Tour guides take ship passengers cruisin’
U-Pick • Fresh Picked
• Gift shop
• Other fruits available in season
• Visit our antique farm museum
• Fresh Blueberry Donuts & Pies
Located 6 miles south of Grand Haven and 10 miles north of Holland on US-31
Open Early July Thru End of September
U-PICK:
Mon-Sat, 8 am - 5:30 pm
Store Hours:
Mon-Sat, 8 am - 6 pm
Closed Sunday
Publisher Jason Hosko
Editorial Editor: Lisa Enos
Contributors: Jim Bowser, Jeremy Gonsior, Elizabeth Granger, Clayton Trutor, Sheen Watkins
Design
Creative Director: Lindsay Richards
Art Director: Justin Stenson
Senior Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel
Graphic Designer: Elizabeth Kowalik
Photography: Bethany Kruger, deVries Photography by Carmel Musich
Sales
General Inquiries: advertising@hour-media.com
Account Executives: Nick Irwin, Maddy Gill
Production Production Director: Jenine Knox
Senior Production Manager: Jill Berry
Production Designer: James Bibart
IT Director: Jeremy Leland
Circulation
Circulation Manager: Cindy Fish
Web
Digital Director: Travis Cleveland
Sr. Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim
Administration Director Of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki
Senior Accounting Associate: Andrew Kotzian
Accounting Associates: Dian Mauro, Austin Schmelzle
Published By Hour Media
CEO: Stefan Wanczyk
President: John Balardo
Urban St. is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.
Welcome to our summer edition, where we invite you to embrace the season’s essence with us. First, meet Bonnie Verwys, the spirited force behind Bonnie’s Parsonage—a cherished bed and breakfast in our midst. Explore the parsonage’s history, get a glimpse of its quaint garden, and marvel at the breakfast dishes Bonnie’s still preparing on the daily at the remarkable age of 90.
In another tale, we honor Coopersville’s own— the late Del Shannon (who also would have turned 90 this year).
Despite rubbing elbows with some of the most famous musicians in history, the iconic rock and roll artist known for his breakout hit “Runaway” never lost touch with his hometown roots.
For those craving culinary delights with a view, dive into our restaurant reviews. From fresh seafood and juicy steaks at Boatwerks to ne dining on a golf course, each dish celebrates avor against a beautiful backdrop.
Seeking excitement? Explore Grand Fun!— the latest arcade and entertainment hub to open up in the area. Or indulge in a more adult adventure at Obstacle No. 1, where aming drinks — best enjoyed on Tiki Tuesday— create quite a spectacle!
Elizabeth Granger shares the story of the entrepreneurs behind a new tour bus company that caters to Great Lakes cruise ship passengers (and locals alike).
Lastly, we talk to the women behind Journey of Hope Yoga, who are o ering free Christ-centered outdoor classes this summer at Tunnel Park.
Whether it’s a restaurant review, exploring our shoreline’s past and present, or perhaps a recipe bursting with blueberries— my hope is that something herein serves as a reminder to relish each moment of this magical season.
Wishing you a summer lled with joy, adventure, and cherished memories.
Lisa Enos Editor
manufacturing economy
E xplore the latest book from awardwinning journalist and DBusiness magazine editor R.J. King. “Detroit: Engine of America” is the real life story of how the city grew, step by step, from a French fort on the riverfront in 1701 to become the world’s largest manufacturing economy in 1900.
The Lakeshore Brewers Guild’s Burning Foot Festival, now in its ninth year, promises to be bigger, bolder, and more memorable than ever in 2024. In addition to being the lakeshore’s beer fest extraordinaire, Burning Foot now has partnerships with the Michigan Cra Distillers Association, Michigan Cider Association, and the Michigan Wine Collaborative. The festival takes place on Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon August 24, blending cra beverages, with art and live music. “We’re not just a festival; we’re a community of cra beverage enthusiasts, artists, and music lovers who come together to celebrate the best that Michigan has to offer,” said Festival Director Allen Serio. For those who wish to extend their Burning Foot experience, camping options will be available on the shores of Lake Michigan. Tickets are available on the fest’s official website, burningfoot.beer.
Following a successful 2023 inaugural show, Wings Over Muskegon aerial entertainment show is back, August 9–11. “We were thrilled with the overwhelming engagement of the community in terms of spectators, sponsors, volunteers, and vendors. It is clear that West Michigan embraces an air show,” said Event Director Ashley Myers. A Twilight show that incorporates live music, lights, and pyrotechnics kicks off the airshow opening night. Both civilian and military aircra will be featured in the air and on the ground throughout the three-day spectacle. For more information, visit wingsovermuskegon.com.
For three decades Michael T. Naess has been involved in marketing and professional fundraising for organizations such as The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Carnegie Hall, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, and most recently as Vice President of Development at the Grand Rapids Symphony. On June 1, 2024, he became the new President & Chief Executive Officer of the Holland Symphony, one of the city’s most esteemed cultural institutions. “Holland Symphony extends its heartfelt gratitude to Kay Walvoord for her invaluable contributions and leadership during 36-year tenure,” the organization stated in a press release. Walvoord will continue to support the orchestra during the transition period to ensure a seamless handover.
The first new marina to open in Michigan in almost 30 years did so in May on picturesque Muskegon Lake. Adelaide Pointe Marina promises a blend of quality services, public access, and unforgettable experiences for boaters and enthusiasts alike. The new marina partners with the Muskegon County Sheriff ’s Department, providing space to its marine patrol unit. In addition to seasonal rentals, the marina offers 60 transient slips – a convenient and welcoming stopover for boaters from across the region.
Some dates to save: July 25-28, Adelaide Pointe Pro-Am Fishing Tournament; August 13, Adelaide Day; and August 1617, Muskegon Boat Life Adelaide Pointe Boat Show.
Tallmadge Woods of Ox-Bow School of Art and Artists’ Residency was recently inducted into the OldGrowth Forest Network. The nature preserve co-owned by Ox-Bow and the City of Saugatuck provides a natural buffer to coastal wetlands and the Kalamazoo River near the confluence with Lake Michigan, and serves to protect hemlocks that are more than 170 years old.
“Recognition of the importance of these woods, their rarity and impact, helps to bring attention to the need to protect our forests for generations to come,” said OxBow Executive Director Shannon Stratton. “The woods continue to provide inspiration and respite to Ox-Bow artists, our neighbors, and visitors.” The forest’s Crow’s Nest Trail, which includes an incredible view of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, is open to the public year-round. For more information, visit oldgrowthforest.net.
BY KATE NGUYEN
Go for the flowers, stay for the stories.
By Lisa Enos
A historic B&B is one of many Holland homes that opened its gardens to visitors during the annual Holland Garden Club Garden Walk on June 13.
Bonnie’s Parsonage at 6 E. 24th St. used to be— you guessed it— a parsonage; a house provided for the family of clergy by the church. This one was built in 1908 for Prospect Park Christian Reformed Church (long before the church
moved to its new location on 33rd St.). Unique features of the garden include pink flowering dogwood trees, gorgeous rhododendrons, a mimosa tree from upstate New York, and— depending on the year— a tulip bed, dahlias, or tomatoes that owner Bonnie Verwys plants in the area between hers and her neighbor’s house. In early June, the garden was one of nine featured in the Holland Garden Club’s “Secret Gardens”
‘If you put a plant in, and water it and love it, it comes back every year!’ –Bonnie Verwys
walk. To add to the already magical ambiance, Slow & Easy, a harp and guitar duo Verwys met at Holland Summer Street Performers series, entertained garden guests
“My grandmother had a beautiful garden. We had beautiful gardens in Douglas, too,” said Verwys of her childhood home. “ e gardening comes naturally. e good Lord does most of the work. If you put a plant in, and water it and love it, it comes back every year!”
e 90-years-young Parsonage proprietor who celebrated her birthday June 3 exudes such a youthful spirit that it’s di cult to believe she is, indeed, a nonagenarian. As she describes a recent addition to the home, a (nearly) handicap-accessible suite, she chuckles before she delivers the punch line: “I’m going to move in there when I get old.”
