4th of July on the West Michigan Coast

 

Happy (almost) Fourth of July! Since it is one of our favorite holidays, we have compiled a list for you and your family to tackle the holiday in style – all the way up and down the West Michigan Coast. Read along so you can plan ahead!

Holland:

Butch’s 3rd of July BBQ

When: July 3rd, 2019, 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Where: Butch’s Dry Dock

Cost: (A very Patriotic) $17.76 per plate

Chef Ryan of Butch’s Dry Dock will be firing up the grill and serving a special holiday BBQ menu. Each plate includes a choice of mouthwatering BBQ protein, two sides, and a sweet treat to top it all off. Also featured: $4 frozen drinks! This special menu will take place on the deck and pub only, reservations encouraged but not required. Spend your evening at Butch’s, celebrating freedom and good food! 

2019 Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast 

When: July 4th, 2019, 6:00am – 10:00am

Where: Graafschap Fire Department

Cost: $5 for Adults, $2 for kids

Start off your 4th of July celebrations getting served pancakes! Firefighters will be serving pancakes, sausage, milk, coffee, and juice. This is also a great photo op: several firetrucks will be on display, so you can document your future firefighters!

Downtown Holland’s Fourth of July Celebration

When: July 4th, 2019, 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Where:  Downtown Holland – 8th Street

Cost: Free!

Spend your evening on the streets of Downtown Holland and take in over 30 street performers for free! Expect to see a little bit of everything: musicians, jugglers, aerial acrobats, dancers, magicians, and more. A bonus – if you wear red, white, or blue, you can receive 20% off one item at participating businesses, just follow the balloons for big savings! Check here to see which of your favorite Downtown Holland Businesses will be open for the 4th!

Independence Day Celebration Freedom & Fireworks

When: July 4th, 2019, 4:00pm – 11:00pm

Where: Kollen Park

Cost: Free!

Fireworks start at 10:25

A family-friendly event, bring your kids to Kollen Park for games, vendors, live music, and even a live martial arts demonstration. With plenty of food booths to choose from, nestle in at 10:25 for fireworks at dusk over Lake Macatawa, complete with live music accompanying. This event will guarantee to leave you feeling patriotic – and impressed.

Grand Haven:

Grand Haven 4th of July Celebration

When: July 4th, 2019

Where: Downtown Grand Haven

Cost: Free!

Experience 4th of July in one of Michigan’s most-loved beach towns! The 4th of July parade runs from 8:30am – 11:30 am, and then spend the day walking around Downtown Grand Haven and on the Public Beach! Round out the day with a highly patriotic fireworks show, beginning at 10:00pm.

South Haven:

South Haven 4th of July Parade

When: July 4th, 2019, 11:00am -12:30pm

Where: Downtown South Haven, Phoenix Street South Haven

Cost: Free!

Come celebrate the 150th anniversary of the community of South Haven! This year’s parade will be a particularly special event, celebrating the 170th anniversary of this particular parade. You’re not going to want to miss it!

South Haven Light Up the Lake – Fireworks

When: July 3rd, 2019, 10:30pm – 11:15pm

Where: Riverfront Park – at the Southside Marina, Water Street South Haven

Cost: Free!

Take in some of the best fireworks on the coast the night before the holiday even begins! The show begins at dusk, and can be seen from Riverfront Park, as well as North & South Beaches. An added bonus: coordinating music will be available through Cosy 103.7! Tune in and make the most of your night.

Saugatuck/Douglas:

Saugatuck-Douglas 4th of July Parade & Fireworks

When: July 4th, 2019, 12:00pm – 4:00pm

Where: Coghlin Park – Culver Street Saugatuck

Cost: Free Admission!

Spend your 4th of July on the Art Coast of Michigan! Activities abound all day: grab a bite at the food trucks and beverage tent from 2:00-3:00pm, take in the parade through downtown Saugatuck, and settle in for the fireworks show, starting at dusk. The Waterfront Festival is a family friendly event, complete with music, food, children’s activities, and more, beginning at noon.

Muskegon/Ludington:

Fireworks On Deck 

When: July 4th, 2019, Dusk

Where: Muskegon Lake

Cost: Free!

Enjoy the fireworks show aboard the USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum, considered to be the “best seat in the house.” This display over Muskegon Lake is truly unlike any other. This World War II landing ship is located at the Mart Dock in Downtown Muskegon, just yards from where the fireworks will be going off.

