Calendar of Events
April 2013 and May 2013
April 2013 1-6 Spring Fling at the Critter Barn, 9275 Adams Street, Zeeland. Visit the Critter Barn’s bunnies, chicks, goats and kittens. Sheep shearing also. 10am-7pm. Call 616-748-1110, or visit the Critter Barn website. 1-30 Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids. Travel back in time to 1912 via this amazing exhibition of stateroom recreations and 150 authentic artifacts from the legendary RMS Titanic. Exhibition runs thru July 7th. Visit GRMuseum.org for details or call 1-800-585-3737 to order tickets by phone. 1-14 ‘Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. On display in the Focus Gallery thru April 14th. Call 616-392-9084. 1-30 ‘On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson’, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Well-known West Michigan artist James Johnson brings his vivid watercolors to the SCA. Exhibit runs thru May 4. Free. The gallery is open weekdays 9am-4:30pm. Open evenings and weekends during SCA events. 269-857-2399. 1-30 ‘Celebrating The Journey: Settlement To City’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. To help celebrate the museum’s 75th birthday, numerous objects tracing the history of Holland’s settlement will be on display in the Wichers Gallery thru May 11th. Call 616-392-9084 for details, or visit the website. 1-30 ‘Hughie Lee-Smith: Meditations’. Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Avenue, Muskegon. Smith, who spent two decades in Detroit in the 1940s and 1959s, explores the African-American experience. Runs thru May 19th. Visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org. 5 First Fridays Michigan Music Concert, Howmet Playhouse, 304 S. Mears, Montague. The Lincoln County Process, a Lansing-based folk/roots/blues group, are the featured performers at April’s First Friday concert. Call 231-894-4048 for details or visit the website. 5 Heywood Banks at Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle Street, South Haven. Singer-songwriter Banks performs for one night at Foundry Hall. 7:30pm. Call 269-205-3059 for ticket info. 6 Spring Stampede 5K Run/Walk, Sarett Nature Center, 2700 Benton Center Drive, Benton Harbor. 9am. Under the leadership of runner/coach Mike Mahler, get ready to run or walk Sarett’s nature trails for fun and prizes. Proceeds benefit Sarett’s educational program for children. Entry fee. Registration and packet pick-up starts at 7:30am. All participants receive a t-shirt. Childrens’ 1K Fun Run begins at 8:30am. Birders should arrive early in order to join fellow enthusiasts who will ‘bird’ the race course at 7:30am. 269-927-4832. 7 ‘First Appearance’, Paul Austin/horn, Diane McElfish Helle/violin, Janlee Richter/ - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. 13 Bill and Kate Isles at Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle Street, South Haven. The folk singing/songwriting couple perform at Foundry Hall. 7:30pm. 269-205-3059. 13 5K and 10K Town Crier Run-Walk, historic Saugatuck. The 10K begins at 9am, the 5K begins bet. 10-10:15am. A Kids’ Fun Run will also be held at 9:15am. Register online. 13 2013 Don Lubbars Cup Regatta, Spring Lake Yacht Club, 17500 West Spring Lake Road, Spring Lake. Competitors from around the country participate in the first race of the spring championship season. 8am-3pm. 
18 Lindy Lou River Launch, Michigan Maritime Museum, , 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. The river launch begins the season’s daily cruises along the Black River. Call 269-637-8078 for ticket info or visit www.MichiganMaritimeMuseum.org 9 West Michigan Symphony, ‘Mozart and Friends’, Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Avenue, Muskegon.7:30pm. Nine of the symphony’s most talented soloists will play selections from Bach and Mozart. Scott Speck, conductor. For details, visit www.WestMichiganSymphony.org 20 3rd Annual Grand River Green-Up, Riverside Park, Grand Haven. 9am-Noon. The Grand Haven Jaycees and the West Michigan Environmental Action Council celebrate Earth Week with their annual clean up of the Grand River at Riverside Park. At least 300 volunteers are needed. Visit www.grandrivergreenup.com/ for more info. 20 Earth Day Fair, Grand Haven Community Center, 421 Columbus Avenue, Grand Haven. Booths of environmental businesses and organization, food, games. Noon-4pm. Call 616-846-5058 for details. 20-27 Earth Week 2013, various locations around Muskegon. Take a guided tour of the nature area, learn about local environmental projects undertaken by MCC students and instructors, enjoy collaborative artwork by local children and. For more info, check out the Facebook page of Muskegon Area Earth Week 2013. 20 Groove Walk, downtown Holland. 9pm-1am. For just $10 in advance, or $15 at the door, enjoy 11 different bands at 11 different downtown locations. Call 616-796-1210 or visit www.groovewalk.com. 22 Earth Day Celebration, Liberty-Hyde Bailey Museum, 903 S. Bailey, South Haven. 2pm. Call Esther at 269-637-2478 for details. 26-28 Art Attack Tour of Harbor Country: Harbert, Grand Beach, Lakeside, Michiana, New Buffalo, Sawyer, Three Oaks, Union Pier. Tour Harbor Country while enjoying local art exhibitions, wine tasting, music, theater, gallery receptions and more. Visit www.HarborCountry.org. 27 Saugatuck Dune Rides, 6495 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. The popular dune schooner rides opens for the season. The exciting 35-40 minute ride takes you along the sand dunes to the lost village of Singapore and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan. Adults: $18.00, Children 3-11: $10. Children 2 and under: free. Dune rides run thru October 21st. 269-857-2253. 27 Patti Larkin, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Celebrated singer/songwriter Patti Larkin performs live at the SCA. 8pm. Tickets: $30. 269-857-2399.
