Crisp

 

Did you feel that last night? Crisp, clean, almost fall-like air! I don't know about you, but that is the best feeling in the world to me! By the beginning of September, hot, humid air, is one of the worst things I can think of! I am ready for changing leaves, boots, scarves, and fall festivals! Did you know that Fall is one of the busiest seasons in West Michigan. Our region booms with harvest festivals, hayrides, pumpkin patches, and apple picking. Each year we compile all the different festivals to attend, places to visit, and things to do in our All Things Autumn portal on our website. This crisp air has me in the mood for fall, so I have posted it early! Here you are folks, All Things Autumn!

Happy August!

Hard to believe we are already into August, and it is also hard to believe we are about to mutter these next words: Labor Day. Wasn't Memorial Day just last weekend? My how summer flies here in West Michigan. However, as the summer starts drawing to a close, we have to plan for one final shabang, right?  Since Labor Day is the unofficial end to summer, why not celebrate it in style? West Michigan offers a variety of ways to take in the last rays of summer, from triathlons to pot lucks and everything in between, and it is our duty to let you know everything that is happening. So, without further adieu, here are our top picks!

54th Labor Day Bridge Walk

September 2 • 7 am - 11 am
Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau
Mackinaw City & Mackinac Bridge
800-666-0160
www.MackinawCity.com
Join thousands of pedestrians as they participate in a long standing tradition, the Labor Day Bridge Walk. This is the only day of the year that walking the "Mighty Mac" is allowed.
The Mackinac Bridge Authority, the St. Ignace Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Mackinaw Area Chamber of Commerce would like to make your BRIDGE WALK as pleasant as possible and offer the following information:
NO Fees or Registration
There is NO FEE or registration to participate in the walk. Bus transportation from Mackinaw City to St. Ignace is available at $5 per person (infants are free).

 Royal Craft Show

September 3 - 4
Castle Farms
Charlevoix
231-237-0884
www.CastleFarms.com
Looking for the perfect chance for one last chance of guaranteed family fun before the new school year begins? Visit Castle Farms of Charlevoix, where self-guided tours are offered daily 10 am - 4 pm. Young and old alike thrill to tour the unique historic buildings, take a leisurely stroll through our magnificent gardens, visit the gnomes and fairies in the Enchanted Forest, or try their skill at a game of Giant Chess or Croquet. Royal family memorabilia, plus extensive castle, wedding, and antique toy collections are a must-see for avid enthusiasts.
Castle Farms is proud to host the annual Royal Craft Show in beautiful Charlevoix, Michigan on Labor Day Weekend. The grounds and buildings of Castle Farms will be the host to one of Michigan's most prestigious craft shows where thousands of visitors will attend this event. This craft show will feature only the finest arts and crafts that can be found and will be held in one of the most affluent areas in the state.
The Royal Craft Show hours are Saturday, 10 am - 5pm, and Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm. Free parking with a $3.00 per person admission fee. Children under 12 are admitted free. Food is available at a nominal charge. Pets are not allowed.

Muskegon Cars for Cancer

September 1-2
Muskegon County Convention & Visitor bureau
Muskegon
www.Visitmuskegon.org
9th Annual Car & Bike Show September 1&2, 2013. To kick off event there will be an entertainment tent 5:00pm -11:00pm on Sunday September 1 with a "cruise" at 6:30pm. Monday September 2 begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:30am -10:00am. Lunch will be from 11:00am - 2:00pm. There will be kids games, poker walk, and door prizes to name a few things happening at the Lakeshore's Biggest Car Show! This is located at Mercy Health Partners Lakes Village just off US-31 @ Pontaluna Rd. exit.

Muskegon Labor Day Community Walk and Fun Run

September 3
Muskegon County Convention & Visitor bureau
Muskegon
www.Visitmuskegon.org
Join 1 in 21 Healthy Muskegon County and the Cities of Muskegon and North Muskegon for a community walk that celebrates the beauty of our environment and promotes the health of our community!  The route follows the Lakeshore Trail to the nature preserve in North Muskegon, then turns back to Fisherman's Landing for a 4 mile walk.  New this year, is the 5K Fun Run, a scenic route along the Lakeshore Recreational Trail, looping through Edison landing and Terrace Point, then back to Fisherman's Landing.  Check-in and Onsite Registration begin at 8:00am.  The 5K begins at 8:30am and the Walk starts at 9"00am.  Online registration will be available starting June 1 at www.shorelinecity.com . . 

