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Families can shop more than 100 local vendors offering crafts, gifts and holiday treats. Kids can meet Santa while parents browse sales and enjoy festive shopping. A winter clothing drive will also support local foster care children.
Event cost: Free admission
Event times: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Dec. 20
Families can enjoy a full day of art, science and seasonal activities at this Winter Solstice celebration. Kids can make lanterns, puppets and crafts while exploring both the museum and the institute with one ticket. Live music, storytime and a lantern parade add to the festive winter fun.
Event cost:...
Families can join a guided walk to look for plants and animals while talking about what makes them special. Kids will enjoy exploring the trails and making a fall craft afterward. Dress for the weather and note that the fee applies to both children and adults.
Event cost: $3 per...
Families can explore interactive light installations from global artists during this new winter celebration. Kids will enjoy the glowing sculptures, monthly themed events and the holiday kickoff with Santa and treats. Dress warm for outdoor viewing.
Event cost: Free
Event times: Open daily Nov. 20–Feb. 20; Holiday Kickoff event and tree...
Meet U-M scientists and explore their latest research through hands-on, interactive activities. This event lets families and curious minds connect directly with researchers in a fun and educational setting. Free and open to the public.
Event cost: Free
Event times: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 16
Families can visit the Stony Creek Nature Center to watch animals enjoy their lunchtime and learn from interpreters about their diets and habitats. Enjoy exploring the exhibits and nearby trails during this relaxed, educational afternoon.
Event cost: Free admission
Event times: 1-2 p.m. Nov. 16
Families with young kids can enjoy a gentle hike focused on discovering turkeys and other fall wildlife. The short trail walk includes fun exploration and an interactive activity designed for ages 2–8. Pre-registration is required.
Event cost: $3 per child, adults free
Event times: 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 15
Join Michigan Master Naturalist Doug Jackson for a Sandhill Crane Tour through Waterloo Recreation Area. Families can watch cranes up close as they gather for migration and stop at Haehnle Sanctuary to see their evening roost.
Event cost: $2 per person or $5 per family
Event times: 4-6:30 p.m. Nov. 16
Celebrate the bird of the month at Home School Turkeys with games, crafts, and outdoor fun. Kids ages 5-14 can learn all about turkeys through hands-on activities at Nankin Mills.
Event cost: $6 per child, free for chaperones
Event times: 12-2 p.m. Nov. 13
Learn what local animals like turkeys and squirrels do in fall during this fun, hands-on Nature Tater Tots program. Kids ages 2-4 can enjoy a craft, short walk, and interactive presentation with their caregivers.
Event cost: $5 per person
Event times: 9-10 a.m. Nov. 12
Kids can meet a dairy calf and learn about its life through stories, photos, and crafts at Greenmead Historical Park. Parents must stay with their children during the session. Registration is required.
Event cost: $10 resident / $12 non-resident
Event times: 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 15
Discover Michigan’s nighttime wildlife during this guided owl adventure. Families will meet live owls, learn about their habits, and explore Black Pond Woods on a quiet evening hike with expert naturalists. Dress for the weather and prepare for uneven terrain.
Event cost: $10 adults and children (2-17); free for babies...














