Michigan Family Travel Free(ish) Events Over Holiday Break 2016

So, the challenge we parents have over the much anticipated holiday break is-what do we do when the novelty of the new gifts wear off and/or we need to re-introduce our children to a non-digital reality? 

And how do we do it on the cheap?

1. Worship at a New Location. While this might not be for everyone, our family finds it to be an enriching and interesting experience. We recently had the opportunity to attend a Carol and Lesson service at a lovely church, tucked into a wooded 8 acre lot in Oakland County. I'll be honest, it was a bit unnerving at first- a very small church with a small congregation with very few children, and outside our specific denomination.  However, once the service began, we were delighted with lovely music and earnest, amusing lessons. The congregants and minister were warm and welcoming to us as visitors and it reminded us once again how the spirit of love has the power to transcend divisions and bring us closer together-isn't that one of the goals of travelling after all?

2. Learn Something. Go to the Michigan Science Center on December 26th! It is free. They are celebrating their 4th year in service following the loss of the Detroit Science Center. As we parents know, children love to learn, they are naturally curious and one of the best gifts we can give them is to allow them to explore, touch, move about and learn! The Michigan Science Center has enough interesting exhibits and live demonstrations to entertain most children for a couple of hours for sure! Learning is always fun, of course, but the Michigan Science Center helps make it even "funner!"

3. Free Movies at the Detroit Film Theatre! The Detroit Film Theatre has been making a well-appreciated effort to expand their film offerings to be more inclusive of families and this holiday break is no exception! The week between Christmas and New Year's features animated showings of the animated Alice in Wonderland, Kiki's Delivery Service and several others. This is part of their Tea Time Theatre- so arrive by 2pm to  purchase tea and light refreshments. The curtain opens at 3pm. 

As always, take time to rest, read together, make a puzzle, get outside, and enjoy the wonders of travel and time-gether this holiday season. Thanks to all of our readers and friends who have supported us this year! See you in 2017!

Enjoy, and as always Travel Local!