September things to do: Labor Day, runs, climbs, history, film, music, and a Civil War muster

It’s not often you can take in a tree climbing championship one day and watch a Civil War muster the next. But these — and so much more — are on the West Michigan calendar for this month. Other items of note include Labor Day activities, exhibits, a “Walk to Mordor,” physical challenges, a gem and mineral show, a community litter cleanup, a stage performance, a needle felting class, “Lord of the Rings” Week crafts, Banned Book Week trivia, Talk Like a Pirate Day, fundraisers, a family campfire, and the arrival of autumn. September offers a wide variety of things to do in Allegan, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties. This list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest. 


Week 1 (September 1–8)

Muskegon Museum of Art website The Muskegon Museum of Art offers free admission from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, thanks to the generosity of The Meijer Foundation.
Labor Day Events
West Michigan
Monday, Sept. 2
Cost: Free to attend
Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers. Celebrated with barbecues and beach days, it usually marks the unofficial end of summer and, for many, the beginning of the school year. Throughout West Michigan, communities are preparing to celebrate with parades, walks, and other events. Here are
Details: 
*Zeeland to Holland: Truck Parade, 9:15 a.m., https://truckparade.org/
*Muskegon: Parade and Celebration, 11 a.m., https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/labor-day-parade-and-celebration/
*Muskegon: Labor Day Cars for Cancer, 5 -8 p.m. Sunday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/20th-annual-labor-day-cars-for-cancer/6365/
White Lake Area: Community Walk, 10 a.m., https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/2023-labor-day-community-walk/


Celebrating the Masters of Jazz
Saugatuck Women’s Club, 303 Butler St., Saugatuck
Sunday, Sept. 1, 7:30-9:30
Cost: $20 at the door, $5 for students with ID
Step back in time and listen to the music of jazz master greats at this fundraiser for the SWC’s Scholarship Fund. Hear Kenny Cooper on trumpet and vocals, Jim Cooper on piano, Robin Connell on piano and vocals, Elgin Vines on bass, and Scott Veenstra on drums.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/celebrating-the-master-of-jazz/


Quilts: The Artistry of Home
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Through Sunday, Sept. 29
Cost: Free with museum admission
The exhibit showcases a selection of quilts from the Michigan State University Collection made during the early 20th century, focusing on the era of the Great Depression. Quiltmaking is a traditional art form that blends artistry with craft and function. Quilts represent significant hours of labor and often became heirlooms passed through generations of family.
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/exhibition/quilts-the-artistry-of-home/


Ship Shape Sisters: The Women of the Coast Guard SPARS
Tri-Cities Historical Museum, 200 Washington Ave., Grand Haven
Through Feb. 9
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
The nickname SPARS originates from the first letters of each word in the Coast Guard’s Latin motto and English translation: Semper Paratus, Always Ready. The exhibit will invite visitors to explore three central themes — idealized experience, personal experience, and memorialization — and will provide insight into the experience of enlisted service members
Details: https://www.tri-citiesmuseum.org/ship-shape-sisters


Early Childhood Play Group
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Wednesdays, Sept. 4, 11, and 18, 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
This drop-in playgroup connects young families in a space where children and their caregivers are invited to play, talk, learn, and grow together. For newborns through age 4.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/early-childhood-play-group-55/


MMA Free Admission
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursdays, Sept. 5, 12, 19, and 26, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Take in all of the artworks, sculptures, photos, and more without paying a penny. Docents will be in the galleries for tours 1-3 p.m. each Thursday. 
Details: https://muskegonartmuseum.org/event/free-thursday-18/


Art on the Island Gala
Windmill Island Gardens, 270 S. 
Thursday, Sept. 5, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Come enjoy the beauty of the gardens through artwork created by local artists in three categories — photography, plein air, and best of the rest. All artwork will be evaluated by a judge, and prizes will be awarded. Attendees are invited to vote for their favorite piece for a people’s choice award. There will be a cash bar and appetizers, and all artwork will be for sale. View artwork submission guidelines here. Register as an artist here.
Details: https://cityofholland.com/936/Programs-and-Events


