Friday Five 9.23.16

Is it Friday again already?!?! Wow, this week really flew by! Here is another “Friday Five” for you to peruse and give you some ideas of fun things going on in our area and neighboring communities. Get out there and make some memories!!!

1. ArtPrize 8

ArtPrize is officially underway in downtown Grand Rapids, and will continue through October 9th. Get out this weekend while the weather is still nice and enjoy this amazing international art competition! You can even participate by voting for your favorites. And the best part of this event is that it’s completely free and open to the public! Plus there is just so much to see, do, and enjoy in Grand Rapids. We are fortunate to live so close to such a fun city!

2. Grand Haven Artwalk

Grand Haven ArtWalk is basically like ArtPrize, but on a small town, local level. It is an annual collaboration of artists, local businesses and members of the lakeshore community in a collective celebration of art. Artists from the local area and beyond participate in an art competition in the following categories: drawing, painting, photography, sculpture(3D) and mixed media. One of the highlights of ArtWalk is the Art Bike Parade where a parade of artistically modified bikes takes place right through the center of downtown Grand Haven. The Art Bike Parade ends at Waterfront Stadium where you can cast your vote for your favorite decorated bike! ArtWalk will take place Sept. 21- Oct. 9.

 

3. Fall Color Tour

In a recent survey, Michigan’s M-22 was voted America’s best scenic autumn drive! What an honor, and if you’ve ever ventured up north during the fall season, you know it’s absolutely true! But it might be a little early to make this trip yet, if you’re hoping to see the beautiful fall colors, due to the lovely Indian summer we’re having. Before you go, check The Foliage Network to make sure you’ll get to see some color change in the leaves! According to the most recent report made yesterday, there hasn’t been much color change in the lower peninsula yet. So exercise a little patience, but definitely plan a trip up north in the near future! You won’t regret it!

 

4. Lewis Farm Market

Lewis Farm Market is a family-owned and operated 700 acre farm in New Era, Michigan. A popular West Michigan fall tradition is to pick your own apples at one of the many local orchards. Lewis Farm is a great option because not only can you pick your own apples, but they also have a wonderful array of farm/exotic animals in their petting zoo. You can even feed most of the animals right out of your hand! There are many other fun fall activities to partake in as well, from jumping on the giant jumping pillows to going for a barrel train ride to shopping at the market….there’s something fun for every age!

 

5. Muskegon Farmers Market – Annual Harvest Fest

Fall is one of the BEST times of year to go to the farmers market! So much fresh, home-grown produce to choose from! And this Saturday the Muskegon Farmers Market is having their annual Harvest Fest. The market is open it’s regular Saturday hours, and the harvest fest takes place from 10am-1pm, with music, giveaways, food samples, and crafts for sale! Come downtown to the Muskegon Farmers Market and enjoy the fall fun!