Celebrate the Holidays in West Michigan

PR Log (Press Release) – Nov 04, 2008 – Experience the most magical time of year as Frederik Meijer Gardens located in Grand Rapids (616-957-1580, www.meijergardens.org) transforms into a world of winter magic with the glow of 300,000 lights, strolling carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more than 40 captivating international trees and displays. A new feature this year of the Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World display is a 50-piece Santon display from France, along with the return of three important festive displays honoring the Chinese New Year, the Muslim celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, and the unique illumination traditions from the Philippines known as Parols.

Brighten your holidays with a visit to Holland, Michigan, during Dutch Winterfest taking place November 22 – December 13. During this the fun-filled festival the city comes alive with dozens of events reminiscent of the joyful holidays of yesteryear. Additional information can be found at 800-506-1299 or www.holland.org

Ride with the FUN GUY during the Santa Train only at the Coopersville & Marne Railway November 29, 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21. Each of the vintage passenger cars has a special seat reserved just for the Big Guy and his friends. Elves will escort the children to sit with Santa. All kids get a present, even the shy ones! The story-telling Princess will read from the book, "The Polar Express" which was written by Grand Rapids native, Chris Van Allsburg. All of the cars are comfortably heated and each has a restroom on board.

Celebrate a decade of family fun at the Holiday Balloon Fest December 5 – 7 in Battle Creek, Michigan! There will free family activities, entertainment, and music. Frosty Flights are scheduled to take place as well as Glittering Balloon Glows! Dress warm. For additional information, 800-397-2240 or www.holidayballoonfest.com

Take a trip back in time with a visit to the event “Of Christmas Past” at Historic Charlton Park (269-945-377, www.charltonpark.org). The event is one weekend only on December 13 and 14 from Noon - 5:00 p.m. Admission is $6 adults and $3 for children ages 4-12. Located at 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd. in Hastings, Michigan.

On December 13 and 14 from 1 p.m. -5 p.m., savor tea and authentic Victorian delicacies as enjoyed by prominent local families a century ago, in the stately, historic Cappon House, dressed in its antique Christmas finery, ornaments and toys. A pianist in period attire will complement the festive atmosphere with tunes from the holidays that were played around 1900. Space is limited and reservations are required; call for tickets and reserve your time. Admission is $10, $6 children 5 and under. Cappon House Museum is located at 228 W 9th Street in Holland, Michigan. Additional information 616-394-1362 or www.hollandmuseum.org.