The Market at SCA
Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck
Fridays, Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Support local producers at our seasonal market, where West Michigan farmers offer fresh-picked fruits and vegetables. Enjoy artisan baked goods, all-natural honey, maple syrup, farm-fresh eggs, cheese, and meats. There also will be snacks, preserves, gluten-free options, vegan, dips, and more. 
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/the-market-at-the-sca-14/


Friday Movie Matinee
Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven 
Fridays, Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27, 2-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Stop in for a matinee showing, and bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during the film. Registration for one event in the series registers you for the entire month. Afterward, submit suggestions for future matinees. Movies showing in September include — Sept. 6, “The Peanut Butter Falcon” (2019-PG-13); Sept. 13, “Arthur the King” (2024-PG-13); Sept. 20, “Past Winners of the Manhattan Short Film Festival”; Sept. 27, “The 2024 Manhattan Short Film Festival.”
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/#/events/CenIsz3QTA/


‘Lord of the Rings’ Week: Walk to Mordor
Riley Trails, 16300 Riley St., Holland
Saturday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 21, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Herrick District Library staff is collaborating with Ottawa County Parks staff to provide a chance to walk to Mordor, just like your favorite halflings. Read signs along the way to learn more about J.R.R. Tolkien, read excerpts from the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, and more. 
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb75a3ad995a03f6b2b008


Birding Field Trips
Holland State Park, AAA Sod Farm, Muskegon Wastewater facility
Saturday, Sept. 7, 7:30-11 a.m. (part 1), 1-5 p.m (part 2)
Cost: $10 for residents, $15 for nonresidents for each part
Shorebirds are on their way south for the winter. Intercept and identify a variety of them on these half-day field trip options. Part 1 will start at Holland State Park and then visit the AAA Sod Farm in Hudsonville. Part 2 will focus on the shorebirds at the Muskegon Wastewater facility. Registration is required and closes 24 hours prior to the activity. Details will be emailed to participants after registration.
Details: Part 1: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=3019433
Part 2: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=3019691


Mt. Baldhead Challenge
Oval Beach, 690 Perryman St., Saugatuck
Saturday, Sept. 7, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Cost: From $60
Choose your distance. The 10K+ and half-marathon will each take you through twisted tree-covered trails, forested dunes, beautiful waterfront vistas, the friendly streets of Saugatuck-Douglas, and up to the summit of the tallest dune in town. All proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Saugatuck/Douglas. 
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/annual-mt-baldhead-challenge/


Fall Peddlers’ Market
Church Street, Downtown Zeeland
Saturday, Sept. 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
This open-air lifestyle market features live music and one-of-a-kind vendors peddling wares from vintage furniture and decor, architectural salvage, farm-to-table treats, handmade specialties, and much more. Also, there will be a Little Peddlers’ Market next to the fountain at the corner of Church Street and Central Avenue. 
Details: https://www.cityofzeeland.com/331/Fall-Peddlers-Market


Fall Craft Show
Pomona Park, 3084 W. Fruitport Road, Fruitport
Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Discover unique handmade treasures from local artisans. Support the community while finding the perfect gift or home decor.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/fall-craft-show-at-pomona-park/8018/


Holland Haven Marathon 8K
CrossFit Holland, 76 S. River Ave., Holland
Sunday, Sept. 8, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: $59 (space is limited)
Registration is closed for the full marathon and half-marathon, but this mid-distance road race is accessible enough for novice runners yet challenging enough for experienced racers. Participants are welcome to run or walk the race. Registration ends Saturday, Sept. 7. Organizers also are offering a virtual run. Run or walk any time in September, anywhere you like (even on your treadmill).  Registration ($50) ends Saturday, Sept. 7. 
Details: https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/MI/Holland/HollandHavenMarathon

Mechanical Wizards
Holland Museum, 31 W. 10^th St., Holland
Monday, Sept. 9, 4-7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join museum staff for the newest Spark!Lab theme. Visitors can play their way through several fun challenges, including designing a carnival ride and building a wacky invention inspired by Rube Goldberg.
Details: https://hollandmuseum.org/mechanical-wizards/



Week 2 (September 9–15)

Saugatuck Film Fest websiteJoin the Saugatuck Film Fest on Saturday, Sept. 14, to recognize, promote, and celebrate independent filmmakers.