St. Joseph/New Buffalo:

Reds, Whites, and Brews 

When: July 4th, 2019, 11:00am – 6:00pm

Where: 10983 Hills Road, Baroda, MI 49101

Cost: $5 admission

Celebrate the 4th of July by sipping on craft cocktails, wine, and cold brews with fun tunes in the background.

Live Music Lineup:

1:00pm – 3:30pm: J R Clark and the All Star Blues Mob

4:00pm – 6:30pm: Risque band

Independence Day Concert:

When: July 3rd, 2019, 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Where: Shadowland Pavilion, Silver Beach County Park

Cost: Free!

Gates open at 5:30 for a night of music, food, drink, and fun! Van Dyke Revue takes the stage at 6, SMSO Concert begins at 9, and round out the evening with fireworks at 10, accompanied by some of our patriotic favorites. Gather around a picnic table or stretch out on a blanket, and take in the best that summertime has to offer.

Tulip Time: Fast Facts

Local or not, the annual Tulip Time Festival here in Holland, Michigan is an event you’re not going to want to miss. This nine-day festival celebrates everything Dutch, and visitors experience vibrant parades, colorful blooming tulips, and unforgettable culinary experiences.

To add even more excitement into the mix, Tulip Time has been voted one of the Top 10 Best Small Town Festivals. Read along with some of these fun facts about our small town and it’s big party:

Did you know: Holland boasts over 5 million tulips during our festival. Tulips are located in city parks, public attractions and parks, and along our streets! This year, you can even Ask Alexa to track the tulip bloom for you, to keep up with every bulb this year.

The average time spent at Tulip Time for all visitors is 2.67 days. That time could be spent watching the parades, checking out the tulips on Windmill Island, or shopping and eating at Downtown Holland’s very best shops and restaurants.

There are 3 main parades that take place on 8th street. Volksparade comes first, otherwise known as the “People’s Parade.” Kinderparade is on May 9th, and features local school children dressed in their Dutch Best. Lastly, the Muzikparade, performed by marching bands and Holland’s best musicians (did you know: you can stream the parade from wherever you are! Click here to check out your options).

The average rating for visitors of Tulip Time is 9.10 – That means guests are very likely to recommend visiting Tulip Time to others! We are firm believers that it is impossible to have a bad time at the Festival, and this report from Hope College proves it!

At the end of it all: you can take home some bulbs for yourself! Take a piece of Dutch Heritage home with you, buy your own at Nelis’ Dutch Village, Veldheer Tulip Garden, and Windmill Island Gardens.

 

The Tulip Time festival is the pride and joy of our town, and we want you to experience all of it! Check out the full schedule here so you don’t miss a thing.

If Tulip Time is on your schedule this year, stop by and say hi!  We’re located right downtown on 8th street, and we’d love to chat about all the things we love about Holland with you!

 

New & Notable Luxury Properties For Sale | December 2018

From a palatial estate in Chevy Chase, Maryland to a remarkable Art Deco villa in the center of Rome, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale.

new property for sale

Chevy Chase, Maryland | Daniel Heider, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty 

The Corby Mansion, built in 1893 for Francis Newlands, is a landmark in America’s first planned suburb designed by Chevy Chase architect Leon E. Dessez. A Congressman and Senator from Nevada, Newlands named the estate “Ishpiming,” meaning “high ground” in Chippewa. Senator Newlands was the organizer and first president of the Chevy Chase Club as well as a developer with the Chevy Chase Land Company. This highly coveted landmark estate prompted official inquiries regarding the possibility of it serving as the Vice President’s residence. The estate was instead sold to “Mother’s Bread” heir William S. Corby in 1909.

homes in moscow

Moscow, Russa | Natalia Filipovskaia, Moscow Sotheby’s International Realty 

This 2,164-square-meter mansion is located on nearly 6,000 square meters of land. Among the offered amenities, this home features a combined hall-library, home cinema, and swimming pool. An additional building on the site showcases a garage for four cars.

new york homes for sale

Bridgehampton, New York | Beate V. Moore, Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

This unparalleled oceanfront home was constructed in 2016 by master builder Ed Bulgin. Four luxurious ensuite bedrooms plus separate studio with bath give to breathtaking ocean views. The spectacular outdoor entertaining space surrounded by an oversized waterside gunite pool with spa, two grills, gas pizza oven, and fridge all overlooks the Atlantic. A three-car garage plus an additional one-car garage, two outdoor showers, and basketball hoop sit on nearly two beautifully landscaped gated acres.