Labor Day Weekend in Newaygo

Newaygo's Logging Festival

August 30 - September 1 Newaygo Area Chamber of Commerce
231-652-3068
www.newaygonaturally.com
Look forward to three full days of family fun in Newaygo on Labor Day weekend, highlighted by the Logging Festival in Brooks Park. For shoppers, Newaygo merchants will feature sidewalk sales while over 75 arts and craft vendors will have their products on display from Friday through Sunday. The Farm Market will be open from 2 to 7 pm on Friday.
Start the weekend with the Fireman’s pancake breakfast on Saturday morning and for lunch, plan on Chicken BBQ Saturday and Sunday afternoon. The daytime hours will also feature lumberjack events and chainsaw carving competition as well as a parade and the ever popular Firemen’s Water Battle. On Saturday night, adult visitors can quench their thirst at the beer tent and enjoy live music from 5 to 11 pm at the stage in Brooks Park.

”Grand Crossings” A Bridge Walk on Labor Day

September 2 • 8 am Experience Grand Rapids
Ah-Nab-Awen Park, Grand Rapids
616-456-3168
www.experiencegr.com
You don’t have to go to the Mackinac Bridge to join the annual Labor Day Bridge Walk. Join your neighbors, invite your friends. Participants can walk as many as five miles, the equivalent of the Mackinac Bridge, and cross as many as seven bridges. The route is wheelchair accessible and appropriate for all fitness levels. No sign-up is necessary. Please make sure you are physically able to participate. Mayor George K. Heartwell will lead the walk

Beaver Island Marathon

Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce
231-448-2505
www.BeaverIsland.org
Saturday, 8am, join in on the Beaver Island walk. The marathon begins at 9am and the half marathon starts at 11am followed by the harbor run at 11:15am. 

Beaver Island Marathon
August 31 • 9 am
Beaver Island celebrates Labor Day weekend with the annual Harbor 3.5-mile Run, Half Marathon and Run Beaver Island – a Boston Marathon qualifying event – on Saturday,  August 31. Described as “a most memorable marathon” this race offers tranquility and natural beauty – including sand dunes and the views of Lake Michigan – on Michigan’s largest inhabited island. Large crowds are found at every turn of this route, with a combination of dirt, clay, gravel and pavement. After the race, runners can enjoy a "dip" in the cool, pristine waters of Lake Michigan.

Good Bye Summer, Hello Kalamazoo

Discover Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo
269-382-6555
www.discoverkalamazoo.com
Make the "unoffical" last weekend of summer offically a memerable one with a trip to Kalamazoo.  We'll get you started with a couple of tried and true two-day itineraries like, Made in Kalamazoo or Enjoy our Good Nature.  Use theses themed itineraries or let us design one to fit your personal taste at www.discoverkalamazoo.com

Celebrate With Mackinac(w)

Mackinac Island
Music is in the air for the Labor Day Jazz weekend at the Grand Hotel. The Horn's Bar Labor Day Regatta sets sail at the Mackinac Island Yacht club on Saturday, September 1.

Mackinaw City
The event of the weekend is the Mackinac Bridge Walk on Labor Day. Busses transport walkers from Mackinaw City to St. Ignace where the walk begins. Walkers can begin at 7am   

Double JJ Resort
5900 Water Rd.
Rothbury, MI 49452
Phone: (231) 894-4444 www.doublejj.com

Say farewell to summer with one last Rodeo! Join us the Saturday of Labor Day weekend to bid farewell to summer in true Western Style!
Pig Roast begins at 6pm
Join us at the Double JJ Resort on Saturday evenings for our Pig Roast with all the fixins'. Enjoy eating with old & new friends (and the cowboys you'll get to watch later in the Rodeo!) as you enjoy the Pig Roast with all the tasty fixin's you could want! When you've had your fill of vittles, mosey on over to the Rodeo Arena. The fun continues there with midway games, a play structure, hayrides, & a petting farm to keep everyone entertained until the Rodeo begins!

