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Family-Friendly Events

October 2025

The lakeshore communities of West Michigan do a fantastic job of hosting events and activities that include the whole family. There’s so much happening that is geared specifically toward kids and families as a whole, and that’s part of what makes being here so amazing!

Every season in West Michigan has it’s unique, fun things to do for kids of all ages- from babies up to the “young at heart”. Indoors or outdoors, no matter the time of year, there’s always something great going on along the lakeshore for families to experience together!

In addition to the following list, check out all the special events and programs provided by Sandcastles Children’s Museum and the Ludington and Scottville branches of the Mason County District Libraries.

And check out information on Fall Events happening this month, along with your guide to Halloween Parties & Trick or Treating!

September 18th-October 4th, 2025

ArtPrize
A city-wide art competition within a 3-square mile district in downtown Grand Rapids.

October 3rd-5th, 2025

Ludington Lumber Days
A fall festival weekend filled with lumberjack-themed excitement, rich history, lively music, and adventures for all ages.

Saturday, October 4th, 2025
9am

Annual Walk to End Alzheimers
Registration begins at 9am with the opening ceremony at 10am and walk to follow. Waterfront Park- 391 S. William St., Ludington. For more information or to register a team, visit act.alz.org.

Saturday, October 4th, 2025
10am-2pm

Benzie County Fall Festival
Annual festival with fun for the whole family. Events in Beulah & Benzonia. Visit clcba.com for more info.

Saturday, October 4th, 2025
11am-2pm

ArtWalk
Downtown Hart. For more information, visit takemetohart.org.

Saturday, October 4th, 2025
11am-5pm

Chow Down Centertown
Annual Makers Market/Food Truck Rally/Live Music Street party. For the most updated information, visit facebook.com. 7th Street from Washington to Elliot, Grand Haven.

Saturday, October 4th, 2025

Onekama Fall Festival 
Craft and food vendors, games, music, and more! Visit onekama.info for more information. Onekama Village Park- Portage Ave., Onekama.

Saturday, October 11th, 2025
9am

Frankfort Fall Festival
Annual festival with fun for the whole family including an arts & crafts fair. Visit frankfort-elberta.com for more information.

Sunday, October 12th, 2025
2pm

Final Sailing of the Season for the S.S. Badger Carferry
Call (800) 841-4243 for reservations.

Thursday, October 16th, 2025
3:30-5:30pm

Diapers & Desserts
Families with children ages 3 and under are invited to attend and receive free diapers and dessert at Lighthouse Lutheran Church- 8756 N. Balmoral Ave., Pentwater. A parent or legal guardian must be present to receive diapers for the child(ren). We will have diapers up to size 6 available.

Saturday, October 18th, 2025
5pm

Historic White Pine Village Closes for the Season
Historic White Pine Village– 1687 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.

Sunday, October 19th, 2025
5pm

White River Light Station Closes for the Season
White River Light Station– 6199 Murray Rd., Whitehall.

Saturday, October 25th, 2025
9am

Run for Your Lives 5k
This race begins and ends at Ludington’s Legacy Plaza. Runners are encouraged to dress in costume.

Sunday, October 26th, 2025
5pm

Big Point Sable Lighthouse Closes for the Season
Big Point Sable Lighthouse– 880 M-116, Ludington.

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West Michigan Activities & Attractions

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