Italian homes for sale

Rome, Italy | Vincenzo Lupattelli, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty 

This beautiful Art Deco villa is located in one of the most elegant districts in Rome, known as Ludovisi. Very close to the famous Villa Borghese park, Via Veneto, this residence is centrally located as it is only a few minutes from the Spanish Steps, Termini station, subway, and the shopping area. The villa has four floors and was built by the famous Roman architect, Carlo Pincherle.


Discover more properties for sale, in West Michigan or around the globe, by contacting one of our agents today.

 

 

Holiday Events in Downtown Holland

If the first snowfall didn’t tip you off, the holiday season is upon us! We are looking forward to another exciting season, especially here in Downtown Holland. The decorations are up, lights are lining 8th Street, and we’re ready for all the festive fun in store.

This November and December, the Downtown Holland Principal Shopping District will be hosting special holiday events, available for anyone to attend! Mark your calendars and make sure you share with your friends!

Holland Shop ’Til You Drop

Get your holiday shopping off to an early start with the Shop ’Til You Drop late night shopping event on November 10. Participating merchants will be offering discounts of:
20% off from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
25% off from 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
30% off from 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Stay up late, shop the night away and save big on all of your holiday gifts this year! (Discounted merchandise will vary by store, but will include a discount off at least one item.)

Holiday Open House

On Saturday, November 17, Downtown Holland hosts the annual Holiday Open House from 5 pm – 8 pm! Attendees are invited to stroll the decorated sidewalks and enjoy complimentary refreshments and free gift wrapping in stores while shopping for holiday gifts. The event also features singing carolers, chestnut roasting, a strolling Santa Claus and a reindeer petting corral. The Holiday Open House concludes at 8:00 pm with a tree lighting ceremony in GDK Park.

Small Business Saturday

Join us in supporting our local Downtown Holland businesses on Small Business Saturday on November 24! Participating business will be offering fun giveaways, special promotions and more all day long. And be sure to enter the Small Business Saturday Selfie Contest. Just post a selfie of yourself shopping in Downtown Holland on Small Business Saturday for a chance to win a $100 gift card to the Downtown Holland business of your choice. The winner will be selected at random and announced on Monday, November 27.

Parade of Lights

The annual Downtown Holland Parade of Lights will roll down 8th Street on Tuesday, November 27 at 6:30pm. During the parade, Santa arrives in Downtown Holland escorted by bands, floats, trucks and more…all decked out in thousands of sparkling holiday lights! The parade begins at the corner of 8th Street and Columbia Avenue and travels west down 8th Street until it reaches the Holland Civic Center Place, home of the Holiday Kersmarkt. At the conclusion of the parade, Santa and his reindeer will take time to greet their fans…young and old alike!

Up on the Rooftops

During Up On The Rooftops, you’re invited to experience an exclusive tour of Downtown Holland’s rarely seen second story…and a few secret gems! Enjoy an elegant dessert reception at the beautiful Fifth Third Bank building on 8th Street either before or after this self-guided tour of homes and offices in the historic buildings of Downtown Holland, all decorated for the holidays by a Downtown business. Tickets are $25 each and are available online at www.upontherooftops.com and can be reserved in the Downtown Holland office at 150 West 8th Street the following Monday.

Shopping Jam

Shop early, come as you are, and save big at Downtown Holland’s annual Shopping Jam! Participating businesses will open early for this special event. From 8:00 am to 9:00 am save 30% off at least one item and from 9:00 am to 10:00 am save 25% off at least one item. For more details on the Shopping Jam, click here!