Rodeo begins at 7:30pm
The Double JJ Rodeo is perfect for real cowboys, and everyone who ever dreamt of heading out West! Watch the cowboys do their best to stay on the bucking bulls & broncs, rope cattle from the back of their horse, or race at top speed around the barrels. The rodeo is full ofaudience participation as well! You'll get the chance to participate in the rope race and chase down calves for the ribbons on their tails, along with lots of fun games for the kids! The silly antics of our rodeo clowns will keep you entertained all night long, whether you're a seasoned veteran or a first-time rodeo attendee!
 

Labor Day Weekend In St. Joseph

August 30 - September 1 St. Joseph Today
www.stjoetoday.com
 
August 30
• “It’s Finally Friday” Sizzling Summer Nights at downtown merchants in St. Joseph.  Join shops and restaurants as they celebrate the summer season with later hours, hot sales, open houses, giveaways, demonstrations, entertainment and more!
• Friday Night Concert presented by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro at the John E. N. Howard Bandshell at 7:30 p.m., free.   That night’s performance will be by Sixth Generation.
August 31
• St. Joseph Farmers Market from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Lake Bluff Park.
• Craft Fair from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in Lake Bluff Park
• Horse-drawn trolley rides sponsored by the Frederick S. Upton Foundation from Noon  – 3 p.m.  Trolley picks up at the corner of State and Elm Streets, weather permitting.
• Free movie in Whirlpool Centennial Park at 10 p.m., Turner & Hooch.
September 1
• Antiques on the Bluff from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in Lake Bluff Park
• Horse-drawn trolley rides sponsored by the Frederick S. Upton Foundation from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Trolley picks up at the corner of State and Elm Streets, weather permitting.
• St. Joseph Municipal Band Concerts at 3:30 and 7:30 at the John E. N. Howard Bandshell, free.
September 2
• St. Joseph Municipal Band Concerts at 3:30 and 7:30 at the John E. N. Howard Bandshell, free.

Labor Day in Lansing

MSU Spartans v Western Michigan
August 30, 2013 - August 30, 2013
Venue:Spartan Stadium
Address: 300 Spartan Way, East Lansing, MI
Times: TBD
Admission: See website for ticket information
Are you ready for some Spartan football?! Come out and cheer on the Michigan State University Spartans as they take on Western Michigan!

DALMAC 2013
August 28, 2013 - September 01, 2013
Venue: MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education
Address: 4301 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824
Times: 8:00 AM
Admission: Varies
42nd Annual Dick Allen Lansing to MACkinaw Bike Camping Tour. Four routes wind northward from East Lansing and end in Mackinaw City or Sault Ste. Marie. Gorgeous scenery, varied terrain and amazing vistas on every route. This family-friendly, all ages tour is a must-do for any bicyclist in Michigan.
- See more at: http://www.lansing.org/includes/events/DALMAC-2013/6170/#sthash.Pp0ERslt.dpuf
Lansing Lugnuts Baseball vs. West Michigan Whitecaps
August 31, 2013 - August 31, 2013
Venue:Cooley Law School Stadium
Address: 505 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48912
Times: 7:05 p.m.
Admission: Varies
Join us to Go Nuts downtown for a Lansing Lugnuts Baseball game! The classic American past time is alive and well in our community, so come be a part of the fun.
 
Lamafest and Alpaca Showcase
August 31, 2013 - September 01, 2013
Venue: MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education
Address: 4301 Farm Ln., East Lansing, MI 48824
Times: 9:00 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m. each day
Admission: FREE
 
Llama and Alpaca Shows on Saturday, 8-31-2013; Llama Show on Sunday, 9-1-2013. Youth events including Costume class both days. Humphrey the Camel will be on display. Free admission and ample free parking. Concessions on site. Vendor area with fiber supplies for spinners and weavers and finished fiber goods.

Michigan Mosaic Music Festival
August 31, 2013 - September 01, 2013 (Recurring daily)
Venue:Adado Riverfront Park
Address: North Grand Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933
Times: 12-5PM and evening activities
Michigan Mosaic Music Festival is a FREE festival celebrating diversity and unity on Labor Day weekend in Michigan’s capital city. Activities include live bands, multicultural dance, ethnic cuisine, beverage tent, labor displays and much more.

