Urban St. Spring 2024

Urban St.

Spring is Magical

Nurturing

nature, good eats, and the passion behind the parties

3480 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck, MI 49453

www.lulucadieux.com

220 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 (269) 455-5060 + @lulucadieux.com FB/IG

www.lulucadieux.com

www.lulucadieux.com

3480 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck, MI 49453

3480 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck, MI 49453

220 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 (269) 455-5060 + @lulucadieux.com FB/IG

220 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 (269) 455-5060 + @lulucadieux.com FB/IG

3480 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck, MI 49453

220 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453

(269) 455-5060 + @lulucadieux.com FB/IG

Senior

Administration

Words worth repeating

Springtime is my favorite season of the year to slow down and look ahead; what can I look forward to in the coming months? Did I accomplish, or at least set myself on the path to complete the goals I set out for myself? A calendar means nothing without a human’s sensitivity.

As the weather becomes more agreeable, the lakeshore comes alive. Looking forward, West Michigan shows up for the spring holidays with St. Patrick’s Day runs (page 22) and Easter egg hunts — see the Calendar of Events (starts on page 50).

If you’ve planned your summer already or don’t know what may be coming, try to make it out to one of Fruitport’s Dancing Into the Sunset Dance Party weekly music gatherings (page 13). Know any Jeep fanatics? ere’s a festival in Grand Haven just for them, and they can even try their own Jeeps on the obstacle course — exactly what the Jeep drivers will traverse during this pop-up challenge remains TBA, but it will be entertaining for sure! Read all about Jeep Fest on page 19.

Looking for a new place to dine? Pizza Quest in Fennville and Cumin Fresh Indian Kitchen in Grand Haven are featured for their delicious agship foods. You know when you plan your next meal at a restaurant before you even leave the spot? ey’re that good. is issue’s Dine Around restaurant reviews start on page 27.

Urban Street was lucky to receive reading recommendations from e Bluestocking Bookshop (page 34), and in this issue’s Urban Kitchen pages we share a simple stovetop donut recipe made from canned biscuits — page 39. A Crustless Frittata with Hollandaise recipe from Fustini’s is there to tempt you on page 40.

e observatory in West Olive’s Hemlock Crossing is featured as a You Gotta Try activity; clear nights make for a good view of the sky — page 33. Up Leaf Café in Holland has clean-feeling meals and beverages set in a nice ambience. Learn more about the Asian fusion restaurant in the You Gotta Try food feature on page 38.

Balloon artist Steve Tamayo of Steve’s Twisted Balloons answered some questions about his work and where you can nd him in the coming months — page 36. Fellinlove Farm is featured on Giving Back — page 24.

Spring holds optimism with the year’s empty ledger. But only if you’re counting. Enjoy this time.

Jessika Cesilia Perez Associate Editor

On Our Radar

Leap Year!

We’re getting a Leap Year in 2024 and some people get to “finally celebrate” their birthday. Don’t forget to wish them a great birthday. Didn’t already have your calendar marked? Check out the Calendar of Events at the end of this issue to see what events are happening on February 29. Make the most of your “extra” day!

Fourth Fridays in Fennville

The City of Fennville began hosting community events every fourth Friday of the month. Past Fourth Friday events have been a pet parade, house fire demo, snowman making, and a back-to-school event. Future themes include Earth Day in April, May will be a Memorial Day theme, June is an Arts theme, July’s is Books and Local Authors, August’s theme will be Back to School, in September is a Pet Parade, and October will have a Fire Safety/Prevention theme. Idea submissions are welcome. Find them on Facebook at “Fourth Fridays In Fennville”.

Park Theatre’s Music Legends Series

Park Theatre is hosting a Winter Legends Series running through April 27 (“A Tribute to Queen” is the closing act). Some of the concerts are featured on the Calendar of Events. Tickets are required for entry, and most are age restricted. parktheatreholland.org

On Our Radar

Jumpin’ Java returns to Grand Haven

The downtown coffee spot wasn’t empty for long a er the fall closure of Bad Habit — a cafe known for outlandish milkshakes. Jumpin’ Java returns to 215 Washington Ave with an extensive coffee menu. jumpinjavami.com

Pothole

The infamous pothole in Grand Haven had locals taking selfies a er two sofa chairs (different times) were placed inside the too-large road crater. A whole living room scene surrounded the pothole at its peak: a traffic cone, Christmas tree, two whole speakers, makeshi wooden flooring, and a rolling office chair for companionship. Thankfully, the pothole off North Beacon has been filled since its first sighting in early January. There are “Report a Pothole” forms available online or you can call 888-296-4546 to report a pothole. Of course, no one’s going to blame anyone for being a “pothole vigilante” (anonymous – usually overnight – pothole filler). Yep, it’s a thing. And thank you for your service!

Giant Easter Egg Hunt

It’s not your usual egg hunt through the park. The Village of Spring Lake will be hosting their fourth annual all day Easter egg hunt Sat., March 30. It’s a village-wide search for regular candy and “golden” eggs with prizes hidden inside. Local organizations and businesses donate prizes every year as residents and visitors explore the village in search for goodies. The search ends when the last egg (of hundreds) is found. facebook.com/greatvillageegghunt

Not near Spring Lake? Check out your local park to see if a bunny or eggs will be appearing Easter weekend.

Dancing into Sunset

THE DANCE DOESN’T HAVE TO END: How a yearly music festival landed in

By Jessika Cesilia Perez

A

er participating as a contestant

in Dancing with the Local Stars — a fundraising dance competition held by the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce in Muskegon, Susan Halter decided she wanted to keep dancing by literally opening the dance oor and sharing the joy of creative expression to the public through a free, weekly music and dance festival. If you can make it to Fruitport’s Pomona Park during a ursday in the summer, you’re invited to dance. e oor opens at 7 p.m. and this summer dance party is open to all ages and skill levels.

The first steps

With a zero-dollar budget and six weeks to plan everything out, Halter set out to plan a music festival. “I don’t have a clue what I’m

Fruitport

doing, but I’ll see if I can get some bands or DJs to get something started,” Halter said.

Dancing into Sunset – Fruitport’s Summer Dance Party is not the rst music event to be pitched to the Village of Fruitport — but it’s going on its eighth year. In its rst year in 2017, the festival had about 60 people attend one of its peak nights.

Halter’s passion to share dance and music was (can I say it?) fruitful. Attendees can nd di erent dance crowds adjacent to each other, a chalk and hula hoop area for children, vendors, and a diverse lineup of musicians. e dancing isn’t limited to partner dancing — though there are plenty of opportunities. “[Once during] the Cupid Shu e — the ENTIRE concrete had probably 100 people out there,” Halter said.

Fruitport’s Summer Dance Party

The lineup is adjusted each year after listening to crowd suggestions (Halter may walk up to you asking for feedback if you attend), keeping an ear out for what’s trending, and having bands reach out directly. “I don’t pick who I want to hear; I pick who they want to dance to,” she said.