28 The Perugino String Quartet - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. 28 Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes, Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland. Motorcyclists and other cyclists gather to start a responsible riding season and promote a safe rider community. Live music, food, silent auction. Gates open at 10am, blessing at 3pm. $5 donation per bike. Contact John at 616-283-0591 for info. 28 Allegan Antiques Market, Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive, Allegan. 400 exhibitors. Season opening. 8am-4pm. Last Sunday of every month thru September. Call 616-735-3333 for information or visit www.AlleganAntiques.com.
May 2013 
1 Season Opening of Hackley & Hume Historic Site Tours, 484 W. Webster, Muskegon. Open May thru October, Wednesday thru Sunday. Call 231-722-0278 for details. 1-4 ‘On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson’, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Well-known West Michigan artist James Johnson brings his vivid watercolors to the SCA. Exhibit runs thru May 4. Free. The gallery is open weekdays 9am-4:30pm. Open evenings and weekends during SCA events. 269-857-2399. 1-11 ‘Celebrating The Journey: Settlement To City’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. To help celebrate the museum’s 75th birthday, numerous objects tracing the history of Holland’s settlement will be on display in the Wichers Gallery thru May 11th. Call 616-392-9084 for details, or visit www.hollandmuseum.org/. 1-19 ‘Hughie Lee-Smith: Meditations’. Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Avenue, Muskegon. Smith, who spent two decades in Detroit in the 1940s and 1959s, explores the African-American experience. Runs thru May 19th. Visit www.MuskegonArtMuseum.org. 1-31 Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids. Travel back in time to 1912 via this amazing exhibition of stateroom recreations and 150 authentic artifacts from the legendary RMS Titanic. Exhibition runs thru July 7th. Visit GRMuseum.org for details or call 1-800-585-3737 to order tickets by phone. 2-5 “The Music Man”, Muskegon Civic Theatre presentation on the Frauenthal Stage, 425 W. Western Avenue, Muskegon. For ticket info and show times, call 1-800-585-3737, or 616-222-4000. 3 First Fridays Michigan Music Concert, Howmet Playhouse, 304 S. Mears, Montague. Dragon Wagon, an Ann Arbor folk/rock/blue grass group, are the featured performers at May’s First Friday concert. Call 231-894-4048 for details or visit HowmetPlayhouse.org. 3-4 Fiesta! Holland Civic Center & Eighth Street Marketplace, Holland. The Latin American United for Progress Fiesta draws over 20,000 people each year. Join the fun this year for Latino entertainment, lowrider car show, Fiesta King & Queen, live music, food. Call 616-392-5058 for information, or visit www.laup.org. 4 Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises opens for the season. 716 Water Street, Saugatuck. Call 269-857-4261 for departure times and days. 4 Muskegon Farmers Market, 700 Yuba Street, Muskegon. The Farmers Market opens for the season. 6am-3pm. Locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, baked goods, crafts and more. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday thru December 21. After Thanksgiving, Saturdays only. Giant Flea Market every Wednesday thru October. Visit muskegonfarmers.com or call 231-722-3251. 4 Douglas & Saugatuck Spring Preview, downtown Douglas and Saugatuck. The season kicks off with evening receptions at village galleries and shops. 5-9pm. Call 269-857-1626 for details. 4-5 Tulip Time Art and Craft Fair, downtown Centennial Park, Holland. Dutch dancers, Tulip City tours, a wide variety of art and craft booths, 25,000 tulip plantings. 4 Natural Living Health Fair, Customs Imports, 430 S. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo. 11am-4pm. Meet green local businesses and learn how to live a healthier and greener lifestyle. Call 219-861-3707. 4 Grand Floral Parade, downtown St. Joseph & Benton Harbor. 1pm. The 107th celebration of the Blossomtime Festival. This year’s theme is ‘A Ticket to the Movies’. The parade kicks off a week of family fun. 4 ‘Lunch with the Winemaker’, Fenn Valley Winery, 6130 22nd Avenue, Fennville. 11am-2pm. A modified version of ‘Dinner with the Winemaker’, the event features four courses paired with wine. The lunch celebrates the official release of Vino Verde and Late Harvest Vignoles. $50.00 per person. Reservations required. Call 269-561-2396 or register online at FennValley.com. 
