Memorial Day Weekend Kickoff to Summer!

Michigan

Summer season in the Grand Haven Area kicks off with Memorial Day Weekend festivities and is the start of a long list wonderful events! It’s time to put on your sunglasses and get ready for all things “Fun-in-the-Sun”.

The annual Grand Haven Memorial Day Parade will make its loop through downtown. Starting at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 30, the parade will begin its route on 5th and Franklin Ave., continue down Franklin, then turn right onto S. Harbor Dr. to finish off with ceremonies at Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium, Eternal Flame, and Lake Forest Cemetery. The parade will include music, war veterans, and the brand new Lakeshore Trolley. Grand Haven Council members will also make an appearance at the Waterfront Stadium, as well as, a speech from Mayor McNally.

The annual Spring Lake Memorial Day Parade will also take place on Monday, May 30, beginning at 10:00 a.m., the parade’s route will start on the south side of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, go along Exchange St., head down Lake Ave., east on River St., then finish off on Fruitport Rd. at the All Shores Wesleyan Church parking lot. The parade will include the Muskegon V.F.W. color guard, Spring Lake Middle and High School marching bands, Spring Lake Township police and firefighters, and more. A memorial service will be held at the Spring Lake Cemetery at noon.

Nothing beats summertime in Michigan!

Before heading to the beautiful soft sand beaches of the Grand Haven Area, be sure to stop by one of the downtown restaurants for a bite, you have options! Starting Memorial Day weekend, Washington Avenue in downtown Grand Haven, will have a social district which is a dedicated area closed off for visitors to enjoy outdoor eating and drinking. Each restaurant features unique outdoor seating that creates a lively atmosphere. Some popular restaurants include the Kirby House, Toasted Pickle, Anna’s House, Odd Side, and Snug Harbor.

The one-of-a-kind Musical Fountain will make its return for the 2022 season! The Grand Haven Musical Fountain is the largest musical fountain in the world (of-its-kind), the only other larger fountain (of-its-kind) is the Bellagio in Las Vegas, making the Grand Haven Musical Fountain an impressive sight to see. Beginning at dusk, this 25-minute light, music, and water fountain show is a must-watch with ice cream in hand. Often set to different musical themes, such as Disney Favorites, Jimmy Buffett, or Star Wars, the fountain’s musical selection is sure to excite the whole family. Located on Dewey Hill, Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium located right across the channel is the best spot to watch the show. If you prefer to stay in your car for the show, the audio is also broadcast on radio station 88.7.

The Lakeshore Trolley will be running again with the start of Memorial Day weekend! Running seven days a week, this tour of the downtown area will be something the whole family can enjoy. There are several stops located along the trolley’s route, including two loops. The Buccaneer Loop is in downtown Grand Haven with stops at Chinook Pier, The Pump House, Grand Haven State Park, Norm’s Ice Cream, Holiday Inn and more! The Laker Loop has stops located in Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, and Fruitport, including Lakeside Beach, A La Mode, The Front Porch, Pomona Park, and beyond. The trolley is available to ride Sunday – Saturday Noon-8pm.

Put on your golf shoes and head to Chinook Pier mini golf for 18-holes of fun! Start by grabbing a scorecard and choosing what color golf ball you want, then head out the door to the first green. With an easy start to your game, the holes begin to become more difficult and unconventional. Continue your game by hitting your ball through a piano, tapping it to roll down the catwalk to the miniature replica of the lighthouse, hitting it up a ski hill, and more! Finish your game on the last hole with either gaining a stroke, losing a stroke, or winning a free game!

Happy Memorial Day and a very big thank you to all those who have served and sacrificed their lives in service to our country!

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