While Dancing into Sunset is a free gathering (donations are welcome), the event relies on music sponsorships and bottled water sales proceeds. Without any sponsors, “The first year, they [volunteer musicians such as The Silverado Band] helped me out.

Otherwise, all the bands cost,” Halter said. After the festival’s first couple of years, “I started booking more and more live bands, but obviously needed sponsors to pay for the bands to keep going.” Halter started reaching out to businesses for sponsorships.

After losing her longtime dance and life partner, Halter has had friends step in to help set up the area and texturize the concrete every scheduled dance night.

While cancellations, COVID-19, and holiday weekends have been a problem, locals have welcomed the dance party regardless. In recent years, there’s even been a backup location for nasty weather: Fruitport High School’s large cafeteria. This past year, the high school allowed parking and a shuttle trolley was available, which eased traffic congestion.

Dancing to the Scottville Clown Band

Young boaters dressed up for the Fourth of July

PHOTOS:

Every year, DiS hosts a military night around the Fourth of July, where colorful cupcakes and carnations are handed out to veterans. “That’s become a special night.” Halter shares that there are even some visitors who are in mourning but will listen in on their boats during the flag and medley ceremony.

Historic Dance Destination

Today, Pomona Park’s large waterfront hosts fishing, a boat and kayak launch, playground, sledding, and multiple traveling paths. But just over 150 years ago, a resort called Pomona House stood in this Fruitport park, drawing in visitors. After its second burning down in 1876, it wouldn’t be until the turn of the century that the railway company Interurban would build the wooden Pomona Pavilion.

A large advocate for Pomona Park’s music history, Halter leads announcements every week sharing the historical significance of the event’s location and welcoming new visitors. The Pomona (or Fruitport) Pavilion was built in the early 1900s and later sold to musician Frank Lockage who would host musical performances for decades. Eventually, a 1963 fire severely damaged the building and the bar next door. “It’s crazy how these big-name entertainers played in this pavilion,” Halter said. Artists who have performed in the Pavilion include Doris Day, Lawrence Welk, and Buddy Holly.

Three Pomona Park visitors during the summer

Sax players “clown around” between songs

Music Memories

Once, during a football delay, students were invited in to dance. “They came in and there was a line dance song going,” Halter said, “The way we looked at it, it’s the senior class being taught by seniors!”

Halter’s local historian-friend Roger Dykehouse began attending the festival a few years in. One night, The Sea Cruisers played “Runaway” by Del Shannon and Dykehouse called Halter the next day.

“Sue, you had my wife in tears last night,” Dykehouse had said. Del Shannon was Blanche Dykehouse’s brother. The previous night she had “felt” his presence, she said.

Participants are able to sign a memory journal that gets passed around the crowd. “I want to capture the memories of people whose relatives had been in the original pavilion and new ones in the making... I did this so I could dance. But it seems like I’m running around making sure everybody is having a good time,” Halter said.

offer support. If you’re at the edge of the crowd and need a dance partner or encouragement, don’t be surprised if they convince you to join in and dance your cares away.

Luckily, dancing friends and makeshift “dance ambassadors” will catch Halter to

Fruitport’s Dancing into the Sunset Dance party at pomona park park and Third Street, Fruitport facebook.com

An evening line dance

A sunset view from pomona park

UNLEASH THE HEALING POWER AT OTTAWA ANIMAL HOSPITAL!

Is your pet in need of advanced care and holistic healing? Look no further! Ottawa Animal Hospital introduces cutting-edge Laser Therapy and Acupuncture services, designed to enhance your pet's well-being and speed up their recovery.

D Laser Therapy: Say goodbye to pain and inflammation!

D Acupuncture: Discover the ancient art of acupuncture tailored for modern pets.

D New Rehab Services Coming Soon! Personalized programs to ensure speedy and successful recovery!

Ottawa Animal Hospital West 620 Butternut Dr, Holland, MI 49424 (616) 399-2540

ottawaanimalwest.com

Ottawa Animal Hospital East 2691 120th Ave, Holland, Mi 49424 (616) 396-7420

ottawaanimalhospital.com

For life’s celebrations

616-994-6444 | lakewoodflowers.com

332 East Lakewood Blvd., Holland

For 25 years, we’ve turned ideas into masterpieces. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, or building your dream home, our team of experts will treat your project like a work of art. We encourage you to stop by our new gallery showroom at 1261 South Waverly Road in Holland (by appointment only).

Check us out!

Scan here

616-494-0404

JEeP Fest 2024

A

Jeep takeover and DIY obstacle course

By Jessika Cesilia Perez

If you’ve returned to your vehicle a er a grocery store run to nd a rubber duck (or many) stuck on your car, like Jason Rogers, you probably own a Jeep. Much like the familiar Jeep “wave” between drivers meeting on the road, this new craze has fellow Jeep owners placing a small rubber duck on another Jeep — one of the many traditions that make owning a Jeep special. Another way is Jeep meetups. To bring together local Jeep owners, Rogers founded Grand Haven Jeep Fest three years ago.

is year’s annual meetup will debut a one-of-a-kind DIY obstacle course, right in downtown Grand Haven. To get in on the action, people must register by April 1, 2024.

“A lot of these (Jeep) events we attend around the country have obstacle course,” said Rogers. “But they’re built on areas where they can dump dirt… and you go to this o road area.

e idea to create this in an urban setting, in a parking lot that is on the channel that leads to Lake Michigan, was really one of those things I fully expected I would be told ‘no.’” And Grand Haven did say no at rst, but eventually conceded.

Rogers recalls driving home about four years ago from a Jeep event, thinking about how much he loved traveling to Jeep gatherings and wondering if he could make one happen in his hometown.

“I’m a building contractor, so this was kind of outside my element,” Rogers said. So, he decided to ask for help; “Within 24 hours we had all this support.” It was an email thread that went viral and connected him with his uno cial Jeep Fest planning committee.

The Rotary Club of Grand Haven already had a tradition of raffling off a Jeep, so when they were approached to partner with Jeep Fest, the decision was easily made. Due to its fast growth, Jeep Fest has chosen its own charity this year: The Children’s Advocacy Center of Ottawa County.

The DIY obstacle course

“Right along Harbor Street, which is where normally you would see all of the rides for the Coast Guard Festival, is where we will have a man-made obstacle course. It blew my mind that we were able to do that,” Rogers shared. “I was told no, that that just doesn’t work.” But Rogers asked the city to reconsider. “Well, you’ve already established that you use this space for entertainment-type things, and this is just different from what you’ve done, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it,” was Rogers’ rhetoric. He won his appeal.

“So that’s going to be very exciting to have,” he said. “We’ve started to try to draw maybe people that aren’t necessarily there in a Jeep, but they just wanted an event to come to.” The details of the obstacle course are still being worked out. “We’re still planning. It is a challenge because it’s in a parking lot. It’s not in an area where you can dig holes or

DAVID JAMES

y’know, mound a bunch of things up. It is unique and we’re working with multiple excavating companies, landscaping companies, concrete supply companies... How can we execute this in a manner that it can be set up in a small amount of time, like a day or two, and then be cleaned up in the same amount of time?”

