The arts, music and theater are thriving in Southwest Michigan. To make it easier than ever to discover the region’s rich history and creative scene, the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council has launched another year of its Creative Connections game.
Those playing can visit 21 destinations between now and April 30, 2024. They’ll be able to take in performances, discover local artists’ creations and even meet some of those artists, all while earning fun, artsy prizes for themselves.
“This is the third year of Creative Connections, and it has been rewarding to see the continued excitement for both game players and artists alike in that time,” said Marcy Simpson, executive director of the Tourist Council. “We’ve even added five new members this year!”
These new members include Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve (Niles), Golden Muse Winery & Art Gallery (Baroda), Morton House Museum (Benton Harbor), Niles History Center (Niles) and the North Berrien Historical Museum (Coloma).
Here’s how the game works:
Pick up a Creative Connections brochure. You’ll be able to request one online or at any of the Creative Connections destinations.
Visit the Creative Connections destinations (listed online) between now and April 30, 2024.
Show your brochure and collect a stamp at each location you visit. Each destination has a personalized stamp. Duplicate stamps are not allowed.
Collect stamps to earn prizes starting at just three Creative Connections stops.
Return your brochure to the Tourist Council to be validated for prizes. All brochures must be sent for validation by May 6, 2024. You must be 18 years or older to play.
“We’re excited for another year of sharing St. Joseph’s amusement park history and our artful, hand-carved Carousel figures with our visitors as part of the Creative Connections game,” Suz Schalon, president of the Silver Beach Carousel Society, said. “After they’ve enjoyed their time at the Carousel, we’ve directed them to other nearby game locations to continue experiencing our area’s rich art and culture.”
The prizes have been updated this year to include a large canvas boat tote with exclusive Creative Connections art and a $75 gift certificate for any destination with cooking or art classes, Simpson said.
“It’s important to us that visitors not only see the art, but that they may explore their creative skills, too.”
Learn more about each destination and the prizes players can earn at https://swmichigan.org/creative. You’ll also find helpful FAQs, game instructions, the online brochure request and more.
