Muskegon Heights Branch of MADL, 2808 Sanford Street, Muskegon Heights
Thursday, Jan. 8, 10-11 a.m.
Cost: Free
Focus on imagination through different stations centered around the branch’s Storyville. Playing, talking, singing, reading, and writing are components of this camping-themed power hour.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68fb85682edc686d00f5bbf9

On the Same Page Book Club
Library for the Visually & Physically Disabled of MADL, 4845 Airline Road, Muskegon
Friday, Jan. 9, 3-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Gather and discuss the book of the month (“The Six,” by Loren Grush) with fellow book lovers from your local community. Copies of the monthly selection are available at the library.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f0fab83cbc052f008018de

Dinner and a Movie
The Momentum Center, 401 N. Seventh St., Grand Haven
Friday, Jan. 9, 5 p.m. dinner, 6 p.m. movie
Cost: Free
Community members are invited to enjoy a meal among friends, families, groups, couples, and singles who want to connect. After dinner, stay to watch the animated film “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” the story of the K-Pop girl band Huntrix, whose singers are born with voices that can drive away darkness, which comes with the demon boy band Saja Boys. Huntrix vows to battle Saja Boys at The Idol Awards for hearts, minds, and fans. The movie is rated PG.
Details: https://www.momentumcentergh.org/31b4e35d82cc

Karaoke Night
Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, Jan. 9, 7:30-11 p.m.
Cost: $5
Get ready to take the stage for a night of unforgettable performances, good vibes, and all your favorite songs. Bring your best songs and your best energy for this 18-and-older event that occurs the second Friday of each month. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Get tickets here.
Details: https://parktheatreholland.org/

Coffee with the Birds
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Oliver Road, West Olive
Saturday, Jan. 10, 9:30 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Enjoy coffee and baked goodies as you watch and learn about the birds at the feeder. Bring your bird questions, curiosities, and stories. And don’t forget a mug. Registration is encouraged.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/=AR&FMID=22023574

Intro to Urban Sketching
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Join Maker-in-Residence Marcia Schrotenboer for a hands-on introduction to Urban Sketching, a fun, expressive, and accessible way to capture the world through drawing. No experience needed. All supplies are provided, and participants will leave with a starter sketching kit.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908ed162edc686d00f67b36

Sensory Movie Morning
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Saturday, Jan. 10, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Join LDL staff for a lights-up, sound-down movie experience for all ages. This month’s movie is “Paddington in Peru,” which is rated PG. There will be flexible seating with chairs set up and space to bring your own blanket and sit on the floor if that’s more comfortable for you. Feel free to bring your own snacks, too.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/lFRlga75qa/

HSO Young Artist Competition & Recital
Haas Center, 10610 S. Campus Drive, Allendale
Saturday, Jan. 10, 1 p.m.
Cost: Free
Holland Symphony Orchestra will showcase talented musicians, grades 9-12, from West Michigan as they compete for the three top prizes. The 10-minute recitals will feature a range of different instruments in works by Haydn, Bruch, Mendelssohn, Elgar, Richard Strauss, and more. Winners will be announced at the end of the concert. Find programs and performers here. RSVP here.
Details: https://hollandsymphony.org/educational-programs/concerto-competition/

Teen Mid-Term Study Space
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Saturday, Jan. 10, through Wednesday, Jan. 21, hours vary
Cost: Free
The Youth program Room is open and ready for teens who need a place to study for exams. The room will be stocked with snacks, coffee, and hot chocolate each day so you can take a break from the books.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/BAWnddhd5X/

Week 2 (January 12–18)

Eco-Immersion Explorers
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Oliver Road, West Olive
Mondays, Jan. 12, 19, and 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: $45 for Ottawa County residents, $55 for nonresidents
This homeschool program, designed for students in ninth through 12th grades, is hosted by the Nature Center. The schedule for this three-week nature-based program includes Animal Tracks and Signs on Jan. 12, All About Mammals on Jan. 19, and The Subnivean World on Jan. 26. Registration is required. 
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=24287859

‘West Side Story’
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, Jan. 12, 5:30-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
This classic retelling of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” focuses on the love between Tony, a white Jet, and Maria, a Puerto Rican Shark, caught in the violent turf war between their rival gangs. The film, which is rated PG-13, explores themes of love, prejudice, immigration, and social conflict through iconic songs and dance.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908f228a64b7d0d61f69af1

‘Wronged: The Maurice Carter Story
Momentum Center, 401 N. Seventh St., Grand Haven
Monday, Jan. 12, 6-8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free 
Join this special engagement town hall, which begins with a showing of the film presented by Humanity for Prisoners. The documentary reveals the real-life case of Maurice Carter, a young man from Benton Harbor who was wrongfully convicted of the non-fatal shooting of an off-duty police officer. A panel discussion will follow the film. Register here. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Details: https://www.momentumcentergh.org/townhall-humanityforprisoners

