This time of year lights are sparkling and they’re complemented by the beautifully falling white snow. This makes it the most gorgeous time of year to get out with your family and friends and enjoy all that west Michigan has to offer.
Below we’re going to give you a few fun events that everyone is sure to love.
Sinterklaas Eve Celebration
Holland Armory (16 W. 9th St. Holland, MI 49423
Friday December 1, 2017
6:00-9:00pm
Free!
You and your family are invited to this traditional Dutch event to celebrate Sinterklaas, also known as St. Nick! Enjoy making lanterns and hearing stories from times past about this gentleman until he arrives on his white horse shortly after 7:00pm. From there on he will lead all of the families to Centennial Park where he will greet the whole crowd and initiate the lighting of the Christmas tree.
After the festivities wrap up at the park Sinterklaas will then head to Holland Museum where there will be photo opportunities, cookies, and more crafts!
You don’t want to miss out on this fun night, it will ignite the holiday spirit in everyone!
Head to their website for more information
Feel the Zeel of Giving Christmas
Downtown Zeeland
Wednesday, December 6-8, 2017
5:30-8:00pm
Free-Donations accepted
Every year, the city of Zeeland partners up with a local nonprofit to put on a conglomeration of events for adults and children to attend.
Here is a list of activities offered:
Horse Drawn Trolley Rides:
Nothing says holiday spirit like an enchanting trolley ride. They meet in front of Zeeland Hardware (122 E. Main St.) and cost $2/person. Enjoy the glistening lights and holiday spirit strung throughout Zeeland.
Be sure to get your tickets early as rides are first come first serve. You can purchase the tickets online for same day starting at 5:30.
Visit with Santa
All children will be invited to come meet Santa Claus and get their picture taken on his lap. This will take place inside Zeeland Hardware from 5:30-8:00pm.
Pet Santa’s Reindeer
Santa invites your kids to meet and pet two of his reindeer! They will be ready and waiting at the splash pad nestled in by the cozy fire place.
Santa’s Mailbox
This will be going on a bit longer than the previous activities spreading out over the first two weeks of December. All children are invited to write Santa Claus their own personal letter at mail it through a special mailbox located outside of 122 E. Main. Once Santa receives it he will personally respond the each and every child. We can already feel the joy these kids will feel to get a letter from the man himself!
Shields of Hope West Michigan
Although not an activity offered, we felt it was important to mention that a portion of the proceeds from this entire evet will go towards this amazing organization. Local public servants volunteer their time by spreading encouragement and love to those in the community affected by cancer through supportive measures and fund raising.
This whole event is too good to miss as there is something for everyone!
Winterfest
Felt Mansion (6597 138th Ave. Holland, MI 49423)
Saturday, December 9
Noon-2:00pm
Free
Why not kick off your holiday season at the Felt Mansion. They are hosting their annual Winterfest which is a family friendly event that doesn’t cost a thing! If you’ve ever wondered about the beautiful estate this is the time to check it out. You and your family can enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride, face painting, self-guided tours, a free lunch, and a special presentation by Outdoor Discovery Center.
The mansion is partnering with Outdoor Discovery Center to teach and talk about birds of prey in our area. Your kids will get a chance to see and touch the animals! You don’t want to miss this event!
Check out their website below for more information about this event and others they host
We hope you’re able to get out and enjoy some of these fun events in our area. Stay tuned for part II!