What's On This Weekend: Dec 30-Jan 1

The last weekend of 2016 is here already/at last. What traditions do your family hold near and dear this time of year? We usually go bowling on New Year's Eve, have a simple dinner, then write out our favorite thing about the year and one thing we want to see happen in the next one. I'd like to start spending New Year's Day outdoors connecting with nature. Maybe that will be my "resolution" -- to get outside more often.

Whatever your plans, have a safe, cozy, glorious New Year, everyone.

.

FRIDAY

• Explore a whimsical, life-sized Candyland at the Otsego Public Library (through Jan 21)

• Splash around the Holland Aquatic Center during extended open swim times (through Jan 2)

• Learn all about hawks, owls and other birds -- animate them up close -- at the Outdoor discover Center in Holland

• Become a forensic scientist and extract bones from an owl pellet to discover what was consumed

• Drop the kids off at Camp Kidwell in Bloomingdale for a full day of winter camp games, campfires, nature walks and more (through Jan 1)

• Embark on the Winter Break Selfie Scavenger Hunt at Benton Harbor's Sarett Nature Center for the chance to win a prize

• Scope out the sprawling train display and holiday decor around the world at the Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids (through Jan 8)

SATURDAY

• Enjoy a Countdown to Noon celebration at the kids' museum in Fennville, with crafts, activities and a balloon drop at 12 pm

• Join the Sarett naturalists for the National Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count

• Don't miss a spectacular fireworks display in downtown Saugatuck at dusk

• Make party hats and noisemakers, watch a puppet show, play games and eat snacks -- plus experience a balloon drop at noon -- at the Holland Area Arts Council

• Ring in the new year early with stories, dancing, crafts and a kid-friendly countdown with Holland's Herrick District Library

• Head to BAM! Entertainment Center in Holland for a special year-end bash, with Rock & Glow Bowling, pizza, party favors and more

• Savor games, prizes, a countdown and an early ball drop during the Holland Aquatic Center's splashy NYE luau

• Mark the year's end (teens in 6-12 grades only) at the YMCA in St Joe with games, swimming, snacks and gym time

SUNDAY

• Hit the slopes for a bout of New Year skiing or snowboarding

• Celebrate the arrival of 2017 with a quiet walk at your nearest state park

Check out the Southwest Michigan Kids calendar for all the fabulous details. And don't miss our Ultimate Southwest Michigan Winter Bucket List.