4th of July Events in the Big Rapids Region!

The 4th of July is right around the corner & the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau have put together this flyer for you featuring 4th of July events happening in the Big Rapids Region this weekend! Don't forget we also have Big Country 100.9 WWBR Big Rapids' Fireworks Glasses here in the Welcome Center! These events & more are also on our website at: BigRapids.org/CalendarOfEvents.

Village of Mecosta Holiday Weekend 

As mentioned in the main 4th of July Events happening in the Big Rapids Region, the Village of Mecosta is having a 4th of July Parade and Fireworks on Monday. They also have some great events kicking off the holiday weekend leading up to the

4th of July Celebrations!


Main Street Car Show & Vendor Event

  • Friday, June 30
  • 2:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Main Street (M-20)
  • Parking is available at the Mecosta Elementary School with a shuttle to take you downtown


Music on the River: The Elvis Tribute with Jake Slater

  • Friday, July 1st
  • 6:30pm - 8:30pm
  • Bromley Park in Mecosta

Free Fireworks Glasses!

FREE Big Country 100.9 WWBR Fireworks Glasses are available now till they are gone at sponsor locations including us here at the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau's Welcome Center!

The Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce: "The Big Rapids Freedom Fireworks on July 3rd will be a blast, thanks to the generous $2,000 check contribution from our friends at the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau! Pictured are Connie Koepke, Director of MCCVB, and Kim Easler, Board Member of MCACC during the check presentation.


We look forward to seeing everyone at the Mecosta County Fairgrounds or Airport as we kick off Independence Day celebrations with Food Trucks, Family Fun, and Fireworks! Parking will be open to the general public beginning at 6pm."

4th of July Events & Activities at Mecosta County Parks

School Section Lake 4th of July Weekend Events

Thursday, June 29th

  • 11:30am: Chalk Drawing
  • 2:00pm - Camper Decorating 4t of July Theme
  • 5:00pm - Musical Water Balloons


Friday, June 30th

  • 1:30pm: Kickball
  • 3:00pm - Red, White & Blue Face Painting
  • 5:00pm: Capture the Flag
  • 7:00pm: Movie - Scooby Doo


Saturday, July 1st

  • 12:30pm: 4th of July Crafts
  • 1:00pm: Bike Decorating at the Art Barn
  • 2:00pm: Bike Parade
  • 5:00pm: Games at the Art Barn Lawn
  • 7:00pm: Movie - Kids Choice


Sunday, July 2nd

  • 12:00pm: Water Pong
  • 3:00pm: 4th of July Scavenger Hunt
  • 5:00pm: Flag Coloring
  • 6:00pm: Frisbee


Monday, July 3rd

  • 11:00am - Games in the Art Barn
  • 1:30pm: Nature Hike
  • 3:00pm: Bubbles
  • 5:00pm: Sand Castle Building at the Beach


Tuesday, July 4th

  • 11:00am: Balloon Tennis Game
  • 3:00pm: Paint Fireworks
  • 5:30pm: Sparklers

Brower Park's 4th of July Weekend Events

Friday, June 30th

  • 12:00pm: Word Search, Coloring etc.
  • 2:00pm: Flag Craft
  • 4:30pm: USA Bingo
  • 6:00pm: Movie - Despicable Me 2


Saturday, July 1st

  • 12:00pm: Tie Dye (bring shirt or other garment to dye)
  • 2:00pm: Star Dream Catcher
  • 4:30pm: Water Balloon Fight
  • 7:00pm: Wagon Ride


Sunday, July 2nd

  • 12:00pm: Firework Painting
  • 2:00pm: Eagle Painting
  • 4:30pm: Firework Rocket Craft
  • 7:00pm: Wagon Ride


Tuesday, July 4th

  • 10:30am: Bike Decorating
  • 11:45am: Parade Line Up at the Art Barn
  • 12:00pm: Bike Parade with Fire Trucks


Outdoor Activities are Weather Permitting

Car Fest + Kids Fest 2023 Was a Great Success!

Here are some highlights of our event & you can find more on our website at: BigRapids.org/

CarFest

The Mecosta County Visitors Bureau wants to thank everyone who came out to Car Fest plus Kids Fest 2023 in Downtown Big Rapids! We had a great turnout & lots of fun in the sun. Thank you once again to the River Valley Car Club for being part of the show & all your help with facilitating & helping us run the event. Working with Ferris State University and their sponsoring Kids Fest was a great addition this year. Our Media Sponsor Big Country 100.9 radio with Rob & Louise did a wonderful job & we thank them & the Big Rapids AMVETS Post 1941 for the Call to Colors, Red Hot Karaoke & DJ for the music, Touch-A-Truck, those who registered & of course everyone who attended the show.

*Photos Taken by Sandy Gholston with FSU/Owner and CEO at SG3 Communications
Explore the Big Rapids Region this Summer!

Escaping for an afternoon excursion, weekend get-a-way or even if you are looking at relocating to the area, we have the information and resources to make your stay the best it can be. Explore over 100 Lakes, the Muskegon River, Award-Winning Golf Courses, Endless Trails, Breweries, Wineries, Unique Cuisine not to mention Festivals, Events, the Arts and great Lodging Facilities.

No matter what time of year it is or how experienced of an angler you are, you are sure to enjoy an adventure here in the greater Big Rapids area. From tip ups in the winter months to trolling in the spring or just kicking back and relaxing in the summer months to see where the current takes you. Once you experience fishing in Mecosta County you’ll be hooked.