Pet Friendly Beaches

Woof woof woof! That is dog speak for “take me to the beach”! Luckily for your dog, and you, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches in West Michigan! Whether you are traveling North, South, East or West in the Region, your dog will be able to take a quick dip no matter where you are!

North

Aloha State Park Beach
4347 Third Street
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Directions 

This is not a Great Lakes beach, but is conveniently located off of I-75. The park has a special pet swimming area which is located by the playground. Pets need to be leashed and cleaned up after. The park is located seven miles south of Cheboygan and 25 miles from the Mackinac Bridge.

Burt Lake State Park Beach
6635 State Park Dr.
Indian River, MI 49749
Directions

This is not a Great Lakes beach, but is conveniently located off of I-75. While dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach, there is a special designated spot where dogs can go into the water. It is near campsite lot number 42, off Road 1, at the west end of the park. The road leads to the beach and dog run. Pets must be on a six foot or less leash and attended at all times.

 

Cheboygan State Park
4490 Beach Rd
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Directions

A variety of year round recreational activities, beautiful beaches and trails greet visitors at this park. Well behaved dogs are allowed at no additional fee. Dogs may not be left unattended, and they must be leashed and cleaned up after. Dogs are not allowed in public swim areas or in buildings. Dogs are allowed on the trails. This campground is closed during the off-season. The camping and tent areas also allow dogs. There is a dog walk area at the campground. There are no water hookups at the campground.

 

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630
Directions

While pets are not allowed in certain areas of the park like the islands, Dune Climb, back country campsites or inside buildings, they are allowed on some trails, campgrounds and on the following beaches. Pets are welcome on the south side of the beach at Esch Road (south of Empire), on the south side of Peterson Beach and on Empire Beach. Dogs must be leashed at all times and cleaned up after. To get there from Traverse City, take M-72 west to Empire.

 

Tannery Beach
862 Front Street
Boyne City, MI 49712
Directions 

A popular place for dog lovers, this beach is frequently used for taking the family pet swimming on those hot summer days. (Doggie bags and scoopers are available for owners to clean up after their dogs.) Although not the typical white, sandy beach, this is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy a great view of Lake Charlevoix!

Wilderness State Park Beach
903 Wilderness Park Drive
Carp Lake, MI 49718
Directions 

Dogs are not allowed at the beach but they can swim in the water on the other side of the boat launch. Pets must be a on a six foot or less leash and cleaned up after. The park is located 11 miles west of Mackinaw City.

Young State Park Beach
02280 Boyne City Road
Boyne City, MI 49712
Directions

While dogs are not allowed on the beach, they can go into the water past the boat launch. There is a sandy and rocky area that leads to the water. Pets must be leashed and attended at all times and cleaned up after.

Zoll Street Beach
Zoll Street
Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Directions 

Zoll Street beach is a real gem. This dog-friendly beach is great for swimming and kayaking. Located at the western edge of Wequetonsing, this beach has a long, shallow area that is great for kids (and dogs!) to splash and play in the water. There are sandy and grassy areas and picnic tables. 

Central

Grand Haven City Beach
1299 S. Harbor Drive
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Directions

Sandy swimming beach located on Lake Michigan. The city beach is nestled between The Bil-Mar, a beachfront restaurant, and Grand Haven State Park beach on Harbor Drive. Limited free parking is available. No fees or passes required.

Dogs are welcome on City Beach except when swim buoys are in place. During this time, dogs are permitted to swim on the designated beach just south of the swim area.

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area
Manistee National Forest
Manistee, MI 49660
Directions 

Nordhouse Dunes is located within the Manistee National Forest. While dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach, they are allowed on the rest of the beach in designated areas.

 

Norman F. Kruse Park
Norman F. Kruse Park
Muskegon, MI 49441
Directions

Norman F. Kruse Park has about one mile of Lake Michigan Beach, with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. This is the major picnic area with 4 picnic shelters and an accessible ramp to the beach and into the dunes.

The park has about one mile of Lake Michigan Beach. The dog beach is located on the beach along the northern part of the park. Location is Sherman at Beach in Muskegon.

