It is hard to imagine that it has been 10 years since about 200 people showed up to listen to live music and drink local beer as they celebrated the very first Local First Street Party. Oh, how far we have come. Now this one-day event is celebrating their tenth anniversary and is expecting to attract more than 12,000 to downtown Grand Rapids.
While this event will have plenty of food vendors (all local, no chains) and great spirits, the real plus of any street party is always the chance to listen to some great music.
This year they do not disappoint as folk duo Seth Bernard and May Erlewine open the event at 3 p.m. From there, the music just keep rolling with Ralston Bowles, Cabildo, The Concussions, and The Crane Wives before electro-rock sensation Step Dad dances the party out to the midnight hour. In between the acts, the thrilling and dressed to impress Grand Rapids Soul Club will be spinning vintage soul and funk, including the occasional rare 45 from Grand Rapids musicians.
As an added bonus, longtime Street Party event partner Founders Brewing Company has created a beer to commemorate the10th anniversary. The limited edition Local Hive Honey Wheat, made from local honey, will be on tap.
"Ten is a great age. We're taking time to reflect on how far we've come and to make plans for our future," says Local First Executive Director Elissa S. Hillary. "We're old enough to feel well-established and confident, but young enough to still be full of energy. We're focused on moving forward with our mission to make West Michigan a locally focused, strong from the inside, sustainable community."
They will even be serving Detroit's Faygo, which is code in some circles for "Juggalos Welcome." But just remember, not everyone shares your appreciation of a Red Pop shower.
Admission: Free
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