May things to do: Tulip Time, Kite Festival, Second City shows, Musical Fountain, and Memorial Day

Whether you’re in the mood for events and attractions, tours and classes, or concerts and shows, you can find it at Tulip Time. And that’s not even including the million or so beautiful tulips scattered throughout Holland. There’s a bike ride, a prom, a show of Pink Floyd music, the Kite Festival, and a marathon benefiting families of fallen veterans.

Second City returns to Saugatuck for two nights of improv, and summer reading kicks off in Muskegon, where a planetarium show lets us see the Unseen Universe. Zeeland is hosting its spring Peddlers’ Market, along with Little Peddlers, too, of course. Oh, and the Musical Fountain gets fired up for the season in Grand Haven.

For those into plants, Holland is hosting a tulip dig, and there will be a free plant swap in Muskegon. And, finally, several West Michigan communities are hosting Memorial Day events, honoring those who paid the ultimate price in service to our country. May 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.  

Ongoing

Expressions: Elementary, Middle & High School Art Exhibition
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through May 10, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free with admission: $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students (17+ with ID), free for 16 and younger
This annual art exhibition showcases the artistic talents of Muskegon County’s K-12 students. The exhibit includes 2- and 3-dimensional artworks created in a variety of media from Muskegon County schools. 
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/expression-student-art-exhibition/

POW! The Art of Comics
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Through May 17
Cost: Free with admission: $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students (17+ with ID), 
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 also are on view. 
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/the-art-of-comics/

Youth Art Classes
Holland Area Arts Council, 150 E. Eighth St., Holland
Through Sept. 22
Cost: Varies
These classes give young artists the opportunity to explore creativity and build skills in a fun, hands-on environment. Through painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed-media projects, students learn techniques while expressing their ideas and imagination.
Details: https://hollandarts.org/youth-art-classes 

Farmers Market
Chinook Pier, 301 N. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven
Wednesdays, June-September and Saturdays through October, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
The market provides farmers and small businesses with an opportunity to sell fresh, Michigan-grown and -produced foods directly to customers. It also serves as a community gathering place to educate and promote healthy living.
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/events/grand-haven-farmers-market-2/

Farmers Market
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Wednesdays and Saturdays, May 13 through Oct. 31, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
The Holland farmers market moves back outdoors on May 13, with scores of vendors and local farmers offering freshly picked fruits and vegetables, flowers and plants, sweet treats, baked goods, gourmet specialty foods, and more.
Details: https://www.hollandfarmersmarket.com/ 

Week 1 (April 30-May 10)

‘Anastasia’
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Thursday-Saturday, April 30-May 2, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 3, 3 p.m. 
Cost: $21.50-$38
Muskegon Civic Theatre presents this dazzling show that transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s. A brave young woman who sets out to discover the mystery of her past is pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her. She enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family. Get tickets here.
Details: https://muskegoncivictheatre.org/anastasia‘

Tulip Time
Various locations within a 4-mile radius of downtown Holland
Friday, May 1, through Sunday, May 10, hours vary
Cost: Varies
If you’re looking for a beautiful spring destination, consider Tulip Time in Holland. Each spring, millions of tulips herald what has become so much more than a flower festival. From the Dutch Life on Display exhibit (which actually starts Monday, April 27, ahead of the festival, in the iconic Van Raalte Farmhouse) to the final day of Tulip Time’s tours and carnival (Sunday, May 10, in the Civic Center parking lot), this list of events includes fun events and activities for all ages. Please note: Tulip Time has gone cashless this year, so come prepared! 
Details: https://tuliptime.com/

Twilight Hike and Other Ottawa County Parks Events
Ottawa County Parks
Friday, May 1, 8-9:30 p.m.; other events through May 31
Cost: $5 for Ottawa County residents, $6 for non-residents; other event costs vary
In spring, as the light of day turns to dark of night, wildlife springs to life. Come experience your favorite parks as you explore them by the light of fading day during the Twilight Hike at Crockery Creek Natural Area. Learn about this and other Ottawa County Parks events in May at the link below.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/May-OCParks-Events

Tulip Time Cookie Decorating Classes
Holland Area Arts Council, 150 E. Eighth St., Holland
Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: $20
Come spend a couple of hours decorating cookies celebrating Tulip Time. Children are welcome with an accompanying parent (book each person attending). This beginner-friendly class includes all supplies.
Details: https://hollandarts.org/events/art-events-and-activities-for-tulip-time

‘Benediction’
Pillar Church, 57 E. 10^th St., Holland
Saturday, May 2, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
This immersive work activates the architecture of the church through contemporary choreography and live music, featuring a cast of West Michigan’s leading dance and music artists. A brief Q&A with the creative team will follow each performance. Get tickets at the link below.
Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benediction-oddtdtcreator