Born Bonnie McVoy in Lansing in 1934,
her early years were spent in East Grand Rapids. She had a pony named Playmate that was kept in the garage right in town at her home near Wilcox Park. “You could do that sort of thing back then,” she said, recalling fond memories of hitching it up to a sleigh during winter and riding the snow packed streets of Grand Rapids, ice skating on Reeds Lake, and visiting the Ramona Amusement Park in the summer.
When she was in sixth or seventh grade Bonnie’s family moved to Douglas, and there she stayed for a good many years. Soon a er the move, she won a poster contest that earned her some lessons at the prestigious Ox-bow School of the Arts. “I wasn’t really a very good artist,” said Verwys humbly. “But what you did at Ox-bow was block print (a technique that required the use of sharp tools) and the very rst thing I do? I stab my nger.”
Perhaps physically constructing art projects wasn’t her strong suit. Sports were more her forte (ask her about her medals and trophies), but her keen artistic eye would serve her later in life— as the owner-operator of a historical inn that is meticulously decorated indoors and out.
‘The house is in wonderful condition. I haven’t minded spending one penny on it, decorating it with nice art & antiques.’ –Bonnie Verwys
“The house is in wonderful condition. I haven’t minded spending one penny on it, decorating it with nice art and antiques. It’s very interesting. My kids say I over did it. I’ve had more fun than a barrel of monkeys antiquing,” Veryws said.
“I’ve always had an eye for them. I never know what I’m going to find,” she added, while contemplating some artwork she found at an antique store in Hudsonville. It depicts two vessels moored beside the Saugatuck Pavilion, now a vestige of the past that holds special memories for Verwys. She worked there as a teen, serving food to wealthy Chicago businessmen who would visit the resort community by passenger boat. Her father didn’t like her working there because, well, she’s not entirely sure, but it probably had something to do with the adult activities
that took place there— like dancing.
“You had to be 18 to dance,” said Verwys, as she recalled the luxuriously dressed ladies who would accompany the men to steak dinners. On one momentous occasion, Verwys said she was tipped $100.00— in 1951!
With an eye for antiques and the finer things in life (not the least of which was good food), when she found herself out of a job in 1984, it was a natural fit to turn the parsonage, which she’d purchased ten years prior, into a bed and breakfast.
“I married into the community (Holland) in the 1960s, and we had a divorce. As a single lady I bought the parsonage, and it was the perfect job for me,” she said.
As a preparer of breakfast— served daily to her many guests— she keeps more than a
couple culinary tricks up her sleeve. A large oven pancake, “pannukakku,” pigs-in-a blanket, her grandmother’s custard, oatmeal, and an egg casserole are her go-to’s for breakfast. “We once had a judge stay for seven days. The last day I’d run out of ideas. He asked for the pancake again and said it was a culinary masterpiece.” With a wink and a nod Verwys jokingly told him, ‘Well, we haven’t lost anyone yet.’”
The judge had relatives who lived nearby, so they were invited to experience breakfast, which is always served in the formal dining room at an antique walnut table that seats 12 when it’s fully assembled. “It should probably stay with the house if it’s ever sold because it’s just such a wonderful tablem” Verwys said. It’s an antique she picked up for $300. An expert
of sorts told her it is probably now worth $10,000— the price paid for her family’s 11-acre Douglas property in 1947.
To see the inside of the house, there’s a two-night minimum stay. “Our house and our rooms— one has twin beds and one has a beautiful walnut double bed. If someone needs a queen size bed, we can provide that, too,” said Verwys. (It’s in that addition that she had built ‘for when she gets old’ that she has yet to move into.)
And she has no intentioin of stopping. “I’ve met the nicest people over the years— a doctor from India who’s daughter went to Hope College,” said Verwys. “I’ve been invited to France. I’ve been invited to Mississippi. Sometimes I forget about collecting the money because I’m having such a wonderful time.”
By Clayton Trutor
Charles Westover, a quiet, introspective kid from Coopersville made a profound impact on the history of rock and roll. A er topping the charts with “Runaway,” he recorded another half-dozen top 20 singles and reached the Billboard Hot 100 on 17 occasions.
“He was Del Shannon on stage, but he was Charles Westover immediately when he got o the stage,” said James Popenhagen,
who has helped keep the singer-songwriter’s memory alive with the “Del Shannon Show,” a long-running touring tribute show slated to kick o the “Del Shannon Weekend” in Battle Creek at the end of June.
Charles Weedon Westover was born December 30, 1934 in Grand Rapids, the eldest of Bert and Leone’s three children. Charles had two younger sisters, Blanche and Ruth Anne,
with whom he remained close throughout his life. His mother played ukulele and taught the instrument to her son. He ordered his rst guitar from the Sears catalogue, and as a teen played for orphaned children at the Muskegon Children’s Home.
Charles met Shirley Nash in High School. ey wed at age 17 and started a family of their own. In 1956, three years a er he graduated, he was dra ed into the Army and stationed in Germany, where he performed on Army radio and established a following. A er the Army, he took a day job at the Brunswick furniture factory in Kalamazoo and performed regularly at the Hi-Lo Club in Battle Creek. He enlisted Bob Popenhagen (the grandfather of James Popenhagen) as a guitarist. e group took o , and at the suggestion of a manager he changed his name to Del Shannon.
He was the rare pop musician in the early 1960s who wrote most of his own material.
Clockwise form top le : Charles Westover/Del Shannon, age 8; Westover/Shannon with guitar; Westover/Shannon with wife, Shirley, and their children: Jody, Craig, and Kym.
His melodic sensibilities and use of minor chords inspired numerous artists, not the least of whom were Je Lyne of ELO, Tom Petty, and Elvis Presley. When he toured England one of Shannon’s opening acts was the Beatles, who started as his fans and ended up his friends.
“My dad was funny and always cool to be around,” his son Craig Westover said. “ ere was a lot of times when I was younger when he was on the road a lot, so our time was really, really special.” In later years, Craig went on tour with his father to England.
In January 1961, Shannon and a team of session musicians recorded “Runaway” at New York’s famed Bell Sound studio. Within weeks the song was a smash hit, selling a reported 80,000 copies a day a er Shannon appeared on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. “Runaway” spent a month on top of the Billboard Hot 100 and was one of the top selling singles of 1961.
In late April 1961, he was asked to address the student body at Coopersville High School, but was not allowed to sing “Runaway” for
“He wasn’t an uncle we just knew about. He spent a lot of time with our family.”
- Brad Erickson
fear that the students would act out. He was supposed to have received the key to the city that day, but the mayor who was to present it was “out of town.” Shannon performed brie y on Main Street that night on the back of a atbed truck.
In 1962 and 1963, Shannon toured Great Britain, selling out venues. He headlined at London’s Royal Albert Hall with e Beatles as the opening act. ey remained admirers for life, opening for him on several occasions. Shannon became the rst American to record a Beatles song, “From Me to You,” in 1963.
In 1983, Del Shannon at last received the key to Coopersville and performed a full-on concert.
“He wasn’t an uncle we just knew about. He spent a lot of time with our family,” Brad Erickson said. “Uncle Chuck” and
“Aunt Shirley” were particularly close to Erickson’s family, who lived in Ludington. ey attended many of Erickson’s baseball games. “He came to the house and said, ‘Hey Brad, I bought this ball glove so that we could play catch,’” Erickson said. “When he le to go back to California, he said ‘I’d like you to have this glove.’ I still have it and it is one of my cherished things.”
In 1988, Tom Petty namechecked his old friend with the lyrics “Me and Del were singing little Runaway” in the hit song “Runnin’ Down a Dream.” At the time, Shannon was working on a new album with Petty and Lynne. The recordings were released posthumously on Rock On, an album that showcased Shannon’s lyrical, vocal, and instrumental acumen.
Sadly, Shannon died tragically in California in 1990. Soon after, a “Del Shannon Classic Car Show” began in Coopersville, blending nostalgia for the great music and automobiles of the 1950s and 1960s. The car show — slated for Aug. 9 and 10, 2024— remains, but his namesake car show will be held June 29, 11–4 p.m. in Battle Creek.