4-11 TULIP TIME FESTIVAL, Holland! See schedule of events on Lake Effect Living’s Tulip Festival page, or visit www.tuliptime.com. 5 Antiques on the Bluff, Lake Bluff Park, St. Joseph. 10am-5pm. This antique show is held on the first Sunday of the month from May through October. Free parking. No admission fee. Call 269-985-1111 for information. 6-10 Garden Club Tulip Time Flower Show, Holland Arts Council, 150 E. 8th Street, Holland. “The Color of Nature”. 616-396-3278. 10 Farm History Day, Michigan Flywheelers Museum, 06285 68th Street, South Haven. Take a self-guided tour of exhibits representing farm life in the past. Play old-time children’s games, watch corn grinding, town blacksmith and sawmill demonstrations and more. Gift shop, picnic area. Visit www.MichiganFlywheelers.org or call 269-637-5077. 11 South Haven Farmer’s Market, Huron Street parking lot behind the post office, South Haven. The Saturday farmer’s market opens the season in downtown South Haven. 8am-2pm. Runs thru Oct. 19th. Visit www.SouthHavenFarmMarket.com. 11 Grand Haven Farmer’s Market, Chinook Pier, downtown Grand Haven. The Saturday farmer’s market under the green canopy opens for the season. 8am-2pm. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays starting in June. Call 616-842-4910 for info. 11 Annual Native Plant Sale, Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center & P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, Muskegon. 9am-3pm. Native wildflower sale, including woodland wildflowers responsibly propagated such as white trillium. Proceeds benefit Gillette Visitor Center and its programs. 231-798-3573. 11 Girl Scout Day, Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. 10am-5pm. Free for all Girl Scouts in uniform. At least two sails will be scheduled for the day. Call 269-637-8078. 15 Wednesday Holland Farmers Market, Eighth Street Marketplace, 150 West 8th Street, Holland. 8am-4pm. The Wednesday Market opens officially for the season. Flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables, street performers, cooking demonstrations, contests, food court and more. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 15th through November 27th. Admission free. NO pets allowed. Call 616-355-1138 for more information. 16 Free Sailing Course Class, South Haven Yacht Club, 401 Williams Street, South Haven. Non-members welcome. 6-7:30pm. 269-637-2305. 17 Veterans Job Fair, USS LST 393 Veterans Memorial Museum, 560 Mart Street, downtown Muskegon. To help veterans find work, hundreds of employers with jobs available will be on board the museum, which is moored at the Mart Dock. 231-288-4012 for details. 17 ‘All Aboard!’ downtown St. Joseph. This year’s Public Art Display features planes, trains and helicopters. The festivities and unveiling of 26 sculptures begins at 5:30pm. 17-18 Spring Sidewalk Sale, downtown New Buffalo. Businesses flying the large blue flag will be participating in the annual spring sidewalk sale. Call 888-660-6222 for more info.
17-19 Annual Steelheaders Tournament, Riverfront Park, South Pier, South Haven. Call 269-637-5536 for information. 
17-19 Great Lakes Kite Festival, Grand Haven State Park Beach. 11am-5pm. Bring your kite to the beach and watch the sky fill with kites. Stunt kite fliers will perform to music, and kites bigger than a bus will be flown by the pier. Call Steve at 616-846-7501 x1 for more info. 18 Girls’ Afternoon Out, Fenn Valley Winery, 6130 22nd Avenue, Fennville. 11am-2pm. Everything you need to know about making jellies, jams and sauces from herbs, flowers and fruits. $30 per person, includes lunch, wine, tax and tip. Reservations required. Call 269-561-2396. 18 ‘BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass’, Whirlpool Centennial Field, below the bluff from downtown St. Joseph. Live music, local BBQ, craft beer and regional wines. 18 Hands-On Raku Firing Workshop, Khnemu Studio, 6322 113th Street, Fennville. Saturday 10am-5pm. Learn first-hand the techniques of raku firing and how to avoid disaster. Participants may bring up to 10 bisque fired pieces to fire. Reservations required. $80 workshop fee. Call Dawn at 269-236-9260. 18 Saturday Holland Farmers Market, Eighth Street Marketplace, 150 West 8th Street, Holland. 8am-4pm. The Saturday Market opens officially for the season. Flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables, street performers, cooking demonstrations, contests, food court and more. Open Saturdays from May 18th through November 30th. Admission free. NO pets allowed. Call 616-355-1138 for more information. 18 Mayfest, Muskegon Community College, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon. 10am-4pm. Spring festival of food, music, sports, health fair and much more. Visit www.muskegoncc.edu/mayfest. 18 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Memorial, USS LST 393 Veterans Memorial Museum, 560 Mart Street, Muskegon. Special presentations, music and speeches in honor of America’s Armed Forces service members. Free tours of the WWII landing ship tank. Visit www.LST393.org or call 231-730-1477. 18 Saugatuck-Douglas Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, Old Schoolhouse Garden, Center Street, Douglas. Hanging baskets, flats of annuals, perennials, rhodendrons and more. 10am-2pm. Proceeds benefit scholarship program for local high school graduates. Call Jane Dreyer at 616-928-1000 for details. 19 HSO String Quartet - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. 22-27 Fruitport Old Fashioned Days, downtown Fruitport. Annual family festival featuring fireworks, ox roast, community picnic, carnival midway rides, riverboat cruises, live bands, garage sale, Old Fashioned Days Parade and Run. Call Mike at 231-557-3262 for more information. 23 Riverfront Concert Series, Riverfront Park, Water Street, South Haven. The Riverfront Concert series kicks off at 7pm. Live music every Thursday throughout the summer. 269-637-0772. 23-27 St. Mary of the Lake Festival, 704 W. Merchant Street, New Buffalo. The town’s official start to summer. Rides, silent auction, food, games, live music. Proceeds benefit St. Mary of the Lake School. 269-469-1515. 24 Memorial Day Parade, Lake Boulevard, St. Joseph. Noon. Parade begins at Park Street & Lake Blvd. and proceeds down Lake Blvd. to the John E. N. Howard Bandshell. Veterans who would like to participate should call 269-985-1111. 