Due to its location, the Jeep obstacle course will be one long run with different obstacles.

“Everybody’s Jeep is built to different levels. If they feel that something is too difficult, they’ll be able to bypass that. We’ll have teams there to do recovery for people that

Jeeps lined up along a closed street

A black and purple “monster truck” Jeep

maybe get stuck or hung up on something — we’ll have people there to help them,” he said.

Other Jeep Fest entertainment will include music, games, kid’s tent, merchandise trailer, vendors, an installation area, and giveaways including the big Jeep one.

“ is year we have more blocks; we go all the way back to Fourth Street. We have all the waterfront stadium, which is a huge area that has a stage and a sound system, and it sits literally on the water. We’ll have a lot of stu going there.” e Odd Side Ales lot will be set up for vendors. “ at allows us to have four to ve times the number of vendors that we had before,” Rogers said.

Rogers welcomes non-Jeep fans who may wander in, “... ey want to talk, they want to bring their kids, they want to see the cool-looking Jeeps that kids think are monster trucks, and they can go and watch this all happen.”

Grand Haven Jeep Fest

Downtown Grand Haven

Saturday, May 18, 2024

ghjeepfest.com

A young Jeep fan takes in the customizations A

Close-up of a Jeep’s front

Flashing green West Michigan runners dash before they crawl the streets on St. Paddy’s Day

By Jessika Cesilia Perez

Waking up early to run is a regular feat for some, but for others, it’s the spirit of chasing someone dressed as a leprechaun while in a green tutu that really gets them going. And I love that. Whether you’re grabbing a drink a erward, be it green beer or a non-alcoholic version, there are plenty of bars to crawl to throughout any West Michigan city in which you choose to celebrate.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY RUNS

The St. Paddy’s Leprechaun Chase 5K will be held in Holland’s Centennial Park Sat., March 16, 2024. From 8:30 – 10:30 a.m., runners and spectators will be able to experience a frenzy of green for the eighth year in a row. Held by the Holland Running Club, the proceeds from this event will go towards providing road racing experiences to individuals with disabilities through the West Michigan Chapter of myTEAM TRIUMPH. Register ahead of time or show up to watch and cheer for the runners. More information is available at hollandrunningclub.org.

Muskegon’s Shamrock Shuffle 5k

Sat., March 16

Pigeon Hill Brewing Company 895 4th Street, Muskegon

Starts at 9 a.m.

Search “Muskegon” at runsignup.com for details.

Saugatuck’s Third Annual Shamrock

Run, Walk, or Roll and a Kids Dash

Sat., March 16

Wick’s Park Bar & Grille 449 Water Street, Saugatuck

Starts at 11 a.m. (A pub crawl will follow.) For more information, visit saugatuck.com. Event is listed under the Holidays tab.

PARADES

Muskegon’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Sat., March 16

Downtown Muskegon

933 Terrace Street, Muskegon

11 – 11:30 a.m.

Holland’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Sat., March 16

8th Street Market Place

11 a.m.

CONCERTS

On Fri., March 15, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Muskegon’s Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave., will host a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with musical group, Cherish the Ladies. The Grammy-nominated group consists of Nollaig Casey on the fiddle, Mirella Murray on the accordion, Mary Coogan on guitar, Catherine McHugh on piano, and Kate Purcell on lead vocals and the guitar. Since 1985, the group has been enchanting crowds of all kinds and has collaborated with musicians such as Don Henley, Nanci Griffith, and The Boston Pops Orchestra. Attendees can purchase tickets for the March 15 show ahead of time.

Black Murray will play in Holland’s The Curragh Irish Pub on Sat., March 16. The show will run from 7 – 10 p.m. The acoustic band consists of V Cieri, who plays the violin and provides vocals, Grace Chung who does percussion, whistles, vocals, and melodica, and Allan McMillan plays both the guitar and baritone guitar and provides vocals. The Curragh

73 East 8th Street, Holland

Whorled: International Experience will be playing in Muskegon’s The Starlight Room on Sat., March 16, 7 p.m.

“Whorled” is a combination of Celtic music and other world folk music. The trio that makes up Whorled is Thom Jayne on guitar, Keala Venema mastering multiple instruments including the fiddle, tin whistle, piano, mandolin, and Irish drum, and Mariko Venema who plays the piano and accordion. The Starlight Room

4765 Airline Road, Muskegon

While it is certainly not a complete activity list, there are plenty of St. Patrick’s Day West MI-shenaniganders to celebrate with.

Whorled: International Experiece

Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Giving Back

Giving Back with Fellinlove Farm

Visitors can walk the scenic trail or relax with animals

Fellinlove Farm is a nonprofit organization located at 6364 144th Ave in Holland. Open year-round, the farm hosts a variety of animals and seasonal events for visitors. Upcoming events include “LOOK for Lucky e Leprechaun” and the “EGGcellent Egg Hunt.” We talked to Executive Director and Founder Cheryl Kaletka, who told us a little bit more about Fellinlove Farm’s o erings.

Q: You’ve stated family as a major driver in the past. Since growing Fellinlove Farm, can you share about the therapeutic aspects you see on a daily basis?

A: e daily interaction that our daughters, Ashleigh and Alyssa, experience with the animals at Fellinlove Farm provides a calming e ect, fostering a sense of tranquility and reducing stress and anxiety from daily life. I especially observe this within our four programs including Young Fellinlove Farmers, Adaptive Field Trip Participants, Senior Assisted Living Residents, and our volunteers, many with unique needs.

e responsibility of caring for animals teaches

valuable life skills, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability. e unconditional love and companionship the animals o er contribute to their mental, physical, and emotional well-being, while the tasks involved in animal care boost their self-con dence through accomplishment and connection.

Q: Which activities and animals can visitors expect to see?

A: Meet the huggable mini donkey duo, Stevie and Squiggles, along with cats, dachshunds, ducks, chickens, rabbits, mini horses, mini llamas and mini-African zebu cattle; rare breeds of horses such as Fell ponies (farm namesake), Gypsy Vanner horses, a Friesian horse and an Arabian horse. Discover goats, Kunekune pigs and Great Pyrenees dogs... Our pocket pet room includes bearded dragons, tortoises (outdoor habitat when warm), chinchillas, hamsters, guinea pigs and ferrets. Feed the sh at our serene koi pond featuring 60 beautiful koi sh. Walk our nature trail; enjoy pond activities (pedal boat, kayak, canoe); attend the Pavilion’s Four Corners —

Left to right: Alyssa Kaletka, Mieke VanderlKolk, and Hope Haverdink PHOTO

(1) e UniCorner Shop features Unicorn sale items as a fundraiser, (2) Kids Korner features cra s and prizes for children, (3) Cozy Corner features farm videos on TV while you relax near pond, and (4) Cup of Corner features cups of hot cocoa or lemonade.