Movies and More
Muskegon Area District Library Branches
Beginning Friday, May 1
Cost: Free
Enjoy family-friendly movies and dozens of other amazing activities and educational programs — at various branches of the MADL at multiple times. Click the link below to find dates, times, and locations of movies, classes, crafts, and more.
Details: https://tinyurl.com/MADL-events

Adopt-a-Beach Event
Meet at Norman F. Kruses Park, 3205 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon
Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Muskegon County Parks partners with City of Muskegon Parks & Recreation for a community beach cleanup day. Volunteers will meet at the park and walk the shoreline, collecting litter. Learn more about this event and other May volunteer opportunities at the link below.
Details: https://muskegoncountyparks.org/events/

Make a Flower Pin for Derby Day
Ox-Bow House, 137 W. Center St., Douglas
Saturday, May 2, 1-4 p.m.
Cost: $10
Stop by for a new Makers Station craft. In conjunction with Derby Day in downtown Douglas, participants will create a floral pin, bursting with spring color. 
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/make-a-flower-pin-for-derby-day/

StoryWalk^® — ‘Fairy Walk’
Rosy Mound Natural Area, 13925 Lakeshore Drive, Grand Haven
Monday, May 4, through Sunday, May 17, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Take a StoryWalk^®, looking for magic in the woods as you read Gaia Cornwall’s story about three children and their dog, who go on a magical, imaginative walk in the woods to find fairies. Pages from this beautifully illustrated picture book will be posted on signs along the path — approximately a half-mile long, stroller-friendly — for your family to read together. 
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/KHmpxskzHP/

Identity Theft Awareness
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Tuesday, May 5, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Your identity is the most valuable thing in your life, and scammers know it. Come learn what identity theft is, its warning signs, and how to protect yourself. Muskegon Federal Credit Union presenters also will cover what steps to take if your identity has been stolen. Register here.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/identity-theft-awareness/

Maker-In-Residence Drop-In
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Wednesday, May 6, and Monday, May 18, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Stop by to see Kellyn Sanders, a board-certified medical illustrator, work on her craft. She creates 3-D medical animations that translate complex science into clear, empathetic visuals. She’s also a ceramicist. These sessions are open to all, and asking questions about the Maker’s work is encouraged.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/6931a93b04caba2f00d3347b

‘The Lumber Queen’
The Stage at the Corner, 280 W. Muskegon Ave., Muskegon
Friday-Saturday, May 8-9, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 10, 3 p.m.
Cost: $15
This rollicking five-act melodrama set in the 1880s returns, blending romance, humor, and adventure. The story brings to life the origins of Muskegon during the lumber boom. It’s a powerful tribute to the pioneers who turned forests into a thriving city and made Muskegon one of the most successful lumber towns in America. Get tickets here. 
Details: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575910949746

Saugatuck Douglas Art Club Annual Show
Capizzo Art Studio, 3279 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck
May 8-17, noon to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
This exhibition, featuring work from members of the club, includes a mix of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media, highlighting local and regional talent. Visitors may browse diverse works, meet artists, and experience the creative energy that defines Saugatuck’s well-known art community.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/saugatuck-douglas-art-club-annual-show/

Week 2 (May 11–17)

Blood Drive
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Monday, May 11, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Blood donations are used for patients in need of surgery, cancer treatment, and transfusions for blood loss. So, head to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED-CROSS) to sign up.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/2A303FaRkK/

Slow Roll Ride
Ice Park, 71 E. Sixth St., Holland
Monday, May 11, 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Experience the joy of bicycling with this community event that offers a fun and social bike ride through our vibrant communities in Holland, Grand Haven, and Zeeland. It’s the perfect opportunity for individuals and families to slow down, explore, and enjoy a few miles of safe, flat routes.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/community-slow-roll-%26-bike-night/5047/

Sashiko Stitching
*Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, May 11, 6:30-8 p.m.
*Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Thursday, May 14, 6:30-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn about and try the Japanese stitching and mending process known as Sashiko, which has also become an art form. This practice was traditionally used for mending and reinforcing clothing. Registration is preferred.
Details for May 11: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/69936bc63cc3e0c9ecb99e2f
Details for May 14: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/69936b87b48451fc3c031865

Fingerprint Art
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Wednesday, May 13, 2-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Make your favorite spring foliage, or a delightful flock of birds or a kaleidoscope of butterflies. This family program is geared toward youth of all ages. We will provide supplies, you supply the artistry.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/fingerprint-art/

‘The Millennium Ball’
Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland
Friday, May 15, 7-11 p.m.
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 day of event
Locals and visitors 18 and older (or with adult supervision) are invited to the Harbor Prom, a night that gives shelter pets a future. The event will feature DJs (DJ Muscle Man, DJ Rhabdo, DJ Hammercurl), drinks, raffles, a prom king and queen, and more. Proceeds benefit Harbor Humane Society, which has served Ottawa County and the greater West Michigan community since 1956. Get tickets here.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/harbor-prom-the-millennium-ball/5064/