24 Blessing of the Fleet & Public Sails Begin, Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. The sailing ship ‘Friends Good Will’ begins their sailing season with a blessing. 800-747-3810. 24-25 8th Annual Memorial Day Rib Fest, 20 North First Street, Grand Haven. Kick-off Party on Friday, May 24, ribs served 5-9pm. On Saturday, May 25, the entertainment tent opens at noon; rib fest 11am-7pm. Live music 2-11pm. Contact the VFW at 616-842-6210. 25 Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Museum Opening, 735 Park Street, Saugatuck. Hours: May 31 thru Labor Day, Noon-4pm daily. September –Oct. 28, weekends only. The 2013 exhibition is “Dunelands”, which describes how the Ice Age glaciers and later humans created and changed the landscape of the freshwater dunes. Exhibit opens May 31. 25 Kick-Off to Summer Run. 1 Y Drive, Grand Haven. Family event. Tot Trot obstacle course ages 3-6, 1 Mile Family Fun Run, US Track & Field Certified 5K. Visit www.tcfymca.org. 25 Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area Guided Talks - Oval Beach - Saugatuck. Season opening of these introductory talks about the history of the surrounding duneland now owned by Saugatuck. Held every Saturday thru Sept. 14. Talks are free, but parking at the beach is $6. Meet at the north end of the beach parking lot. 10am. Rain or shine. 269-857-2603. 25 Harbor Country Arts & Crafts Show, St. John United Church of Christ, 200 W. Buffalo, New Buffalo. 10am-4pm. Free admission. More than 50 crafters and artists. Food available. Call 269-469-2884 for more information. 25-26 Lake Effect Memorial Day Weekend, Muskegon Channel. Boating fun all weekend, which includes Blessing of the Boats and the Muskegon Lost Boat Ceremony. Visit LakeEffectBoating.com for a schedule of events. 26 Allegan Antique Market, Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive, Allegan. 8am-4pm. Hundreds of exhibitors inside and outside. Held the last Sunday of the month thru September. Admission: $4. 616-735-3333. 27 Memorial Day Parade, downtown Holland. Parade route travels from 8th Street and River to Columbia Avenue, south to 16th Street and east to the Pilgrim Home Cemetery. American Legion Band provides pre-parade music. 9:30am-10:30am. 27 Memorial Day Parade, downtown New Buffalo then along US-12 to the Cemetery. A memorial service will be conducted immediately after. 27 Memorial Day Parade, downtown Fennville. 11am. 27 Memorial Day Parade, Franklin Street to Waterfront Stadium, Grand Haven. 9:30am. 616-846-3575. 27 Coopersville Memorial Day Parade, downtown Coopersville. 9:30am. Visit www.coopersville.com or call 616-997-5164. 27 Spring Lake Memorial Day Parade, Spring Lake. Parade route begins at Buchanan & Exchange Streets. Ends at Spring Lake Township Cemetery where a memorial tribute to our country’s veterans will be held. 27 Memorial Day Parade, downtown South Haven. 27 Memorial Day Parade, Butler Street, downtown Saugatuck. 9am. 27 Memorial Day Parade, Center Street, downtown Douglas. 10am. 
27 Saugatuck Chain Ferry Opening, Water Street, downtown Saugatuck. Noon. The chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River opens for the season. Weekends only until mid-June. 30 Sailing Season Begins, South Haven Yacht Club, 401 Williams Street, South Haven. 30 Tri-Cities Kiwanis Salmon Tournament, Chinook Pier, Grand Haven. 6am-2pm. Tournament benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Call 616-414-0855. 