Q: Can you touch briefly on event rental?

A: Dive into the festivities at our new pavilion, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether it’s bridal showers, baby showers, private adult or children’s birthday parties, eld trips, work gatherings/sta retreats, yoga with goats, proms, bon res, community events, church socials or family reunions — we’ve got the perfect backdrop for your joyous occasions. If you are interested in scheduling a guided tour or special event for our fundraising campaign, please contact Cheryl.

Q: For anyone interested in volunteering, which roles or tasks are available?

A: We thrive on the energy of our amazing volunteer family! Our dynamic team makes it all happen, and we could not run the farm without them.

1. Morning chores: help walk animals out to pastures, clean stalls & pastures.

2. Assist at open farm public events: eld trips/senior tours.

3. Help with special projects (Prom decorating, property preparation, etc.). We also o er the Young Fellinlove Farmers program, open to those up to age 18. Get hands-on with the animals, share laughs, and make a di erence by contributing to their daily care and chores.

Q: How have you seen Fellinlove Farm grow and what would you like to incorporate in the future?

A: Our 2023 Pavilion and its upgrades allow for enriched programming and a new thrilling educational lineup. One of our 2024 goals is to upgrade our ADA Path to full concrete, allowing for durable navigation throughout the farm.

e journey ahead is brimming with inclusivity, innovation, and endless possibilities.

Fellinlove Farm

6364 144th Ave, Holland

Fellinlovefarm.com (616) 283-7555

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF FELLINLOVE FARM

Group photo of farm volunteers

Fellinlove pond in the fall

Leading the alpacas!

A volunteer feeds the koi fish

Pizza Quest

Unique pizzas and good vibes in downtown Fennville

Story and photos by Jason Roth

Today’s restaurant odyssey brings me to a hidden gem: Pizza Quest in Fennville! The exterior may be low-key, but upon entering Pizza Quest at 218 E Main St, you’ll find a different vibe than your average pizza joint. The place is loaded with artwork featuring video game and pop culture characters.

The menu is also unique, with specialty pizzas featuring colorful names such as “Ewok Village” and “Incredible Hulk.” The Choose Your Own Adventure (aka build your own pizza) topping choices range from basic pepperoni, sausage, and green pepper, to more unusual offerings such as mortadella with pistachio and miso-blanched broccolini!

Pizza Quest owner Nick “Chewie” Chard previously worked in the financial world, but pizza was his true passion. He’d had success with side gig pop-up pizza dinners, and last year he finally followed his dream: making the leap from finance to starting his own pizza restaurant. Pizza Quest has been open a little over six months, and they’ve been

steadily increasing awareness via word-ofmouth of their quality pizza. Their extremely entertaining Facebook page certainly helps, too!

Perusing the menu, I opted for the “Pickle Rick” pizza. Wednesdays, Pizza Quest features a BOGO half off special, so on Chard’s recommendation I also got a Choose Your Own Adventure pizza with house-made sausage. The “Pickle Rick” is, naturally, a pizza featuring pickles, along with bacon, onion, and a bay leaf and shallot cream sauce. As good as the “Pickle Rick” pie was, the simpler house-made sausage was the winner for me. The crust, cheese, sauce, and delicious sausage recipe worked a mystical flavor alchemy. I’d happily order either pizza again — the rich crust being a standout feature.

Each Thursday brings a new specialty pizza from the creative minds of Chard and his staff as he is driven to keep his menu constantly fresh and evolving. I was allowed to sample a recent creation, “The Fable” — it’s an olive burger-style pizza in the spirit of

the much-missed Mr. Fables chain’s famous olive burger. As a fan of both a pizza and a good olive burger, they knocked it out of the park.

A recent non-pizza menu addition is their hamburger sliders, which in true White Castle style come with cheese, onion, and pickles, plus Pizza Quest’s patented “Power Up” sauce. Chard and the kitchen sta had previously created a slider pizza featuring the hamburger sliders as toppings. It turned out so well that the sliders became a Tuesday special: $3 for a sack of two!

Chard says, “Our pizza is better than the artwork on our wall, and the art is pretty rad!” I can verify both things to be true. Hungry travelers, make Pizza Quest the next stop on your adventure!

Pizza Quest

218 E Main St, Fennville (269) 722-3180

“Pizza Quest” on Facebook

A Pizza Quest sausage pizza An art wall full of framed

The “Pickle Rick”

Dine around

Cumin Kitchen cooks fresh

‘Some of the best Indian food you’ll get.’

by Elizabeth Granger

Derek DeBoer stood at the counter of the Cumin Fresh Indian Kitchen in Grand Haven. He was picking up an order.

“I came from Muskegon for this,” he said. “What does that tell you? is is some of the best Indian food you’ll get.”

Co-owner Leela Gurung overheard him. She smiled.

Gurung, her husband Bharat Gurung and her brother, Dal Chuwan, have owned and operated Cumin restaurant since March of 2022. Gurung had worked for the Indian eatery’s previous owners. When that owner decided to sell, he wanted to sell it to Gurung’s family.

“We were not ready,” Gurung said. “ ey (the owners) were visiting our house every hour.” Gurung’s family took the leap, even though “Our heads were loaded,” she said.

e Gurungs and their extended family are from Bhutan — a small nation on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, between India and China and near Nepal. Leela came to

Grand Haven alone in 2010. Chuwan arrived in November 2011, and Bharat in December of 2011.

Many of the restaurant’s original entrées have remained; new ones have been added. “More Nepali items,” said Bharat. Vegan items have been added, as well.

“Fresh” is in the eatery’s name to emphasize the menu’s ingredients. “We do it live,” Bharat says. “It takes time.”

e small restaurant is next door to the Secretary of State o ce. It has about a half-dozen tables for dining and is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch. ey close midday for a few hours, and reopen again for dinner at 6 p.m. Take-out is popular.

A misconception of those who have never tried Indian food – including me – is all about the level of spiciness. We think of curry and freak out.

Leela says it isn’t like that. e food, even with curry, is not spicy unless you request a little heat. at ranges from level one to level

Bharat cooking in the Cumin kitchen

Dine around

ve, and it comes with a last-minute addition of, (surprising to me) cayenne pepper. It adds heat but not avor.

Popular items are the naan bread; Gurung suggests the garlic or cheese version. Also, momo dumplings. Try the mango lassi smoothie.

I ordered chicken thukpa — a thick soup. A much bigger serving than I’d expected, lled with a lot of noodles, large chunks of chicken and not too much broth. I switched the cilantro for extra green onions.

My daughter chose aloo gobi, a dish with spiced potatoes, cauli ower, tomatoes, and cilantro. She requested heat level two. Basmati rice came separately.

My son-in-law’s choice: Tandoori chicken. A large smoky- avored leg.

Gurung says it’s common for regular diners to increase their level of spiciness over time. Bharat’s and Dal’s heat level choices are sometimes more than ve. Leela’s, three. Mine, zero.

But I’ll be back.

