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Family Friendly Events—November

It’s not wintertime yet! While fall is fleeting, there is still time to pack the family schedule. Take a look at these events for the month of November.

Made in Michigan Market in Hudsonville

November 8
9:00am–2:00pm
Terra Square, Hudsonville

This free-to-attend event features local artisans who showcase their products that are exclusively made in Michigan. We all know shopping is better when it’s made by locals for locals. Take a look at the event details here!

The Made in Michigan Market at Terra Square.

Holland Ice Park Grand Opening

November 14
Celebration Begins 2pm & Skate Park Opens 6pm
Window on the Waterfront, Holland

This highly anticipated addition to the Downtown Holland area is quickly approaching. Join Mayor Bocks and the local community for the grand opening of the Holland Ice Park. There are sign-ups required to book your time on the rink, so make sure to check out the website to secure your spot.

Computer-Generated Rendition of the Holland Ice Park.

An Evening of Painting With Carolyn Stich to Support Kids' Food Basket

November 15
7:00–9:00pm
Holland Area Arts Council

Join Carolyn Stitch, an artist based in Holland, for an evening of painting. At this event, you will follow her simple instructions and guided knowledge to paint a bowl of oranges, the symbol of Kids Food Basket. Don’t worry about experience… you don’t need it! There will be snacks provided. It is $50 a person, and all proceeds will go towards Kid’s Food Basket.

Holiday Kerstmarkt

November 21–December 20
Fridays, 3:00pm–7:00pm & Saturdays, 9:00am–7:00pm
Historic Civic Center Marketplace

This is basically the holiday version of the Downtown Farmer’s Market. Take a stroll and see local artisans showcase their handmade goods (and witness some festive cheer). There will be beverages to sip on such as hot spiced wine, hot cocoa, cider, festive punch, and more. Make sure to taste the Dutch Pigs in a Blanket or Stroopwafels. There will be one-of-a-kind artwork made by Dutch artisans. Make sure to take a look at this festive, rich local event.

A Booth at The Holiday Kerstmarkt.

Holiday Open House

November 22
5:00pm–8:00pm
8th Street, Downtown Holland

Surely, it is not winter as of yet. But this event allows you to enjoy the holiday season before it gets bitterly cold. On this Saturday, over 50 shops and restaurants will open their doors exclusively for this event. You can stroll and witness the beautiful holiday decorations of the brightly lit streets as you peruse for gifts. There will be special promotions, free gift wrapping, complimentary holiday refreshments, discounts on merchandise, and even fun giveaways. There will also be appearances of reindeer at a petting corral, strolling carolers, and even chestnuts roasting over an open fire. It is truly a Hallmark movie brought to life. For more information, please visit their website here.

Kids visiting Santa Claus at the Holiday Open House.

Joyful Lights

November 25–January 4
5:30pm–9:30pm
Hudsonville Fairgrounds

In 2021, Jon Maust shared with his wife an idea of creating something truly heartwarming and magical for the surrounding local community that centered around the Christmas holiday. This began the conception of Joyful Lights—over a mile stretch of lights. This 30-minute experience features one million LED lights, synchronized displays, hidden elves, and more! You must register in order to attend.

A family witnessing the lights at Joyful Lights.

Holland Turkey Trot 5k

November 27
8:00am–10:00am
8th Street, Downtown Holland

Did you grow up in an overly active, holiday run family? If so, make sure you’re all signed up for the Holland Turkey Trot 5k on Thanksgiving Day. This race begins and ends on picturesque 8th Street in Downtown. The route will take you through Lincoln Avenue towards Windmill Island Gardens and land you right back at the start. There are an expected 1000 runners, so make sure to register soon to secure your spot. Pricing begins at $40 but will increase on November 1st. To register for this event, please visit the website here.

Advertisement for the 2025 Holland Turkey Trot 5k.
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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