Grand Rapids Magazine is the essential guidebook to the good life in Grand Rapids. As the premier bi-monthly life and style publication in West Michigan, the magazine exudes the excitement, complexity and style associated with West Michigan.
Grand Rapids is our beat. We capture the flair and vitality of the city and present it in a unique and creative style that blends awardwinning journalism and depth of knowledge with engaging editorial.
By Elizabeth Granger
It’s a rather nondescript storefront on Western Avenue in Muskegon, across the street from the old train depot which is now home to Visit Muskegon.
But the Muskegon Heritage Museum of Business & Industry gathers oohs and aahs from those who step inside. ey’re the lucky ones, o en clued in by Rick Murak and Joe Panici of the Muskegon Tour Co. Visitors are bowled over by the museum’s working Brunswick pinsetter, to be sure. And by the working steam engine and Raggedy Ann dolls and ….
“ is is one of the cruise passengers’ top places,” Murak said. “ ey say it’s like a stroll down Memory Lane.”
Who knew? Oh yeah, Murak and Panici knew. ey’re Muskegon natives who have been soaking up all things Muskegon for their entire lives. ey’re still at it, continuously doing research to nd more. ose who take their tours de nitely bene t. And yet, the Muskegon Tour Co. itself has a very short history. e stars aligned perfectly just last year. Following the COVID–19 pandemic, Muskegon welcomed cruise ships back in a big way in 2022 with guided tours hosted by the Chamber
of Commerce. Murak and Panici were volunteer guides. e idea proved too daunting for the Chamber, but not for the civic-minded duo. So last year, the Muskegon Tour Co. was born.
It’s already at work for this year’s cruise season; Pearl Mist and Le Bellot will dock in Muskegon a total of 15 times this year. Passengers will come ashore to explore Muskegon. Murak and Panici are ready with a variety of land tours, on a variety of vehicles — motorcoaches big and not-so-big, nostalgic trolleys, vans — depending on the number of participants and choice of tour. When a large number of visitors choose the same tour, the large group is broken into smaller groups at the site, with a separate guide for each of the smaller groups.
‘Many ask about Michigan winters. How cold does it get?
How much snow do you get? What do you do in the winter?‘
e majority of cruise passengers — typically older, educated, well-travelled, monied — have never been to Michigan. Many have never seen any of the Great Lakes. ey’re inquisitive, ready to learn. “We encourage questions,” Murak said.
Many ask about Michigan winters. How cold does it get? How much snow do you get? What do you do in the winter?
A typical option for cruise passengers includes a hop-on-hop-o heritage tour of Muskegon’s downtown that’s big on history. Murak and Panici can regale visitors with oddities that include a glass oor at a public library, a mastodon scavenger hunt, America’s tallest singing Christmas tree, and
‘We set up and organize the itinerary...We provide the narrative enroute— the history, the information, whatever it is.’
the reason for that statue of Buster Keaton in front of the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts.
And what, exactly, are “Dam nos”?
e “Best of Muskegon” tour visits the Veterans Museum aboard one of just two remaining World War II LSTs, made-in-Muskegon products, and historic mansions that include Muskegon’s “painted ladies.” Other tours focus on architecture or the beach or cra breweries.
Possibilities in Grand Rapids include the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
Perhaps the most unusual is the Sand Dune and Wine Tasting tour which takes visitors to Silver Lake for a 40-minute ride on an open-air dune scooter, then to a winery.
But wait— there’s more! Ship passengers are just one part of this story.
Tours are available for all types of groups. In growing numbers, participants
are tourists in their own back yard— bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate outings, family reunions, wedding groups, civic and social groups.
“We set up and organize the itinerary,” Murak said. “We provide the narrative enroute— the history, the information, whatever it is. When we get to the site (a museum, for example), there typically is another guide who is the expert who will take over for that part of the itinerary.”
He added, “We do have some exclusive for-us-only hours and perhaps a special keepsake item.”
Murak said each tour has a bonus for him and Panici. “We get to see Muskegon all the time, but when we take people on a tour, we get to see everything new again through their eyes.”
Information is available at muskegontourcompany.com or (231) 855-8687.
This year marks the legendary Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival’s 100th anniversary. From July 26 to August 4, the festival honors the brave men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard. Held perennially in the picturesque coastal town of Grand Haven, action, musical tributes and family fun awaits.
Each day, the festival hosts unique events and venues. Musical tributes to celebrated musicians span the festival at Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium. Each of these events include opening acts from favorite, local bands. The night of opening day, 21 Gun Salute hurls you back in time with a rocking, rolling, and realistic tribute to AC/DC.
The following evening, Simply Queen belts out Queen’s iconic music— hitting every note while delivering Queen’s unique stage presence. Other musical tributes throughout the week include Silver Stallion’s tribute to The Highwaymen, Jimmy
Buffet from Parrots of the Caribbean, the legendary Heart from Barracuda-America, and two distinct eras of Van Halen are reproduced and performed by the Van Halen Invasion.
The Parade of Ships on July 28 welcomes sailing vessels, including a cutter, tugboats and a seagoing buoy tender into the Port of Grand Haven. Get an inside look with available ship tours throughout the week.
is year, for the rst time, the Grand Parade is encouraging folks attending the parade to dress in 1950’s attire as they watch more than 100 entries celebrate the U.S. Coast Guard. Stop and admire many antique, classic, vintage, muscle, street rod, and more at the Cruisein Car Show. Observe quilting in action as the Lighthouse Quilt Guild o ers demonstrations and displays 100+ quilts. Join in on the free street dance with Brena in the middle of Washington Street.
Among the perennially popular events . . .
July 27
• Kids Parade
• Cardboard Boat Race (to participate, preregister)
July 28
• Cruise-in Car Show and picnic at Coast Guard Park in Ferrysburg
July 30-August 3
• Carnival
August 3
• Grand Parade
• Fireworks
And a recent addition to the event roster . . .
July 31
• Waterball Competition
Coasties and Grand Haven public safety o cers and re ghters in a very wet tug-of-war
is year’s picnic with food, games and music returns to where the festival rst started a century ago: Mulligan’s Hollow.
e Modern Gentlemen, a vocal harmony group known for keeping the classics alive will perform before the rst drone show of the week. e festival’s nale ends at Grand Haven’s Musical Fountain with event favorite Yächtley Crëw, performing before the second live drone show. e musical drone show starts a er sunset, followed by an eruption of reworks guaranteed to light up the night.
e Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival promises an unforgettable family experience. For details including event dates, tickets and logistics visit: tickets.coastguardfest.org.
I have golfed at Clearbrook Golf Club for years, but never took the time to actually sit down and enjoy a meal at its highly rated restaurant.
Whenever I nished a round, I walked by the Grille Room at Clearbrook, noticed how busy it was, how happy people looked, and told myself I had to come back soon.
Finally, a er years of putting my visit o , I determined I couldn’t wait any longer.
One Wednesday night in early May, I booked a reservation online, invited a longtime friend from college, and prepared to check another West Michigan culinary destination o my list.
When we arrived at the restaurant, just minutes outside of downtown Saugatuck, the formal, traditional interior triggered so many positive childhood experiences of ne dining with my family. ‘ ey just don’t make places like this anymore,’ I thought to myself.
Soon the hostess seated us at an amazing
window table overlooking the course. Our waiter, Barry, accelerated the good vibes from the moment he arrived.
He was cool, laid back and always smiling. As we reviewed the menu, he explained the bread was made fresh this morning and didn’t need any butter on it.
Barry was right. e bread was so satisfying, and we demolished it.
“I saw what you guys did there,” he said as he pointed to the empty basket and brought back another basket of warm bread.
My friend ordered wine, while I went with an Old Fashioned. Both were refreshing and just what we needed a er long days. en it was time...drumroll, please...to order the entrees.
I immediately gravitated toward the seafood pasta dish comprised of Maine lobster pieces, linguine, diced tomatoes, lemon and Pernod cream sauté, and garden herbs. It was light, fresh, and full of avor. Dine
My friend ordered the chicken breast, which featured a white wine, herb buttered chicken broth, and lemon juice pan-sauté, brine-marinated chicken, lyonnaise wild and long-grain rice with sautéed onion and celery, plus broccoli florettes and cherry tomatoes.
