Summer’s not over in Michigan’s Great Southwest. Downtown St. Joseph will keep the summer vacation spirit alive right up through Labor Day. St. Joseph Today and its members have planned a series of fun activities for all ages throughout September 3-6.
“It’s been a beautiful summer in St. Joseph,” said Amy Zapal, executive director of St. Joseph Today. “Come back and visit us for one more weekend of summer fun before fall events start! Whether you enjoy the beaches, our beautiful downtown shops and restaurants, local wineries and breweries or the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, there is something for everyone!”
On Friday, the weekend kicks off with St. Joe Lighthouse Tours hosted by The Heritage Museum & Cultural Center at the North Pier Lighthouse. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour at 10:00a, and open hours will be available from 11:00a-2:00p and 5:00p-8:00p.
On Saturday, wake up early to get an up-close look at the sailboats that have raced from Chicago in the first leg of the annual Tri-State Regatta. Continuing the fun on Saturday morning, head over to Lake Bluff Park for two events – the St. Joe Farmers Market from 9:00a-5:00p (extended hours for this weekend only) and the Lake Bluff Artisan Fair from 10:00a-5:00p. Free tote bags will be handed out to the first 250 attendees at the St. Joe Farmers Market. For more information, visit stjoetoday.com/farmersmarket and stjoetoday.com/artisanfair.
On Sunday, early risers can send off the sailboats as they race to Indiana. Then from 10:00a-5:00p, more than 50 vendors will showcase their treasures at Antiques on the Bluff. Music enthusiasts can also enjoy the season’s last Municipal Band concerts at 7:00p on Sunday and Monday at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell.
The fun doesn’t stop after Labor Day weekend. “On September 17-19, St. Joseph Today will host the last Love Local weekend of the 2021 season. Area residents and visitors are sure to enjoy extended shopping hours, free gift wrapping, new products, featured menu items, specials and a wide variety of area events.” Zapal says, “This weekend also features a Friday Night Concert at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell featuring The Backups at 7:00p as well as a celebration of autumn during Fall Fest on Saturday from 10:00a-3:00p in Lake Bluff Park!” Visit stjoetoday.com/lovelocal and stjoetoday.com/fallfest for more information.