South

Grand Mere State Park - Rosemary Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

With over one mile of shoreline, Grand Mere has plenty of space and beauty for swimmers and sunbathers alike.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

Grand Mere State Park - Shoreline Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

State Park permit required.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles

Grand Mere State Park - Waverland Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

Grand Mere State Park has three beaches for visitors to enjoy. Located on Lake Michigan, this beach requires a State Park permit.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

Grand Mere State Park - Waverland Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

Grand Mere State Park has three beaches for visitors to enjoy. Located on Lake Michigan, this beach requires a State Park permit.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

Warren Dunes State Park
12032 Red Arrow Highway
Sawyer, MI 49125
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Website Directions

Located on Lake Michigan, this State Park offers views that will take your breath away. With a beautiful coastline and magnificent dune formations that are great for hang gliding. With over 1900 acres, this park offers activities year round. State Park permit or visitor pass required.

Dogs allowed on two-mile non-swimming beach and on trails.

Click here for a full list of pet friendly places to visit and stay.

Let Freedom Ring!

 

It is had to believe that it is almost July, which means the parties, fireworks, and parades are about to pack our calendars! Luckily for you, you have us, and we have compiled a list of all the firework shows happening in West Michigan. You're welcome :) If you can find a way to hit every single one of these, we want to know your secret! We have also listed a few events so if you don't already have plans, we think these are pretty great,

 

	Location	More Information
July 3
	Allegan	Allegan County Parks, Recreation and Tourism
	Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, Thompsonville	Crystal Mountain
	Leland	Leelanau Peninsula Chamber of Commerce
	Pentwater Pier	Pentwater Chamber of Commerce
	South Haven	South Haven Visitors Bureau
July 4
	Beaver Island	Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce
	Beulah	Benzie Area Visitors Bureau
	Constantine	River Country Tourism Council
	Cheboygan	Cheboygan Chamber of Commerce
	Frankfort Beach	Frankfort - Elberta Chamber of Commerce
	Grand Haven	Grand Haven Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
	Grand Rapids	Experience Grand Rapids
	Harbor Springs	Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
	Mackinaw City	Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau
	Petoskey	Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau
	Saugatuck	Saugatuck-Douglas Convention & Visitors Bureau
	Silver Lake	Silver Lake Sand Dunes-Hart Visitors Bureau
	Torch Lake	Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau
	Whitehall	White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
July 5
	DeVoe Beach, Indian River	Indian River Tourist Bureau
	Shanty Creek Resorts, Summit Mountain	Shanty Creek Resort
July 6
	Otsego Lake, Gaylord	Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau
	Cadillac	Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau

 

 

 

 

For you last minute planners- here are some great events that won't break the bank.

 

Old Fashioned Fourth of July at Crystal Mountain!

July 1 - 7
Crystal Mountain
Thompsonville
800-968-7686
www.crystalmountain.com
Bring the entire family and join us as we convert Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa into “Main Street USA” and celebrate our country’s independence in good old fashioned red, white and blue style! This annual event—open to all—includes a family carnival, fireworks over the mountain, golf scrambles, 4k, live entertainment and more!

Tribute to the Troops at Michigan's Adventure

July 3 - 4
Michigan's Adventure
Muskegon
231-766-3377
www.MIAdventure.com

Michigan's Adventure will be celebrating Tribute to the Armed Forces on July 3 - 4 by offering military personnel of the Armed Forces, National Guard and Reserve a free admission. In addition, military personnel may purchase up to six additional tickets for immediate family members at $21 each. Guests will be required to show one active military ID, DD-214, or Veteran's Administration Hospital ID to qualify for the discount. Tickets purchased for this event are non-refundable and are valid for admission on one of the listed dates only. Tickets must be purchased at the park on the day of your visit.

The Emerald Island Lights Up with Fourth of July
July 4 • 2 pm
Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce
Beaver Island
231-448-2505
www.beaverisland.org
The Big Parade & Island Airways Flyover, featuring the missing man formation at 2:00.
Line up for the parade starting at Holy Cross Church starting at 1:00.

The Public Museum's Front Row for the Fireworks offers a truly unique Independence Day experience.
July 4
Experience Grand Rapids
Ah-Nab-Awen Park, Grand Rapids
877-847-4847
www.experiencegr.com
 
The parade will kick off the celebration Wednesday, July 4 at 5 p.m. on the corner of Lyon and Ottawa NW. The parade will continue to Veterans’ Memorial Park, 101 East Fulton St., where men and women who have served in the U.S. military will be honored.

