The lakeshore communities of West Michigan do a fantastic job of hosting events and activities that include the whole family. There's so much happening that is geared specifically toward kids and families as a whole, and that's part of what makes being here so amazing!

Every season in West Michigan has it's unique, fun things to do for kids of all ages- from babies up to the "young at heart". Indoors or outdoors, no matter the time of year, there's always something great going on along the lakeshore for families to experience together!

In addition to the following list, check out the events happening throughout the month at Sandcastles Children's Museum and the Ludington and Scottville branches of the Mason County District Libraries!

Here's a list of family friendly events happening along the lakeshore in December:

November 24th-January 1st, 5-10pm nightly

Sparkle in the Park at Hopkins Park Campground- 7700 Lake St. in Bear Lake. See thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights set up in nearly 50 holiday displays. Admission free but donations are welcomed.

Saturday, December 15th

10am-2pm - Santa's Workshop at Floracraft- 1 W. Longfellow Place in Ludington. Christmas crafting, holiday games, pictures with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, sleigh rides, and more. Free and open to the public.

1pm & 6pm - Letha Fulton School of Dance Christmas Shows at Peterson Auditorium- 508 N. Washington Ave. in Ludington.

1pm - Children's Christmas Party at the Citizen's Sportsman's Club- 5586 Fountain Rd. in Fountain. For children 12 and under and those with special needs.

4-7pm - Pioneer Christmas at the Historic White Pine Village- 1687 S. Lakeshore Dr. in Ludington. Cost is $5 per person.

Sunday, December 16th, 1-4pm

Fifth Annual Christmas on Ice, hosted by the West Shore Blades Figure Skating Club, at the West Shore Community College Ice Arena- 3000 N. Stiles Rd. in Scottville. Entry is one non-perishable food item per person as the event is held to gather inventory for the Ludington Area Schools Resource Center. Attendees can enjoy free skating and skate rental, free photos with Santa, and see an exhibition of local competitive skaters. There will also be door prizes and those who wear a Christmas costume or ugly sweater will also be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a bicycle and other large prizes.

Monday, December 31st

New Year's Eve Ball Drop in downtown Ludington.

Monday, December 31st, 5-8pm

Balloon Drop New Year's Eve Party at Sandcastles Children's Museum- 129 E. Ludington Ave. $10 per person, $35 per immediate family.

Want to learn more about all things family in West Michigan? Visit Lakeshore Family Guide and "Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LakeshoreFamilyGuide

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