What's On This Weekend: Sep 30-Oct 2

That crisp autumn bite is in the air, and though it pains me to ease our giant beach unicorn into its winter hibernation, I will be celebrating the change in seasons with a warm cup of cider in hand for the duration.

This weekend offers the chance at cider aplenty, caramel apples, carnival rides, scarecrow contests, corn mazes and more than a few phenomenal indoor activities if the weather proves too gloomy.

FRIDAY

• Ride carnival rides, nibble on caramel apples and take in the spectacular Four Flags Area Apple Festival (through Sunday)

• Rain or shine, behold the world-class ArtPrize in Grand Rapids while it lasts (through Oct 9)

• Get your tickets to see the awarding-winning Cinderella musical in Grand Rapids (through Saturday)

• Grab your kid's second-favorite teddy bear and get to South Haven's library for a special evening story time and stuffed animal sleepover

SATURDAY

• Cross the border for magicians, bounce houses, obstacle courses, a petting zoo, face painting and more at the Family Festival in South Bend

• Enjoy games, contests, prizes and splashy fun at the Holland Aquatic Center's Fall Carnival

• Celebrate cider season with kids' activities, tasty food and plenty of entertainment at Virtue Cider's Apple Fest (through Sunday)

• Try your hand at paper arts, calligraphy and crafts during the Open House Book Party in Kalamazoo

• Take your curious kid to learn all about caterpillars and make a craft at the children's museum's Super Saturday in St Joseph

• Head to Harbor County to celebrate the start of its month-long Harvest Days

SUNDAY

• Relax with a session of yoga for the whole family at Fernwood Botanical Garden

• Strap on your rainboots and head to a local corn maze for some unforgettable fun

Head to the Southwest Michigan Kids calendar for all the fabulous details. For more fun ideas, check out our Ultimate Southwest Michigan Fall Bucket List and our guide to local U-picks.