 

 

New & Notable Luxury Properties for Sale | October 2018

From an elegant stone residence in Quebec to an exclusive penthouse in Seattle that inspired a cultural phenomenon, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale.

luxury properties for sale

Liza Kaufman, Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec

This elegant stone residence is nestled into the mountain in one of the city’s most prestigious enclaves. The imposing façade is representative of the rich architectural heritage of Montreal’s Golden Square Mile. A veritable cultural icon, this stunning mansion was exquisitely reimagined and masterfully renovated by one of North America’s most exclusive interior designers.

international homes for sale

Michael Pallier, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty

A home of true international caliber, featuring globally sourced materials and world-class vistas, this architectural triumph completed in 2017 showcases an unparalleled aesthetic of contemporary grandeur and sophistication over multiple levels. Almost every aspect luxuriates in panoramic harbor district and city skyline views, including the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, while the finest of finishes in every room heighten the sense of indulgence throughout.

buy and sell

Lee Koffman, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty 

This incredible double-fronted detached residence situated in this most sought after road in Hampstead offers nearly 8,000-square-feet of living space. The property benefits from off street parking for four cars, an integral double garage and a beautiful west-facing garden. Oakhill Avenue is situated just off Redington Road, within easy reach of the shops and transports facilities of Hampstead Village.

seattle real estate

Scott Wasner, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty 

Live life elevated in the penthouse that inspired Fifty Shades of Grey – one of Seattle’s most iconic novel and film series. Walls of windows and a wraparound deck frame glimmering city views. Perched above it all, living spaces afford all one needs for a complete in-city experience. The home includes a media room, chef’s kitchen, sitting area, and a sumptuous master suite. Escala’s suite of amenities includes 24-hour concierge, spa, lap pool, gym, yoga studio, theatre, catering kitchen, and private dining.


Discover more real estate blog posts here.

Featured Listing | Lake Michigan Waterfront Masterpiece

Dreaming of an entirely unique Lake Michigan beach home? Look no further than this inspired oasis, providing a private lifestyle situated near South Haven’s quaint downtown. Take a look into this contemporary beach home where luxury abounds.

Lake Michigan beach house

77280 South Beach Drive, South Haven, MI| $2,495,000

Whether you seek an inviting lakeshore home for entertaining friends and family, or a peaceful environment to soak in the summer sun, this custom-built retreat is your escape from the every day.

South Haven homes for sale

The main level makes entertaining a breeze with a state-of-the-art kitchen, dining, hearth room and living room. The covered patio is ready for an afternoon BBQ, with a sprawling lawn opening up to the beach below.

hearth room

The impressive trim details, including inlaid ceilings and classic built-ins, complement the refreshing coastal flair and underscores the meticulous construction of Mike Schaap Builders.

luxurious master suite

Reserved for rest and relaxation, the upper level provides accommodations for overnight guests, as well as a majestic master suite. Opening up to the deck, enjoy morning coffee or an evening sunset over the water.

Lake Michigan views

Awake to the calming sound of the waves. Waterfront amenities abound, including a beach bathroom and outdoor shower to keep sand at bay.

lakefront patio

Spend all your days on the shore of Lake Michigan or take a short bike ride into downtown South Haven, a hub of fine dining, shops and more. From morning until dusk, your lakefront residence will house your Lake Michigan memories for years to come.


Ready for an in-person tour? Contact Josi Van Horn today.

 

Featured Listing | Coastal Elegance on the Shores of Lake Michigan

Your exclusive Lake Michigan home awaits you at this well-appointed custom-built beach house. Boasting luxurious details, including wine cellar, custom cabinetry and built-ins throughout, European White Oak hardwood flooring, and a lakeside Ipe deck, this remarkable beach home is your waterfront oasis.

Get a glimpse into this exclusive offering on Lake Michigan’s crystal blue waters or experience it for yourself – contact Josi to schedule a tour today.

 

5 Reasons to Experience Tulip Time

If you have never made your way to Holland, Michigan for their annual Tulip Time festival, this should be your year. Among the nine-day celebration of the city’s rich Dutch heritage comes blooming bulbs, eclectic parades, timeless events, and we can pretty much guarantee more klompen than you ever thought you’d see.

In case that didn’t provide you with enough hype, Tulip Time has been named one of the Best Small-Town Festivals by Reader’s Digest, and was recognized as USA Today’s 2016 Best Flower Festival. 

Need more reassurance that you need to pay Tulip Time a visit this year? Here are our Top 5 reasons to experience Holland’s Tulip Time festival.

1. The Tulips

If for nothing else, at least experience the blooms! The Holland, Michigan area boasts over 5 million tulips each spring. From city parks to downtown on 8th Street, and pretty much every street corner in between, these gorgeous flowers pepper the city. Take in their beauty and the bright colors woven throughout the already stunning Holland landscape.

