Fall in Love with Holland

Fall, Holland, Things to do, Things to do-The Lakeshore Carmelitta Tiffany Leave a Comment

Holland is well known for scores of colorful spring gardens, full of their trademark tulips. Summer brings the beachgoers, boaters and warm temperatures. Fall is a season that signifies a slowing down of life, but can be just as enjoyable.

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used, which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

Festivals

Festivals celebrating the season abound throughout the region- whether a small-town celebrating the harvest or a large celebration in the city of Holland, every weekend has something to do in many ways. Visit their website for an up-to-date listing, but here are a few:

At the International Festival of Holland, which is held near the end of September, visitors can learn about the cultures of not only locals, but those across the world in a fun, free, family-oriented way. The Holland Civic Center Place serves as the Festival main stage featuring live music and dance performances by award-winning artists representing the cultures of Cuba, Japan, the Congo, Kenya, Cameroon, and Mexico. At the Festival’s Mercado, you can eat and shop your way around the world. Dozens of vendors, with everything from Ethiopian food to island fare to South American Baskets and African jewelry, brings life to art. The Children’s Fiesta offers hands-on art stations hosted by CultureWorks, a Festival Passport station, and an opportunity to learn some Japanese drumming and Folklorico dancing! The International Festival of Holland, organized by the City of Holland’s International Relations Commission and sponsored by generous festival donors. For more information, please visit: internationalfestivalholland.com
Downtown Holland’s Fall Fest, held the first weekend in October, is the only fall festival in Michigan where you’ll find the nation’s best professional pumpkin carvers (including Food Network alumni) carving the biggest pumpkins you’ve seen! Watch them in action and check out the finished pieces on display all weekend long, and the Artisan Market is a juried show featuring over 85 talented local vendors selling their arts and crafts.

Autumn Colors

The colors of Autumn are breathtaking, and it doesn’t matter how you see them- from the warmth of your vehicle to being able to jump in a pile of leaves on a hike, you can enjoy any way you desire.

Enjoy a trail! Mount Pisgah Dune Climb 2238 3rd Avenue, Holland and Howard B. Dunton Park 290 Howard Avenue, Holland, are a few places to get out and stretch your legs.
Wanting a horseback ride? Rise and Ride Ranch is a small, family-run ranch located a half hour from the lakeshore near Allegan, at 2855 36th St Allegan, MI 49010 . Their herd is made up of rescues and they take great pride in providing them with a safe home where they can be loved on by others. They provide small, private horse experiences for families, friends, couples, and single riders. Special events, like the Glow in the Dark Rides, are sure to make this fall a memorable one for your family.
More than 150 miles of bike trails spool out around the Holland area, offering separate-use paved pathways for leisurely sightseeing on a comfy cruiser, or gritty dirt trails for off-road mountain biking. Several looped routes in Holland’s bike-path network incorporate popular parks like Kollen Park, Window on the Waterfront, and Tunnel Park. The 20-mile Lakeshore Connector Path, a favorite among bicyclists, runs between Holland State Park and Grand Haven State Park, and winds through the wooded dunes that hug Lake Michigan’s shoreline. For detailed information about Holland-area bike trails, rentals, biking events, and gear and repair shops, view our “Bike Holland” brochure HERE!

Get Outdoors

Of course, outdoors lovers look forward to fall hunting season and hauling in a big fish- here are ideas to get at it!

Fishing: Fall fishing in Michigan offers beauty in the abundant colors, but the fish are biting too! Since fish like cooler water temperatures, many start to spawn in the fall, using the shallower, more exposed parts of lakes and rivers (like the Grand River) to lay their eggs. Take full advantage of this season with Pure Michigan’s fall fishing guide, which is filled with tips and tricks for reeling in the best catch!
Hunting: Even though various hunting seasons happen throughout the year, fall is the most popular season to bring home some game. The southern boundaries of the Manistee National Forest are in Muskegon County, and are open to the public. An array of wildlife suitable for hunting may be found on national forests and grasslands. Hunting is a seasonal activity, and the rules are simple: Follow the state laws and regulations pertaining to hunting, including seasons, dates and licensing. Forests and grasslands may place some areas as off limits to hunting. So check in with your local Forest Service ranger to be sure you are following all the rules and visit the Michigan DNR website for further information.
It’s not too late to go camping, if you have a cozy camper or even a nice heavy sleeping bag! The campgrounds throughout the area are not as congested in the fall, and there are always campfires burning to warm up your toes and make smores! Check out the county park website or Holland State Park for more information.

