Crazy to think that fall is just around the corner! As July ends, we may be trying to squeeze out those last few summer moments before the kids go back to school. As a parent to two young girls, I am always looking for fun things to keep them entertained, without breaking the bank. I decided to put together a list and share our favorite local things to do that are either community run, or Michigan family owned and operated small businesses!
First, always check out your community pages. This is the easiest way to stay up to date on the latest events. If you follow them on social media, they will usually post the upcoming events. My favorite (based on where I live) are
South Lyon Area Recreation Authority (https://www.facebook.com/southlyonarearecreationauthority),
Northville Parks and rec (https://www.facebook.com/NorthvilleParksandRec)
Milford township parks and rec commission (https://www.facebook.com/MilfordParksandRec).
Many times, the city will put on free events, like a movie in the park. South Lyon is showing a movie at Mchattie Park on Friday July 30th. Northville has a similar event with bouncy houses and a free movie on August 27th. For the younger kids, you can find Tunes on Tuesday in Northville. Music is in the town square every Tuesday at 10:30 and free to everyone. Unfortunately, the last one of this year is August 3rd. These social media pages will always share the upcoming events in the community, such as, music in the park, local fairs or other fun events.
The local library is also a great place to visit. Our favorite is the Novi library https://novilibrary.org/ the Lyon Township public library https://lyon.lib.mi.us/ or the Salem South Lyon District library (https://www.ssldl.info/). For now, you can go in and check out books. I have heard they are bringing back in person activities soon! Typically, they have crafts, story times, and holiday events, hopefully we will see these again this fall.
Maybury farms https://www.mayburyfarm.org/ is a great place to take your kids. Every Wednesday and Thursday they have story time at 11am followed by a wagon ride at 11:45. This is through September 30th. Story time is free with admission, the wagon ride is $3.00 per person and kids under 2 are free. Maybury farms mission is to connect the community to animals and teach about farming and where food comes from. Go check out their website where you can read more about their mission. Then take your kids for a fun experience. In the fall they typically host even more events!
Carousel Acres is another farm that is in South Lyon. While I have not been here, I have heard it is also a great place to visit and it is family owned and operated! https://www.carouselacres.biz/
What is summer without ice cream! I am so excited to try out the new Ice cream shop in South Lyon. Curvins. This is a family-owned shop. Directly from their social media page “We specialize in making premium ice cream with a focus on allergies. We offer delicious dairy, vegan, gluten free and peanut/tree nut free ice cream. Looking forward to seeing your smiles!” As an aunt to a child with allergies, and being lactose intolerant myself, a shop like this is just what we need! I’m looking forward to supporting this small business! https://www.facebook.com/curvinsfamilycreamery
Kensington Metropark or Maybury State Park are a great place to explore as well. I believe it’s only $12.00 a year for an entry pass! Simply purchase with your plate renewal.
As August ends, the seasonal shops of Michigan start to offer their best, DONUTS AND APPLES! Three cedars and Erwins are just two of the amazing options we have here in Michigan. And right within our community!
Of course, the easiest things to do with your kids and the least expensive, would be to just spend quality time with them. Run through the sprinkler, blow bubbles, ride your bikes, have a picnic in the park.
We understand summer is a busy time. While the kids are out of school you are trying to get in a lot; family trips, fun adventures, while also getting in their doctor appointments. Be sure to see your local community orthodontist, Dr Chrissy, before heading back to school! If your child is ready to start treatment, we can sometimes start the process the same day. This allows them to adjust to their new appliances before school starts, and also avoids needing to take them out of school for these appointments. Call today to schedule!