Ah-Nab-Awen Park Concert Series
6:15pm Donald Kinsey http://donaldkinsey.com/ (blues) -- This guitarist and singer -- frontman for The Kinsey Report as well as the Donald Kinsey Band -- is literally a Chicago blues legend who just happens to live in the Grand Rapids area. He's played with some true music icons, including Bob Marley, and is even currently featured in the new 2012 documentary about the reggae star.

7:00pm | Atomic Hoop Troupe - glittering group of hooping professionals who incorporate all forms of dance to create dynamic and exciting live performances.
7:22pm | Kari Lynch Band (country) -- Led by a young, up-and-coming country singer, this Grand Rapids-based group brims with real energy. Lynch and her bandmates have quickly developed into one of West Michigan's leading country acts.

8:30pm | Garrett Borns  (pop) -- Regularly selling out his West Michigan shows already, this 20-year-old singer-songwriter phenom from Grand Haven is slated this summer to play big festivals like Summerfest in Milwaukee and Arts, Beats & Eats in Royal Oak. Backed by a supremely talented band, Borns is touring behind his acclaimed debut album, "A Dream Between," recorded at Grand Haven's Redwall North Studios.
9:27pm | The Outer Vibe (rock) -- There literally is no more professional act in West Michigan than this one: This polished, five-piece outfit puts on a colorful, high-energy show with great diversity in approach. They're the only returning act from last year (they played the Rosa Parks Circle stage). They also plan to make this Fourth of July show the CD-release party for their brand new studio album, "Hoka Hey."

Grand Rapids Public Museum, grmuseum.org, once more offers its Front Row for the Fireworks event. The evening’s festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. In addition to a front row seat for the fireworks, the night will include: organ concerts with stirring patriotic melodies in the Meijer Theater, exciting shows in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, rides on our famous 1928 Spillman Carousel, as well as a unique new museum-wide scavenger hunt for the family. Please note, the museum will close at 4 p.m. July 4 and re-open at 6:30 p.m.
The Café will serve a Meal Deal for $5.00, featuring hot dogs, bratwurst and pizza. Ice cream and other treats will also be available for purchase. At dusk, visitors can stay inside the museum in air-conditioned comfort or head outside to the carousel walkway or the enclosed lawn seating area. Either option provides an amazing view of the fireworks as they burst over the Grand River. Member ticket sales ($10/adults and $5/children) began at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 3. Ticket sales open to the general public ($15/ adults and $7.50/children) on June 10. Guaranteed Museum ramp parking passes are available in conjunction with ticket purchases for $10. For tickets, visit www.grmuseum.org, call 616.456.3977 or stop by the Museum’s front desk. Proceeds from this event support exhibits and programs of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

July 4 • 11:30 am - 5 pm
Historic Charlton Park
269-945-3775
Hastings
www.charltonpark.org
31st Annual 4th of July & Veterans Bar-B-Que is July 4, 2013 from 11:30am - 5pm. The Veterans Association Complete Pork & Chicken Bar-B-Que Buffet will run from 12:30pm - 4:30pm in the Walnut Grove. Cost for the fundraising Bar-B-Que TBA.
Flag raising and remembrance begin before the Bar-B-Que. Games begin at 1:30pm on the village green. Everyone is encouraged to bring a home-made pie to be judged by our expert panel. Pies will then be auctioned off for the benefit of the Park. Admission and participation in the event is FREE!

Watermelon and July 4th go hand in hand at Binder Park Zoo!
July 4
Binder Park Zoo
Battle Creek
269-979-1351
www.binderparkzoo.org
Could you fit a whole watermelon in your belly? Some animals in the zoo can! Who will be the fastest? Enjoy seeing the juice run down the chins of your favorite animals as they chomp on watermelons in the summer sun.

Stafford's Pier Restaurant, Harbor Springs

July 4
Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
Harbor Springs
231-526-7999
www.harborspringschamber.com
The City of Harbor Springs, the Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, Harbor Springs Public Schools and many other community organizations come together on this special day of celebration to bring you a series of spectacular patriotic events. See you on the Fourth and be sure to wear your red, white and blue!

