Winter Wonderland in Holland: Our Guide to Must-Do Outdoor Activities
One of the best things about living in Holland, Michigan, is that it has all four seasons, and there is a festival or parade or event to mark each new season, and winter around here is no different. Even if you’re not a fan of the cold, celebrating with family, friends and the community is a great way to warm your heart and lift your spirits. Here’s our list of some of our favorite things to do in the winter.
Holiday Activities in Holland, Michigan
Before heading out for any winter activity, it’s important to stay safe. Dress in layers, wear proper footwear, make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and look out for snow and ice. Once you’ve checked all those boxes, it’ll be easier to enjoy all the festivities. Of course, in downtown Holland, you won’t have to worry too much about snow and ice. Since 1988, the city has implemented the largest municipally run snowmelt system in North America, heating 10.5 acres of streets and sidewalks.
Shop ‘til You Drop: Shoppers are encouraged to stay up late, shop the night away and save big as nearly 40 Downtown Holland shops and restaurants stay open late to offer special holiday discounts, including savings up to 30% off at least one item. (Specific savings vary per business.) If you’re shopping for someone with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia, here’s a helpful list of gift ideas.
Magic at the Mill: Held at Windmill Island Gardens the first three weekends in December, Holland’s DeZwaan windmill glitters with lights and is surrounded by thousands of LED tulips as part of a musically synchronized light show. The park and shops will be open, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase, and there will even be an opportunity for children to greet Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas).
Parade of Lights: Santa Claus arrives in Downtown Holland during the annual Parade of Lights. He’ll be escorted by 75 floats, trucks, antique cars, walkers and marching bands all decked out from top to bottom in thousands of sparkling lights. The Parade of Lights begins at the corner of 8th Street and Columbia Avenue and proceeds west down 8th Street until it reaches the Holland Civic Center, home of the Holiday Kerstmarkt.
Kerstmarkt: Dutch for “Christmas market,” Kerstmarkt is a Netherland’s tradition during the Christmas season. Holland’s version of this outdoor European-style market features holiday items, delicious food and artisan demonstrations. Look for Kerstmarkt on weekends from November 23 through December 21 at the 8th Street Marketplace at the corner of 8th Street and Pine Avenue.
There’s Something Fun to Do All Year Round in Holland
Whether it’s the beautiful tulips and windmill in the spring or the scenic festive scenes downtown in the winter, there’s always plenty of things to do in Holland, Michigan. Call us, use our Community Assistant chat feature or contact us here to learn more about how Freedom Village stays connected and involved with our hometown.