Fingerprint Art
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Sept. 12, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
For little ones, fingerprint art is a booster for fine motor and pre-writing skills. For older kids, it’s just plain fun. The library will provide stamp pads and paper, you provide the fingers.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/fingerprint-art/


Puzzle Competition
*Herrick Main Library, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, Sept. 9, 3:30-5 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m.
*Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:30-8 p.m. 
Cost: Free
Teams of four, ages 13 and older, will be given the same puzzle to solve. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. If you register a team of fewer than four, your team may be grouped with another team. Please register for only one time.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb6b2b14460a1fe3411832


StoryWalk — ‘Outside You Notice’ 
Tunnel Park, 66 Lakeshore Drive, Holland
Sept. 9-22, regular park hours
Cost: Free
Herrick District Library staff is collaborating with Ottawa County Parks to provide this StoryWalk^® event, featuring Erin Alladin and Andrea Blinick’s lyrical nonfiction celebration of the outdoors, pairing childlike observation with facts about the natural world. Walk through the pages of a book as you make your way along a park path. This is a self-guided program for kids from newborns to age 5, and the stories are available from dawn to dusk on the dates listed. Subsequent StoryWalks^® are listed at the link below.
Details: ​​https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb7ccd14460a1fe3411c1f


‘Warrior Lawyers: Defenders of Sacred Justice’
Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland
Tuesday, Sept. 10, 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Indigenous Peoples’ Lecture Series presents this one-hour documentary "about Native American role models, nation rebuilding, and tribal justice focusing on the stories of Michigan Native American lawyers, tribal judges, and their colleagues who work with native nations, their citizens, and mainstream institutions to achieve healing and sacred justice." A panel discussion follows, including director and producer Audrey Geyer.
Details: https://allevents.in/mobile/amp-event.php?event_id=200026901740818


Michigan Irish Music Festival
Heritage Landing, 1050 Seventh St., Muskegon
Thursday-Sunday, Sept. 12-15, hours vary
Cost: $65 for a four-day Festival Pass, $10 for the Pub Preview Party on Thursday, $20 for Friday, $35 for Saturday, $15 for Sunday (free between 10:30 a.m. and noon Sunday). With six stages, the 2024 festival features live music, culture, dance, and more. Shop the market; eat at the Celtic Kitchen; sip at The Pub, The Tavern, or Grafton Street; and explore the Wee Ones’ activities. 
Details: https://michiganirish.org/


Putt Putt Golf Outing
Saugatuck Mini Golf, 3460 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck
Friday, Sept. 13, 3-9 p.m.
Cost: $100 per team of 4 golfers
This fundraiser for First Tee offers a fun-filled day of mini-golf, all-you-can-eat hot dogs, popcorn, and ice cream. Bring your family, share some laughter, and learn about First Tee, which helps kids and teens in Ottawa and Allegan counties uncover inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience.
Details: https://saugatuck.com/event/putt-putt-golf-outing/


Tulip City Gem and Mineral Show
Soccer Stop, 5 River Hills Drive, Holland
Friday-Saturday, Sept. 13-14, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 15, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $5 for adults, free for students
The Tulip City Gem & Mineral Club presents its 54th annual show, featuring interactive education stations, a scavenger hunt, a fluorescent display, jewelry, a silent auction, and so much more. Note that some vendors are cash only.
Details: https://www.tulipcity.org/club-show.html

