Kalamazoo County, Michigan is a vibrant and diverse community that is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. Located in the southwestern region of the state, Kalamazoo County is home to a variety of outdoor celebrations that bring together locals and visitors alike. From music festivals to cultural events, there is always something to celebrate in this charming county.
The Kalamazoo County Fair
One of the most highly anticipated outdoor celebrations in Kalamazoo County is the annual Kalamazoo County Fair. Held every August at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center, this week-long event features carnival rides, live music, delicious food, and a variety of agricultural exhibits.The fair has been a tradition in the county since 1851 and continues to be a beloved event for families and friends to come together and have fun. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides like the Ferris wheel and roller coasters, as well as classic fair games like ring toss and balloon darts. The fair also hosts a variety of live entertainment, including local bands, dance performances, and even a demolition derby. And of course, no fair would be complete without indulging in some delicious fair food like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and cotton candy.The Kalamazoo County Fair is not only a fun celebration but also an opportunity to learn about agriculture and farming. The fair features educational exhibits where visitors can learn about different farm animals, crops, and farming techniques.
There are also competitions for 4-H members to showcase their livestock and other projects.
Kalamazoo Island Festival
Another popular outdoor celebration in Kalamazoo County is the Kalamazoo Island Festival. This annual event takes place in June at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place and celebrates the diverse cultures and traditions of the Caribbean islands. The festival features live music, dance performances, authentic Caribbean cuisine, and a marketplace where visitors can purchase unique items from local vendors. The highlight of the festival is the Parade of Nations, where participants dress up in colorful costumes and dance to the beat of Caribbean music. The parade showcases the vibrant and lively spirit of the Caribbean culture and is a must-see for anyone attending the festival. In addition to the parade, there are also various workshops and activities for visitors to participate in, such as steel drum lessons, salsa dancing, and traditional Caribbean cooking demonstrations.The Kalamazoo Island Festival is a fun and educational celebration that brings together people from all walks of life.
Kalamazoo Pride
Kalamazoo County is also known for its inclusive and welcoming community, which is why Kalamazoo Pride is another highly anticipated outdoor celebration in the county. This annual event takes place in June at Arcadia Creek Festival Place and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with live music, drag performances, food trucks, and more. The festival also features a Pride Parade that winds through downtown Kalamazoo, showcasing colorful floats and participants dressed in rainbow attire. It is a celebration of love, acceptance, and equality for all. In addition to the festivities, Kalamazoo Pride also hosts educational workshops and panels to promote awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. It is a celebration that not only brings people together but also promotes important conversations and advocacy for the community.Kalamazoo Ribfest
For all the foodies out there, Kalamazoo Ribfest is an outdoor celebration that you won't want to miss.Held in August at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place, this three-day event is a celebration of all things BBQ. Visitors can sample mouth-watering ribs from some of the best BBQ vendors in the state, as well as other delicious food options like pulled pork, brisket, and mac and cheese.In addition to the food, Kalamazoo Ribfest also features live music from local and national bands, as well as a beer garden for adults to enjoy. There are also activities for kids, making it a fun event for the whole family.
Kalamazoo Balloon Fest
One of the most unique outdoor celebrations in Kalamazoo County is the Kalamazoo Balloon Fest. Held in July at the Gull Lake View Golf Club and Resort, this event features hot air balloon rides, live music, food trucks, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The highlight of the festival is the hot air balloon glow, where balloons are inflated and lit up at night, creating a beautiful and magical sight.Visitors can also take a tethered balloon ride for a one-of-a-kind experience. In addition to the balloons, there are also activities like face painting, bounce houses, and a petting zoo for kids to enjoy. The Kalamazoo Balloon Fest is a celebration that will leave you in awe and wonder.
