Below is a sampling of family-friendly activities across the state for the next two weeks. For a full listing of events at state parks, visitor centers, hatcheries, museums and more, visit us at www.michigan.gov/dnrcalendar.
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Go on an owl prowl
Curious about owls? Bundle up and join a naturalist for a 30- to 45-minute evening walk through the woods, calling these compelling creatures. After the program, gather 'round a bonfire to talk more about owls, share nature stories and enjoy tasty, melty s’mores.
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Brighton Recreation Area in Howell, Nov. 30
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Pinckney Recreation Area in Pinckney, Dec. 1
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Maybury State Park in Northville, Dec. 1
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Waterloo Recreation Area in Chelsea, Dec. 1
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Island Lake Recreation Area in Brighton, Dec. 1
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Ionia Recreation Area in Ionia, Dec. 2
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Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Clayton, Dec. 7
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Hayes State Park in Onsted, Dec. 8
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Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, Dec. 9
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 Make your own snowshoes
There's nothing quite like getting outside after the first big snowfall of winter! Are you ready? Join us at the following locations to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes following a centuries-old Native American tradition. Need more inspiration? Click the green "play" arrow (at right) to see a two-minute video of a magnificent snowshoeing experience at Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
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Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Mattawan, Dec. 2
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Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingburg, Dec. 7-8
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Ludington State Park in Ludington, Dec. 8
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Hartwick Pines Logging Museum in Grayling, Dec. 8-9
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Soak up the holiday cheer
We're setting up the Christmas tree, practicing our favorite carols, hitching up the hayride and brewing fresh hot chocolate and apple cider for our guests! Join us at Tawas Point Lighthouse on Saturday, Dec. 1, to be a part of the fun. Remember to check out the special holiday deals inside Tawas Point's always inviting gift shop.
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Apply for the Pure Michigan Hunt
Don't miss out on your chance to apply for the 2013 Pure Michigan Hunt! Three lucky winners will receive a package including licenses to hunt bear, elk, antlerless deer and turkey, a rifle, a crossbow and other great prizes. Only $4 per application; apply as many times as you like through Dec. 31 at www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt.
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Looking ahead...
If you'll have out-of-state guests for the holidays, consider an outing at the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing, where you can show off our state's fascinating history without breaking the bank. We've got themed galleries where they (and you!) can learn about the fur trade era, lumbering, bootlegging, wartime Detroit, Motown and more. If your friends and family want to take home a bit of Michigan, visit the museum gift store for one-of-a-kind treasures. Don't forget to check the museum's website for open dates, hours and special events.
Know before you go!
A $10 Recreation Passport is required for entry to Michigan state parks and recreation areas. If you don't have one yet, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport for details. Also, registration and fees apply to some of the above programs and events. Please be sure to click on each section's links to learn more.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
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