18 things to try in 2018

Holland Symphony Orchestra
Attend a concert
Photo: Holland Symphony Orchestra

A new year brings 12 new chapters and 365 chances. Here are 18 things we challenge you to do in the West Michigan community this year.

1. Ride your  bike to work

“Biking is good for air quality. For every mile you bike instead of drive, you reduce about one pound of CO2 per mile.”

—Elisa Hoekwater, transportation program manager, Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, Holland
616-395-2688
the-macc.org

2. Clean out your closet

Haven’t worn that striped shirt or those blue jeans in awhile? Free up some closet space and visit Clothes Junkie, a consignment shop that pays cash for gently used women’s clothing.

Clothes Junkie, Zeeland
616-772-7279

3. Visit your  local library

In search of a relaxing afternoon? Stop by your local library and curl up with a new book, or craft a new skill by taking a class or joining an educational program.

Herrick District Library, Holland
616-355-3100
herrickdl.org

4. Pamper yourself

Go out on a limb and try a new cut or style, and while you’re at it, treat your nails to some well-deserved cuticle care at Salon Cheveux.

Salon Cheveux, Holland
616-546-2824
saloncheveuxhsb.com

5. Get financially smart

Get ahead of your finances and investments this year with tips from a local financial expert.

“Be prepared for potential higher market volatility and have the right mix of investments according to your comfort of risk.”

—Kim Bos, financial advisor, Edward Jones, Holland
616-994-9713
edwardjones.com

6. Sharpen your culinary skills

“Fustini’s cooking classes provide fun and engaging opportunities to be inspired in your culinary journey.”

—Denise Walburg, manager,
Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars, Holland
616-392-1111
fustinis.com

Spoil your pooch: Decadent Dogs
Spoil your pooch
Photo: Decadent Dogs

7. Spoil your pooch

Treat your family’s fur baby to a new fashion accessory or a tasty treat at Decadent Dogs.

Decadent Dogs, Holland
616-294-3138
decadentdogs.com

8. Volunteer in your community

“Volunteering connects you more deeply to your community and gives a wonderful sense of ownership.”

—Kristin Armstrong, executive director,
Saugatuck Center for Arts, Saugatuck
269-857-2399
sc4a.org

9. Attend a concert

Expand your music knowledge with a Holland Symphony Orchestra concert. These skilled musicians perform a variety of genres ranging from classical to pops.

Holland Symphony Orchestra, Holland
616-796-6780
hollandsymphony.org

10. Visit a museum

Learn the story of Holland and its founding Dutch immigrants by strolling through thousands of objects and artwork at Holland Museum.

Holland Museum, Holland
616-392-9084
hollandmuseum.org

11. Book a cruise or vacation

Ready for a new adventure? Let Pathfinders Travel make your family’s travel dreams come true.

Pathfinders Travel, Holland
616-396-1983
pathfinderstravel.net

12. Get outside

“There is a growing body of research indicating that just being in nature relieves stress — take a walk and find out!”

—Jessica VanGinhoven, communications coordinator, Ottawa County Parks
& Recreation, West Olive
miottawa.org/parks

13. Tour a factory

Observe skilled craftsmen create beautiful bowls from raw blocks of wood at Holland Bowl Mill, the largest commercial wooden bowl maker in the country.

Holland Bowl Mill, Holland
616-396-6513
hollandbowlmill.com

14. See a theatre production

Discover the lakeshore’s local talent by attending shows at Holland Civic Theatre throughout the year.

Holland Civic Theatre, Holland
616-396-2021
hollandcivictheatre.org

15. Take a tour in your own town

Experience Grand Haven from a new view by taking a day or sunset sail with Wind Dancer Charters. Or, plan a private tour with family and friends.

Wind Dancer Charters, Grand Haven
616-560-1929
winddancercharters.com

16. Visit your local farmers market

Support your local farmers by purchasing fresh produce and locally made goods in Holland, Zeeland, Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Saugatuck/Douglas.

17. Donate blood

The No. 1 reason people donate: They want to help others. For donation dates and locations, contact the American Red Cross.

American Red Cross
616-396-6545
redcross.org

Free your mind Sol+Sage
Free your mind
Photo: Sol+Sage

18. Free your mind

Open up your mind and body with a new experience. Take a yoga class at Sol+Sage and release your energy through different movements.

Sol+Sage, Grand Haven
616-607-2564
solandsage.com