There’s always something to discover in Holland, and fall brings its own charm. Fall welcomes colorful trees, crisp air and the planting of thousands of tulip bulbs in preparation for spring.
Here are some ways to experience fall like a local in Holland.
Celebrate Fall Fest
Downtown embraces the season during Fall Fest. Watch professional pumpkin carvers transform giant pumpkins into works of art, browse the Makers Market and hop aboard a hayride.
You can even play a part in Tulip Time! Join the community in planting tulip bulbs in a local park, then come back in the spring to see them in bloom.
Step Back in Time
Attend the 17th Annual Civil War Muster as it commemorates America’s 250th anniversary, with Revolutionary War guests bringing figures like Washington, Hamilton and Jefferson to life. Experience history firsthand as the cannons boom.
For a spookier twist, take a cemetery tour through Holland’s oldest cemetery. A local expert will share stories about Holland’s founder and other notable people from Holland’s past.
Take in the Fall Views
Get a new perspective on Holland with a climb up the 239 steps at Mt. Pisgah, where panoramic views of Lake Michigan, Big Red and Lake Macatawa await. Visit as the seasons begin to change and take in the reds, oranges and yellows stretching out below you.
Prefer to be among the trees? Lace up your hiking shoes and explore Sanctuary Woods, Riley Trails or Hemlock Crossing. All three offer heavily wooded trails that put you right in the middle of the changing season. Whether you take in the view from above or wander beneath the colorful canopy, fall is a great time to explore Holland’s outdoors.
Taste the Season
A fall trip to the Holland Farmers Market is a must. Farmers and vendors fill their stands with squash, pumpkins, apples and other locally grown favorites.
Prefer to pick your own? Head to Crane’s for an afternoon in the orchard and choose apples perfect for baking or snacking—sweet, tart or somewhere in between.
Sip, Stroll and Explore Downtown
Grab a drink to-go from a participating local brewery, restaurant or tasting room and enjoy it within the Downtown Holland Social District as you shop and explore.
Make a game of discovering Holland’s handcrafted side with the Handcrafted Passport. Choose a paper or digital passport, visit participating stops and collect stamps along the way. Complete the passport and earn a prize! It’s a fun way to discover local craftsmanship and experience Holland at a local’s pace.
