By Gari Voss
Christmas is just around the corner. Even before the gifts are opened and parents are trying to get the last minute tasks completed, and definitely after the gifts are opened, the Christmas meals are consumed, and the guests have headed home, out pops the dreaded words, “I’m bored!”
It may be thought that these words come from the younger members of the household, but alas, the adult members express the same sentiments. Never fear! The Allegan area has opportunities for young, not so young and families.
Without a penny in one’s pocket, a brisk walk, a visit to the library, window shopping along the streets of Downtown, a tour through the Old Jail Museum, a bike ride, or friendly soccer or baseball practice can bring together friends and family. These activities can be done with no technological equipment and may bring some wonderful discoveries.
Just a few suggestions that require little or no money, and a few that may cost a bit more. All can lead up to the larger New Year’s Eve celebrations around Downtown Allegan.
The Regent Theater
Dec. 22nd, 4pm: Fa, La, La Friday offers White Christmas. Following the film is the last Festive Friday in Downtown Allegan. It’s Home for the Holidays, and there will be specials in the shops and restaurants and breweries. Don’t forget Santa at City Hall!
Now – Thur., Dec. 28th: Wonka informs audiences about how poor, young Willy Wonka created his chocolate empire.
Fri., Dec. 29th: a new movie at 7pm will lead to the 9:30pm Flashback Friday: The Mask. Though not quite Christmas Eve, this is a great way to end Festive Fridays!
Allegan District Library
There will be a plethora of activities for all ages. Though they will be closed Dec. 22nd – 25th, and Dec. 29th – Jan.1st, there will be something for everyone on the open days.
Dec. 27th at 10am: Play Café celebrates caregivers.
Dec. 27th at 1pm: Teen Time provides ages 12-18 activities and social time.
Dec. 28th at noon: A Noon Year’s Eve Party will have its own countdown and fun for 0-6 year olds.
Jan. 2nd – Mar. 2nd: Adult Winter Reading begins. Be sure to keep track of your books.
Jan. 3rd, 6pm: The first Pintesting will be Self-Care DIYs. If you don’t know what a DIY is, stop in and find out.
Jan. 4th, 3:30pm: Nail Art Spa for teens.
Jan. 4th, 6pm: Swords and Bayonets will invade the library for 12 year olds and above.
Jan. 5th, 6pm: Family Nerf Night provides an opportunity for the whole family.
Old Jail Museum
Dec. 26-30, 10am-4pm: The volunteers at the Old Jail Museum will open the museum doors for all who wish to wander or take a tour or ask questions about specific events in Allegan County history. Drop in.
Tilt 118
Stop in and learn how to play Pinball or one of the other games available. There is a bit of a charge and food is available.
Hoard of the Dragon
Down the alley next to the Regent Theater is a great place to learn some very challenging table games. Stop in and watch or try your skills.
Learn a New Skill
Stop at Sharon’s Quilts and More in the Shoppes at Penney’s Mall and investigate a new creative hand skill.
Board & Brush Creative Studio has opportunities to create décor with wood. Call (269) 686-9537 for sessions.
Allegan Event
Dec. 22nd, 5-8pm: Grinch Night at Allegan Event on North St. just off River St.
Dec. 23rd, 4pm: Festivus Celebration at Tantrick Brewing Co. Air grievances, display feats of strength, and enjoy the meatloaf special.
Visit a Park
The weather may not be frightful or snowy during Break. If it is snowing, try a day at Bittersweet or Timber Ridge or just find a piece of cardboard and a snowy hill. If no snow arrives, visit some of Allegan’s offerings. For a map, check https://www.cityofallegan.org/departments/parks.php.
Hanson Park with its play structures is just behind the library and the Griswold Auditorium.
Jaycee Park is near Village Market. Just bring a skateboard or head for the climbing structure. Bring your 4-legged friends and let them chase balls in the Dog Park, or bring a frisbee for a rollicking game of Frisbee Golf.
Cook Street Park nestled back off Cook and River Streets. Quietly watch the birds that gather.
Rossman Park has the Pickle Ball courts and offers an opportunity to practice with rackets and balls even if the nets are not up, the practice keeps players sharp.
Mountain Bike Park has trails that can be picked up off 114th St.
Wellness & Sports Complex can be visited with a soccer ball or baseball and bat for some winter practice or just take a walk along the lovely paths whether bare or snow covered.
Investigate the Scouts
Allegan offers Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts. Contact Rob Keen at 269 568-0435 for more information.
Camp Kidwell Winter Camp
Registration is open to celebrate the outdoors and the New Year at Camp Kidwell from Dec. 29th to Jan 1st. This has a registration fee, but there may still be some scholarships available.
Volunteer
Allegan Co. Animal Shelter has a dog or cat that is just as bored as you are. You do not have to adopt to just enjoy some time with a 4-legged friend. Call (269) 686-5112.