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 all the special events and programs provided by Sandcastles Children's Museum and the Ludington and Scottville branches of the Mason County District Libraries!

And check out stories on Trick-or-Treating and Other Fun Fall Events!

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

Friday, October 11th-Saturday, October 12th

Oktoberfest in downtown Pentwater.

October 12th-November 17th

Coat/Blanket Drive for Ludington Area Schools Youth Resource Center at Ludington Bay Brewing Co.- 515 S. James St. in Ludington. Accepting lightly used blankets and coats which will be cleaned and donated to the Youth Resource Center. Anyone donating a coat/blanket will receive a $5 coupon for Ludington Bay Brewing and be entered to win 2 tickets to their next beer dinner.

Saturday, October 12th

10am - Antique Tractor Pull at the West Michigan Old Engine Club Grounds at Scottville Riverside Park- 700 S. Scottville Rd.

7-11pm - Ludington Area Jaycees Halloween PAR-TEE at their mini golf in Stearns Park today- 900 W. Ludington Ave. Tickets are $20-$30 and include adult beverages, mini golf tournament, costume contest, and DJ. Must be 21 to enter. Purchase tickets at eventbrite.com.

Thursday, October 24th-Sunday, October 27th

Frankenstein at West Shore Community College. Thursday-Saturday performances begin at 7pm and Sunday matinee begins at 2pm. This production is recommended for those age 13 and up. Tickets can be purchased at mynorthtickets.com.

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More Family Fun...

For more activities & attractions, check out these additional links for Things to Do in West Michigan:

Ludington Activities & Things to Do -- Play on a beautiful beach, take a tour at Historic White Pine Village, or explore the barn quilt trail, murals or sculptures in the county--Ludington offers many fun things to do for the entire family!
Have Fun in Manistee, Michigan -- Explore Manistee's historic downtown district and riverwalk, hike the Manistee National Forest, canoe on the Manistee River, and more.
Hamlin Lake -- Just 4 miles north of Ludington, Hamlin Lake is a great destination for boating, fishing and climbing dunes! The Hamlin Lake shoreline is also part of the Ludington State Park.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes -- Visiting the Silver Lake Sand Dunes makes for a terrific vacation because you can take your off-road vehicle for a spin on the scenic sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan and Silver Lake.
Things to Do in Pentwater, Michigan -- Nothing is quite like the quaint, artsy, harbortown village of Pentwater. Don't miss the popular Charles Mears State Park beach on Pentwater's Lake Michigan shoreline.
Lots of Activities in Scottville, Michigan -- Explore the Riverside Park along the National Scenic Pere Marquette River.
Canoeing or Fishing on the Pere Marquette River -- Many boat liveries offer canoe rentals.
Also, check out West Michigan Guides and our locally produced WestMichigan.MichBiz.com directory for our largest lists of Things to Do in West Michigan.