Cumin Fresh Indian Kitchen 1106 Robbins Road, Grand Haven (616) 414-7591

cuminindiankitchen.com

A closeup of eggplant chat appetizer

The chicken chow mein dish

Bharat, Leela, and Dal happy to share their food

You gotta try this!

the Observatory

Story and photos

The SAAA welcomes a solar telescope as Grand Haven awaits 92% eclipse

by Elizabeth Granger

Frank Roldan of Grand Haven always has his eye on the sky.

For a long time, it’s been the night sky. He was instrumental in the building of the Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory — West Michigan’s only public observatory, a couple years ago.

Now he’s particularly excited about inviting the public to look at the sun, in midday, through a solar telescope which will be available this spring. His hope? at it will be ready for the April 8 solar eclipse. Some areas will experience a total eclipse; Grand Haven is expecting a 92% eclipse. at’s also a big deal.

e “highly specialized” solar telescope as observatory director Roldan said, will be on a portable mount just outside the observatory, available only during Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association events. It’s a major addition to the current programming.

Since late 2022, the observatory has invited the public to gaze at the night sky – free – with SAAA members every Friday night as well as a er once-a-month lectures on Saturday nights (weather permitting). e March 9 lecture will focus on the eclipse and local libraries are planning related programs.

e observatory’s white dome is 13 feet high, 15 feet in diameter and about 50 feet in circumference at its base. It holds a 16 inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and a ladder that helps viewers reach the lens. About 20 people can be inside at a time while one individual looks through the telescope. SAAA

members guide visitors, explaining what to look for.

In 2023, the observatory welcomed more than 1,800 visitors; SAAA members volunteered 350 hours.

e observatory is open year-round when the weather is clear. Since the inside of the dome is the same temperature as the outside, visitors are advised to dress appropriately. e viewing is canceled ahead of time due to bad weather or visibility.

Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory

8115 West Olive Road

West Olive

holland-saaa.org

miottawa.org/parks/observatory

URBAN ST. READS

At the beginning of each year, many of us think about the goals we have for the year to come. e Bluestocking Bookshop in Holland, which buys and sells books of all kinds, is hosting a year-long Read More Challenge. e shop regularly holds events to encourage literary growth amongst everyone. e Bluestocking Bookshop’s sta share their reading recommendations below.

Bluestocking Bookshop owner R. Aimee Chipman suggests reading her most anticipated book of the year: Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez. Sure to follow in the footsteps of the author’s previous titles, with laugh-out-loud moments that also inspire ugly-cry tears. e writing in Jimenez’s books re ect life and love in contemporary times, including the aws and struggles of characters who grow to become friends and loved ones. Chipman also touts Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan.

How much do you really know about the communities in our region? For a book that challenges your viewpoint, learn about Dutch settlements and shipping trades in West Michigan’s history. The Other Side of the River: A Story of Two Towns, A Death, and America’s Dilemma opens the readers’ eyes to a wider experience of history along our Lakeshore. is work by Peabody Award-winner Alex Kotlowitz centers on the racial and economic divide between St. Joseph and Benton Harbor and challenges the view we have of our quiet Lake Michigan towns.

An unlikely recommendation — read a picture book! e Bluestocking Bookshop owners are rm believers that all reading all types of books is commendable: print books, ebooks, audiobooks, challenging literature, and, yes, even books intended for younger audiences. A picture book gives readers a brain break. Try the picture-book adaptation of Becoming a Good Creature. Author Sy Montgomery is well known for her adult non ction narratives about the animals she has encountered. Illustrated by Rebecca Green, Montgomery explains the lessons of trust, patience, and forgiveness that she learned from her animal teachers.

Other recommendations include Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel and Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthoney Doerr.

The Bluestocking Bookshop

501 Butternut Drive, Suite 3, Holland (616) 419-9918

bluestockingbookshop.com

A timely bit of advice — read a book that centers around love. When we think of love in books, the romance genre might be the rst that comes to mind. But as we all know, love, actually, is all around. The Art of Extreme Self-Care by Cheryl Richardson inspires us to create action around increasing self-love and care in your day-to-day life.

Q and with balloon artist Steve Tamayo

Balloon artist Steve Tamayo of Steve’s Twisted Balloons has been a business owner cra ing balloon sculptures for three years now. A fulltime supervisor by night, Tamayo found inspiration from the street performers that take over downtown Holland each summer as part of the Street Performer Series on ursday evenings.

Since making his rst unicorn for his daughters, he’s cra ed thousands of balloons expanding his “repertoire” to include wearable balloon suits (he’s currently working on perfecting his pizza slice suit).

Q: How do you prepare for an event?

A: For birthday parties, I always ask if there is a theme of some sort so I can make stu that’s orientated towards that. If there is no theme, then I just make what they request at the time.

For bigger company picnics etc., I hydrate and stretch before and always make sure I have a ton of balloons.

I always make a board that has gures for kids to choose from; it seems to make the line go

Tamayo in a balloon helmet

PHOTOS

quicker so that kids can point and say what color they want.

Q: What strange (if any) requests have you received?

A: An octopus-eating shark with a sh in the shark’s mouth for some reason.

Tamayo also shared he’s received unique bachelorette party requests.

Q: In the balloon business, has there been anything that surprised you that you didn’t know when you first started?

A: e biggest thing for me was the impact I was making on our town. More of the same people would come back and wait in my line for 45 minutes to get one of my balloons. Also, it surprised me how nice people are — always being positive towards me and I love it.

Tamayo will be a part of Holland’s Summer Street Performer Series 2024 and local cra shows around the Holland and Zeeland area.

“Steve’s Twisted Balloons” on Facebook stevestwistedballoons@gmail.com

Maggie Barnes with one of Tamayo’s creations at her Knock Out Cancer fundraiser

Kids show off their balloon dogs, sword, and heart

Balloon suits from a holiday parade

You gotta try this!

A new feel-good stop at the Westshore shops

Up Leaf Café

A new addition to the Shops at Westshore boasts locally sourced fresh ingredients and greens grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Up Leaf Café serves Asian fusion cuisine — notably rice bowls, rice noodle bowls or Bún (pronounced like boon), salads, and spring rolls.

The restaurant offers a pleasing wooden-centric atmosphere and counter service, where customers can choose from an assortment of combinations or to build their own. Online pre-ordering is available through their website.

Up Leaf Café’s drink menu includes plant-based energy drinks and blended smoothies. As the website states, “Options for vegans all the way to meat lovers — our food will leave you feeling full, happy, and satisfied (with no bloat!)” That last part is up to you and your gastrointestinal tract to decide. After dining in, my stomach and I have nothing but good words to say.

On the blended beverages front, I tried the “Blue Dream” and the “Wild Dragon”. Both were satisfyingly smooth, just sweet enough, and flavorful! I could definitely see myself swinging by for a smoothie during the warmer months, or when I just happen to be running errands nearby and need something to sip.