The Lights, Lasers, and Music of Pink Floyd
Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, May 15, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $25-$35
Dark Side of the Moon recreates the sights, sounds, and spectacle of Pink Floyd’s most iconic touring eras, blending unforgettable music with an immersive light, laser, and video show. Get tickets here.
Details: https://frauenthal.org/event/the-lights-lasers-and-music-of-pink-floyd/

Kite Festival
Grand Haven State Park, 1001 S. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven
Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, May 17, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Enjoy a weekend at the beach as the sky is filled with colorful kites of all types and sizes. World-famous stunt kite flyers perform to music, and kites larger than a school bus hover overhead. Festival times are wind and weather permitting. There is a charge to park inside the state park.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/KiteFestatGH/

Armed Services Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K, and 5K
High School Football Stadium, 17001 Ferris St., Grand Haven
Sunday, May 17, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: $47.50-$155
This event honors all branches of our military, as well as first responders. Each branch of the U.S. military will have a booth or exhibit in the stadium, and each branch will staff an aid station along the route. All runners and walkers are welcome for any distances. The marathon is a qualifying course for the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, and Abbott Marathon Majors Series. A portion of the proceeds benefits Folds of Honor, which awards scholarships to spouses and children of fallen and disabled service members. Register here.
Details: https://armedservicesmarathon.com/

Week 3 (May 18–24)

Open Mic Night at HPL
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Monday, May 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Come to listen or share what you love, whether it’s reading poetry, sharing a short story, performing music, acting out theater, or something else. Please keep material family-friendly. Register here.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/open-mic-night-at-hpl/

Laser Engraving 101: Dog Tags
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Tuesday, May 19, 5:30-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Whether it’s for Fido, Fluffy, or a fashion statement, come learn how to safely use the XTool F1 Laser Engraver and the XTool Creative Space software. This event is for teens and adults. 
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/69936b7e8d5e2d09335f8978

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’
Saugatuck Douglas District Library, 174 Center St., Douglas
Tuesday, May 19, 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
In this heartwarming tale, the Kadam family leaves India for France, where they open a restaurant directly across the street from a Michelin-starred French restaurant, sparking a “food war” that eventually evolves into a journey of friendship, cultural fusion, and culinary mastery. The movie is rated PG.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/the-hundred-foot-journey-movie/

Planetarium Show: Unseen Universe
Carr-Fles Planetarium, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Room 1072, Muskegon
Tuesdays, May 19 and 26, and Thursdays, May 21 and 28, 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Discover the wonders of the cosmos with this show, which explores the universe across the full spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, revealing what was once invisible to the human eye. 
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/unseen-universe/

Herb Gardening for Kids 101
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Wednesday, May 20, 4-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Kids ages 6-12 are invited to get into gardening. Participants will learn something about herbs and paint a pot to take home. Dress for a mess because … dirt. Weather permitting, the program will be held outside.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/69936b4c8d5e2d09335f896d

Second City Returns
Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck
Friday-Saturday, May 22-23, 7-10 p.m.
Cost: $65
The legendary touring company returns with Laugh Harder Not Smarter, two fast-paced, anything-can-happen nights of outrageous improv and razor-sharp sketch comedy. Brand-new material will be mixed with iconic favorites. Get tickets here.
Details: https://sc4a.org/event/second-city-2026/

Farmers Market
Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck
Fridays, May 22-Oct. 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
The Market at SCA is a seasonal outdoor farmers’ and artisan market held at the SCA. It brings together local West Michigan farmers to offer fresh food, handcrafted goods, and a community atmosphere during the warmer months.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/saugatuck-farmers-market-the-market-at-sca/

Musical Fountain Opening Night
Waterfront Stadium, 1 N. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven
Friday, May 22, 10-10:30 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
The season kickoff for this enchanting spectacle will feature all-new music. Come see what the production team has been working on in the off-season. Can’t wait this long? Feel free to attend any or all of the fountain testing nights, set for May 8-9 and 15-16. The regular season plays Fridays and Saturdays in May and September, and nightly from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Details: https://visitgrandhaven.com/events/musical-fountain-opening-night/

Spring Peddlers’ Market & Little Peddlers
Zeeland Social District
Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Free to attend
This open-air lifestyle market features one-of-a-kind vendors peddling their wares, from vintage furniture and decor, farm-to-table treats, handmade specialities, antiques, and repurposed finds. Enjoy food trucks, live music, and shopping in one place.
Details: https://www.cityofzeeland.com/events/spring-peddlers/