Historic Homes Tour
Cappon House Visitor Center, 228 W. Ninth St., Holland
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $35 for museum members, $40 for general public in advance, $50 day of event
The 150^th anniversary celebration of the Cappon House continues with this tour of Holland’s Historic District. Peek inside these homes, as well as Third Reformed Church, and learn more about the architecture and the people who lived there. The tour begins at the Cappon House with coffee and doughnuts.
Details: https://hollandmuseum.org/historic-homes-tour/


Saugatuck Film Fest
Saugatuck Women’s Club, 303 Butler St., Saugatuck
Saturday, Sept. 14, 1-9 p.m.
Cost: $50
Here is your chance to celebrate the art of independent filmmaking. The festival includes screenings of specially curated short and feature-length films, a prize-winning feature film, an artist Q&A, and an awards presentation.  
Details: https://saugatuckfilmfest.org


International Festival
Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Saturday, Sept. 14, 2-7 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Enjoy a Parade of Flags, live music and dance from different cultures, Children's Fiesta with hands-on global art activities, International Food Court, Festival Mercado, information/activity tables, and a World Soccer Jamboree.
Details: https://www.internationalfestivalholland.com/


‘An American in Paris’
Jack H. Miller Center, 221 Columbia Ave., Holland
Saturday, Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $29
The Holland Symphony Orchestra presents the opening concert of its  2024-25 season. As part of the program, organist Huw Lewis will perform Samuel Barber's magnificent “Toccata Festiva for Organ and Orchestra.” The concert will conclude with George Gershwin’s beloved “An American in Paris.”
Details: https://hollandsymphony.org/events/an-american-in-paris/


Astronomy in Art
Hemlock Crossing Park, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive
Saturday, Sept. 14, 8-9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Throughout history, human beings have observed the heavens and their interpretations have been expressed in pictograms, structures, and paintings. This Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association presentation will look at a few examples. Registration is encouraged.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=3041890



Week 3 (September 16–22)

Tree-climbing championships website The annual Michigan Tree Climbing Championship is coming to Holland Sept. 20-22 for its 30th anniversary.
Teen Craftarama
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Monday, Sept. 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Library staff will open the craft cabinets and create for an hour, and those ages 13-17 are welcome to join them.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/teen-craftarama/


Community Litter Cleanup
Heritage Landing (meet at the pavilion), 1050 Seventh St., Muskegon
Monday, Sept. 16, 7-9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Help keep Muskegon clean and green. Bring your friends, your family, or your coworkers. Gloves and buckets will be available, but bring reusable gloves and buckets to minimize single-use items. Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle so you can stay hydrated.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/community-litter-cleanup/7893/


‘Lord of the Rings’ Week Crafts
Herrick North Branch, 155 Riley St., Holland
Monday-Friday, Sept. 16-20, times vary
Cost: Free
Join library staff in completing crafts to celebrate hobbits, elves, dwarves, and Middle Earth. Create a fantasy map on Monday. On Tuesday, cross-stitch your favorite LOTR character. Learn to write your favorite quotes in calligraphy on Wednesday. On Thursday, make a hobbit door wreath. Make an elven leaf brooch to finish up the week on Friday. All crafts are available while supplies last. Test your knowledge of all things Middle Earth at “LOTR” Trivia, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at the North Branch.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb75c254c1810af66a8c1d


‘Talk Like a Pirate Day’ Fest
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Sept. 19, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Library staff will pull out all the stops for an hour of crafting, talking like a pirate, fun, and hijinks during this drop-in program. Fun for youth of all ages.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/talk-like-a-pirate-day-fest-at-hpl/7984/


‘Strength in Stories: Truth to Power’
Kruizenga Art Museum, 271 Columbia Ave., Holland
Thursday, Sept. 19, 6-8 p.m. (RSVP by Friday, Sept. 6)
Cost: Free
This event will "celebrate the incredible journeys of local families served by Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates." The evening will include artwork, inspiring narratives, food, and activities for all ages. To RSVP, email betsy@lia-michigan.org or visit lia-michigan.org/stories.
Details: https://lia-michigan.org/events#:~:text=Strength-In-Stories-Truth-to-Power.


