History of Holland, Michigan in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 11, 2025

Holland, Michigan is a city situated in Ottawa and Allegan counties in the western Lower Peninsula of Michigan. It lies near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, specifically on Lake Macatawa, which is fed by the Macatawa River. The 2020 census recorded a city population of 34,378, with the urbanized area encompassing 107,034 residents. Its location on Lake Michigan contributes to its identity and economy.

1930: First Tulip Time Festival

In 1930, Holland hosted its first annual Tulip Time Festival with 250,000 tulips planted for the event.

June 4, 1935: Lake Macatawa Name Change

Prior to June 4, 1935, Lake Macatawa was called Black Lake.

1988: Thermal Snow-Melting System Installed

In 1988, Holland rebuilt the 8th Street business district and installed a thermal snow-melting system using cooling water from the local electric plant.

1988: Soren Wolff Becomes City Manager

Soren Wolff became city manager in 1988.

1989: WWJD Trend Started

In 1989, the church in Holland, Michigan started the trend of the "What Would Jesus Do?" bracelets.

February 1996: Sister City Relationship Approved

In February 1996, the Holland City Council approved a sister city relationship with Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico.

2000: Christina Aguilera at Tulip Time

Christina Aguilera performed at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan in 2000.

2001: O-Town at Tulip Time

In 2001, O-Town performed at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan.

2004: The Verve Pipe at Tulip Time

The Verve Pipe performed at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan in 2004.

2006: Jars of Clay at Tulip Time

In 2006, Jars of Clay performed at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan.

2007: Ed McMahon and Bobby Vinton Visit Tulip Time

Ed McMahon and Bobby Vinton visited the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan in 2007.

2010: 2010 Census Data

In 2010, Holland, Michigan had a population of 33,051 people, living in 12,021 households and 7,593 families, with a population density of 1,992.3/sq mi.