Traditions

If you ask anyone who has grown up in this beautiful part of the world what their favorite fall memories are, they’re bound to mention the traditions that they experienced. Here are some places to bring traditions to life:

Annual Civil War Muster. Held in September at the Van Raalte Farm Park 1076 East 16th Street, Holland. Van Raalte Farm was originally the home of Civil War veteran Ben Van Raalte, the son of Holland’s founder. Eleven acres of the farm, including two barns and the original farmhouse, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, these timeless structures are part of a 160-acre park providing the perfect backdrop for the sights and sounds of the Civil War coming alive, featuring the Battle of Antietam, encampments of Confederate and Union soldiers, the 1^st Holland Regimental Band. Tours of the Grey Barn, an authentic Civil War era saloon, and the Van Raalte home. All events are free, trails throughout the farm are open to the public, and there is even a three-acre dog park on the farm!
Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches promise a fun time with a reward at the end of the day- yummy apples and pumpkins to carve for your Halloween porch decorations! Kooistra Orchards, 11694 S. Maple Island Rd, Twin Lake, has apples and pumpkins ready to pick or already picked for your family to enjoy.
Corn Mazes and haunted houses are part of the season, and the Witches of New Salem in Dorr (4516 24th St, Dorr) takes visitors to the brink of fright with their haunted paths in the Witches Woods, or their horror-filled corn maze. Family-oriented daytime activities are less scary, but altogether a fun time.
Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is the annual Mexican holiday when family and friends come together to celebrate death and life. Join the Holland Museum and LAUP (Latin Americans United for Progress) on the last Saturday in October for an afternoon of music, dance, and art activities! View community-created ofrendas, colorful altars with flowers, pictures, and other offerings in remembrance of those who have passed. The event takes place at the Holland Armory, 16 West 9^th Street, Holland.

Indoor attractions

If the weather becomes a bit too nasty, find an indoor attraction to perk up your spirits.

Herrick District Library 300 South River Avenue, Holland.The Herrick District Library offers numerous free events for all ages, from storytime to workshops on health, science, and the arts.
Holland Museum 31 West 10th Street, Holland.The Holland Museum is open the second Monday of every month from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with FREE admission for all visitors! Please check out their current exhibits including Spark!Lab Smithsonian! Be sure to view their Events Calendar for more FREE Second Monday events, and their other venues, including the Armory, the Cappon House and the Settler House.
The newest trend in fun is escape rooms, and Out of the Box Escape Rooms, 114 East Main Avenue, Zeeland, is a perfect example. One of the most popular is “Apt. 114”- teams are limited to one hour to get out, using hidden clues.
The Holland Community Theater, 50 West 9th Street, Holland, offers great entertainment throughout the year, but fall events are meant to bring joy to the season and community.
Holland Playland, and indoor playground and gathering place. Located at Central Wesleyan Church, 446 West 40th St., the venue is open throughout the year.
Holland Aquatic Center, 550 Maple Avenue, Holland, has a 50-meter competition pool, a warm–water lap pool, the family-friendly Splash Zone and massive indoor water slide, an indoor track and vast array of cardio and weight equipment, HAC offers swimming and fitness classes.

When the weather begins to cool and the colors begin to pop, take a trip to the Holland area and make memories to last a lifetime!

Make it a Staycation

Check out our other fall fun articles- HERE!

Discover the Charm of West Michigan’s Pumpkin Patches This Fall

Fall, Grand Rapids, Holland, Hudsonville, Muskegon, Things to do, Things to do-Grand Rapids, Things to do-The Lakeshore Jasmine Jelsema Leave a Comment

Hey there! If you’re looking for a magical fall experience, look no further than pumpkin patches in West Michigan. These places are like a dream come true, filled with all the nostalgia and family-friendly fun you can imagine. Whether you want to pick the perfect pumpkin for your porch or spend the day getting lost in a corn maze, there’s something for everyone at a pumpkin patch. And if you’re looking for a picturesque spot to snap some Instagram-worthy photos, you’ll definitely find it here. So grab your friends and family and head to a pumpkin patch in West Michigan this fall – you won’t regret it!

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used, which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

Post Family Farms

Post Family Farm, located in Hudsonville, Michigan, offers a charming fall experience on its 80-acre property. This family-owned farm is known for its Fall Festivals, where visitors can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and u-pick pumpkins. A major highlight is their famous homemade pumpkin donuts, available in both iced and cinnamon sugar varieties. The farm also hosts events year-round, including weddings, school tours, and bonfires, making it a perfect destination for autumn family fun.

Wells Orchard

At Wells Orchards, the fall harvest is a time of celebration, especially during apple season in September. The farm market becomes lively with fresh apples, cider, and festive fall decorations like gourds, mums, and straw bales. In October, visitors can enjoy custom wagon rides through the orchards and pick their own pumpkins starting the first weekend of the month. It’s the perfect destination for family-friendly fall fun.

Bethke Farms

Nestled in Grand Haven, Michigan, Bethke Farms invites families to create unforgettable fall memories. With a vast selection of pumpkins ripe for picking, a sprawling 2+ acre corn maze, and scenic hayrides, this destination offers a vibrant tapestry of autumnal experiences. The farm boasts an array of festive fall decorations including gourds, miniature pumpkins, and corn stalks, perfect for adding a touch of charm to your home. Children will delight in exploring the pirate ship play area, while well-behaved pets are also welcomed with open arms. Admission is free, and pumpkins are reasonably priced by weight, ensuring an enjoyable and affordable outing for all.

