The St. Helen Bluegill Festival in St. Helen, Michigan, is a long-standing community event with a rich history dating back to 1949. Here are some key details about the festival:
History: Originally starting with a focus on bluegill fishing, the festival has evolved over the years to include a variety of activities. It began as a simple fishing tournament but has grown to become a major community celebration.
Events and Activities: The festival includes:
- Carnival Rides: Provided by companies like Schmidt Amusements and Native Amusements, offering amusement for all ages.
- Parades: There’s both a kids’ parade on Thursday evening and a grand parade on Saturday.
- Fishing Contest: True to its name, the festival features fishing contests celebrating the bluegill.
- Medallion Hunt: A tradition where participants can hunt for a hidden medallion for a prize.
- Car and Motorcycle Show: These have become staples, attracting enthusiasts from around the area.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Bands perform, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Vendors: Offering a range of food, crafts, and other goods.
- Sports and Games: Including softball games, horseshores, cornhole, and more.
- Beverage Pavilion: For adults, offering a selection of drinks.
- Timing: Typically held in late June or early July each year, the festival spans several days, usually from Thursday to Saturday, with an opening ceremony to kick things off and an awards ceremony to conclude the events.
- Community Impact: Beyond entertainment, the festival significantly boosts local economy and community spirit, drawing both residents and visitors to St. Helen. It’s described as a family tradition and has been a part of the community for over 70 years.
- Location: The festival takes place at Richfield Township Park, located at 10571 East Airport Road, St. Helen, MI 48656.
- Engagement: The festival has an active social media presence, particularly on Facebook, where updates about the event, including specific events or changes, are shared.
This festival not only celebrates the local culture and the natural beauty of the area but also serves as a significant event for economic and social engagement in St. Helen, Michigan.
