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Family Friendly Events—July

If you're looking for something to do as the summer ramps up, scroll through our list of family friendly events happening in West Michigan during the month of July.

Gentex Street Performer Series

Every Thursday, June 12–August 14
6:30–8:30pm
Downtown Holland

Looking to keep the kiddos entertained? Take a stroll down 8th Street and enjoy the lively street performances sponsored by Gentex. Around 25 artists and groups will be performing for free throughout the evening—entertaining the public with music, magic, dance, and more. While performances are free to watch, tips are always appreciated! For more information visit the event page on the Discover Holland website.

Street performer dancing, downtown Holland.

Independence Day Fireworks

July 4th
12:00–10:00pm
Kollen Park, Holland

Looking for an evening experience to complete the patriotic holiday? View a spectacular firework showcase above Lake Macatawa from Kollen Park. Watch as the nighttime sky is lit up with bursts of dazzling hues! Leading up to the fireworks, various fair food trucks will be available in the afternoon. This free event invites you to cozy up in your favorite blanket and enjoy the breathtaking display of fireworks as they reflect across the lakeshore! Please visit the Discover Holland website for more information.

Independence Day fireworks above Lake Macatawa in Holland.

Opening Week of Zeelmania

Every Monday, July 7–July 28
6:00–8:00pm
Downtown Zeeland

Schedule
July 7: Beach Bash
July 14: Camp Zeelmania
July 21: Heroes Night
July 28: Sports Mania

The City of Zeeland proudly hosts the return of Zeelmania, its beloved annual community events series! Taking place each Monday evening throughout the month of July, events will run from 6:00 to 8:00pm in Downtown Zeeland. This family-friendly tradition features engaging activities, entertainment, and opportunities to “Feel the Zeel!” Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to come experience the lively atmosphere. Each week offers a different, exciting theme. Take a look at the schedule above. From the vibrant Color Run to roasting marshmallows to giant soccer, check out the Zeelmania website to see what this event has to offer.

Children painting at the Zeelmania event in Zeeland.

Make and Takes: Floral Stamping Tote Bags

July 8
5:30–6:30pm
Windmill Island Gardens, Holland

Got budding artist kiddos at home? Instead of them drawing crayon murals on your walls, channel that creativity at Windmill Island Gardens’ Floral Stamping Make & Take! Kids (and adults) can create a personalized tote bag using fresh flowers harvested straight from the garden. With a little light hammering, vibrant petals naturally transfer their color—an age-old technique for botanical fabric dyeing. Space is limited. Register here to reserve your spot!

Floral stamping tote bag made at the Make & Take event in Holland.

Happenings on Harvey Street

July 10–31
6:00–8:00pm
Harvey Street, Hudsonville

Schedule
July 10: Superhero & Princess
July 17: Safari
July 24: Luau
July 31: Western

For yet another summer, Gemmen’s Ace Hardware presents a series of family events every Thursday night in July. Each week will feature a different theme. This free event will include children’s activities and showcase local businesses, outdoor music, and more. A dessert food truck will be hosted at each event! Take a look at the schedule above. From an exciting obstacle course to water activities to a night of cowboy hats, check out the Happenings on Harvey Street event page to see all that will be offered.

Spiderman posing at Happenings on Harvey Street in Hudsonville.

Grand Haven Beach Vault

Friday, July 11 at 10:00am
Saturday, July 12 at 9:30am
Grand Haven State Park, Grand Haven

Get ready to launch (quite literally) into summer at this annual event! Prepare to witness an extraordinary celebration of athleticism at the annual Grand Haven Beach Vault, a premier pole vaulting competition featured on the picturesque backdrop of Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Over the course of two days, elite athletes from across the nation will compete in this distinctive event, showcasing their skill and determination in a one-of-a-kind setting. Whether you’re cheering from a beach chair or simply soaking up the electric atmosphere, this is one summer spectacle you won’t want to miss. Visit the Grand Haven Beach Vault website for further details.

Participants set up at the Beach Vault event in Grand Haven.

Chalk the Walk

July 12
1:00–3:00pm
Windmill Island Gardens, Holland

Artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to visit the Windmill Island Gardens to decorate the walkways with their chalk creations! Whether your kiddo is interested in participating or viewing, this event offers opportunity for both interests. While you’re at it, look for the free ice cream—courtesy of Holland Polar Patrol—that will be offered throughout the event. This event is priced at $12 for adults, $6 for children 3 to 15 yrs old, and free for children under 3 yrs old—with proof of residency. Holland residents are admitted for free. Take a look at the event page on the Discover Holland Michigan website.

Mom and daughter draw a butterfly mural at Chalk the Walk in Holland.

West Michigan Beach Volleyball Tournament—Summer Sizzle

July 13
8:00am–5:00pm
Grand Haven State Park, Grand Haven

The West Michigan Beach Volleyball Tournament returns to Grand Haven State Park, offering a dynamic weekend of competition and camaraderie on the shores of Lake Michigan. This event welcomes players of all ages and skill levels to participate in a variety of divisions (must enter a team to participate). Come witness adult and junior divisions face off in a thrilling game of beach volleyball—perfect for a summer day trip to the beach and an exciting athletic event you won’t want to miss! Take a look at the opportunities presented on their website.

West Michigan Beach Volleyball tournament in Grand Haven.

Fiesta Car Show

July 20
11:00am–4:00pm
Holland Civic Center, Holland

If you’re seeing countless classic and vintage cars cruising through the streets of Holland this weekend, it’s because the Fiesta Car Show is in full swing! This event showcases local car owners and their prized vehicles for an afternoon of display—offering a chance to connect with the people behind the wheels. Food trucks and various other forms of entertainment will accompany the show. Bring the whole family—not just your grandpa finds entertainment in looking at “old cars.” A $25 cash fee is required to enter your vehicle. Cash awards will be given to those who are voted “Best of Show.” View the posting on their event page.

Event graphic for Fiesta Car Show 2025 in Holland.

Coast Guard Festival

July 25–August 3
Grand Haven

The beloved Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival blends tradition, patriotism, and entertainment against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Michigan. Whether you’re drawn to maritime heritage, spectacular carnivals, or stunning fireworks, this event is a classic summer staple—with plenty of activities to honor both the community and our nation. The event features parades, cardboard boat races on the channel, ship tours, a carnival, retiree beach volleyball, and a cruise-in car show! There is much, much more to this event so make sure to check out their website.

Coast Guard Festival in Grand HaveN.
About the author:

Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.

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