Great presentation, even better taste.
“This chicken is unbelievable,” she said after a few bites.
A manager came by and complimented me on my purple tropical shirt. ‘Now I am definitely coming back,’ I thought. ‘They get me.’
We dined, laughed, talked with Barry, and repeated. Before we knew it, the restaurant was closed, and we were still there. The sign of a great time.
After my next round of golf, I know where I am stopping.
By Jim Bowser
New to the north side of Grand Haven is the video arcade Grand Fun!
My wife and I dropped in during their “so open” on April 6, and so enjoyed ourselves, we immediately made plans to return with friends the next weekend.
Owned by Grand Haven residents
Tim and Sara Pokorski, Grand Fun! is a multi-purpose entertainment facility that o ers a wide variety of arcade games in a safe and welcoming environment with rooms available for birthday parties and other events. Come hungry because Grand Fun! also o ers mouth-watering hot snacks like pizza, mozzarella sticks, and mac & cheese.
My favorite activity is the mini bowling. Normally, my bowling score resembles that of a seasoned golf pro— not here!
And a er this group of “ y-somethings” racked up our best bowling scores in years, we challenged each other on motorcycles and race cars, shot at dinosaurs and zombies, and even did a little shing. Once we worked up an appetite, we snacked on a delicious, massive hot pretzel, dipping it
in nacho and queso cheese sauces (other avors available). Yum!
Even though we racked up enough virtual tickets to win a decent reward from the prize store, we opted to register our game card and return to accumulate more tickets for a bigger and better prize. ( at adorable Bob Ross doll WILL be mine!)
Grand Fun! is nestled on the north side of Jackson Street between e Lighting Corner and the Grand Haven Room Escape. Bring friends and family of all ages and be prepared to have Grand Fun! e fun starts here!
Grand Fun!
1051 Jackson Street, Suite B, Grand Haven Grand-Fun.com You
Ingredients
4 Eggs
1 cup blueberries
½ cup Milk
½ cup Flour
1 tsp. Vanilla
¼ tsp. Salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
4 Tablespoons butter (divided)
Zest of one lemon Blend until smooth
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
Mix eggs, flour, milk, salt, vanilla, sugar, lemon zest, and 2 T. melted butter in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Heat 2 T. butter in an oven-safe skillet and add 1 cup of blueberries. Immediately add the batter, then transfer it to the oven.
Cook for 15 minutes. It will puff up and then collapse as it cools. When finished, it will have a custardy texture. Dust with powdered sugar. Top with maple syrup (optional).
Michigan BLUE is a quarterly magazine targeted at Michigan’s waterfront homeowners and to those who embrace a lifestyle of living on water.
Michigan BLUE is created for a water-loving audience who is enthusiastic about living on water and is invested in a lifestyle inspired by the recreational vibrancy of a large inland lake, the tranquility of a bayou, or the ever-changing drama of a Great Lake.
To subscribe today, Scan the QR Code - ORgo to mibluemag.com/subscribe for your one-year subscription for $14.95.
Subscribe to Michigan BLUE and enjoy the view!
By Elizabeth Granger
Ah, cocktails. Those fancy grown-up libations with those cute little paper umbrellas.
Yeah. No.
Welcome to Obstacle No. 1 in Holland. Pairing those petite paper parasols with the aming inferno known as Don the Beachcomber? Not smart. It arrives in a tall – 8 inches tall – tiki mug with the bartender’s admonition to wait a moment. is guy can light your re. Wait … that would be the drink’s re. And in a ash — a controlled ash re — you’re not in Holland, Michigan, anymore. And those problems you might have come in with? ey went up in ames. is is just too much fun.
Don the Beachcomber is a fruity combination of pineapple, grapefruit, banana. And, well, more than just a slosh of over proof rums. e straw is metal — it’s been in a re, you know — so a moment of pause is a good idea. And then, ahhhh. e wait is worth it.
It’s a Tiki Tuesday staple at this cocktail bar. Truth be told, you can order it any day, as long as it’s Tuesday through Saturday, with the bar opening at 4 p.m. Sundays, they say, are for “church, family, football.” Closed Mondays, too.
92 W. 8th St., Holland, MI 49423 (616) 994-8370 obstacleholland.com You gotta try this!
is is de nitely a grown-up scene, sophistication somehow infused with coziness. Unquestionably up-scale, with oh-so-clever accoutrements. e drink menu comes in a book, with chapters. Chapter 3: Obstacles You Know & Love, includes Black Math: bourbon, local honey, Nonino Amaro, hazelnut nocino,
dry Curacao, Angostura bitters, absinthe. Chapter 4: Classic Cocktails, Frequent & Forgotten, o ers the Hemingway daiquiri.
Chapter 8: Spirit-free Cocktails — for your designated driver or someone who just doesn’t want alcohol — has the Blueberry Fizz.
And the list of house rules? ere are 70, just about every one worthy of a gu aw. ere’s No. 34: Do Not Antagonize a Man With An Eye Patch.
No. 56: If ere is Danger Involved, it is Always Fun.
No. 70. Who Put the Alphabet in Alphabetical Order?
Why the House Rules? Just because. Remember: You’re there to have fun.
Food comes in small plates from Poquito, the restaurant next door. Same kitchen, same owner. e warm goat cheese plate does more than warm your heart.
Obstacle No. 1
Ingredients
1 pint blueberries
½ cup warm water
1 ½ Tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon coarse salt
3/4 cup Fustini’s West Michigan Blueberry balsamic, plus more for drizzling
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 Tablespoon Fustini’s Basil Crush olive oil, more for drizzling
2 garlic cloves
8–16 ounces of burrata cheese
1 baguette, sliced (toasted if desired)
1 handful of fresh basil leaves
Kosher salt and pepper
Directions
Step 1
Place the blueberries in a jar or bowl. Place water, sugar, salt, and balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar and salt dissolve and the mixture comes to a boil. Pour over blueberries and let sit at room temperature if using within an hour. Or, refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tomatoes with garlic and big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes burst and are juicy, about 10 minutes. Let the tomatoes cool slightly.
Step 3
To assemble, place the burrata in the center of a platter. Top with burst tomatoes, using a slotted spoon remove blueberries, and place them on top. Add fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve with a fresh baguette.
Leftovers are delicious on some toasted crusty bread (with more olive oil).
Substitute your favorite herb-infused olive oil. A great red, white and blue appetizer!
Story by Debby Buck DeJonge
If by land or by sea, Boatwerks is a solid port in the storm. This spring, my girlfriend Val and I ventured over to tiptoe past the “tulip troopers” who were representing from all over the world, as usual, and thankfully! Tulips were blooming, and passersby turned into a newly minted gaggle of gal pals from Ohio. They were sailing by for happy hour and said “hi.” We said, “hi,” too. We were all Boatwerks virgins, so I went straight to the top and summoned Chris, the General Manager to guide me in ordering. (Even though I may not look like it, I am highly coachable.)
He steered us to the new seafood entrees. I zeroed in on the seafood chowder— tout suite! Was it because I was harkening back to the days of Great Lakes Shipping
Company, in Grand Rapids? Or because I just spoke to the head bartender from the same place? I threw caution to the wind and Val followed suit. Every taste was a treat. Phenomenal. Not to be shared. Claim your own serving!
Next up to bat was Val’s choice, a warm cheesy dish served hot in a black spider pan like my Danish grandmother restauranter. Yes sir, they did that right, too! Val likes to follow rules so she went for Fish Tacos. Was it because it was Tuesday, I wondered? She can’t be shoved around, so I stopped begging her to get the steak. I had laid eyes on the plate-covering, succulent steak across the hall. I had to get a closer look, so I did. The nice couple insisted I dunk my finger in the
silver cup housing the cherry-infused steak sauce and I was glad I did. (Do they sell that separately? Inquiring minds!)