• Fourth of July Art Fair
• Paul Revere 3 Mile and 10 Mile Run
• Dog Look-a-Like Contest
• Fourth of July Parade
• The Keelhauler's Live On Dudley's Deck at Stafford's Pier Restaurant
• City of Harbor Springs Fireworks Display

Shout Out To Dad!

Bill Cosby once said, "Fatherhood is pretending the present you love most is soap-on-a-rope." This Father's Day, June 16, treat your Dad to an experience he'll really love, from award-winning golf and micro-brews to truly unique outdoor recreation in West Michigan. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pine River Paddlesport Center, Wellston

This Father's Day, give him the gift of unleashing his inner he-man. West Michigan's varied landscape of rivers, woods, and dunes is primed for adventure, thumbing its theoretical nose at the day-to-day shirt and tie routine.
Sitting deep in the cockpit of a kayak, floating down miles of waterways, offers a serene perspective of the world: bubbling brooks, chattering critters, bluebird skies... Or turn it up a notch by heading for raucous rapids that will surely leave Dad white-knuckled and grinning for days. From tranquil streams to rushing rapids, a day spent with a paddle in hand certainly beats one doing yard work, and there are dozens of paddlesport liveries waiting to assist.

If Dad doesn't exactly have webbed feet, help him concure land by tearing up pristine shores and forests in engine-powered, big boy toys. Jeeps, quads, and dune buggies rip through the landscape at the push of a peddle, giving passengers a bumpy ride they won't soon forget. Have your own ORV or ATV? The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are the only dunes east of Utah that allows you to drive your own.

Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, Thompsonville

For some, golfing is a way of life, dreaming of bogies, birdies, and the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player. This June 16, give Dad the opportunity to explore the award-winning courses these golf greats designed in West Michigan.

Double JJ Resort, Rothbury, is treating dads to free golf with a paid round at the Thoroughbred Golf Club June 16. Designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, the Thoroughbred Golf Club is known for its beauty and solitude. With bent grass tees, fairways and greens, the Thoroughbred offers 18 championship holes that sprawl over 240 acres of rolling Michigan woodside.

New Holland Brewing Co., Holland

There's little wonder why Michigan is called the Great Beer State. With more than 70 microbreweries – and hundreds of brews – there’s something to please every beer drinker's taste. From pilsners to stouts, ales to porters, West Michigan's brewers take the time and care to craft complex beverages, pushing the beer boundaries and exploring uncharted flavor territory.

If Dad is new to the microbrew world, a trip to a local brew pub for lunch, dinner or a brew house tour will get him hooked for life. Already a true brew connoisseur? Consider a Michigan Brewers Guild membership which includes VIP “early admission” status at the Guild’s various festivals, discounts at participating membership brewpubs, special VIP brewery tours, and a free Michigan beer t-shirt.

An estimated 4,000 fans of award-winning craft brewer,  Founders Brewing Company, Grand Rapids, will gather on Saturday, June 22 for the 5th Annual Founders Fest – an outdoor beer and music festival in downtown Grand Rapids. From 3 - 11pm, the street (Grandville Avenue between Cherry and Bartlett) will be blocked and the grounds of the brewery secured for the festivities – including a variety of local, regional and national entertainment, local food vendors, an expanded “Local Artists Row” and fellow craft beer lovers.

Gilmore Car Museum, Hickory Corners

Father's Day is the perfect time for Dad to visit the car he had or the one he always wanted. As one of the top five car museums in the nation, The Gilmore Car Museum, Hickory Corners, features over 200 historic vehicles spanning more than 100 years of automotive heritage. On its 90 acres, Dad will find exhibits ranging from a 1899 Locomobile to the classic Duesenberg, the elusive Tucker '48 and from the Model T to the muscle cars of the 60s and 70s. Current special exhibits include The History of Stock Car Racing, Vintage Motorcycles, The Great Migration: The Automobile in the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, and Ford Muscle: A Rare Gathering of American-Made Power.

Historic Charlton Park, Hastings, presents its 32nd Annual Fathers Day Car Show is June 16 from 8 am - 4 pm, rain or shine., with over 1,100 vehicles on display.  Admission: adults, $5.00; kids 5 - 12, $3.00; four and under are free. This event is sponsored by the Southern Michigan Street Rod Association.

