Holland

Located on the shores of little Lake Macatawa, just off the coast of expansive Lake Michigan, Holland is the epicenter of West Michigan’s Dutch history and culture. Not surprisingly, then, the city is perhaps best known for its annual Tulip Time Festival in May. But there’s much more to the Tulip City than, well, tulips. The city’s downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts as much retail activity as any urban core in the region. The community is flush with wildly popular waterfront beaches like Tunnel Park and Holland State Park. And Hope College lends the clean, conservative town a bit of youthful spirit.

Centennial Park highlights why Holland earned gold status from Michigan Green Communities for its innovative, collaborative sustainability efforts.

Hope College, city of Holland collaborate on award-winning public tree database

Students and interns played a key role in mapping 15,000 trees across Holland and the Hope campus, expanding biodiversity, sustainability education, and canopy access.

Aviation Day shows how local airport connects the community 

More than 800 people gathered at West Michigan Regional Airport, discovering how aviation connects families with education and medical care.

The 20,000-square-foot Next Center in downtown Holland symbolizes Lakeshore Advantage's evolution over the past two decades and its enduring commitment to fostering innovation in Ottawa and Allegan counties.
Lakeshore Advantage wins national award for downtown Holland’s Next Center

Lakeshore Advantage’s Next Center earned national recognition for supporting entrepreneurship, small businesses, and regional economic development through collaboration and innovation.

Jennifer Owens leaves Lakeshore Advantage with legacy of collaborative leadership

Outgoing Lakeshore Advantage President reflects on entrepreneurship, partnerships, and the long-term projects that transformed communities and strengthened the region.

‘A cultural exchange changed my life’: Why a music teacher is bringing a Polish choir to Michigan

In this Shore Stories column, Julia Colingsworth shares how her cultural exchange experience inspired her to bring a Polish choir to Michigan.

Professional organizer helps families declutter homes during difficult life transitions

Former banker Melissa Robitaille helps families declutter homes, manage grief, and regain usable living space during major transitions.

Holland Celtic Festival celebrates five years of music and community

The Holland Celtic Festival returns June 26-27, showcasing music, culture, volunteers, and community connections built over five years.

Holland Chorale Summer Sing celebrates America’s 250th through community music

On June 17, the Holland Chorale will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by inviting residents to become part of the performance.

Holland bike shop grows into nonprofit promoting safe youth cycling

Velo Kids expanded from Holland into West Michigan communities, teaching children bike safety through camps, school programs, and parks partnerships.

West Ottawa’s Chris Meyer honored for inspiring student musicians

Former Holland Area Youth Orchestra cellist Chris Meyer now inspires West Ottawa students daily through music, mentorship, patience, and community.

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