My entrée selection was a shrimp and scampi tortellini dish. Something I would never make. They make it and it is delicious. The red sauce had just enough kick to invite me to keep going for more. The pasta was perfectly prepared— firm enough to showcase the seafood which was delightfully garnished like a well-dressed window in a NYC department store. The bar menu featured a blood orange margarita, which was just begging to be tried while I drank in the view. I counted at least six other cocktails that piqued my interest. My palette was tickled with a tricked-up Aperol Spritz introduced to me by another Valerie. As I
relaxed into the mood and music of Boatwerks I began to wish the perfromer would play The Monkees’ hit with the same name: “Valleri.”
We assuaged our epicurean palettes with the grand finale we like to call dessert. Always the right thing to do. Val’s selection was the New York Cheesecake drizzled with strawberries. I went for our family favorite: Key Lime Pie. I know this “critter” well. My book publisher resides in Key West. The entire staff was so accommodating, I have every confidence they will make your dreams come true.
We saw a sign from above in the form of a rainbow cumulous cloud as we departed— red, yellow, and green bidding us a fond adieu...until we return and belly up to the bar like the patrons who like to call Boatwerks home. debbybuckdejonge.com
By Lisa Enos
This summer, Journey of Hope Yoga, a Christ-centered nonprofit yoga studio, will host community yoga classes outdoors, promoting healing and wellness in a serene setting.
Founded six years ago by Bonnie Gruppen and Ria Nieboer, Journey of Hope Yoga provides a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals seeking physical, emotional, and spiritual healing through yoga: therapeutic, mindful body and breath work. Located in Riley Plaza at 12719 Riley St., Suite 85, on Holland’s North Side, the studio o ers free, donation-based weekly classes, welcoming everyone to join.
Bonnie Gruppen, the president, and co-founder of Journey of Hope Yoga, has been teaching various tness classes for more than 40 years. “I’ve taught since I was 20, and I’m 61 now,” said Gruppen. “A er years of teaching cardio, step, kickboxing, and Zumba, my body needed something more gentle. I discovered yoga and fell in love with its bene ts— the breathing, the calmness, and the stretching. It creates wellness not just in the body, but in the mind and spirit as well.” Journey of Hope Yoga was born from a year of prayer and listening to God’s direction. Gruppen and Nieboer, who is also a licensed Complex Trauma therapist, felt a deep calling to give back to their community. “We wanted to provide a Christ-centered yoga practice for people who seek healing and hope in their lives,” Gruppen said.
As a 501(c)(3) nonpro t, Journey of Hope Yoga relies on donations and corporate sponsors to maintain its facilities, pay instructors, and cover basic utilities. “One hundred percent of donations go into the studio and are tax-deductible,” Gruppen said. e studio currently o ers eight weekly classes, including two evening sessions and several morning classes. We o er slow ow yoga classes as well as a specialty class called “Balance and Mobility.” is class is designed
to support individuals facing chronic health issues such as depression, cancer, osteoporosis, or anyone who just prefers a more modi ed class. Props are used in this class to support our bodies as we move,” said Gruppen.
Journey of Hope Yoga integrates a Christ-centered focus into its yoga practice, o ering readings or Bible verses to provide spiritual nourishment along with physical exercise. “We believe in honoring your body and listening to it, as every day is di erent. Yoga has numerous health bene ts such as improving strength and exibility, reducing stress; yoga strengthens the immune system, aids in digestion, and helps reduce anxiety through relaxation and breathing,” said Gruppen. Journey of Hope Yoga’s mission extends beyond physical wellness. “Our hearts are connected to helping people through di cult situations in life and giving back to the community. We provide a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone can nd solace and strength,” she said.
Earlier this year, Journey of Hope Yoga started hosting outdoor yoga classes at Tunnel Park. e classes will continue to take place every Tuesday, starting at 6 p.m., through Labor Day. Like the center’s in-studio classes, the outdoor classes are open to the community on a donation basis.
Whether you’re dealing with health challenges or simply seeking a peaceful, Christ-centered community, Journey of Hope Yoga invites you to join them on this journey of faith and wellness.
For more information or to sign up for classes, visit www.JourneyOfHopeYoga.org or follow Journey of Hope Yoga on Facebook.
Named for Sirius, the Dog Star that burns brightest in the night sky in the constellation Canis Major, the “Dog Days of Summer” are the days of the year that are typically the hottest. What a great time to relax under the shade of a tree (or curl up under a blanket with cool air conditioning blasting) and indulge in good book!
In honor of the midsummer moniker, our friends at The Bookman, located at 715 Washington Avenue in Grand Haven, have put together this list of books that revolve around the central theme of— you guessed it— dogs! From kids’ books to Cujo, here are their recommendations:
Kids — May 2024
Maxine Gets a Job - Alexandra Garyn, Bryan Reisberg Maxine the Flu y Corgi (a real-life Instagram star) would like a job. But when she tries out her friends’ jobs, they don’t go very well. Eventually, she realizes the key to nding the perfect job is rst guring out what she loves to do.
Ages 8 – 12 — June 2024 They Call me
From the bestselling author of “ e Day the Crayons Quit” comes a novel about a brave dog, Sam, who will do anything to protect his family. e Petersons adopt a precocious pug who causes more harm than good at rst. But when danger threatens the Peterson household, Sam leaps into action, and may just save the day.
Visit The Bookman on Saturday, Aug. 17 for a “Dog Days of Summer” celebration. The fun starts at 10 a.m. with a story time for children. Dogs are always welcome in the store, but on this occasion they are especially welcome. There will be cra s, coloring pages, dog treats and more. For details, visit the bookstore’s page on Facebook/The-Bookman.
Ages 10 – 14 — May 2024
Gooseberry - Robin Gow
Twelve-year-old B has a lot of questions. Like what should their name be a er coming out as nonbinary. Or what it would be like to live with a family, and not in a foster home. But they do know they’d like to be a dog trainer. Eventually B meets a stray dog and it’s love at rst sight. But it turns out dog training is a little harder than B expected.
Fiction— Re-release September 2024
Cujo - Stephen King
For something a little di erent, here’s a classic and terrifying read. Cujo used to be a friendly dog, always doing his best to take care of his people and keep them happy. But a rabbit chase gone wrong leads to a chain of events from which no one is safe.
April 2024
Puppy Brain - Kerry Nichols
Photography— October 2023
The Best Dog: Hilarious to Heartwarming Portraits of the Pups We Love - Aliza Eliazarov
A beautiful collection of dog photographs honoring the connection between pet and person. Everything from lazy dogs to adventurous pups proves that dogs really are the best.
is book will help you raise a healthy and well-behaved puppy. rough years of research on puppy brain development, Nichols helps readers understand and communicate with their dogs more deeply— lled with adorable photos, clear instructions, and even some humor! The Bookman, 715 Washington Avenue, Grand Haven Facebook/The-Bookman.
St.,
Glik’s Men’s Shop
8 W. Eighth St., Holland
Sun Life T-shirt $32, Central Beach Short $65 Rhythm Livin Apparel Now Available at Glik’s
114 E. Main Ave., Zeeland, and 48 E. Eighth St., Holland
Rolife DIY Cultural and Creative Craft Kits $13.99-$47.99
Find a vast range of fun-to-build DIY craft toys, such as miniature house kits and 3D wooden puzzles!
Fris Supply Shop
30 W. Eighth St., Holland Wonder Worlds 3D Immersive Activity Kits $12-$13
Borr’s Shoes & Accessories
51 E. Eighth St., Holland Birkenstock Arizona Eva $50
Santa Fe Trading Co.