Deep Roots

In the heart of Caledonia, Michigan, lies Deep Roots, a haven for fresh, locally sourced produce and goods. Dedicated to sustainable farming practices, Deep Roots ensures that every fruit and vegetable adorning their market is either grown on-site or procured from neighboring local farms. Their seasonal offerings boast a vibrant array of late summer harvest tomatoes, kale, winter squash, potatoes, and more, alongside mouthwatering local meats, dairy products, honey, and syrup. As autumn draws near, visitors are invited to embark on an unforgettable U-Pick Pumpkin Patch experience, opening in mid-September, followed by thrilling Corn Maze Events and other seasonal activities.

Fruit Ridge Hayrides

Fruit Ridge Hayrides offers a delightful experience for all ages, blending the charm of the harvest season with fun, family-friendly activities. Located in the heart of Fruit Ridge, MI, their farm features a variety of attractions including a picturesque U-Pick apple orchard, a scenic pumpkin patch, and engaging hayrides that capture the essence of fall. Visitors can explore the farm’s vibrant selection of fresh apples and pumpkins, enjoy the beauty of autumn landscapes, and create lasting memories with loved ones. With seasonal events and activities designed to celebrate the harvest, Fruit Ridge Hayrides provides a welcoming environment for families and individuals to enjoy the best of local agriculture and seasonal festivities.

Lewis Adventure Farm

At Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, the Fall Fest is a vibrant celebration of all things pumpkin! Located in New Era, MI, the farm’s pumpkin patch is a highlight of the seasonal festivities, offering a wide variety of pumpkins perfect for carving, decorating, or cooking. Visitors can explore the expansive patch to find the perfect pumpkin, whether it’s a classic orange variety or a unique heirloom. In addition to pumpkin picking, the Fall Fest features a range of family-friendly activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and festive games. The farm’s charming atmosphere and abundance of pumpkins make it a must-visit destination for celebrating the autumn season and creating cherished memories with friends and family.

Olin Farms

Starting on September 28th and continuing every Saturday and Sunday through October 27th, 2024, Olin Farm will be open to the public. Visitors can delight in various activities such as hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking, along with savoring cider, donuts, and more. Olin Farm is a beloved destination for those seeking genuine farm experiences and fresh, locally grown produce. Situated in the heart of the community, the farm offers an array of seasonal produce, including crisp vegetables and ripe fruits that have been handpicked with the utmost care.

Paulson’s Pumpkin Patch

Paulson’s Pumpkin Patch offers a quintessential autumn experience in Michigan. This charming patch invites visitors to explore its expansive fields filled with a diverse selection of pumpkins, from classic orange to unique varieties perfect for carving and decorating. The family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by a range of seasonal activities, including hayrides, corn mazes, and festive games.

Schwallier’s Country Basket

Schwallier’s Country Basket offers an inviting U-Pick experience that celebrates the joys of harvest season. Located in Sparta, MI, the farm features a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available for picking, including juicy apples and plump pumpkins. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque surroundings as they select their produce straight from the field, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful options. Schwallier’s Country Basket creates a family-friendly atmosphere with additional seasonal activities, making it a perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun.

Extra Tips

Dress for the weather: Fall can be unpredictable, so wear layers and sturdy shoes that can handle mud or uneven terrain.
Bring cash: Some pumpkin patches may not accept cards, especially smaller ones.
Arrive early: Beat the crowds and have first pick of the pumpkins by getting there right when the patch opens.
Bring a camera: Capture the beautiful fall scenery, family moments, and fun memories with your camera or phone.
Pack snacks and water: While many pumpkin patches offer cider and treats, bringing your own snacks can keep everyone energized throughout the day.
Check activity schedules: Plan your day by checking the times for hayrides, petting zoos, or special events.
Bring your own bags: If you’re planning to pick a lot of pumpkins, having sturdy bags can make carrying them much easier.

As autumn sweeps across West Michigan, the region’s pumpkin patches come alive with vibrant colors and festive fun. Each pumpkin patch offers a unique experience, from the sprawling fields of Paulson’s Pumpkin Patch to the charming Fall Fest at Lewis Adventure Farm. Whether it’s the homemade treats at Post Family Farms, the scenic U-Pick opportunities at Schwallier’s Country Basket, or the family-friendly activities at Fruit Ridge Hayrides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With so many delightful options, West Michigan’s pumpkin patches promise an unforgettable fall experience filled with joy, community spirit, and autumnal charm.

Check out our other fall fun articles- HERE!

Make it a Staycation!

Must-Visit Summer Concert Venues in West Michigan for 2024

Grand Rapids, Holland, Things to do Jasmine Jelsema Leave a Comment

West Michigan is gearing up for an unforgettable summer with a diverse array of spectacular concert venues offering a variety of music experiences. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, classical, or indie, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best summer concert venues in West Michigan for 2024, complete with upcoming events that you won’t want to miss.

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Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater, Grand Rapids

Known for its lush garden views and sculptures, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is a premier destination for summer concerts. The intimate setting, with a capacity of 1,900, provides an immersive experience where every seat feels up-close to the action. Imagine sitting on the terraced lawn, surrounded by blooming flowers and stunning sculptures, while enjoying live performances from top artists. The venue’s atmosphere is both serene and electrifying, making every concert feel like a special occasion. During the summer, the Gardens are home to the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts and Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club. Don’t miss out!