Needle Felting Classes
Puddingstone, 237 Butler St., Saugatuck
*Thursday, Sept. 19, 6 p.m., mushroom ornament set
*Friday, Sept. 20, 6 p.m., snowman
*Saturday, Sept. 21, 1 p.m., Santa
*Sunday, Sept. 22, noon, frog
*Thursday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m., gnome
*Saturday, Sept. 28, 4 p.m., triple mushroom and ladybug
*Sunday, Sept. 29, noon, pumpkin
*Monday, Sept. 30, 6 p.m., owl
Cost: $55-$65 per class
Join Diane Klich as you unleash your creativity and craft unique handmade items that are as charming as they are one of a kind. All materials will be provided in the classes, which are suitable for those 12 and older. 
Details: https://www.pstone.space/workshops-with-josie


Spotlight Series — Kelly Carey
Frauenthal Center, Frau Lounge, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon
Friday, Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $25
This Grand Rapids native has been dazzling audiences with her powerhouse vocals for more than two decades. Her resume boasts credits in musical theater, concert performances, cabaret rooms, and headlining shows on Celebrity and Norwegian cruise lines.
Details: https://frauenthal.org/event/kelly-carey/


Michigan Tree Climbing Championship
Prospect Park, 595 Prospect Ave., Holland
Friday (Preliminary events), Sept. 20, noon to 5 p.m.; Saturday (Arbor Fair), Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday (Master’s Challenge), Sept. 22, 9 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free to attend
This competition is like rock climbing, only in trees. Similar events held worldwide provide a competitive learning environment for those working in the arbor industry, showcase the highest level of professional skill and safety, and introduce the public to skills needed for safe tree work. Professionals also learn about the latest climbing techniques and innovations in equipment. There will be a kids’ climb, and spectators are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the competition.
Details: https://www.isamichigan.org/MTCC


Civil War Muster
Van Raalte Farm, 1076 E. 16th St., Holland
Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 21-22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Experience the sights and sounds of these tumultuous years of our nation’s history. The Battle of Spotsylvania and the Battle of Yellow Tavern will be the focus of this 15th annual muster. Additional events include battlefield medical scenarios, cavalry demonstrations, tours of the Van Raalte home, performances by the 1st Holland Regimental Band, and a Civil War-era church service on Sunday morning. 
Details: https://vanraaltefarmcivilwarmuster.wpcomstaging.com/


Horses for Harbor Hospice
White Pine Trail, 7395 Hall Road, Muskegon
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $35 (includes T-shirt)
The Muskegon County Trail Riders Association hosts this fundraiser to benefit grief support programs at the Bob and Merle Scolnik Healing Center. Enjoy trail riding, a silent auction, a raffle, a horseshoe hunt, face painting, hay rides, and more. Hot dog lunchboxes are included with registration.
Details: https://harborhospicemi.org/ways-to-give/horses-for-harbor/


Rendezvous! The Fur Trade on the Grand
Connor Bayou, 12945 North Cedar Drive, Grand Haven
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Ottawa County has a rich history, including a time when the Grand River was a highway for the fur trade between the French and local native peoples. Ride in a replica Gabagouache canoe and experience a bit of what life was like during the fur trade of the 1700s. Bring the whole family. Registration is encouraged and closes 24 hours before the activity.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=3090806



Week 4 (September 23–30)

FreepikSept. 22-28 is Banned Book Week, an annual event that highlights the value of free and open access to information. Loutit District Library will host a trivia competition (7-9 p.m. Sept. 23) at Odd Side Ales in Grand Haven.

