With summer break coming to an end, children are dreading the return to school, parents are quietly celebrating the upcoming quiet, and everyone else is aiming to soak up those last golden rays of sunshine.
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to summer just yet, consider attending one of Michigan’s accessible festivals. Whether you want to have cherry-themed treats or dance your heart out, there are endless wheelchair-friendly events that promise to make your summer unforgettable. Let’s check them out!
Top Wheelchair-friendly Festivals in Michigan
Below are some wheelchair-friendly events happening in Michigan this summer:
Michigan State Fair
Running between August 29 through September 2, 2024, the Michigan State Fair is set to be the highlight of your end-of-summer plans. This event brings together the best of music, food, and entertainment.
On the Ascension Main Stage, you’ll find a mix of performances sure to get you dancing and singing along. Meanwhile, the Great Lakes Timber Show provides a dash of excitement with those fearless lumberjacks showcasing their chopping skills.
If adrenaline-pumping rides and games are more your speed, head to the Midway Rides & Games section to feel the rush of wind on your face as you soar through the air or win oversized stuffed animals you’ll struggle to carry around all day.
Don’t miss the Shrine Circus either; their blend of acrobatics and humor is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. And who can resist the charm of Racing Pigs? Watching those little cuties sprint to the finish line is pure joy. Plus, don’t forget the Friday Night Flights Beer Festival, where you can sip on craft beers and unwind to some great tunes.
Of course, a fair isn’t a fair without the mouth-watering food stalls. Here, you’ll find deep-fried everything, smoking BBQ, gourmet popcorn, funnel cakes piled high with powdered sugar, and so much more.
Accessibility is a top priority at the Michigan State Fair. There are handicapped parking spaces conveniently positioned near all gates, so you can dive into the action without any delays. Navigating the fairgrounds is a breeze thanks to smooth and easy-to-use ramps scattered throughout the venue. If you didn’t bring a wheelchair but find you need one, don’t fret—wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Thinking about making a mini-vacation out of it? The Hyatt Place Detroit is located just a short distance from the fairgrounds and offers comfortable and luxurious rooms, making it a perfect place for unwinding after a day of epic adventures.
ArtPrize, Grand Rapids
If you’re into arts and unpredictable experiences, consider attending ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This annual extravaganza transforms the city into a living, breathing art gallery where streets, bars, churches, restaurants, and even coffee shops burst with creativity. During this 18-day event, you’ll stumble upon a colossal inflatable airplane one minute and a jaw-dropping mural the next — all while sipping your artisanal latte.
The ArtPrize isn’t any other event; they offer $600,000 in total prizes and grant money, giving budding artists a chance to open up their own gallery. So mark your calendar, explore the unexpected, and maybe even cast a vote to help an up-and-coming artist make their mark.
Holland’s International Festival
Ready for an adventure that’s as vibrant as it is unique? Look no further than Holland’s International Festival!
Set in the heart of West Michigan on September 14th, this family-friendly festival features a global food court where every bite takes you to a different part of the world. From spicy samosas to savory tacos, your taste buds are in for an epic journey. And while you’re munching, you can take in the sights and sounds of live performances that range from samba dancers shaking it up to European folk musicians belting out melodic tunes.
The festival is loaded with hands-on activities that are perfect for both the young and the young at heart. You can attend a workshop to learn to make intricate origami, try your hand at painting, or maybe even pick up some new dance moves!
Don’t miss the colorful parades that wind through the festival grounds. After all that fun, wrap up your day by visiting the International Marketplace. Here, you can browse and purchase unique crafts, textiles, and artworks from artisans around the world.
Regarding accessibility, the event venue has smooth pathways while the stalls are installed at an adequate height so everyone can enjoy themselves. Additionally, ample seating and rest areas are available to relax and take in the festivities.
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Wild Blueberry Festival, Paradise
Between August 16th and 18th, the Wild Blueberry Festival is a summer-end celebration that promises something for everyone! For instance, its Arts & Crafts Fair offers a chance to purchase beautiful, handmade items from talented artisans.
What’s a blueberry festival without blueberries, right? At the Blueberry Brunch, you can eat fluffy pancakes, sizzling bacon, and a variety of blueberry-infused dishes that will make your morning magical.
Got a serious sweet tooth and a competitive streak? Join the Pie Eating Contest and see how fast you can devour a delicious blueberry pie. It’s messy, hilarious, and an absolute blast whether you’re competing or cheering on the contestants.
The event also features kid-friendly activities. Think blueberry-themed games, face painting, and arts and crafts that’ll have the little ones giggling with joy. If you’re feeling lucky, try the Fish Bowl raffle to win amazing prizes. There will be live music and performances happening all day, where local bands and dance crews will keep the energy high, so get ready to jam out!
This wheelchair-friendly Michigan event features smooth pathways for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. While pets aren’t allowed in the fairgrounds or Whitefish Township Community Center, service animals are welcome (just make sure to register them at the festival office).
Accessible Features to Look for Before Attending Any Michigan Event
Keep the following pointers in mind before buying accessible event tickets:
- Look for designated accessible parking spaces close to the venue entrance, so you can park your vehicle without having to circle the parking lot.
- Before booking an event, ensure walkways and pathways are free of obstacles like overgrown shrubs, potholes, or cracks. The surfaces should be smooth and even, accommodating wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and anyone with mobility challenges. If there are any incline ramps, they should not be overly steep and should have safety handrails.
- If it’s a multi-story venue, it should have an elevator on all levels that are spacious enough to fit a wheelchair and an escort if needed.
- Accessible restrooms with wide doors, ample turning space, and grab bars are non-negotiable.
- Search for venues that offer multiple sections with wheelchair-accessible seating, not just one shoved to the back. This way, everyone will enjoy the event comfortably and with a good view.
- Check if assistive listening devices (like headphones or neck loops) are available for those with hearing impairments. Also, look for events offering closed captioning, so you don’t miss out on what’s being said or sung.
- Events can be overwhelming for those with sensory processing issues. Find out if the venue offers sensory-friendly rooms or quiet zones where people can take a break.
- Food can make or break your experience! Check that food vendors are set up at a height that’s easy for everyone to use, with options for different diets.
Extend Your Summer Fun with Clock Mobility
Whether you plan on attending the Michigan State Fair or any other local event in the Great Lake States, Clock Mobility has you covered. We proudly offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles designed with top-notch features like spacious interiors, smooth ramps, secure wheelchair locking systems, climate control systems, and entertainment systems so you can have a comfortable ride.
Our short-term rentals are perfect for festival-goers looking for temporary transportation, while long-term rentals offer flexibility for extended stays across multiple areas. For more information, visit our storefront or contact us directly at (866) 380-3326 to book your ride for all your summer adventures!