Family Friendly Events
Current family-friendly events in West Michigan, great, fun, things to do for kids of all ages! Fun for the whole family!
Photo by Liz Fitch on Unsplash.com
One of the best things about West Michigan is the fresh goodness of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Various farm markets around the region offer a bounty of the best-tasting produce around. Shopping for fresh produce is convenient, with many of the local farm markets open from May until September or October.
To register or for more information on Leelanau County Farmers Markets, visit leelanaufarmersmarkets.com.
Although the seasons are dependent upon the weather, we’ve listed the time periods when local crops typically are harvested.
Late April-June: Asparagus, Raspberries, Rhubarb, Strawberries
July-August: Apples, Blackberries, Blueberries, Cherries, Corn, Green Beans, Peaches, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Zucchini
September-October: Apples, Green Beans, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Zucchini
Interested in learning more about local agriculture? Read our story about the Agricultural Trail in Mason & Oceana Counties and download a brochure for more details.
Asparagus starts the season in the spring, with Michigan being the third largest producer in the nation. Oceana County is actually known as the “Asparagus Capital of the World,” due to its high production of this healthy crop.
Also in the spring comes the maple syrup, a true American sweetener. Here in Mason County, Kistlercrest Farm on Old PM Highway produces about 1,200 gallons of syrup every year. The real thing is thinner than the brands of syrup you buy in the supermarket, but the taste is far superior. The Kistlers also make maple sugar candy, granulated maple sugar, and at Christmas, maple cream candies.
As summer arrives, so does a bounty of fruits and vegetables, including apples, cherries, lettuce, sweet corn, and strawberries. Local farm markets and roadside stands sell the freshest produce, picked daily. Near the end of summer, it’s blueberry time. Michigan tops the list for the most blueberries grown in the nation. Various U-picks in the area let you choose your own blueberries.
Autumn is a wonderful time in West Michigan, with cool temperatures, trees sprouting gorgeous colors of reds, yellows, and oranges, and best of all…pumpkins! Driving through the countryside in search of the perfect pumpkin is enjoyable in itself, but once you arrive at your destination, you’re in for a treat. Many farms offer corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin decorating, just in time for Halloween.
Current family-friendly events in West Michigan, great, fun, things to do for kids of all ages! Fun for the whole family!
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
The communities along Lake Michigan are blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us throughout the year.
Communities in Mason, Oceana, and Manistee counties sponsor many Easter events and egg hunts for kids in the spring.
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The Annual Show of the Western Michigan Old Engine Club is held the first weekend of August at Scottville’s Riverside Park.
A site to behold along Lake Michigan, these structures with a rich history give both a sense of safety and a beautiful site.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Scottville Riverside Park, along the Pere Marquette River, has over 50 modern sites and is popular for camping and fishing.
The Traverse City area has several arts and crafts fairs scheduled throughout the year, offering many unique handcrafted items.
Beautiful color emerges come Fall. Take it all in with an afternoon drive, or stroll, through the many forests of West Michigan.
The Pentwater River provides opportunities to experience a paddle sport for the first time or take on a challenge for those more experienced.
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
West Michigan is home to numerous artists with so many different talents. Groovy music, vivid paintings, gorgeous photography, and more!