1-6 | Spring Fling at the Critter Barn, 9275 Adams Street, Zeeland. Visit the Critter Barn’s bunnies, chicks, goats and kittens. Sheep shearing also. 10am-7pm. Call 616-748-1110, or visit the Critter Barn website. |
1-30 | Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids. Travel back in time to 1912 via this amazing exhibition of stateroom recreations and 150 authentic artifacts from the legendary RMS Titanic. Exhibition runs thru July 7th. Visit GRMuseum.org for details or call 1-800-585-3737 to order tickets by phone. |
1-14 | ‘Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. On display in the Focus Gallery thru April 14th. Call 616-392-9084. |
1-30 | ‘On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson’, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Well-known West Michigan artist James Johnson brings his vivid watercolors to the SCA. Exhibit runs thru May 4. Free. The gallery is open weekdays 9am-4:30pm. Open evenings and weekends during SCA events. 269-857-2399. |
1-30 | ‘Celebrating The Journey: Settlement To City’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. To help celebrate the museum’s 75th birthday, numerous objects tracing the history of Holland’s settlement will be on display in the Wichers Gallery thru May 11th. Call 616-392-9084 for details, or visit the website. |
1-30 | ‘Hughie Lee-Smith: Meditations’. Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Avenue, Muskegon. Smith, who spent two decades in Detroit in the 1940s and 1959s, explores the African-American experience. Runs thru May 19th. Visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org. |
5 | First Fridays Michigan Music Concert, Howmet Playhouse, 304 S. Mears, Montague. The Lincoln County Process, a Lansing-based folk/roots/blues group, are the featured performers at April’s First Friday concert. Call 231-894-4048 for details or visit the website. |
5 | Heywood Banks at Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle Street, South Haven. Singer-songwriter Banks performs for one night at Foundry Hall. 7:30pm. Call 269-205-3059 for ticket info. |
6 | Spring Stampede 5K Run/Walk, Sarett Nature Center, 2700 Benton Center Drive, Benton Harbor. 9am. Under the leadership of runner/coach Mike Mahler, get ready to run or walk Sarett’s nature trails for fun and prizes. Proceeds benefit Sarett’s educational program for children. Entry fee. Registration and packet pick-up starts at 7:30am. All participants receive a t-shirt. Childrens’ 1K Fun Run begins at 8:30am. Birders should arrive early in order to join fellow enthusiasts who will ‘bird’ the race course at 7:30am. 269-927-4832. |
7 | ‘First Appearance’, Paul Austin/horn, Diane McElfish Helle/violin, Janlee Richter/ - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. |
13 | Bill and Kate Isles at Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle Street, South Haven. The folk singing/songwriting couple perform at Foundry Hall. 7:30pm. 269-205-3059. |
13 | 5K and 10K Town Crier Run-Walk, historic Saugatuck. The 10K begins at 9am, the 5K begins bet. 10-10:15am. A Kids’ Fun Run will also be held at 9:15am. Register online. |
13 | 2013 Don Lubbars Cup Regatta, Spring Lake Yacht Club, 17500 West Spring Lake Road, Spring Lake. Competitors from around the country participate in the first race of the spring championship season. 8am-3pm. |
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18 | Lindy Lou River Launch, Michigan Maritime Museum, , 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. The river launch begins the season’s daily cruises along the Black River. Call 269-637-8078 for ticket info or visit www.MichiganMaritimeMuseum.org |
9 | West Michigan Symphony, ‘Mozart and Friends’, Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Avenue, Muskegon.7:30pm. Nine of the symphony’s most talented soloists will play selections from Bach and Mozart. Scott Speck, conductor. For details, visit www.WestMichiganSymphony.org |
20 | 3rd Annual Grand River Green-Up, Riverside Park, Grand Haven. 9am-Noon. The Grand Haven Jaycees and the West Michigan Environmental Action Council celebrate Earth Week with their annual clean up of the Grand River at Riverside Park. At least 300 volunteers are needed. Visit www.grandrivergreenup.com/ for more info. |
20 | Earth Day Fair, Grand Haven Community Center, 421 Columbus Avenue, Grand Haven. Booths of environmental businesses and organization, food, games. Noon-4pm. Call 616-846-5058 for details. |
20-27 | Earth Week 2013, various locations around Muskegon. Take a guided tour of the nature area, learn about local environmental projects undertaken by MCC students and instructors, enjoy collaborative artwork by local children and. For more info, check out the Facebook page of Muskegon Area Earth Week 2013. |
20 | Groove Walk, downtown Holland. 9pm-1am. For just $10 in advance, or $15 at the door, enjoy 11 different bands at 11 different downtown locations. Call 616-796-1210 or visit www.groovewalk.com. |
22 | Earth Day Celebration, Liberty-Hyde Bailey Museum, 903 S. Bailey, South Haven. 2pm. Call Esther at 269-637-2478 for details. |
26-28 | Art Attack Tour of Harbor Country: Harbert, Grand Beach, Lakeside, Michiana, New Buffalo, Sawyer, Three Oaks, Union Pier. Tour Harbor Country while enjoying local art exhibitions, wine tasting, music, theater, gallery receptions and more. Visit www.HarborCountry.org. |