Paws and Read
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Tuesdays, Jan. 13 and 26, 4-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Practice and strengthen literacy skills by reading out loud to the library’s friendly therapy dogs, Breezy and Dolly. They are calm, non-judgmental listeners who are excited to hear stories and receive belly rubs. For ages 3-12. Registration is required. Call 231-722-8014 to sign up for a 20-minute time slot.
Details for Jan. 13: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/paws-and-read-69/
Details for Jan. 27: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/paws-and-read-70/

Toddler Sensory Program
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 10-11 a.m.
Cost: Free
Toddler play is fun and messy. Let your toddler explore the library’s themed sensory centers and let library staff worry about the cleanup. For ages 0-4.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/toddler-sensory-program/

Quiet Riot: Teen Silent Disco
North Muskegon Branch of MADL, 1522 Ruddiman Drive, North Muskegon
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Put on a set of the library’s wireless headphones and enjoy a dance party in the community room. There will be three channels of music to match your vibe, and a body marbling station. Refreshments will be provided.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f0fe13886bb73600b61918

Unplugged: Reclaiming Real Relationships
Outdoor Discovery Center, 340 104th Ave., Holland
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free, $10 for meet and greet
In this presentation, presenter Catherine Price — a leading voice in the national conversation about technology and well-being — will provide an evidence-backed framework and common-sense approach to tackling the tricky subject of smartphones, social media, and kids. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/unplugged%3a-reclaiming-real-relationships/

Wetland Mitigation Discussion
Barber School, 102 W. Exchange St., Spring Lake
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
The township is hosting a public educational event featuring wetland ecologist Michael Pennington, from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Pennington will provide an overview of how wetland mitigation banks work in Michigan and answer attendees’ questions.
Details: https://springlaketwp.org/community-engagement/

Figure Drawing
Ox-Bow House, 137 Center St., Douglas
Thursdays, Jan. 15, 22, and 29, 1-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $75 for three sessions
This series of workshops is focused on exploring the human form through gesture, proportion, and expression while strengthening their observational drawing skills. Participants will experiment and build confidence. These gatherings invite participants to slow down, connect, and create together. Sessions also are available for Feb. 5, 12, and 19, and March 12, 19, and 26. Get tickets here.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/figure-drawing-at-ox-bow-house/

Wine About Winter
Downtown and Centertown Grand Haven
Friday, Jan. 16, 5-8  p.m.
Cost: $5 admission, $4 tasting tickets
Enjoy this popular winter event that’s part wine tasting, part downtown stroll, and part community celebration. Wander through shops, sampling wines poured by local vendors while discovering boutiques, galleries, and eateries. It’s the perfect way to beat the winter blues. 
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/events/wine-about-winter/

Let’s Hear It for the Boys 1 2 3
Lotus Room Event Center, 919 E. Sherman Blvd., Norton Shores
Fridays, Jan. 16, 23, and 30, 7 p.m.
Cost: $10
Enjoy jazz and blues with three live music events on consecutive Fridays. On week 1, welcome Muskegon’s favorite son, Big Daddy Fox & Friends. Jazz favorite Tymeless Klock performs on week 2. Complete the experience on week 3 with Big Nick & The Rhythm Kings. Get tickets for all three shows here.
Details: https://lotusroomevents.com/event/lets-hear-it-for-the-boys-1-2-3/

Theater & Imagination Workshop
Ravenna Branch of MADL, 12278 Stafford St., Ravenna
Saturday, Jan. 17, 1-2 p.m.
Cost: Free
This fun-filled, one-hour workshop, presented by Muskegon Civic Theatre, introduces students in kindergarten through fifth grade to the magic of theater through exciting games, creative movement, and playful storytelling. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68efbb499b8793410090f121

Week 3 (January 19–25)

January Series
Various locations, online, and at remote sites
Monday, Jan. 19, through Friday, Jan. 30
Cost: Free
Calvin University’s award-winning lecture series is back, featuring 10 speakers addressing a variety of topics. See the list of this year’s speakers here. Register at the link below.
Details: https://calvinuniversity.my.site.com/registration/s/january-series?eventId=a28TQ000001wJRV

Community Day
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Monday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the public is invited to explore MMA galleries with Muskegon High School docents (noon to 2 p.m.), participate in an MLK Day art project, watch a film screening of “Coldwater Kitchen,” and take an interactive museum tour of African American artists in the museum’s permanent collection. Kids can also pick up a fun coloring activity inspired by these highlighted works of art.
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/martin-luther-king-jr-day/

