One of the very best parts of living in the city of Grand Rapids is constant stream of street fairs and festivals that seem to pop up on nearly every corner in our neighborhoods. They range from the short-term debut like the Creston Neighborhood Association’s embracing of their jewel of a city park for a
romantic outdoor cinema event, to legacy events like the annual Eastown Bizarre Bazaar. Held on the streets of one of our most vibrant neighborhoods, Bizarre Bazaar is devoted to the artists and the creations of their hands.
Unlike the Eastown Street Fair, which takes place in the Fall, BB’s summer event gives crafters and artisans alike a chance to show off in person what Esty can only show in one dimension.
Also unlike many other street fairs in the city, BB allows zero outside vendors, choosing to focus and shine the spotlight on the cuisine of their neighborhood including staples like pizza, deli and hot dogs as well as Indian, Middle Eastern and Ethiopian offerings, all within steps of the artisan vendors that line the streets.
“Already more than 50 vendors have applied for booth space, thus bringing interesting new products like live butterflies and chrysalis, handmade hammocks, and a plethora of fashion options including a new T-shirt designer with a green flare,” says Pamela Goderski, chairperson for the 2012 Eastown Special Events Committee.
And if you miss the chance to draw chalk in public like the days when Rob Bliss ran the streets, then rest assured. They will have plenty of chalk on hand to color those grey sidewalk streets of Eastown.
Even the musicians are reflecting this local focus with many of them living within a stone’s throw of the outdoor stage, once again giving this event that authentic neighborhood experience.
Performing live on stage this year are the SE Side Jazz Ensemble, The Ancients, Persistent Flashback Disorder, Casey Stratton, Lynn Thompson and Wild-Jim Younger.
Admission: Free