325 Butler St., Saugatuck Van Go T-Shirt $28
The Owl House
303 Butler St., Saugatuck
Local Photographer James Leenhouts Sunset on Driftwood $105
Lucia’s World Emporium
421 Water St., Saugatuck Peacock Capiz Chime $27
Button Gallery
33 Center St., Douglas
Artist Dana Tindall’s Popsicle and Big Fry with Ketchup $300 each
Lakeshore Pet Boutique
10 W. Center St., Douglas Enrichment Puzzle Rental Program Available
Lulu Cadieux
3480 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck
Hands-On Cooking Classes $135 per person
Mercantile
161 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas Italian Melamine Dinner Plates $28 each 4 colors available
Classes include handmade pasta, Spanish paella, Moroccan couscous, Asian cuisine, soufflés, fish 3 ways, chicken cordon bleu, and more! See class options at lulucadieux.com
The Laffing Glass
125 Mason St., Saugatuck
Extensive Variety of Handmade Nightlights to Choose From $35-$42
Muskegon
Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 8 a.m.–2 p.m. through Nov. 30. 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Spring Lake
Thursdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. through Oct. 13. Tanglefoot Park Pavilion, 312 W. Exchange St. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Grand Haven
Wednesdays & Saturdays 8 a.m.– 1 p.m. through Oct. 28. Chinook Pier, 301 N. Harbor Dr. visitgrandhaven.com/event
Holland
Wednesdays & Saturdays 8 a.m.–2 p.m. through November. Eighth Street Market Place, 150 W. 8th St. hollandfarmersmarket.com
Saugatuck
Every Friday through Sept. 27, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Seasonal market featuring West Michigan farmers, talented cra ers, woodworkers, artists, chefs, and more. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St. sc4a.org/event/the-market-at-sca
Muskegon
Parties in the Park 40th year! Live music, food vendors, beverage tents. Most Fridays throughout the summer through Aug. 23, 5-9 p.m., Hackley Park, 350 W. Webster Ave. Free. partiesinthepark.com
Parties in the Park
McGraft Park Summer Concert Series, July 9, 18, 23 & 30; and Aug. 8, 13 & 20. Shows start at 7 p.m. at McGraft bandshell, 2204 Wickham. Various artists and genres. Bring chairs or blankets. Free. muskegon-mi. gov/mcgraft-park-summer-concert-series
Spring Lake Music at the Point. Thursdays through Aug. 22, 7–8:30 p.m., Mill Point Park, 612 W. Savidge St. Bring chairs. Free. visitspringlakemi.com
Fruitport
Dancing into Sunset Dance Party at Pomona Park Thursdays through Aug. 27. July dance parties are 7–9:30 p.m. August parties are 6:30–9 p.m. The Pomona Park bandshell is located at Park St. and S. 3rd Ave. in Fruitport. More details on the event Facebook page. Free.
Grand Haven
Music on the Grand. Wednesday June 5– August 28, 7 - 9 p.m. Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium, 1 N. Harbor Dr. Live music for listening and dancing. Bring lawn chairs. Free. facebook.com/MusicOnTheGrand
Sounds of Summer. Tuesdays through Aug. 6, 7-8:30 p.m. at Bolt Park, Pennoyer Ave. and Beechtree St. (Rain Location will be Eagles Aerie #925 at 2nd & Columbus). July 30th: No concert; Coast Guard Festival Week. Local bands, sponsored by WAWL. Free.
Friday Night Concerts. July 5 through August 23, the Ric VanWeelden Music Fund will promote “music everywhere, for everyone” in this concert series highlighting Michigan-based talent. Concerts take place 6–8:30 p.m. at 1 North Harbor.
Musical Fountains. Every night through Labor Day when the sky grows dark, Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium, 1 N. Harbor Dr. Shows begin at dusk and lasts 20–25 minutes. Free. ghfountain.org
Zeeland Soundz of Summer Concert Series. Tuesdays in July, 6:30 p.m., Lawrence Street Park, 100 W. Lawrence Ave. Bring chairs or blankets. Free. cityofzeeland.com/ 333/Soundz-of-Summer-Concert-Series
Zeelmania. Mondays through July 1–29, 6–8 p.m. in the downtown social district on Main Street between Elm & Church. Street fair with activities for young kids — each week has a different theme. Free. | cityofzeeland.com
Music on Main. Select Thursdays through Aug. 22. Live music, food trucks, and yard games. Picnic tables available or bring your own chairs. Free. June 27 will be in the South Parking lot off Cherry Street. July and August dates will return to Main Street between Elm and Church in the city of Zeeland downtown social district. cityofzeeland.com
Holland
The Backyard Summer Concert Series at Ridge Point Church, 340 104th Ave. Thursdays July 3, 17, & 31; Aug. 14 & 28. The parking lot opens at 5:30 p.m., and the concerts start at 6:30 p.m. The Aug. 28 concert will begin at 7 p.m. with the parking lot opening at 6 p.m. Bring chairs/blankets. If it rains, concerts are held indoors. Individual tickets and season passes available (free for kids 10 and under). ridgepointff.org.
Summer Street Performers. Thursdays through Aug. 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 8th Street musicians, magicians, acrobats, jugglers, face painters, balloon artists — each week a different mix. Free. holland.org/summer-streetperformer-series.
American Legion Band concerts Tuesday nights hrough Aug 13, 7:30 p.m., Kollen Park bandshell, 240 Kollen Park Dr. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. hollandlegionband.org
Friday night concerts July 12 through Aug. 16. 6:308:30 p.m., Kollen Park bandshell, 240 Kollen Park Dr. One food truck a week sets up at 5:30. Free. holland. org/summer-concert-series
Benjamin’s Hope Summer Music Series. June 27, Dunegrass; July 18, Friends of Friends; August 8, The Khakis; August 29, Sunday Scaries. All concerts are 6 –7:30 p.m., 15468 Riley St. Casual all-abilities learn/play workshop. Pack a picnic. Free. benjaminshope.net
Journey of Hope Yoga community outdoor yoga classes at Tunnel Park (top of the hill) take place every Tuesday night, starting at 6 p.m., through Labor Day. Open to the community on a donation basis. For more information visit the Journey of Hope Facebook page or journeyofhopeyoga.org.
Laketown Township
Felt Estate self-guided tours. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 1–4 p.m. through September. Explore the restored 1904 Gibson Church, the 1917 Carriage House, as well as the 1928 mansion and grounds. Located at 6597 138th Ave, Holland Adults: $10; Seniors (60+) $8; Children 8+ $5; Children 7 and under are free.
Saugatuck
Wicks Park Gazebo Music in the Park. Wednesdays through Sept. 4, 7-9 p.m. Wicks Park, 449 Water St. Free.
Fennville
Music in the Park. Most Thursdays through Aug. 22, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Pantelleria Park, 116 S. Maple St. Free.
June 13 – 26 (various dates)
Holland: Hope Repertory Theatre presents “The Last Five Years” at Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. 8th St. This powerful musical explores the relationship between a rising novelist and an aspiring actress over the course of five years. Made possible through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International. Curtain, 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at hopecollege.csstix.com
June 22
Grand Haven: Tri-Cities Garden Club Garden Walk, June 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The 29th annual Garden in Grand Haven and Robinson Townships featuring seven area gardens. This event will take place rain or shine. Refreshments, cra s, plein air artists, and a plant sale will be featured at some of the gardens. Tickets are $12 per adult (children 12 and under are free). For more information, please visit our website at tricitiesgardenclub.org.
June 22
Zeeland: Farm the Zeel — A Community Tractor Show, First Reformed Church, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — The parking lot celebration will have tractors, food trucks, and other farm-related fun for the family. zeelandhistory.org
June 22 – July 14 (various dates)
Saugatuck: “Beautiful, The Carole King Musical” on stage at Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. This true story follows Carole King’s journey from teenage songwriter in Brooklyn to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Hear favorites like “One Fine Day,” “You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and many more. Tickets available in the price range of $25–$93 at sc4a.org.
Live Music at Crane’s Pie Pantry & Restaurant every Saturday, starting June 29, 1-4 p.m., 6054 124th Ave. Free.
Fourth Friday Street parties July 28, Aug. 25, 5-7 p.m. Fourth Fridays in Fennville are a recurring free community event held on the 4th Friday of every month from 5-7 p.m.