27 | Saugatuck Dune Rides, 6495 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. The popular dune schooner rides opens for the season. The exciting 35-40 minute ride takes you along the sand dunes to the lost village of Singapore and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan. Adults: $18.00, Children 3-11: $10. Children 2 and under: free. Dune rides run thru October 21st. 269-857-2253. |
27 | Patti Larkin, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Celebrated singer/songwriter Patti Larkin performs live at the SCA. 8pm. Tickets: $30. 269-857-2399. |
28 | The Perugino String Quartet - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. |
28 | Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes, Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland. Motorcyclists and other cyclists gather to start a responsible riding season and promote a safe rider community. Live music, food, silent auction. Gates open at 10am, blessing at 3pm. $5 donation per bike. Contact John at 616-283-0591 for info. |
28 | Allegan Antiques Market, Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive, Allegan. 400 exhibitors. Season opening. 8am-4pm. Last Sunday of every month thru September. Call 616-735-3333 for information or visit www.AlleganAntiques.com. |
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1 | Season Opening of Hackley & Hume Historic Site Tours, 484 W. Webster, Muskegon. Open May thru October, Wednesday thru Sunday. Call 231-722-0278 for details. |
1-4 | ‘On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson’, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Well-known West Michigan artist James Johnson brings his vivid watercolors to the SCA. Exhibit runs thru May 4. Free. The gallery is open weekdays 9am-4:30pm. Open evenings and weekends during SCA events. 269-857-2399. |
1-11 | ‘Celebrating The Journey: Settlement To City’, Holland Museum, 31 West 10th Street, Holland. To help celebrate the museum’s 75th birthday, numerous objects tracing the history of Holland’s settlement will be on display in the Wichers Gallery thru May 11th. Call 616-392-9084 for details, or visit www.hollandmuseum.org/. |
1-19 | ‘Hughie Lee-Smith: Meditations’. Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Avenue, Muskegon. Smith, who spent two decades in Detroit in the 1940s and 1959s, explores the African-American experience. Runs thru May 19th. Visit www.MuskegonArtMuseum.org. |
1-31 | Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids. Travel back in time to 1912 via this amazing exhibition of stateroom recreations and 150 authentic artifacts from the legendary RMS Titanic. Exhibition runs thru July 7th. Visit GRMuseum.org for details or call 1-800-585-3737 to order tickets by phone. |
2-5 | “The Music Man”, Muskegon Civic Theatre presentation on the Frauenthal Stage, 425 W. Western Avenue, Muskegon. For ticket info and show times, call 1-800-585-3737, or 616-222-4000. |
3 | First Fridays Michigan Music Concert, Howmet Playhouse, 304 S. Mears, Montague. Dragon Wagon, an Ann Arbor folk/rock/blue grass group, are the featured performers at May’s First Friday concert. Call 231-894-4048 for details or visit HowmetPlayhouse.org. |
3-4 | Fiesta! Holland Civic Center & Eighth Street Marketplace, Holland. The Latin American United for Progress Fiesta draws over 20,000 people each year. Join the fun this year for Latino entertainment, lowrider car show, Fiesta King & Queen, live music, food. Call 616-392-5058 for information, or visit www.laup.org. |
4 | Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises opens for the season. 716 Water Street, Saugatuck. Call 269-857-4261 for departure times and days. |
4 | Muskegon Farmers Market, 700 Yuba Street, Muskegon. The Farmers Market opens for the season. 6am-3pm. Locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, baked goods, crafts and more. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday thru December 21. After Thanksgiving, Saturdays only. Giant Flea Market every Wednesday thru October. Visit muskegonfarmers.com or call 231-722-3251. |
4 | Douglas & Saugatuck Spring Preview, downtown Douglas and Saugatuck. The season kicks off with evening receptions at village galleries and shops. 5-9pm. Call 269-857-1626 for details. |
4-5 | Tulip Time Art and Craft Fair, downtown Centennial Park, Holland. Dutch dancers, Tulip City tours, a wide variety of art and craft booths, 25,000 tulip plantings. |
4 | Natural Living Health Fair, Customs Imports, 430 S. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo. 11am-4pm. Meet green local businesses and learn how to live a healthier and greener lifestyle. Call 219-861-3707. |
4 | Grand Floral Parade, downtown St. Joseph & Benton Harbor. 1pm. The 107th celebration of the Blossomtime Festival. This year’s theme is ‘A Ticket to the Movies’. The parade kicks off a week of family fun. |
4 | ‘Lunch with the Winemaker’, Fenn Valley Winery, 6130 22nd Avenue, Fennville. 11am-2pm. A modified version of ‘Dinner with the Winemaker’, the event features four courses paired with wine. The lunch celebrates the official release of Vino Verde and Late Harvest Vignoles. $50.00 per person. Reservations required. Call 269-561-2396 or register online at FennValley.com. |