Lemon Creek Winery, Berrien Springs, is proud to present their 29th Annual Father’s Day Festival and Corvette Car Show. This Southwest Michigan tradition gained national acclaim in 2009 when it was featured as one of the top Father’s Day events by the Wall Street Journal. With live music, wine tasting, and a Corvette car show, along with hayrides and kids games, this is an event the whole family can enjoy. Admission fee is $10.00 a person for those 21 years and over with a valid ID. Children under 21 are free with the family.

Traverse Tall Ship Co., Traverse City

If Dad's a history buff, delve deep into West Michigan's rich maritme heritage. With over 30 lighthouses on our Lake Michigan shoreline (103 in all!), there's no shortage of sites to explore. Several lighthouses are also home to naval and shipwreck museums, chronicling the lives of both seamen and keepers long ago. 

For an authentic nautical experience, take to the seas! Restored tallships still make the rounds on Lake Michigan and the Grand Traverse Bay, giving Dad the opportunity to do his best Captain Jack impression.

So we want to know, where are you taking Dad next weekend?

Love is in the air!

Tis' the season for love and wedding destinations in West Michigan are in Style this season!

Your celebration of love begins …From a rustic lighthouse on the golden sugar sands of the Great Lakes, to a one-of-a-kind vantage point of the great outdoors that only West Michigan can bring… there is no place more beautiful to commemorate your special day.

A Spring wedding can lead you across the fresh greens of a pristine golf course or perhaps to a shabby-chic park-like setting.  The fresh spring breeze will add to the moment and West Michigan has the perfect backdrop for spring wedding photos. Blend green hydrangeas and bold colors to make any floral bouquet stand out. Current popular color trends for Spring Weddings are: mint and grass greens, bright and lemon yellows, mango orange, bubble gum pinks, dried lavender and deep ocean blue.  

If you have your heart set on a Summer wedding, West Michigan is the ideal location for you. With the longest freshwater shoreline in the world and over 100 lighthouses, Michigan can create that intimate lakeside wedding that you have been dreaming of. West Michigan venues set on the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan and numerous inland lakes offer breathtaking sunsets.  Current popular color trends:  ballerina pink, 5th avenue blue, watermelon, marine blue, and seafoam and mint green.

Fall is West Michigan’s most popular wedding season!  Colors of red, orange, yellow and green are around every corner. Bring your guests to a vineyard, or one of the tasteful apple orchards and draw in some of the state apple blossoms for your tables’ focal point.  The fresh breeze of West Michigan will enhance the experience of a fall wedding. Current popular color trends: thai purple (plum), mango orange, curry yellow and reds, lime and apple greens.

Perhaps Winter is your season. West Michigan can arrange your picturesque winter wonderland at resorts and venues that can offer spa services and such activities as skiing and ice skating. The gentle rolling snow hills can be the flawless framework for your wedding memories. Incorporate romance and fun with a sleigh ride for two!  Current popular color trends for Winter Weddings are: fire engine red, blues of all colors, merlot wine, sterling silver and gold leaf.

Lakeside, countryside or urbanside, YOU choose. West Michigan venues and decorators are very well versed in settings of all styles. The current vintage look is on the rise and will match with any of the seasons.  Along with the current trend of vintage, consider classic, beach, country, and garden park to name a few.

“Love is a Great Beautifier,” quotes Louisa May Alcott.  West Michigan seasons only enhance the endless possibilities for your destination wedding.

Choose your style, Choose your colors, Choose West Michigan as your wedding destination!

To view our favorite West Michigan wedding destinations, use our wedding destination selector!

Depending on your wedding season, before and after wedding activities may include:
Spring:  golf, beach strolls, wine tasting, indoor water play, pampering, salmon fishing
Summer:  boating, beach fun, dune climbing, golf, wine tasting
Fall:  bike trails, wine tasting, fall harvest festivals, golf
Winter:  skiing (cross country or downhill), snowshoeing, sledding and indoor water play

Written in part by Ellery Daniels and Denise Kohler-Kolesar of Kohler Expos, Inc, producers of three seasonal bridal shows and an on-line engaged wedding planning connection.  Visit www.kohlerexpo.com and www.grbrides.com.