Music in the Vineyards— Thursdays 5:30-7:30 and Saturdays 2-5 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food available as supplies last. Guests may bring their own food, but no outside alcohol is allowed. Fenn Valley Winery, 6130 122nd Ave. fennvalley.com
Music in the Vineyards
June 21 – July 27 (various dates)
Holland: Hope Repertory Theatre presents “Dragon Pack Snack Attack” at Bultman Student Center Outdoor Amphitheater, 141 E. 12th Street. This musical that the whole family can enjoy follows the antics of Hobart the Dragon. Based on the book, Dragon Pack Snack Attack, by Joel Schoon-Tanis and Jeff Grooters. Showtimes are 10:30 a.m., with two a ernoon matinees July 3 & 5 at 2 p.m. For more information, visit hope.edu/offices/hope-summerrepertory-theatre/on-stage.
June 24
Holland: PRIDE Festival will be June 24 at Centennial Park from noon to 5 p.m.
June 28 – 30
Grand Haven: Grand Haven Art Festival, downtown, start until 5 p.m. — Friday’s event begins at noon and Saturday and Sunday’s at 10 a.m. Nearly 80 artists from across the country transform Washington Avenue into a chic, outdoor art gallery.
June 28 – Aug. 3 (various dates)
Holland: Hope Repertory Theatre presents “Big Fish” at DeWitt Main Theatre, 141 E. 12th Street. This musical based on the book by John August and the film by Tim Burton blends music, heart and humor. Curtain, 7:30 p.m. One matinee, July 6, 2 p.m. Tickets available at hopecollege.csstix.com
July 1
Zeeland: Zeelmania — Celebration Week, downtown, 6 – 8 p.m. This free event will have food trucks, music, children’s activities and a petting zoo, live acts and more. A “Color Explosion” will be returning for this one, 6 – 8 p.m.
July 3 & 24
Holland: Walking Tour Wednesday: Historic Holland Architecture, 7–8 p.m. Begins and ends on the steps of the Holland Museum – 31 W. 10th Street. Member cost: $5/person; non-member Cost: $7/ person. Pre-registration is required. hollandmuseum.org
July 4
Grand Haven: Fourth of July fireworks will begin at dusk (around 10:10 p.m.) at the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium. Paired with the Musical Fountain’s
patriotic performance, this is one spectacle not to be missed!
July 6 (various dates through July 17)
Holland: Holland Community Theatre, 50 W. 9th St., presents Finding Nemo Jr. July 5–6 and 10–13 at 7 p.m. July 6 & 13 at 2 p.m. A musical adaptation of the 2003 Disney/Pixar movie. thehollandcommunitytheatre.org
July 6
Saugatuck: Waterfront Invitational Fine Art Fair, Saugatuck Village Square, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Sixty-five artists will be displaying and selling their art to benefit the artistic Saugatuck and Douglas communities.
July 6
Douglas: Locally Sourced Exhibition Opening and Gallery Stroll, 7 – 10 p.m. Join J. Petter Galleries July Gallery Stroll Locally Sourced featuring Matthew Swanson & Chris Cox. There will be free light refreshments and live music at 161 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas. Saugatuck.com
July 8
Zeeland: Zeelmania — Summer Olympics, downtown, 6 – 8 p.m. An obstacle course and rock wall will be set up for participants to try.
July 10 & 31
Holland: Walking Tour Wednesday: Holland’s Public Art, 7–8 p.m. Begins and ends on the steps of the Holland Museum— 31 W. 10th Street. Member cost: $5/person; non-member cost: $7/person. Preregistration is required. hollandmuseum.org
July 12 – 3
Zeeland: 30th Annual Zeeland Show & Shine Car Show, downtown Zeeland — Cars will begin lining
up Friday, July 12 at 5 p.m. (Zeeland Stadium parking lot) and begin the cruise at 6 p.m. Registration for the Saturday car show begins at 8 a.m. View more than 200 hotrods July 13, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. zeelandfestivals.com
July 12 – August 2 (various dates)
Holland: Hope Repertory Theatre presents “Detroit ‘67” at DeWitt Main Theatre, 141 E. 12th Street. This musical by Dominique Morriseau is set in the Motown music era against the backdrop of the Detroit riots in 1967. The story follows siblings who make ends meet by holding after-hours dance parties. Curtain, 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at hopecollege.csstix.com
July 13
Holland: Macatawa Water Festival, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Windmill Island Gardens, 1 Lincoln Ave. Kayak or bike around the island, learn about native and invasive plants, make an upcycled craft, perform water quality experiments, take part in a rain barrel workshop and more at this event that celebrates the Macatawa Watershed and highlights efforts to restore and preserve it. outdoordiscovery.org
July 13
Muskegon: Super Saturday, Wacky Weather, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster St. Free general admission to the MMA’s permanent collection galleries and a free kids STEAM
FREE EVENT FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN STUDIOS
June 21, July 26, and August 23
7:00–10:00 p.m.
SUNDAY SOJOURNS! Campus tour + brunch
June 9, June 23, July 28, and August 11
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Lead support by Holly Palmer
June 21, July 26, and August 23
We invite you to join us around the table. Stop by our website to grab your tickets and learn more about our talented guest chefs!
workshop or activity. Each Super Saturday is inspired by a piece of art from the MMA permanent collection or a current exhibition. muskegonartmuseum.org
July 15
Zeeland: Zeelmania — Wild West, downtown Zeeland on Main Street between Elm and Church Streets, 6 – 8 p.m. zeelandfestivals.com/zeelmania
July 17
Holland: Walking Tour Wednesday: 1871 Fire Walk, 7–8 p.m. Begins and ends on the steps of the Holland Museum— 31 W. 10th Street. Member Cost: $5/person; Non-Member Cost: $7/person. Preregistration is required. hollandmuseum.org
July 17
Grand Haven: Caring for Your Collection, TriCities Museum, 6 – 8 p.m. — Led by Curator Jared Yax, participants will learn about deterioration agents as identified by museum and preservation experts and how to fight against them for personal items. Reservation required. tri-citiesmuseum.org
July 18
Grand Haven: Third Annual Java Jam Benefit Concert, Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium, 6 – 9 p.m. — Benefitting BErista Inc. and Kenzie’s Be Café, this year’s Java Jam entertainment will be a DJ,
Dank HIll, and Domestic Problems. Doors, bar, and food trucks open at five.
July 18-20
Grand Haven: Tri-Cities Garden Club Flower Show Garden Olympics, a standard flower show presented by Tri-Cities Garden Club opens at 3 p.m. Thursday, July 18, at Spring Lake District Library. The club’s 65th Annual Flower Show is free. July 18 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.; July 19 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and July 20 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Spring Lake District Library, 123 E. Exchange, Spring LakeDetails, classes, and guidelines can be found in the flower show schedule at tricitiesgardenclub.org.
July 18 – 21
Muskegon: Muskegon Bike Time, downtown Muskegon, hours vary. The 18th Annual Muskegon Bike Time is for those who love to ride or spectate motorcycles in motion. muskegonbiketime.com
July 20
Saugatuck: “Standby, Me” with Julie Benko — Julie Benko performs with husband Jason Yeager on piano. The show features “Funny Girl” Benko regaling the audience with an evening of vocals, theatrical lore, and inspiration. $85. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. sc4a.org.
July 22
Zeeland: Zeelmania — Heroes Night, downtown, 6 – 8 p.m. Celebrate week four of Zeelmania with community heroes.
July 25 & 26
Saugatuck: Mediterranean Magic. Musicians Rob Auler, Alicia Eppinga, Grace Kim and Jeremy Verwys perfrom Giovanni Battista Pergolesi Arietta, “Se tu m’ami” from Arie antiche Antonio Vivaldi Sonata for violoncello and basso continuo No. 5, op. 14 in e minor and more at Saugatuck Woman’s Club, 303 Butler St, Saugatuck. Showtime: 7 p.m. $25/ticket. saugatuckmusic.org
July 27
Saugatuck: Village Square Art Fair, Saugatuck Village Square, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Village Square Arts and Crafts Fair offers the work of 90 artists and crafters working in a variety of media: ceramics, jewelry, wood, glass, toys, paintings, gifts, mixed media, and fun foods. Proceeds from the fair go towards scholarships for students studying the arts as well as supporting the arts in Saugatuck and Douglas.