Turtle Day Craft
Muskegon Museum of History & Science, 430 W. Clay Ave., Muskegon
Saturday, May 23, noon to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free for members and Muskegon County residents, $5 for non-residents
It’s World Turtle Day, so celebrate at the museum by decorating 3-D paper turtles and tortoises while learning facts and differences between these two species.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/turtle-day-craft/

Car Show & Food Rally
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Sunday, May 24, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend, $15 for car registration
The JR Automation charity event returns with delicious food and stunning vehicles. This family-friendly event will showcase classic, custom, and exotic rides. A panel of judges will select the top three vehicles, and food and beverages will be available for purchase from Zomburgers, Salt & Fire, Pita on the Pier, Brew Hall, and more. Proceeds, matched by JR Automation, go to nonprofit organizations serving the community. Register to show off your car or motorcycle here.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/jrccf-car-show-food-truck-rally/

Week 4 (May 25–31)

Memorial Day Events 
Join family, friends, and neighbors in honoring those who died in service to the U.S. military.
*Douglas — a ceremony to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country, sponsored by American Legion Post #137, will begin at 11 a.m. at Beery Field (South Main Street).
*Fennville — the parade, which begins at 10 a.m., travels from Paradise Park down Main Street to the cemetery. The VFW encourages all veterans, community members, and Scout troops to participate in the parade, along with decorated bicycles, golf carts, vintage automobiles, horses, or floats. 
*Grand Haven — parade kicks off at 9:30 a.m. at Sixth Street and Washington Avenue, proceeding down South Harbor Drive to Escanaba Park. The event features a ceremony to honor veterans and fallen heroes, and concludes with a wreath-laying ceremony.
*Holland — parade kicks off at 9:30 a.m. at Eighth Street and Central Avenue, heads down Columbia Avenue, and ends at Pilgrim Home Cemetery (370 E. 16th St.), where a program of remembrance will take place.
*Muskegon — downtown parade kicks off at 9 a.m. at the Morris Street Parking Lot, winds its way through downtown, traveling up First Street, turning right on Western Avenue, left on Fifth Street, left on Clay Avenue, ending at Hackley Park (350 W. Webster Ave.).
*Saugatuck — the parade, sponsored by American Legion Post #137, starts at Culver Street, then travels down Butler Street to Mary Street, and ends at Memorial Park for a brief ceremony.
*Zeeland — downtown parade kicks off at 9 a.m., with a ceremony immediately following at Zeeland Cemetery (200 E. Lincoln Ave.).

Acoustic Levitation
Herrick Main Branch, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Tuesday, May 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn the fundamentals of electronics and physics by building an acoustic levitation device from scratch. Participants — adults and teens accompanied by a parent or guardian — will practice precision soldering techniques to assemble the kit while exploring the science of standing waves and acoustic pressure nodes.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/69936b673cc3e0c9ecb99e22

Plant Swap Night
Little Miss Green Thumb, 280 W. Muskegon Ave., Muskegon
Wednesday, May 27, 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
This gathering is for plant lovers of all levels. Bring your healthy potted plants, cuttings, or seeds, and trade with other participants. There’s no limit to what you can bring — houseplants, succulents, herbs, and outdoor plants.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/Plant-Swap-Night/calendar

‘Wild Hope’ 
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven
Thursday, May 28, 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Enjoy these entertaining short films that feature efforts of those taking action to protect wild birds in the U.S. and around the world. These stories of success are inspiring, and viewers will learn how to help wild birds in the world around you. 
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/L9MRq3vNlW/

Tulip Dig
Centennial Park and Windmill Island Gardens, Holland
Saturday, May 30, 9-11 a.m.
Cost $10 per bucket (cash only)
The Holland in Bloom Committee invites community members and visitors to bring cash,  a 5-gallon bucket (or more), digging implements (shovels, garden forks, etc.), and a good attitude to dig tulip bulbs from designated areas only in Centennial Park and Windmill Island Gardens.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/tulip-dig/5125/

Summer Reading Kickoff
Hackley Park, 359 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Saturday. May 30, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join Hackley Public Library and community partners for this fun celebration, featuring guest author Johnathan Rand and a variety of fun things to do. Activities include music, free books, lawn games, face painting, kids’ axe-throwing, photo booth, summer reading sign-up, and more. Food trucks and tents will be on site to purchase snacks and treats.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/summer-reading-kick-off-event/

An American Quilt of Song
Fennville High School Speech and Drama Auditorium, 4 S. Memorial Drive, Fennville
Saturday, May 30, 7 p.m.; Sunday, May 31, 4 p.m.
Cost: $20 adults; $10 students
Enjoy an evening of choral music presented by the Lakeshore Community Chorus, featuring a program of American-inspired songs under the direction of Adam Wurtz, with Caitlin Caskey on piano.
Details: https://lakeshorecommunitychorus.ludus.com

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