Found in the western region of the American state of Michigan, the city of Holland is known for its Dutch influence and culture. The first Dutch settlement occurred in 1847 when immigrants from the Netherlands decided to flee their country due to economic problems. Since then, the influence of Dutch culture can be seen in their top tourist sights such as Windmill Island Gardens, Nelis’ Dutch Village, Veldheer Tulip Garden, Holland Museum, and many more. In fact, it’s nearly impossible to go through downtown without seeing a bed of colorful tulips on the sidewalk. Because of its rich heritage, Holland has also blossomed into a colorful city filled with different festivals all year round. Read on to discover some of the top festivals in Holland, Michigan.
1. Holland Fall Fest
For avid lovers of the autumn season, Holland Fall Fest will be a real treat for you. Held in Downtown Holland, the highlight of the festival is the pumpkin carving show featuring eight of the country’s best professional carvers. Be delighted to see a jack-o-lantern fest. On the other hand, you can also head on over to Farmer’s Market via a fun hayride to experience activities like pumpkin painting, which is great for the kids. While the kids are busy, you can shop for the best fall items at the market. Don’t forget to watch out for street performers as well.
Holland Fall Fest
Address: Downtown Holland, W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Website: Holland Fall Fest
Takes place: October
Price: Pumpkin painting: 1 USD / Hayride from Downtown to Farmer’s Market (and vice versa): 3 USD
2. Tulip Time Festival
Tagged as America’s Best Small Town Festival by Readers Digest, Tulip Time Festival is a celebration of the Dutch heritage of Michigan. The festival has been around for 90 years and has cemented itself a legacy. It takes place in May for eight days, beginning on the first Saturday through the second Sunday. Aside from showcasing thousands of beautiful tulips, the festival also includes concerts, variety of shows, craft markets, and three parades. There’s also a spectacular fireworks display to add to the celebrations.
Tulip Time Festival
Address: 42 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Website: Tulip Time Festival
Takes place: May
Price: 12 USD onward
3. Macatawa Water Festival
The Macatawa Water Festival, hosted by Macatawa Watershed Project, is an event dedicated to Lake Macatawa and Macatawa Watershed. This allows the public to know more about the waterways in Holland through several activities and exhibits. Some of these include water activities like kayaking, paddling, fishing, and even biking. At the start of the event, you will be given a passport-type handbook. It will be used for stamps collected from each activity. And in turn, a prize can be claimed at the end.
Macatawa Water Festival
Address: Windmill Island Gardens, 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423 United States
Website: Macatawa Water Festival
Takes place: July
Price: Free entry
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4. International Festival of Holland
The International Festival of Holland is a multi-cultural event in Michigan that pays tribute to the different kind of people around the world. It features dance, music, food, and art from Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Performers, artists, storytellers, craft vendors, and food connoisseurs are invited to partake in this grand celebration of cultures. This 2019 was the first-ever International Festival of Holland and will continue to be a venue for international traditions and heritage for many years to come.
International Festival of Holland
Address: 150 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Website: International Festival of Holland
Takes place: August
Price: Free entry
5. Lakeshore Fork Fest
Posted by Local First West Michigan on Thursday, 31 October 2019
Lakeshore Fork Fest is a gathering of various food vendors and foodies from the community. It is hosted by Local First West, a charity organization committed to promoting economic development and culture in Holland. The vendors are usually independent. There are also local business owners who want to share their craft with other people. Visiting crowds will get to learn and share their passion for food. The event is usually held around September, but this year it was moved earlier in May. Exact dates and ticket prices are best viewed on their website as these constantly change.
Lakeshore Fork Fest
Address: Warehouse 6, 136 E 6th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Website: Lakeshore Fork Fest
Takes place: Usually held in September
6. Memorial Day Parade
Honoring those who lost their lives serving our great United States, the Downtown Holland Annual Memorial Day Parade begins at 9:30am on Monday. http://bit.ly/2EtvSs2
Posted by City Of Holland, Michigan - City Hall on Sunday, 26 May 2019
One of the nationwide traditions that America has always been proud of is its tribute to its fallen heroes. Nearly everywhere in the country, Americans honor their veterans and the people who have served in uniform. In Holland, Michigan, it’s no different. Every year on Memorial Day, the last Monday of May, a parade is held in remembrance. The parade usually starts at 9:30 am. It continues downtown until Pilgrim Home Cemetery where a ceremony is held. The parade is organized and managed by a group of people who are dedicated to remembering the sacrifices of veterans.
Memorial Day Parade
Address: 8th St. at Central Ave., Holland, Michigan
Takes place: May
Price: Free entry
7. St. Patrick's Day Parade in Downtown Holland
St. Patrick’s Day is another commonly celebrated day in America. In Holland, Michigan, people with Dutch heritage pause for a day to join this Irish event! You can sign up to participate in the annual parade. Much of it takes place in 8th Street and continues onto New Holland Brewing Company, Hops at 84 East, and ends at Curragh Irish Pub. It’s a great event to bring your kids and the whole family to. Experience and celebrate the best of Irish culture, with dancers, bagpipers, kilt-wearers, and a sea of people in green.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Address: 150 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States
Website: St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Takes place: March
Price: Free entry
8. Ottawa County Fair
For great family fun, head over to Ottawa County Fair, which is held in the summers - usually around July. It’s a great place especially to take the kids because they can meet some farm animals and head on over to the carnival rides after. There are also lots of food and craft vendors to pique your interest. The event takes place annually at Ottawa County Fairgrounds. It is sure to provide an authentic summertime county fair that you’ll remember.
Ottawa County Fair
Address: 1286 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, United States
Website: Ottawa County Fair
Takes place: July
Price: 5 USD onward
Immerse yourself in vibrant cultures at colorful Holland, Michigan
The city of Holland is more than just a neighborhood in Michigan. Its tribute to its Dutch heritage is something people love about the place. More than that, the various festivals and events held in their town keep people coming back for a fun experience. So what are you waiting for? Be sure to experience any of these unique festivals when you come to Holland for a visit you will remember.
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