2. The Parades

You haven’t seen a community parade until you’ve seen a Tulip Time parade! The Volksparade is donned the “People’s Parade” with marching bands, specialty floats, and “street scrubbers”. The Kinderparade features local school children dressed in traditional Dutch costumes. Finally, the Muziekparade has over 4,000 participants with the longest festival parade route, boasting lively music and entertainment all along the route.

3. The ArtTulip Time Parade

Whether attending a great concert, like The Beach Boys, or a hilarious River City Improv show, or just taking in the stunning pieces at the Art in Bloom exhibit, there is plenty of art and culture during Tulip Time. Some events may have a small fee for attending, but it’s always worth your while.

4. The Family Fun

Calling all thrill-seekers: you won’t want to miss out on the Tulip Time carnival! The ferris wheel towers over the Holland Civic Center’s North lot, while attractions aimed at younger kids are set up in the South lot. It’s guaranteed fun for even the most timid ride warrior.

5. The Food!

Our stomachs are already growling thinking about all of the food available during Tulip Time! Alongside some of Holland’s delicious year-round restaurants are vendors populating the city. From elephant ears to hot dogs to cotton candy and cinnamon rolls, this is a food-lover’s dream. Be sure to bring cash and take a bite out of some delicious Tulip TIme treats.


On your way to Tulip Time? Check out the festival’s full schedule so you don’t miss any of the fun.

In town for Tulip Time? Stop by our office, located right downtown Holland on 8th Street. We’d love to say hello while you’re here!

 

How to Sell a Home

Selling your home can feel like a large undertaking. From the preparations and potential home renovations to finding a proper Realtor®, it can feel like a daunting task. However, when you choose a reputable real estate agent with knowledge of the market, selling your home becomes a manageable process.

how to sell a homeSimplify the Sale

A Realtor® from Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty will be with you every step of the way in the sale of your home. Your real estate specialist will tour your home, grasping the intimate connection you have with it. Our marketing and office administration staff will weave these emotions into our luxury marketing collateral, assuring high-quality materials to impress potential buyers.

Value Proposition

Our Value Proposition is comprised of the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand heritage, our exclusive referral network, global marketing exposure, and exceptional service. These tools assure that our clients will benefit from sales with the greatest value, in the shortest time frame.

We break down the entire selling process in our How to Sell a Home video:

Seeking the right Realtor® to help sell your home? Contact us today.

 

New & Notable Luxury Properties for Sale | February 2018

From a Baroque-style penthouse in Israel to a private island in the Bahamas, this month’s collection of exceptional properties for sale feature homes from some of the world’s finest locales.

Israel realty

Israel Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Shelly Belzer-Shmelzer for more information

This grand, Baroque-style penthouse resides in the enduring Sea One – a post-modern tower ideally located on Tel Aviv beach, designed by Harald Klein. Guests and residents will enjoy outstanding accommodation, pool and wellness facilities overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, an exclusive gourmet restaurant, grand lobby with bar and management service of the highest standard.

Colorado realty

Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Andrew Ernemann and Craig Morrisfor more information

This state-of-the-art home in downtown Aspen offers over 18,000 square-feet of living space with smart home automation throughout. The home features three tennis courts that transform into skating rinks in the winter, a home theater, and a bowling alley/shooting range among its many amenities.

Hong Kong Realty

List Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Tersa Lau for more information

This elegant three-level home in Pokfulam, Hong Kong offers a rooftop terrace, garden, and balconies. Two of the home’s three en-suite bedrooms feature incredible private balconies, and rooftop terrace enjoys sprawling views of the sea, with exquisite space for alfresco dining.

Florida sunset

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty ­| Contact Michael Lawler for more information

Offering unparalleled views of Doubloon Bay, this contemporary home in Naples, Floridafeatures a one-of-a-kind floating European White Oak staircase, floor-to-ceiling glass, hand-selected Calcutta Marble flooring, and all-glass wine room. Situated on the north side of Admiralty Point, the property is eligible for Port Royal Club membership.

Whale Cay

Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact George Damianos for more information

Whale Cay is a private island located in the fishing paradise of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. Situated between the Bahama Banks and the tongue of the ocean, the Berry Islands have long attracted visitors who enjoy fishing and boating, with great proximity to Florida and only 30 miles north of Nassau. The Island is primed for residential development, with more than 570 acres included in this listing. There are 12 miles of shoreline and 13 white sandy beaches totaling seven miles.

Discover New & Notable homes from around the world on beaconsir.com