Martin Luther King Jr. Civil Rights Lecture
Dimnent Chapel, Hope College, 277 College Ave., Holland
Monday, Jan. 19. 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Guest speaker and author Jemar Tisby will present a talk titled “Lead Like a King: Jesus, Justice, and the Courage to Confront.” He will provide informed perspectives on race, faith, and social issues to help explore racial-justice solutions. He will also invite the audience to step into MLK’s story, not as history frozen in time, but as a roadmap for leadership today.
Details: https://hope.edu/news/civil-rights-lecture.html

Cozy Quilting
Holton Branch of MADL, 8776 Holton-Duck Lake Road, Holton
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 4-6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Discover the timeless art of quilting by engaging with fellow quilters in a warm and welcoming environment. All skill levels are welcome. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f0f6c9886bb73600b617fc

Braille Blast
Dalton Branch of MADL, 3175 Fifth St., Twin Lake
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Explore how Braille works with LEGOs and activity sheets. Then use a stylus to write your name in Braille and take it home. 
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f153832ea1b13000803c68

Pass the Painting
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Thursday, Jan. 22, 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
All ages are invited to get creative with this collaborative art experience. Participants will each start a painting, then, every few minutes, pass the canvas to the next person to add their touch. No art skills needed, just a willingness to have fun and see where the paint takes you.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908edf275911f28001ad0cc

Michigan’s Skiing Legacy
Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland
Thursday, Jan. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Celebrate the birthplace of organized skiing in the United States since 1887. The film highlights the Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame, honors the legends who shaped the sport, while showcasing the passionate locals who keep its spirit alive. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/michigans-skiing-legacy/4680/

Dudok Quartet Amsterdam
Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts, 221 Columbia Ave., Holland
Thursday, Jan. 22, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and Hope faculty, $15 for children
This ensemble is forging a reputation as one of the most creative and versatile generations of its generation. The quartet is committed to crafting unique and eclectic programs in order to engage with its audiences in new and imaginative ways. Get tickets here.
Details: https://calendar.hope.edu/event/dudok-quartet.

Winterfest 2026
Various Grand Haven locations
Thursday-Sunday, Jan. 22-25
Cost: Free to attend
The snow is upon us, and this is the perfect time to get out and be active. Enjoy four days of winter fun, with activities including the Cardboard Sled Race, Ski and Snowboard Competitions, Kids’ Day, and Euchre Tournament.
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/events/winterfest/

Indoor Sidewalk Sales
Downtown Grand Haven
Friday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Find fabulous deals and have fun shopping locally. Whether you’re hunting for essentials or unique gifts, or just love a good deal, this is the perfect opportunity to snag an incredible find.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1452598453532421

Kids’ Crafternoon
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Friday, Jan. 23, 2-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Drop in at the Youth Program Room to create a mixed-media collage. Materials will be available while supplies last.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/6Ljir0pvqL/

The Edgar Allan Poe Experience
Norton Shores Branch of MADL, 705 Seminole Road, Norton Shores
Friday, Jan. 23, 4-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Teens are invited to celebrate the spooky writer by making raven topiaries while trying your hand at Blackout Poetry. Listen to Poe’s creepy stories while you craft. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f10c4a2ea1b13000802f64

Old School Bash
Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, Jan. 23, 8:30-11:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 and up
Go back in time at the hottest dance party in West Michigan. The night will feature the best pop, hip-hop, rhythm-and-blues, and dance music from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, mixed by three elite DJs. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/80s-90s-and-00s-dance-party/

Family Nature Day
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Oliver Road, West Olive
Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Stop in anytime during the event with the whole family for an informal nature exploration with a mix of self-guided outdoor and indoor activities, hands-on fun, and a seasonal craft. The theme for this event is Snow Fun! Registration is encouraged.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=22023655

‘King of Kings’
The Playhouse at White Lake, 304 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall
Saturday, Jan. 24, 2 p.m.
Cost: $3
A father tells his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime story becomes a life-changing journey. The animated movie invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child. The movie is rated PG.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/family-movie-night%3a-king-of-kings/

Drop-In Soldering
Hackley Public Library, 316 Webster Ave., Muskegon
Saturday, Jan. 24, 2-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Practice basic soldering skills with HPL’s beginner-level kits. The soldering irons will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Miss Lydia will be on hand to give demonstrations, tips, and helpful suggestions. For ages 8-17; all participants must come with adult supervision.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/drop-in-soldering-2/

