Saugatuck

Experience a traditional Dutch Christmas Market without ever leaving the country.

December Along the Lakeshore: Sparkle, Sinterklaas, and shopping

The Lakeshore is packed with many December activities, including parades, Sparkle, and Sinterklaas. There’s even a hip-hop-inspired art exhibit. There are lots of ways to enjoy the month with family and friends in Allegan, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties.

The Grand Haven lighthouse during a storm. (Todd Reed)
Awarding-winning photographer shares his favorite images of the Lakeshore

Outdoor photographer Todd Reed is celebrating his lifelong love of the Mitten State with his new book, Todd Reed: 50 Years of Seeing Michigan Through a Lens. Over the years, he has taken many photos of the Lakeshore, from lighthouses to tulips to Coast Guard vessels. 

Proponants for social districts say a drink in hand makes the wait more bearable for restaurant patrons who are up to an hour away from being seated, and it benefits nearby shops.
Lakeshore communities welcome the benefits social districts offer businesses

Social districts allow businesses to sell alcoholic beverages that can be consumed in publicly owned common areas. Proponents say this makes the wait more bearable for restaurant patrons who are up to an hour away from being seated, and it benefits nearby shops.

The 27th anniversary Show & Shine Car Cruise & Show is returning to downtown Zeeland.
Things to do in July: Music and fireworks, art shows and car shows, festivals and fairs

As the economy opens and the weather warms, July brings plenty of activities along the Lakeshore. Offerings include a kids’ presentation about park design, a car show, a festival, and — of course — fireworks.

Pigeon Creek Lodge is open during satisfactory snow conditions, offering ski and snowshoe rentals, ski lessons, and other activities.
Things to do in February: Giving back, creativity, and fresh air on Lakeshore calendar

February is the shortest month of the year — with only 28 days — but it isn’t short on things to do along the Lakeshore. Our list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.

Spring Lake Sparkle offers more than 120,000 multi-colored lights along that community's main street.
Sparkling displays spread joy in Lakeshore downtowns

In communities throughout the Lakeshore, downtowns are dressed up for the holidays. Shining brighter than the others this year is Spring Lake, where “a lot of love” went into the hands-on decorating for its inaugural Sparkle Festival.

Holiday gift guide: Online ordering and in-store shopping along the Lakeshore

Lakeshore small businesses are bursting with interesting and thoughtful gifts that are available in store and online. This list offers ideas for the beer drinkers, pickleball players, jewelry lovers, and anyone else on your list.

West Michigan brewers are modifying the base recipe for the Black is Beautiful stout and making it their own. Proceeds are donated to organizations that raise awareness of racial inequality and promote social justice.
Black is Beautiful collaborative takes hold at Lakeshore breweries

West Michigan brewers are modifying the base recipe for the Black is Beautiful stout and making it their own. Proceeds are donated to organizations that raise awareness of racial inequality and promote social justice.

Looking to reconnect with nature this fall? Check out Sanctuary Woods, just minutes from downtown Holland in beautiful Allegan County.
What to do in October? 8 ways to enjoy fall along the lakeshore

October is a prime time to get outdoors and enjoy the Lakeshore’s breathtaking fall foliage. Here are some suggestions for exploring the county’s parks and other special spots. This list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.

How Saugatuck built its community identity by preserving its natural assets

"A big sense of the community here is trying to keep a good hold on the natural environment and not have too much development."

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