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4-11 | TULIP TIME FESTIVAL, Holland! See schedule of events on Lake Effect Living’s Tulip Festival page, or visit www.tuliptime.com. |
5 | Antiques on the Bluff, Lake Bluff Park, St. Joseph. 10am-5pm. This antique show is held on the first Sunday of the month from May through October. Free parking. No admission fee. Call 269-985-1111 for information. |
6-10 | Garden Club Tulip Time Flower Show, Holland Arts Council, 150 E. 8th Street, Holland. “The Color of Nature”. 616-396-3278. |
10 | Farm History Day, Michigan Flywheelers Museum, 06285 68th Street, South Haven. Take a self-guided tour of exhibits representing farm life in the past. Play old-time children’s games, watch corn grinding, town blacksmith and sawmill demonstrations and more. Gift shop, picnic area. Visit www.MichiganFlywheelers.org or call 269-637-5077. |
11 | South Haven Farmer’s Market, Huron Street parking lot behind the post office, South Haven. The Saturday farmer’s market opens the season in downtown South Haven. 8am-2pm. Runs thru Oct. 19th. Visit www.SouthHavenFarmMarket.com. |
11 | Grand Haven Farmer’s Market, Chinook Pier, downtown Grand Haven. The Saturday farmer’s market under the green canopy opens for the season. 8am-2pm. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays starting in June. Call 616-842-4910 for info. |
11 | Annual Native Plant Sale, Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center & P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, Muskegon. 9am-3pm. Native wildflower sale, including woodland wildflowers responsibly propagated such as white trillium. Proceeds benefit Gillette Visitor Center and its programs. 231-798-3573. |
11 | Girl Scout Day, Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. 10am-5pm. Free for all Girl Scouts in uniform. At least two sails will be scheduled for the day. Call 269-637-8078. |
15 | Wednesday Holland Farmers Market, Eighth Street Marketplace, 150 West 8th Street, Holland. 8am-4pm. The Wednesday Market opens officially for the season. Flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables, street performers, cooking demonstrations, contests, food court and more. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 15th through November 27th. Admission free. NO pets allowed. Call 616-355-1138 for more information. |
16 | Free Sailing Course Class, South Haven Yacht Club, 401 Williams Street, South Haven. Non-members welcome. 6-7:30pm. 269-637-2305. |
17 | Veterans Job Fair, USS LST 393 Veterans Memorial Museum, 560 Mart Street, downtown Muskegon. To help veterans find work, hundreds of employers with jobs available will be on board the museum, which is moored at the Mart Dock. 231-288-4012 for details. |
17 | ‘All Aboard!’ downtown St. Joseph. This year’s Public Art Display features planes, trains and helicopters. The festivities and unveiling of 26 sculptures begins at 5:30pm. |
17-18 | Spring Sidewalk Sale, downtown New Buffalo. Businesses flying the large blue flag will be participating in the annual spring sidewalk sale. Call 888-660-6222 for more info. |
17-19 | Annual Steelheaders Tournament, Riverfront Park, South Pier, South Haven. Call 269-637-5536 for information. |
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17-19 | Great Lakes Kite Festival, Grand Haven State Park Beach. 11am-5pm. Bring your kite to the beach and watch the sky fill with kites. Stunt kite fliers will perform to music, and kites bigger than a bus will be flown by the pier. Call Steve at 616-846-7501 x1 for more info. |
18 | Girls’ Afternoon Out, Fenn Valley Winery, 6130 22nd Avenue, Fennville. 11am-2pm. Everything you need to know about making jellies, jams and sauces from herbs, flowers and fruits. $30 per person, includes lunch, wine, tax and tip. Reservations required. Call 269-561-2396. |
18 | ‘BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass’, Whirlpool Centennial Field, below the bluff from downtown St. Joseph. Live music, local BBQ, craft beer and regional wines. |
18 | Hands-On Raku Firing Workshop, Khnemu Studio, 6322 113th Street, Fennville. Saturday 10am-5pm. Learn first-hand the techniques of raku firing and how to avoid disaster. Participants may bring up to 10 bisque fired pieces to fire. Reservations required. $80 workshop fee. Call Dawn at 269-236-9260. |
18 | Saturday Holland Farmers Market, Eighth Street Marketplace, 150 West 8th Street, Holland. 8am-4pm. The Saturday Market opens officially for the season. Flowers, plants, fruits, vegetables, street performers, cooking demonstrations, contests, food court and more. Open Saturdays from May 18th through November 30th. Admission free. NO pets allowed. Call 616-355-1138 for more information. |
18 | Mayfest, Muskegon Community College, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon. 10am-4pm. Spring festival of food, music, sports, health fair and much more. Visit www.muskegoncc.edu/mayfest. |
18 | 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Memorial, USS LST 393 Veterans Memorial Museum, 560 Mart Street, Muskegon. Special presentations, music and speeches in honor of America’s Armed Forces service members. Free tours of the WWII landing ship tank. Visit www.LST393.org or call 231-730-1477. |