Night Moves + Boys Gone Mild
Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland
Saturday, Jan. 24, 8-11 p.m.
Cost: $30 and up
Tributes to Bob Seger and John Mellencamp kick off the 2026 Legends Series at the Park. Come and enjoy a remarkable recreation of the live performance of Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. Get tickets here.
Details: https://parktheatreholland.ludus.com/show_page.php?show_id=200504630

Craft Supply Swap: Collection/Drop-Off
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Saturday-Thursday, Jan. 24-29, all day
Cost: Free
Calling all crafters. If you have new or gently used craft supplies that you no longer need, bring them to any service desk to donate to the swap. As a bonus for donating supplies, donors will receive a voucher for early access to the swap on Friday, Jan. 31.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908ee642edc686d00f67b4d

Week 4 (January 26–February 1)

Soothing Spa Treatment
Montague Branch of MADL, 8778 Ferry St., No. 2, Montague
Monday, Jan. 26, 10-11 a.m.
Cost: Free
Learn to indulge in spa-like pampering at home with a fresh foot spray designed to leave your feet feeling revitalized. Give your nails the attention they deserve with a soothing cuticle balm that softens and protects. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f0fdd361706d28001dfab4

Mixology Mocktails
Hackley Public Library, 316 Webster Ave., Muskegon
Monday, Jan. 26, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join mixologist David Barbor for a fun, hands-on program where participants will learn how to shake, stir, and garnish their way to three alcohol-free mocktails. Registration is required.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/mixology-mocktails/

History Hounds
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Monday, Jan. 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join this recorded virtual presentation of the Historical Society of Michigan. Learn about different episodes of the state’s fascinating history from a variety of expert presenters. This month’s presentation is “Rivers, Lakes, and Lumber: Michigan’s White Pine.” Registration is required.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/km1FAaYgHZ/

Capybara Cross Stitch
Egelston Branch of MADL, 5428 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 3-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Library staff members are ready to show participants how quick and fun cross-stitch can be. Stop in and learn, lounge with treats, and chat. Staff will guide the first steps and answer questions before participants take the craft home to complete. Registration is required.
Details: https://muskegonadl.bibliocommons.com/events/68f27c0bb864f029001fdabe

Lunch n’ Learn: Superheroes at the Symphony
The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free
West Michigan Symphony Music Director Scott Speck and a special guest will share insights and anecdotes to enhance your enjoyment of the upcoming WMS Superheroes performance. Register here.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/lunch-n-learn/

Blood Drive
Hackley Public Library, 316 Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Cost: Free
Take this opportunity to donate blood at HPL. This much-needed resource provides life-saving transfusions for trauma victims, surgery patients, and those with cancer or chronic illnesses. For an appointment, go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767).
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/blood-drives-at-hackley-library/

Mushroom Cultivation
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Oliver Road, West Olive
Thursday, Jan. 29, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: $25 for Ottawa County residents, $30 for non-residents
Discover the fascinating world of growing your own mushrooms in this hands-on class. You’ll learn the basics of mushroom life cycles, cultivation techniques, and how to create the ideal environment for healthy growth. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Registration is encouraged.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/?Module=AR&FMID=23161076

Mother Son Date
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Friday, Jan. 30, 6-8:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Moms, grandmas, aunts, guardians, and family friends are invited to bring their favorite young fellas to this annual event. The evening will feature games, dancing, and light refreshments. There will be inflatables, snacks, a DJ, and more to make this a night to remember. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/mother-son-date/4657/

Superheroes at the Symphony
Frauenthal Center, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $14.75-$77.50
Music transports us on epic adventures and emotional journeys. Join the West Michigan Symphony and experience the legendary themes of cinematic superheroes — Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Spider-Man — along with two symphonic masterpieces that inspired the iconic film scores. WMS also is hosting a superhero costume contest. Learn more at the link below. Get tickets here.
Details: https://westmichigansymphony.org/events/superheroes-at-the-symphony/

Community Craft Swap
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Saturday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free
Crafters are invited to HDL’s second craft supply swap. Pick up materials for a craft you’d like to try or for one you already do. Early access begins at 10 for those who hold a donation voucher. The swap will open to the general public at 11.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6908ee7704e183f66037760c

Black Tie for the Y
Delta by Marriott, 939 Third St., Muskegon
Saturday, Jan. 31, 6 p.m.
Cost: $110 and up
Get ready for an elegant evening celebrating the lives of those touched by cancer. The Livestrong with the YMCA program is more than just exercise; it supports individuals diagnosed with cancer and helps them reclaim their lives. The evening will include appetizers, dinner, dessert, and late-night snacks, an open bar, silent and live auctions, raffles, and a great DJ. Buy tickets here.
Details: muskegonymca.org/blacktie

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