As always, there is plenty to do in the West Michigan area this weekend! If you haven't already made plans to take advantage of this last, pleasant weekend before fall is officially upon us, there are several really great options available to you.
From 11:00 am to 11:00 pm on Friday, September 18th and Saturday, September 19th, the Calder Plaza will play host to Fiesta Mexicana 2015! This two-day festival is a celebration of Mexican food, music, culture, and the local Mexican community as well. In addition to live musical performances, dancing, traditional dance performances, and a beer tent, there will also be an equestrian show, a salsa contest for the best local salsa, and a taco eating contest! This is a family friendly event that has been taking place in Grand Rapids for over 45 years. Everyone is encouraged to come and learn about (and enjoy) Mexican culture.
If you're downtown on Saturday, but large crowds aren't your thing, consider participating in the Third Annual Chalk Flood Street Fair. From 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, an entire block of Monroe Avenue, from South Division to Ionia, will be closed to all vehicular traffic while citizens of all ages and skill levels come out to color the streets. There are two $1,000 prizes, one for kids and adults, for the best chalk art. Even if you don't want to participate, it's a great event to witness. There is a beer tent, with all proceeds going to charity (specifically Rays of Hope International). There's also a preview of Art Prize on display; a total of 51 artists have pieces that will be viewable during the event. There will be food for sale by Pinkie's Ice Cream and Desserts, a food truck.
If you're south of town or just prefer something an outing to a less central location, considering visiting the locally famous and beloved Allegan County Fair. This Friday and Saturday are the final days of the fair, and there's still plenty going on for the whole family to enjoy! This evening, at 8 pm, Fall Out Boy will be performing as the last in a series of amazing concerts, which has included Carrie Underwood and Lady Antebellum. Although most of the shows are done, there's still fun to be had a the midway, enjoying carnival rides, as well as the myriad animal attractions and a youth Western style horse and riding show. Wristbands for the rides for all day enjoyment are only $25.
If you're feeling like giving back to your community, tomorrow from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm the city will be celebrating the 12th Annual Mayor's Grand River Cleanup. Thousands of volunteers gather to sift waste and refuse out of the river and its tributaries. A small breakfast will be served before the event and a light lunch after the event. There will also be an after party at Founders, who will provide free beer to event participants who are 21 or older. Volunteers are also encouraged to participate in the West Michigan People’s Climate March. The parade route begins and ends at the 6th Street Park, and it runs from 1:00 to 2:30 pm. For a map of where to meet, click here to visit the website for the West Michigan Environmental Action Council, who is sponsoring the event.
Culture and community are part of the reason why West Michigan real estate and Grand Rapids real estate is in high demand. There is plenty to enjoy, no matter what your tastes! If you're considering moving to the area, selling your home, or changing neighborhoods, contact the amazing, experienced staff at Pyxis Realty today to get the process started!