Imagining Muskegon

What you're missing (or enjoying), Muskegon...

Yep, life is good in Muskegon.

Well, Skee-Town, Movies on the Beach Muskegon’s first event went … very well. A large, attentive, and respectful crowd of families, couples, and friends gathered to watch Back to the Future framed by the sunset. Some sat in lawn chairs, some stretched out in blankets, and some – like me – had their feet in the soft sand while watching the blockbuster that holds up amazingly well. (There’s just something about feeling the sand between your toes, you know? Like dipping your feet in the water). Organizers got some help and support from Renovate Church, which helped collect donations and give out free popcorn (Free popcorn! - from Celebration! Cinema) … The next movie on the beach will be in about a month at sunset.

There was a lull in the Muskegon Heights Festival in the Park when I stopped by, but people were checking it out and getting ready for the concert that evening. And the city was abuzz with friendly people walking around, chatting with their neighbors, and hanging out. I love it when a city feels alive, with people out and about, and Muskegon Heights felt alive …

And then there was Parties in the Park, that great gathering place for Skee-Towners. I was rather impressed with the beer selection, which included craft brews from as far away as Oregon. There’s just something about a nice night in a beautiful park with several hundred of your neighbors…

I also happened upon a free concert by the West Michigan Winds on the Olthoff Street Stage downtown. And, of course, people were headed to the Frauenthal Center for the Miss Michigan Pageant, which wraps up today with the crowning of the new Miss Michigan. The Heights festival also concludes today with a full day of activities, including a parade, a fashion show, and a beer tent, just to name a few…

Speaking of beer, Taste of Muskegon, which begins at 11 a.m. today, will have dozens of varieties of craft beer and wine up for tasting, at $1 per sample. What better way to find out what Michigan beers and wines you like? And what more fun way to support the local economy, both city- and state-wise? Again, Michigan is known for both its beer and its wine, so you’re bound to find something you like… And about the food: There will be options from an eclectic variety of local restaurants, at $1-5 per taste. Have kids? The kids’ area is back this year. So is the Food Expo stage with demonstrations…

Up in Whitehall, the 33^rd annual White Lake Arts & Crafts Festival will feature a food court and entertainment along with work from over 75 artists. Festivalgoers can admire natural art, too: The event will take place along White Lake in the Goodrich Park Annex.

See ya out sampling the area.

--Imaginer