July 26 – August 4
Grand Haven: Coast Guard Festival — Mainstage events will take place at the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium. For details on the weeklong celebration and for specific events visit, coastguardfest.org
July 26 – 27
Saugatuck: Venetian Festival, Coghlin Park, 60 Griffith St. Saugatuck. Friday night party features a performance by Starfarm; food and drinks will be available for purchase starting at 6 p.m. Admission charge to enter Coghlin Park. Saturday, enjoy a dinghy poker run, art fair, and nighttime parade of lighted boats. saugatuckvenetianfest.com
July 26 – August 4
Grand Haven: 100th Annual Coast Guard Festival. See website for events, venues and times. This festival that draws more than 300,000 people each year honors the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and features ship tours, parades, and a military memorial service plus music, events for kids, a carnival, a car show, cardboard boat races and more. coastguardfest.org
July 28
Grand Haven: Coast Guard Festival Community Picnic. Enjoy food, games and music as we celebrate
the annual picnic that was the start of the Coast Guard Festival 100 years ago. Mulligans Hollow, 1 Y Drive, 2–5 p.m.
July 28
Grand Haven: Flea on 7th, 7 N 7th St, Grand Haven, Sunday July 28. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Outdoor Market, free entrance, 85 vendors. Free kiddo face painting and balloon animals. vintagegreenantiques.com.
July 29
Zeeland: Zeelmania — Summer Finale, downtown, 6 – 8 p.m. — Dunk tank, returning surprise guests, face painting, and food will be closing out 2024’s Zeelmania summer event.
August 1
Fennville: The City Music Hall Series continues with another great music selection. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic or get carry out and Social District beverages at participating establishments. NO BYO Alcohol allowed. Music begins 6:30 in the greenspace across from City Hall at 125 S. Maple Street.
August 1 (and other various dates)
Holland: Holland Community Theatre presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Don’t miss this chance to see the classic comedy by William
Shakespeare Aug. 1–3, & 9–10 at 7 p.m./ Aug. 3 and 10 at 2 p.m. Performances take place at 50 W. 9th St. thehollandcommunitytheatre.org
August 1 & 2
Saugatuck: Continental Baroque. An evening of virtuoso performances by Baroque music specialists Gregory Crowell, harpsichord, Pablo Mahave-Veglia, cello, Liliana Mahave, violin and Hannah de Priest, soprano. Immerse yourself in the stunning creativity of 17th and 18th Century Continental Baroque composers whose works created the foundation for chamber music as we experience it today. Saugatuck Woman’s Club, 303 Butler St, Saugatuck. Showtime: 7 p.m. $25/ ticket. saugatuckmusic.org
August 2 & 3
Grand Haven: Annual Coast Guard Craft Fair is held in conjunction with the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, with more than 170 participants with handmade goods. This two-day show takes place in Central Park, downtown Grand Haven. Hours: Aug. 2, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Aug. 3, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
August 3
Holland: Art in the Park, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Centennial Park, 250 Central Ave. This annual outdoor fine arts and crafts fair features up to 300 artists and artisans.
Sponsored by the Holland Friends of Art. Visit, holland.org
August 7
Holland: Walking Tour Wednesday: 1871 Fire Walk, 7–8 p.m. Begins and ends on the steps of the Holland Museum— 31 W. 10th Street. Member Cost: $5/person; Non-Member Cost: $7/person. Preregistration is required. hollandmuseum.org
August 9 & 10
Holland: Downtown Holland Sidewalk Sales, Friday 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Holland’s biggest sale of the year, with 8th Street closed off to traffic so shoppers can browse outdoor sales. Participating businesses include clothing boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. holland.org
August 9–11
Muskegon: Wings Over Muskegon aerial entertainment show. Civilian and military aircraft will be featured in the air and on the ground throughout the three-day spectacle. Live music, lights and pyrotechnics kick off the airshow opening night. For more information, visit wingsovermuskegon.com.
If you are traveling: Unveil the charm of Grand Rapids with our all-new 2025 Visitors Guide! Dive into vibrant arts, indulge in culinary delights, and explore the breathtaking outdoors. Your adventure in the heart of West Michigan awaits – let our guide be your compass to unforgettable experiences.
If you are a business in Grand Rapids: Elevate your brand by reaching a captivated audience! Advertise in the Grand Rapids 2025 Visitors Guide and connect with eager travelers seeking the best our city offers. Stand out in the ultimate resource for visitors and watch your business flourish.
August 10
Grand Haven: Merchants and Makers at Chinook Pier, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop with 100+ local makers along the beautiful riverfront! Food Trucks on site will be Boujee Bowls, The Corner Twist, Voyage Bowls, and Around Baking Co. Ford and Kim Turrell and Elijah Russ will perform live music. visitgrandhaven.com.
August 10
Grand Haven: Walk the Beat Music Festival. Saturday 1-5 p.m. Live music in the East End of Grand Haven on Beechtree St., from Fulton to Waverly. Free. walkthebeat.org
August 10
Holland: Holland Symphony Orchestra Community Concert — Music Unites Us! Brazil! Choro das 3, guest artists Christopher Fashun, guest conductor. Kollen Park Henry VanderLinde Bandshell, 240 Kollen Park Dr. 7 p.m. Free. hollandsymphony.org
August 14
Holland: Walking Tour Wednesday — Historic Holland Architecture, 7–8 p.m. Begins and ends on the steps of the Holland Museum – 31 W. 10th Street. Member Cost: $5/person; Non-Member Cost: $7/ person. Pre-registration is required. hollandmuseum.org
August 15
Holland: Sounds of Summer on the Cappon House lawn. Bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy the Holland Symphony Brass Ensemble as they play selections from the American soundtrack. The Cappon House will be open from 5:30-6:45 p.m. Concert, 7–8 p.m. Rain Date: Friday, August 16, 5:30-8:00 p.m. This program is part of the Cappon House 150th anniversary celebration. Holland Museum Members and children 5 and under are free. General admission: $7/adult, $5/ senior, $3/student. Registration may be required for this event. For more information visit, hollandmuseum.org.
August 16
Fennville: Sidewalk Sales, 3 – 6 p.m.
August 16–18
Muskegon: Muskegon Boat Show: Boats, Food & Fun with a view! Mark your calendars and get ready to experience nautical excellence at the Muskegon Boat
Life Adelaide Pointe Boat Show on Aug. 16 and 17, 10 a.m. – dusk; Aug 18th, 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Adelaide Pointe, 1204 W. Western Ave. Muskegon.
August 17
Norton Shores: 47th Arts & Drafts Festival, Ross Park, 83 Randall Rd. Saturday’s schedule includes the annual Art Fair; Arts & Dash 5K; Arts & Wheels Car Show; a children’s activity area; and the Grand City Show Skiers on Mona Lake. Arts & Drafts also hosts a beverage tent featuring live music throughout the afternoon and evening on Saturday. This year’s bands include The Grace Scott Band, West Side Soul Surfers, 28 Days, and more. nortonshoresparksandrecreation.com
August23
Fennville: Fourth Fridays in Fennville, E. Main St & S Maple St. Free community event, with fun activities for children, 5 – 7 p.m.
August 23
Fennville: Touring Indie Folk Musician Anna P.S at Modales Wines, 2128 62nd Street. Anna’s been dubbed a “one-woman-symphony” for incorporating flute, guitar, foot percussion, and vocals into one mesmerizing show. You’ll hear a blend of original songs, and unexpected versions of old favorites. The show starts at 7 p.m.
August 24
Muskegon: The Lakeshore Brewer’s Guild’s Burning Foot Festival, now in its ninth year, takes place 3– 10 p.m on Pere Marquette Beach. This festival blends craft beverages, with art and live music. For those who wish to extend their Burning Foot experience, camping options will be available on the shores of Lake Michigan. Tickets are available on the fest’s official website. burningfoot.beer.
August 30 & 31
Muskegon: 9th Annual Polish Festival, Polish vendors, food, drinks, kids’ activities, music and a Jeep raffle! The fun takes place over two days, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. at Hackley Park, 350 W. Webster Ave. Admission for 21 and Older - $10. Under 21, free! muskegonpolishfest.com