If you choose to build your own bowl, you get a choice of a base; rice, rice noodles, mixed greens or lettuce are the options. For protein, there’s gluten free grilled

chicken, Vietnamese BBQ pork, Korean style beef, spicy Korean chicken, or roasted tofu. To top it off (or if you’d rather dip), there are five toppings from which too choose: bean sprouts, sliced avocado, and pickled kimchi to name a few, as well as two “drizzles” and two sauces.

The ingredients in my noodle bowl and spring rolls tasted as fresh as advertised and the Asian peanut sauce was a great addition to both.

Up Leaf Café is open Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Up Leaf Café

12371 James St #40, Holland (616) 298-8733 upleafcafe.com

The Blue Dream

SUGAR CINNAMON DONUTS from Canned Biscuits

A stovetop and sauté pan (or any pan with a high edge) will be needed for this recipe.

Yield depends on how many biscuits are in the can. One biscuit = one donut (and one donut hole).

Ingredients

1 can of regular or butter biscuits

1 cup of sugar

⅓ teaspoon of nutmeg

1½ Tablespoon of cinnamon

Small dash of ground cloves

Vegetable oil (enough for each donut to fry on each side as you flip)

Note: The cinnamon topping mixture is optional. These donuts are like a blank canvas, so any frosting, topping, or filling will complement the fried, flaky base (imagine a churro-croissant).

Prep work

1. Remove biscuits from the can and punch holes out of each donut. A small cookie cutter, or small round object (even a bottle cap) will do. The round cut outs can be fried, as well, just fry separately from the donuts and watch to make sure they don’t burn.

Recipe

2. Mix the sugar mixture - combine the sugar with the spices of your liking in a bowl large enough that the finished donuts will be able to be tossed in.

3. Prepare a plate with napkins or paper towels to immediately place your fried donuts onto.

Directions

1. Waiting to preheat the oil until all your ingredients are ready is recommended. The amount of oil needed will be based on the depth of your pan. The donuts must be able to flip over and be cooked completely, however, it is recommended to start with less and add more slowly if unsure. Preheating the oil takes about 5 minutes, to a temperature of 360 degrees, using a candy or oil thermometer.

2. Carefully place donuts onto oil and watch over them until the bottom side looks golden or fried to your preference. Flip each donut only once.

3. Take donuts out once both sides have been cooked and place onto a plate with napkins to absorb some of the excess grease, then place into sugar bowl. Mix to cover entirely. If topping with icing, let the donuts cool so the frosting or other doesn’t melt upon placing. Enjoy!

CRUSTLESS FRITTATA with Hollandaise

EGG MIXTURE INGREDIENTS

9 eggs

1/3 cup of milk

1/4 cup of heavy cream

2 teaspoons of Fustini’s “Tuscan Spice” blend

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 ½ cups cheese (your preference)

FILLING OPTIONS (choose one)

2 cups of diced and cooked veggies (your preference)

1 – 1 ½ cups of chopped and cooked breakfast meat

chicken or breakfast sausage with mushrooms and gouda

5 – 6 ounces of smoked salmon and cooked spinach with gruyere Or ham and broccoli with cheddar cheese

HOLLANDAISE SAUCE

1/4 cup of a Fustini’s “Delicate SELECT” olive oil

3/4 cup of Fustini’s “Meyer Lemon” olive oil

3 egg yolks

5 Tablespoons warm water

2 Tablespoons of fresh-squeezed lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon of pepper (white pepper is best if you don’t want to see the flecks of pepper)

1/8 teaspoon of sugar

Kosher salt to taste

A dash of cayenne pepper

Originally

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease the muffin cups very well. (Another hint: silicone muffin cups work great.)

2. Mix the veggies and meat along with 1 cup of your chosen cheese and fill your muffin cups at least halfway with the filling mix. Combine egg mixture (all but the cheese) and pour over to fill the rest of the cups. (The Chef recommends using a small measuring scoop, such as a 1/4 measuring cup, for control.)

3. Sprinkle the tops of each frittata with the rest of the cheese and place them into the preheated 350-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes. Once the cheese gets a bit browned on top, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Place on plates or a serving platter and spoon over the Hollandaise sauce on each frittata.

Hollandaise Sauce Directions

1. Heat the olive oils together gently to 120 degrees. Combine yolks, 3 Tablespoons of warm water, lemon juice, salt, white pepper, sugar and cayenne in a blender. Pulse until combined. Pour heated oil into a heat safespouted measuring cup.

2. With the blender running, slowly add oil in a thin, steady stream. If the sauce is too thick, add up to 2 Tablespoons of warm water, 1 Tablespoon at a time, and process until desired consistency is reached. Salt to taste.

A blender, oven, and baking pans are used in this recipe.

Grand Haven & Spring Lake

704

136

205

121

Lee & Birch

SilverFire Gallery & Gifts

128 Washington Ave., Grand Haven

Jessa Hat $72, Necklace $28, Daisy Cardi $74, Dana Bond Bootcut Jeans $158

124 Washington Ave., Grand Haven

Walnut & Resin Charcuterie Board

Made by Local Artist Brenda Shores $48, Handmade Live Edge Board with Handle $34, Handmade Charcuterie Utensil Set $28

Barefoot Dave’s

104 Washington Ave., Grand Haven

“Big Wave Dave Design” Hoodie $35

41 Washington Ave., Ste. 135, Grand Haven

Women’s Fascinator Hat for Special Events $35

Use with the Headband or Hair Clip

That Hat

FAB FINDS

Holland & Zeeland

21 E. 8th St., Holland

Handmade Wooden Earrings $17-$27 Lightweight, nickel free, and trendy

51 E. 8th St., Holland Cougar Waterproof Rain Boots $100

Borr’s Shoes and Accessories

11595 E. Lakewood Blvd., Holland Wire Leaf Sculpture $64.75, Charley Harper Felt Birds $25.75

Huisman Flowers

20 E. 8th St., Holland

Heinen Delfts Blauw Cylinder Bird Vase $58.95

Dutch Village Downtown

Holland Bowl Mill

A Selection of Our Proprietary Michigan Flavors $16.95-$36.95 West Michigan Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar, Traverse City Cherry Balsamic Vinegar, and Michigan Honey White Wine Vinegar

30 W. 8th St., Holland Texture Painting Set $25, Black Edition Color Pencils $11

Fris Supply Shop

120 James St., Holland Wooden Fruit Bowl $75-$465

8 W. 8th St., Holland Carhartt Force Relaxed Fit Lightweight Sweatshirt $59.99

Glik’s Men’s Shop

24 E. 8th St., Holland

Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars

FAB FINDS

Saugatuck & Douglas

Lakeshore Pet Boutique

10

W. Center St., Douglas

Canophera Natural Coffee Tree

Wood Chew Sticks $12.99-$14.99

306 Butler St., Saugatuck

Velvet Skyler Sling Bag $60

The Butler Pantry

439 Butler St., Saugatuck

Momofuku Soy Sauce and Chili Crunch Oils $12.99-14.99

Add a perfect punch of heat and flavor to your favorite dishes

Hands-On Cooking Class $125 per person

Designed for small groups, you will learn classic culinary techniques. See class options at lulucadieux.com

