Family Winter Gatherings in Barry County – Cozy Events for All Ages

Cozy up this January 2026 with family-oriented indoor events across Barry County, perfect for beating the cold while creating memories. From libraries to community centers, these gatherings emphasize fun, learning, and connection for all ages in our close-knit communities.

The Hastings Public Library offers engaging storytime sessions throughout the winter, ideal for young families. Preschool storytimes typically occur on Fridays at 10:30 a.m., featuring classic and current children's books with seasonal themes like winter animals or adventures in the snow. For toddlers (ages 18-36 months), sessions include stories, songs, and playtime—check the calendar for exact dates, as they run year-round except during closures. Additionally, STEAM programs and other family activities may pop up, often in partnership with local organizations. All are free and drop-in friendly unless noted. Full details and the event calendar are at www.hastingspubliclibrary.org/news-events/hpl-event-calendar.

In Middleville, the Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission (TAPRC) provides indoor recreational opportunities through partnerships with Thornapple Kellogg Schools and local facilities. While specific "open gym nights" vary, family-friendly indoor activities like gym time, basketball, or games are often available at school gyms or community spaces, with low costs (typically $2-5 per person based on similar programs). These are great for active families looking to burn energy indoors—winter schedules focus on youth and family programs. Check for January 2026 updates on their site at www.tapr.org or the Village of Middleville page.

Church-hosted fellowship times offer warm, welcoming spaces for multigenerational connection. At First United Methodist Church in Hastings, regular gatherings include coffee hours after Sunday services and mid-week small groups with casual conversation and refreshments—open to all and focused on building community during the winter months. These provide a cozy spot for families to mingle. Visit www.fumchastings.org for the latest schedule.

Nearby, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute hosts delightful indoor winter activities all January (and into February) 2026. Enjoy the month-long January and February Storybook Hike: The Great Lakes: Our Freshwater, with indoor reading areas and related exhibits in the heated Visitor Center. Drop-in Seed Cleaning sessions run Mondays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (including January dates like the 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th), offering hands-on fun with free tea, coffee, and snacks—perfect for families to stay warm while learning about nature. The Visitor Center is open daily, with complimentary art exhibits and restrooms. All free unless specified; full info at cedarcreekinstitute.org/events.

These events build family bonds in Barry's winter season, offering low-key ways to stay engaged indoors. Our Events page on Barry County Connects has the latest schedules, registrations, and more listings as they're added—gather and enjoy!