College Essay Workshop
Herrick Main Library, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, Sept. 23, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
High school seniors may drop in for brainstorming, proofreading, or structure work on their college essays. No matter where you are in the process, library staff is there to help.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb6c32ad995a03f6b2aee9


Banned Book Week Trivia
Odd Side Ales, 41 Washington Ave., Grand Haven
Monday, Sept. 23, 7-9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Draw on your obscure and well-known knowledge related to literature, intellectual freedom, and censorship. For this event hosted by Loutit District Library, come for the competition, stay for the conversation, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the right to access diverse ideas.
Details: https://www.loutitlibrary.org/calendar/

MCC Lecture Series: Disability Justice and Civil Rights
Muskegon Community College, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Room 1300, Muskegon
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Kevin Timpe, a MCC professor, will explore the similarities and differences between the civil rights movement and the disability rights movement. This is an opportunity for students to explore this critical issue and engage in transformative discussions.
Details: https://www.muskegoncc.edu/disability-justice-and-civil-rights/


Senior Social Hour
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Sept. 26, 3-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Enjoy activities, light refreshments, and good conversation during a casual gathering with fellow seniors.
Details: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/event/senior-social-hour-4/


Dutch Art Collection Overview
Holland Museum, 31 W. 10th St., Holland
Thursday, Sept. 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Join Michelle Stempien and Maddalena Frissora from the museum as they share highlights from the collection. This all-ages event will take place at the museum’s Spark!Lab. Free admission will be granted to attendees.
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb6cfd54c1810af66a8a39

Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon
Thursday, Sept. 26, through Wednesday, Nov. 13
Cost: Free with museum admission
The 95^th Michigan Contemporary continues a rich legacy of showcasing the work of Michigan artists, from talented beginners to accomplished professionals. It presents a look at the issues, themes, and materials Michigan artists in many media. A public reception and awards ceremony will be at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 26.
Details: Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition - Muskegon Art Museum

‘Ghost Dance’
Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland
Friday, Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $29 for adults, $25 for seniors, $15 for children
This cutting-edge stage work, presented as part of the Hope College Great Performance Series, merges live performance with video technology, inspired by the deserted factories in Johnson City, New York. Artistic directors Art Bridgman and Myrna Packer, who choreographed and performed the dance, interviewed more than 30 people of all ages and backgrounds from Johnson City.
Details: https://calendar.hope.edu/ghost-dance


Family Campfire
Pigeon Creek Park South, 12524 Stanton St., West Olive
Friday, Sept. 27, 8-9:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 for residents, $6 for non-residents
As evening falls upon the woods, gather around the campfire to make s’mores and engage in campfire games and activities. Registration is required and closes 24 hours before the activity.
Details: https://miottawacountyweb.myvscloud.com/Module=AR&FMID=3019055


Harvest Fest
Benjamin’s Hope, 15468 Riley St., Holland
Saturday, Sept. 28, 3-6 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Join this nonprofit for this fun and all-abilities gathering, where the Holland Model Train Show will have a full HO train layout. Other events include hay rides, live music, and games. There also will be food and many hands-on outdoor activities.
Details: https://www.benjaminshope.net/


Ballin on the Beach
Pere Marquette Park, 3510 Channel Drive, Muskegon
Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 28-29, 9 a.m. 
Cost: Free to attend
This semi-truck show and rodeo features many activities, including apple bobbing, vendor booths, a dunk tank, a bubble house, and more. Be part of this special memorial event and experience the unique truck culture in Muskegon.
Details: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/event/ballin-on-the-beach/


Falltastic Market
Holland Civic Center Place, 150 W. Eighth St., Holland
Sunday, Sept. 29, noon to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
This second annual family-friendly outdoor event will feature more than 40 artisan vendors, giveaways, music, a food truck, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to kickstart your fall.
Details: https://www.holland.org/event/falltastic-market/2085/


Decorative Potion Making
Herrick Main Library, 300 S. River Ave., Holland
Monday, Sept. 30, 6-8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Create a magical moment with a mini potion in a bottle, the perfect decor for Halloween — or any time. This craft is for ages 16 and older because it includes working with hot wax and glue.  
Details: https://herrickdl.bibliocommons.com/events/66bb6d1aad995a03f6b2aef7



Need suggestions for specific destinations or activities, check out these tourism resources for details:
Holland Area Visitors Bureau
Grand Haven CVB
Ottawa County Parks & Recreation
Saugatuck CVB
Allegan County Parks & Recreation