18 | Saugatuck-Douglas Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, Old Schoolhouse Garden, Center Street, Douglas. Hanging baskets, flats of annuals, perennials, rhodendrons and more. 10am-2pm. Proceeds benefit scholarship program for local high school graduates. Call Jane Dreyer at 616-928-1000 for details. |
19 | HSO String Quartet - Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, First Reformed Church of Holland, 630 State Street, Holland. 616-392-8085. 3pm. Free admission. |
22-27 | Fruitport Old Fashioned Days, downtown Fruitport. Annual family festival featuring fireworks, ox roast, community picnic, carnival midway rides, riverboat cruises, live bands, garage sale, Old Fashioned Days Parade and Run. Call Mike at 231-557-3262 for more information. |
23 | Riverfront Concert Series, Riverfront Park, Water Street, South Haven. The Riverfront Concert series kicks off at 7pm. Live music every Thursday throughout the summer. 269-637-0772. |
23-27 | St. Mary of the Lake Festival, 704 W. Merchant Street, New Buffalo. The town’s official start to summer. Rides, silent auction, food, games, live music. Proceeds benefit St. Mary of the Lake School. 269-469-1515. |
24 | Memorial Day Parade, Lake Boulevard, St. Joseph. Noon. Parade begins at Park Street & Lake Blvd. and proceeds down Lake Blvd. to the John E. N. Howard Bandshell. Veterans who would like to participate should call 269-985-1111. |
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24 | Blessing of the Fleet & Public Sails Begin, Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven. The sailing ship ‘Friends Good Will’ begins their sailing season with a blessing. 800-747-3810. |
24-25 | 8th Annual Memorial Day Rib Fest, 20 North First Street, Grand Haven. Kick-off Party on Friday, May 24, ribs served 5-9pm. On Saturday, May 25, the entertainment tent opens at noon; rib fest 11am-7pm. Live music 2-11pm. Contact the VFW at 616-842-6210. |
25 | Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Museum Opening, 735 Park Street, Saugatuck. Hours: May 31 thru Labor Day, Noon-4pm daily. September –Oct. 28, weekends only. The 2013 exhibition is “Dunelands”, which describes how the Ice Age glaciers and later humans created and changed the landscape of the freshwater dunes. Exhibit opens May 31. |
25 | Kick-Off to Summer Run. 1 Y Drive, Grand Haven. Family event. Tot Trot obstacle course ages 3-6, 1 Mile Family Fun Run, US Track & Field Certified 5K. Visit www.tcfymca.org. |
25 | Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area Guided Talks - Oval Beach - Saugatuck. Season opening of these introductory talks about the history of the surrounding duneland now owned by Saugatuck. Held every Saturday thru Sept. 14. Talks are free, but parking at the beach is $6. Meet at the north end of the beach parking lot. 10am. Rain or shine. 269-857-2603. |
25 | Harbor Country Arts & Crafts Show, St. John United Church of Christ, 200 W. Buffalo, New Buffalo. 10am-4pm. Free admission. More than 50 crafters and artists. Food available. Call 269-469-2884 for more information. |
25-26 | Lake Effect Memorial Day Weekend, Muskegon Channel. Boating fun all weekend, which includes Blessing of the Boats and the Muskegon Lost Boat Ceremony. Visit LakeEffectBoating.com for a schedule of events. |
26 | Allegan Antique Market, Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive, Allegan. 8am-4pm. Hundreds of exhibitors inside and outside. Held the last Sunday of the month thru September. Admission: $4. 616-735-3333. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, downtown Holland. Parade route travels from 8th Street and River to Columbia Avenue, south to 16th Street and east to the Pilgrim Home Cemetery. American Legion Band provides pre-parade music. 9:30am-10:30am. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, downtown New Buffalo then along US-12 to the Cemetery. A memorial service will be conducted immediately after. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, downtown Fennville. 11am. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, Franklin Street to Waterfront Stadium, Grand Haven. 9:30am. 616-846-3575. |
27 | Coopersville Memorial Day Parade, downtown Coopersville. 9:30am. Visit www.coopersville.com or call 616-997-5164. |
27 | Spring Lake Memorial Day Parade, Spring Lake. Parade route begins at Buchanan & Exchange Streets. Ends at Spring Lake Township Cemetery where a memorial tribute to our country’s veterans will be held. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, downtown South Haven. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, Butler Street, downtown Saugatuck. 9am. |
27 | Memorial Day Parade, Center Street, downtown Douglas. 10am. |
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27 | Saugatuck Chain Ferry Opening, Water Street, downtown Saugatuck. Noon. The chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River opens for the season. Weekends only until mid-June. |
30 | Sailing Season Begins, South Haven Yacht Club, 401 Williams Street, South Haven. |
30 | Tri-Cities Kiwanis Salmon Tournament, Chinook Pier, Grand Haven. 6am-2pm. Tournament benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Call 616-414-0855. |
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Unless otherwise indicated, all Lake Effect Living photographs are the work and property of Sharon Pisacreta.