The Holland area is just bursting with fun, family-friendly holiday activities this time of year. It’s the perfect occasion to get out of the house and share some cheer with friends and neighbors. Here are five activities that will appeal to kids and adults alike, getting everyone into that festive, holiday spirit.
1. Kerstmarkt: Full of Holiday Activities for All
November 23 – December 14, 2019
This European-style market is the perfect place to shop for gifts, holiday treats, and decorations for your home. “Kertsmarkt” is Dutch for Christmas market. The booths are set up all through the 8th Street Market Place. You’ll find everything from wall art to homemade jam, and there are always street performers around to provide festive background music. On Tuesday, December 3rd at 6:30 pm, the Parade of Lights will stroll through the market, which is something the kids will really love.
2. Sinterklaas Eve
December 6, 2019
Celebrate the ancient tale of St. Nicholas at this family-friendly event beginning at 6:00 pm at the Holland Area Arts Council. Each child will be given a lantern, and then the group will head outside to water Sinterklaas (which is Dutch for Santa Claus) ride down the street on a white horse. After the procession, there will be photo opportunities, warm beverages for sale, and rides on a trolley!
3. Christmas at the Cappon House
December 15 – 16, 2019
Step back in time and enjoy a Victorian Christmas celebration at the historic Cappon House. You’ll get to tour this gorgeous home and learn a little about how Americans celebrated the holidays in years gone by. This is an important and interesting history lesson for the kids! There will be sweet treats, Christmas carols to sing along with, and other family-friendly festivities. The Cappon House does ask that attendees pre-register.
4. Holland Symphony Holiday Concert
December 14, 2019
Enjoy holiday songs both old and new at the Holland Symphony’s annual performance. There will be songs you remember from your youth, as well as some lighter-hearted hits that will appeal to the kids. Two performances are being held at 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm at Dimnent Chapel at Hope College.
5. A Piffledywiff Christmas
December 13 – 22, 2019
This fun performance at the Lampost Theatre tells the tale of Christmas across two countries. It’s a good way for children to learn about various traditions and cultures while also enjoying a funny, laughter-inducing play. There will even be desserts to sample throughout the performance, and you’ll learn all about what a piffledywiff is.
The holiday season is a great time to share experiences and grow closer to family and friends. Put some of these holiday activities in your schedule, and invite a few friends to join you! At the end of the day, you’ll come home happy, warm, and ready to celebrate even more.