There are so many West Michigan traditions in the spring that we get excited about as the winter winds down, and we finally get outside and enjoy ourselves again. But one of my favorite early spring traditions is to go take in the Butterflies at The Frederik Meijer Gardens.

Laura Hardy / TSM
Laura Hardy / TSM
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March 1st marked the return of the annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition at the Meijer Gardens. If you've never had the privilege of experiencing it, the exhibit is the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation.

Laura Hardy / TSM
Laura Hardy / TSM
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Over 60 types of Tropical butterflies and moths from around the world fly freely in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory every March and April. And it's a truly magical experience. But you know what would make it better? Putting in your earbuds, and enjoying these songs full of good vibes and butterfly references.

The Reading Rainbow Theme Song

Millenials, get hype. The song that meant we weren't going to have to do anything in class that day, is also a perfect bop to have butterflies fluttering around you. Just resist the urge to sing along out loud, too loudly.

"Butterfly" by Mariah Carey

Mariah went hard on this track, and honestly any butterfly would be honored to be included in the moment you'll have while this plays.

"Butterflies" by Kacey Muskgraves

This song is cute and dainty, just like all of the butterflies fluttering around you inside the Frederik Meijer Gardens. If you don't feel the magic, you might want to check your pulse.

"Love Is Like A Butterfly" by Dolly Parton

No playlist is complete without a heartbreaker from the queen of country herself. It's okay to cry in the garden, right?

"Butterfly" by Kehlani

While you're crying, this one will keep the tears flowing. It's okay, you can have some therapy over your ex mid-way through the playlist.

"Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle

This late 90's country song is for all of the parents out there who are just in awe of their kids, and how they change and grow, just like the butterflies during the two month exhibit.

"Bullet With Butterfly Wings" by The Smashing Pumpkins

While this one barely has anything to do with butterflies themselves, it will at least help you get over the last two heart breakers

and of course, last but certainly not least:

"Butterfly" by Crazytown

This one doesn't need explanation. If you aren't walking in, arms out, feeling the vibes with this one, what's the point?

There are a few others I didn't mention above, and they've been added to this handy playlist I made for you on Spotify. Enjoy, and try not to dance too hard.

You have until April 30th to enjoy the exhibit, and you can buy tickets and find everything you need to know on their website.

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