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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.
The River Community Center Presents Cooking Matters for Kids
This program teaches kids basic cooking and knife skills, and nutrition education, and helps build confidence in the kitchen. Students will receive a workbook, prepare a recipe each week in class, and also take home groceries every week for the recipe prepared in class. Parents are encouraged to participate and transportation may be available upon request. Registration is limited and can be done by visiting events.anr.msu.edu. River Community Center- 5871 S. M-37, Baldwin.
Diaper Drive & Taco Bar
Bring a package of diapers and enjoy the taco bar. All donations go to West Shore Family Support. Calvary Baptist Church- 220 N. Jebavy Dr., Ludington.
Historic White Pine Village AND the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum Open for the Season
Historic White Pine Village– 1687 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington. Port of Ludington Maritime Museum– 217 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Souper Hero’s and Princesses Par-Tea
This event is a fundraiser for the Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program. Kids and their favorite adult are encouraged to dress up for this event which includes learning manners, a light luncheon of assorted soups or a lite dinner, and a photo opportunity! 11am-1pm is a session for children ages 3-9 and a separate session for friends 10 and over will be from from 3-5pm. Adult participation is required for both sessions. For the most updated information, visit facebook.com. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Lakeview Cemetery Ride Honoring Ludington’s Veterans
Families can walk/bike the cemetery to look for veterans monuments. For more information and guidance, click here. Information/assistance will not be available at the cemetery. Lakeview Cemetery- 906 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Big Point Sable Lighthouse Opens for the Season
Big Point Sable Lighthouse- 8800 W. M-116, Ludington.
Safe Kids West Michigan Car Seat Check
Free event. Car seats checked and training on installation of carseats by certified technician. Replacement car seats will be provided on a first needed, first served basis. Grant Township Fire Department- 7140 S. Oceana Dr., Rothbury. Email alwayh@trinity-health.org for more information.
Mason County Agriculture Night
This free event will celebrate Mason County’s agricultural heritage and will also be a chance for the public to tour the Michigan Farm Bureau’s Farm Science Lab. Highlights include free Sanders hot dogs, interactive games with prizes, informational booths from area businesses and the farming community, free treats sponsored by Mason County Dairy Farmers, wagon rides, farm animals, and more. For more information, visit facebook.com. Mason County Central Upper Elementary School- 505 W. Maple St., Scottville.
150th Birthday Party for Ludington
To celebrate Ludington’s Sesquicentennial, this event will include stations providing hands-on activities that exemplify the differences from 150 years ago. Those attending are encouraged to dress 1870 style. There will be live music by Eric Engblade, crafts by Deb Borema, biscuits with Mary Lou Ohnsman, games, some giveaways, and cake. Entry fees apply. Sandcastles Children’s Museum- 129 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Bike Rodeo
The free, family friendly event will teach riders the safest way to enjoy bike riding through the following stations: helmet check, bike check, wheel check, safe riding, and bicycle skills course. There will also be a book giveaway and toddler balance bikes and helmets giveaway. Registration opens May 1st and can be found here. West Shore Community College- 3000 N. Stiles Rd., Scottville.
Archery Day
Those 8 years of age and older are invited to learn about the history of archery, proper techniques, and have the opportunity to shoot. Those under age 17 must have a parent or guardian with them. All supplies are provided and no registration is necessary. Ludington State Park– 8800 M-116, Ludington.
Celebrate Ludington Bike Scavenger Hunt
Free, family-friendly event. For more information, visit facebook.com.
First Sailing of the Season for the S.S. Badger Carferry
For reservations, call (800) 841-4243.
White River Light Station Opens for the Season
Whitehall.
Ludington Petunia Parade Planting Day
Along Ludington Avenue and around Ludington Municipal Marina, Ludington.
Run Ludington Harbor Run
Downtown Ludington.
Mom-2-Mom Sale
Shop from a wide range of children’s clothing, toys, strollers, maternity-wear, and limited sizes of women’s clothing. There will also be face painting, balloon animals, games, and food available for purchase. $1 entry fee and 100% proceeds go to support the Manistee Mothers of Preschoolers. Faith Covenant Church- 475 8th St., Manistee.
Mason-Lake Conservation District Mushroom Hike
Mushroom Hike, in partnership with Linda Scribner, beginning at the Fin & Feather Club- 3276 Darr Rd., Scottville. Register at mason-lakeconservation.org by May 12th, 2023.
MCE Equestrian Speed Horse Show
Caswell Horse Park at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington. For more information, visit miha.org.
Play Tennis Midwest
Free interactive tennis activities, games and play for adults and children age 6 and up. Space is limited. Register at usta.com/playtennismidwest. For more information, contact Coach Brown at (517) 745-6113.
Mason County Saddle Club Horse Show
Caswell Horse Park at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington. For more information, visit masoncountysaddleclub.com.
Mason County Saddle Club Horse Show
Caswell Horse Park at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington. For more information, visit masoncountysaddleclub.com.
Little Sable Point Lighthouse Opens for the Season
Silver Lake.
Ludington North Breakwater Light Opens for the Season
Stearns Park- 420 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Fruitport Old Fashioned Days
Annual festival with fun for the whole family. Includes midway, live music, food, car show, and more. For more information, visit fruitportlionsclub.com.
Pentwater VFW Pancake Breakfast
Pentwater VFW- 8440 N. US-31, Pentwater.
Blessing of the ORV’s
Cost is $5/vehicle for an all-day pass. Events include a Law Enforcement Workshop, Blessing of the ORV’s at 1pm, Vendors, Food, and Manistee Forest ORV merchandise. Skinner Park- 5074 W 10 1/2 Mile Rd., Irons.
Pentwater Memorial Day Observance
Veterans, Girl Scouts, and Boys Scouts are encouraged to participate. Services to follow parade at Pentwater Marina and the Village Green, Pentwater.
Manistee Memorial Day Observance
9am- Poppy placement and rifle salute at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery- 1628 Maple Rd. 9:30am- Poppy placement and rifle salute at Oak Grove Cemetery- 1040 Veterans Oak Grove Dr. 10am- Memorial Day Parade beginning at the corner of River & Division Streets and ending at Veteran’s Memorial Park- 117 Memorial Dr., Manistee.
Mears Memorial Day Observance
Mears Cemetery- 6189 W. Fox Rd., Mears.
Downtown Hart Memorial Day Observance
Parade in Hart.
The popular tourist town of Ludington, Michigan will celebrate its 150th birthday (sesquicentennial) in 2023. Many events will be included.
The Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival is held at Dickson Township Park, Brethren, the third Saturday in June.
The Traverse City area has several arts and crafts fairs scheduled throughout the year, offering many unique handcrafted items.
West Michigan is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
After a busy day at the beach or at work, it’s time to kick back and relax a while. What better way than to listen to some music.
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Beautiful color emerges come Fall. Take it all in with an afternoon drive, or stroll, through the many forests of West Michigan.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
The Annual Show of the Western Michigan Old Engine Club is held the first weekend of August at Scottville’s Riverside Park.
Hop aboard the Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry! Take the famous cruise across Lake Michigan and experience the Badger and all it has to do!
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
The Michigan Audubon Society Lake Bluff Center overlooks Lake Michigan near Manistee and features wildlife and a bird sanctuary.
Pere Marquette River, with it’s moderately fast current and clear water, is an extremely popular river for canoeists and kayakers.
The historical Vogue Theatre in Manistee, renovated as a modern-day movie theater, shows current movies, classic films, and family movies.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
The Pere Marquette River area is rich with wildlife, offering great outdoors hunting and fishing opportunities.
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