308 Butler St., Saugatuck

Up North Breakfast Box $85

Pancake Mix, Michigan Maple Syrup, Lemon Curd, Fruit Perfect Blueberries, Fruit Perfect Sour Cherries, and Strawberry Preserves

421 Water St., Saugatuck

Winding Kantha Bauble Bracelet $32

Spiral into a three-layer wrap bracelet. Sustainably handmade by women artisans in India

3480 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck

Lulu Cadieux

Lucia’s World Emporium

American Spoon

Calendar of Events

ONGOING

Through March 2

Holland: PRISM Pop-up Exhibition, Kruizenga Art Museum, free entry — Curated by Hope College’s LGBTQ+ student organization, Prism, the eight artworks on display have labels with the students’ interpretations written on them. hope.edu

Through March 2

Holland: John Proctor is the Villian, Dewitt Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. — As present-day Georgia high school students study “The Crucible,” the community starts reeling throughout this play’s post-Me Too examination of sex education and love. Play by Kimberly Belflower. hopecollege.csstix.com

Through April

Holland: Indoors Farmers Market, Holland Civic Center Place, first and third Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Over 25 farmers and vendors sell their goods and wares. thehollandfarmersmarket.com

Through April

Muskegon: Winter Farmers Market, 242 West Western Avenue in Muskegon, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays only. Purchase locally made and grown produce, food, handcra ed items, and more. muskegonfarmersmarket.com

Through April 8

Holland: “NEWSFLASH! The Story of Journalism in Holland” exhibition, Holland Museum — Learn about Holland’s early journalism history. Local historian, journalist, and photographer Randy Vande Water provided many objects and local news outlets’ history is shared. The exhibit hosted free adult programs which have recordings available online. hollandmuseum.org

NEWSFLASH! The Story of Journalism in Holland

Muskegon Winter Farmers Market

Through May 17

Calendar of Events

Saugatuck: “Mr. Society of 23” installation, Saugatuck Center for the Arts — Artist Jeffrey Augustine Songco’s latest version of his “Society of 23” project, “...invites audiences to physically experience and explore the objects and spaces that help to inform and define the brotherhood’s identity.” The installation is set in a beauty pageant world and the scenes hold 23 differently generated versions of himself. sc4a.org

Through May 18

Holland: “Deep Roots, New Shoots” exhibition, Kruizenga Art Museum — Forty African artworks from the 1960s up until the early 2020s is on display. A wide variety of themes and artistic styles are reflected throughout the people and the times. hope.edu

LEAP DAY EVENTS

February 29

Holland: Galvin Cello Quartet concert, Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts, 7:30 p.m. — Cellists Sydney Lee, Haddon Kay, Luiz Fernando Venturelli, and Sihao He met at Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music and later debuted at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition despite the pandemic creating a 12-day rehearsal deadline. Part of the Great Performance Series. hopecollege.csstix.com

February 29

Holland: Step film screening, Maas Center Auditorium, 6 –10 p.m. and 7 – 10 p.m. — A documentary about a high school girls step team in Baltimore. Directed by Amanda Lipitz. hope.edu

Step

MARCH

March 1 – 4

Holland: Girlfriends Weekend, Downtown Holland — An annual shopping and connection event for downtown shoppers. Registration required. girlfriendsweekend.org

March 5

Holland: Diversity Lecture Series – Women’s History Month, Maas Center Auditorium, 4 p.m. — The panel will consist of Jasmine Lowell, Courtney Brewster, Margo Walters, and Dr. Anne Heath. hope.edu

March 8 – 10

Grand Haven: Girls on the Grand, Downtown Grand Haven — A spring weekend getaway with cocktails, shopping, and fashion show. Registration required. visitgrandhaven.com

March 8

Holland: Three Dog Night concert, Holland Civic Center, 8 p.m. — Watch the five-decade spanning and not stopping soon band perform their rock hits. Tickets required. hollandciviccenter.com

Three Dog Night

March 8 – 17

Grand Haven: Half Baked, Central Park Place, 2:30 or 7:30 p.m. — Premiering the newly licensed play, Central Park Players is presenting Half Baked — a dark comedy about a failing Florida business and the characters surrounding a murder for life insurance money. centralparkplayers.org

March 9

Grand Haven: Piece Together Parks Grand Haven Eagles, 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. — A benefit jigsaw puzzle contest will take place. Come up with a theme for your team and compete to win prizes, while learning about the wonderful Ottawa County Parks system! Proceeds will go to benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. Space is limited to 30 teams. A $100 or more donation registers the whole team (teams can consist of 2 to 6 people). The winning team will receive a prize and all teams may keep the puzzle. ottawacountyparksfoundation.org

March 10

Holland: “LIL XAN — The Return Tour,” Park Theatre, 7 p.m. — A er gaining popularity in the late 2010s, Lil Xan’s music career took a short break. Doors open an hour earlier. Tickets required. parktheatreholland.org

March 14

Holland: Comedian Bill Boronkay, Park Theatre, 7 p.m. — Catch the five-time Emmy winning sportscaster turned comedian and actor. Tickets required. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. parktheatreholland.org

Calendar of Events

March 15

Muskegon: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with Cherish the Ladies, Frauenthal Center, 7:30 p.m. — Watch the Irish American, Grammy nominated group perform a night of traditional Irish music. westmichigansymphony.org

March 15

Holland: Deerfield Run with special guest Colt Snuffer & The Dead Horseman, Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — Doors open at 7 p.m. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. Tickets required. parktheatreholland.org

March 16

Saugatuck: Shamrock Fun Rock Rock & Roll, Wicks Park Bar & Grill, 11 a.m. pre-registry recommended. With cash prizes for the “most spirited,” get your green ready to run around before Wicks other holiday event: Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl, Wicks Park Bar & Grill, registration is from 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. facebook.com

March 16

Holland: St. Paddy’s Leprechaun Chase 5K, Centennial Park, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. — This eighth annual run is held by the Holland Running Club and participants are encouraged to dress up in green. Sign up is through runsignup.com. A 15-minute “wee race” will start at 8:30 a.m. for participants four to eight years old (no registration required for the smaller race). holland.org

March 16

Holland: Black Murray, The Curragh Irish Pub, 7 – 10 p.m. — The group self describes as, “An acoustic band inspired by songs of love, folly, roguery, and murder –not necessarily in that order.” blackmurrayband.com/ events

March 16

Muskegon: Whorled: International Experience, The Starlight Room, 7 p.m. — Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fusion of Celtic music and other world folk music. Doors open at 6 p.m. allevents.in/muskegon

March 16

Holland: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 8th Street Market Place — The parade will march down eighth street with Irish themed festivities happening downtown. michigan.org

March 16

Muskegon: Shamrock Shuffle 5k, Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, starts at 9 a.m. Registration required. — runmkg.com/registration

Muskegon: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Downtown Muskegon, 11 – 11:30 a.m. Watch the annual St. Paddy’s Day parade as it walks through downtown Muskegon. jcimuskegon.org

Black Murray

Cherish the Ladies

Holland St. patrick’s Day parade

March 16

Calendar of Events

Holland: Hearts and Bones – “A Tribute to Paul Simon,” Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — The two-hour long homage concert will include a nine-piece backup band and horn section. Part of Park Theatre’s 2024 Winter Legends Series. Doors open at 7 p.m. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. Tickets required. parktheatreholland.org

Between March 16 and 23

Holland: Maple Sugar Time, Van Raalte Farm Park, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — The Outdoor Discovery Center Macatawa Greenway will be showing visitors how trees are tapped and walk them through the boiling process that creates maple syrup. Kids activities and maple treats for purchase will be available. outdoordiscovery.org

March 21

Holland: Diversity Lecture Series – Affirming LGBTQ+ Student Lecture, Maas Center Auditorium, 4 p.m. — Speaker Dr. Jane Dickie. Hope College’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion celebrates 40 years. hope.edu

March 22

Holland: “The Other Mozart,” Knickbocker Theatre, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. — Watch a theatrical performance about the historically unspoken story of musical prodigy Nannerl Mozart. Part of the Great Performance Series. hopecollege.csstix.com

March 22

Holland: Comedian Lee Hardin (Clean Comedy), Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — Catch Lee Hardin, who has appeared on Dry Bar Comedy, as he shares clean jokes to guests of all ages. Doors open an hour earlier. Tickets required. parktheatreholland.org

March 22

Zeeland: Sidewalk Prophets – “Songs & Stories Tour,” Community Reformed Church, 7 p.m. — The Dove Award winning contemporary Christian pop rock band is playing a rescheduled show. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. eventbrite.com

March 30

Holland: “Crazy Babies” – A Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — Doors open at 7 p.m. Boyd “Ozzy” Quinton, Keith “ROCK” Holstein, Rob “Blasto” Johannis, and Christian “Skull” Minor will be jamming out. Part of Park Theatre’s 2024 Winter Legends Series. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. Tickets required. parktheatreholland.org

March 28

Holland: Diversity Lecture Series – Cesar Chavez Lecture Maas Center Auditorium, 4 p.m. — The annual lecture will be led by Speaker Ernesto Villareal. hope.edu

March 30

Dorr: Easter Egg Hunt, North Park, 11 – 11:30 a.m. Hosted by the Dorr Business Association – DBA, eggs will be planted around the Dorr Township Park. facebook.com

March 31

Spring Lake: The Great Village Egg Hunt, Village of Spring Lake, All day — The hunt goes until the last egg is found. About 1000 eggs (or more!) are dispersed throughout the Village of Spring Lake. Regular candy eggs and golden eggs with prize values are hidden, thanks to the help of local businesses and organizations. visitspringlakemi.com

APRIL

April 4 – April 20

Holland: By the Way, Meet Vera Stark, Dewitt Main Theatre, 7:30 p.m. — One free 2 p.m. show on April 14. Set in the 1930s, the show follows budding actress Vera Stark and her lifelong story that becomes messy when she gets involved with her white boss with mixed motives. Play by Lynn Nottage. hopecollege.csstix.com

April 6

Holland: “Danny Dash’s Michael Jackson Experience” concert, Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — Part of Park Theatre’s Winter Legends Series, this is a live tribute of the late pop star’s musical legacy. Doors open at 7 p.m. Ticket entry required. parktheatreholland.org

Maple Sugar Time

Easter Egg Hunt

By the Way, Meet Vera Stark

Calendar of Events

April 13

Holland: “Heads in Motion — A Tribute to The Talking Heads” concert, Park Theatre, 8 p.m. Ticket entry required. Part of the Winter Legends Series. Doors open an hour prior. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. parktheatreholland.org

April 17

Holland: Steve’N’Seagulls with special guests: Dig Deep, Park Theatre, 8 p.m. — This bluegrass, Finnish folk, and rock-metal band has gone viral and have since been touring internationally. Doors open an hour prior. 18+ or entry with adult supervision. parktheatreholland.org

April 20

Grand Haven: Chili Blues, Snug Harbor, 12 p.m. –10 p.m. — Sign up to cook your chili, or enjoy the all day music, drinks, and chili samples. visitgrandhaven.com

April 25 – 27

Holland: Turning Pointe School of Dance presents “Redeemed!” times to be announced. Knickerbocker Theatre — A live debut choreography shares Turning Pointe’s “distinct performance about the mission and life of Jesus.” tickets.hope.edu

Chili Blues

DOWNTOWNZEELAND

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

2024

Music on Main*

Sweet Summer Night* Outdoor Movie & Treats

National Night Out* ELM STREET

Music on Main*

Ice Cream Social DEKKER HUIS MUSEUM

Thurs., July 25

Thurs., August 1

Tues., August 6

Spring Peddlers’ Market* An Artfully & Tastefully Curious Faire CHURCH STREET

Memorial Day Parade*

Thurs., August 8

Thurs., August 8

Sat., May 25

Mon., May 27

Thurs., June 6

Music on Main* June 12–July 31

with Howard Miller Library

PopUp in the Park every Wednesday

LAWRENCE STREET PARK

Music on Main* Mon., September 2

Fall Peddlers’ Market* An Artfully & Tastefully Curious Faire CHURCH STREET

Thurs., August 22

Labor Day Truck Parade* Sat., September 7

EXCEPT ON JULY 17 @ VANDE LUYSTER SQUARE

Zeeland’s Chalk Fest*

Music on Main*

Pumpkinfest*

Downtown Trick or Treat*

Magical Christmas Parade and City Tree Lighting Ceremony*

Thurs., June 13

Thurs., June 13

Farm the Zeel Tractor Show

October 4-5

Thurs., October 31

Thurs., November 28

Zeeland’s Turkey Trot 8k* Mon., Dec. 2

Feel the Zeel of Christmas Sat., December 7

Wreaths of Honor Laying Ceremony

December 4-6

Sinterklaas DEKKER HUIS MUSEUM Sat., December 14

Plaiderday Chili Crawl

ZEELAND CEMETARY Sat., Feb. 22, 2025

WWW.FEELTHEZEEL.COM

Music on Main* Sat., June 22

FIRST REFORMED CHURCH

Zeeland Zoom 5K*

Thurs., June 20

Tues., June 25

Thurs., June 27

Music on Main* July 1-29

Zeelmania* every Monday evening July 2–July 30

Soundz of Summer Concert Series every Tuesday evening

LAWRENCE STREET PARK

Show & Shine Car Show & Cruise*

Music on Main* July 12-13

Zeeland Fire & Rescue Pig Out

LAWRENCE STREET PARK FOR

*EVENTS THAT CAUSE STREET CLOSURES. Please visit www.feelthezeel.com for specific street and lane closure details. Due to road construction, event locations are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information visit www.feelthezeel.com

Thurs., July 11

Thurs., July 18