End your day at one of our amazing lodging facilities. From standard rooms to luxury suites, pools, hot tubs and conference space(s). All are located to nearby activities including shops, restaurants, golf and Ferris State University.

 

Everything you need to plan your stay can be found at BigRapids.org

Whether you are looking for a place to hike, bike, snowmobile or snowshoe Mecosta County has the trail for you. From a leisurely stroll while taking in a scenic view or for more of a challenging adventure, the Mecosta County 

Visitors Bureau can point you in the right direction for the trail that is right for you.


When it comes to trails, there’s no place like Michigan. We are home to more than 13,000 miles of state-managed trails, plus thousands or miles of local, county and federally managed trails and pathways. Together, these trails connect communities and provide real health and economic benefits. No matter where you are, chances are you’ll find hiking and biking, equestrian and water trails.

The Dragon Trail - a soon-to-be 47-mile linear County Park that will be jointly managed by the Newaygo and Mecosta County Park Commissions that is a premiere adventure sports destination providing world-class mountain biking, hiking, running experiences and more! For now, explore the first 21.75 miles of trail that is complete and open to the public which includes bridges, boardwalks, and overlooks. Book your stay in the Big Rapids Region and bike across the world’s third largest earthen dam with spectacular views of the river valley!

Hotels in the Big Rapids Region

Mecosta County meets all of your lodging needs. From full-service accommodations at your favorite franchise hotel to the comforts of home at a locally owned property. Come experience quality along with our hometown charm! 

Country Inn & Suites

  • 15344 Waldron Way in Big Rapids
  • 231-5227-9000

Holiday Inn Express

  • 1005 Perry Street in Big Rapids
  • 231-796-4400

Quality Inn & Suites

  • 1705 S. State St in Big Rapids
  • 231-592-5150

Tullymore Golf Resort

  • 11969 Tullymore Dr. in Stanwood
  • 231-972-4837

Hampton Inn & Suites

  • 15320 Waldron Way in Big Rapids
  • 231-527-733

Super 8 by Wyndham

  • 845 Water Tower Rd in Big Rapids
  • 231-796-1588

Morley Motel

  • 2097 Northland Dr. in Morley
  • 231-856-7820

The Inn at St. Ives

  • 9940 St. Ives Dr. in Stanwood
  • 231-972-4837
Mecosta County Visitors Bureau's Visitors Guide

We are sure you will have a great time Exploring all that Mecosta County has to offer!

The Mecosta County Visitors Bureau Visitors Guide is available at our Welcome Center today and/or you can find the digital version on our website HERE.


Escaping for an afternoon excursion, weekend getaway, or even if you are looking to relocate to the area, we have the information and resources to make your stay the best it can be. Read through our visitors guide giving you all the information you need to know to Explore over 100 Lakes, the Muskegon River, Award-Winning Golf Courses, Endless Trails, Breweries, Wineries, Unique Cuisine not to mention Festivals, Events, the Arts and great Lodging Facilities.

Mecosta County Visitors Bureau's Online Calendar of Events

Be sure to get out and

Explore the Big Rapids Region today! 


BigRapids.org

The Mecosta County Visitors Bureau is your resource for #allthingsmecostacounty!


A wonderful tool and service we provide is our Online Calendar of Community Events! We provide a complete listing of community events that are open to the public and are happening in Mecosta County.


You can also submit your event on our website too! We do not charge any fees or membership. Submit your community event 

HERE.

Upcoming Event Highlights

2023 Tullymore Craft Beer Festival

Sunday, July 2nd

6:00pm - 11:00pm


The Tullymore Craft Beer Festival is back for 2023, and as always we're preparing a huge selection of craft beers, seltzers and ready to drink cocktails – and of course the night isn't complete without live music from Onager!


This year's event will be hosted Sunday, July 2, beginning at 6 PM and get ready to sample tons of different beers & beverages, paired with a great barbecue buffet.


General Admission tickets, including five sampling tickets are just $15 again this year.


Our Combo Ticket, which includes a general admission ticket, five sampling tickets and our delicious barbecue buffet are just $35 per person.


Join the fun on the Tullymore patio, as we kick off our 4th of July celebrations and enjoy a night filled with great music, great food, great drinks and great times.


Tickets are non-refundable once purchased.

General questions regarding the event or ticket sales can be directed to [email protected] or (231) 972-4837

Mecosta County Free Fair

Fair Schedule Monday, July 10th - Saturday, July 15th


Fair Schedule for 2023:


Monday, July 10th

  • Rabbit Show at 8:00am
  • Poultry Show at 11:00am
  • Midway Opens from 5:00pm - 11:00pm
  • Celebrity Race at 5:30pm
  • Sheep Show at 6:00pm
  • Horse Demonstrations at 7:00pm

Tuesday, July 11th

  • Swine Show at 9:00am
  • Midway Opens from 1:00pm - 11:00pm
  • Horse & Pony Show at 2:00pm (Fitting and Showmanship)
  • Celebrity Race at 5:30pm
  • Goat Show at 6:00pm

Wednesday, July 12th

  • Market Beef, Market Dairy and Baby Calf Show at 9:00am
  • Kids Day from 12:00pm - 11:00pm
  • Pedal Pull at 1:00pm
  • Horse & Pony Show at 1:00pm (Jumping, Huntset, Saddleseat, English and Gymkhana)
  • Dairy Breedstock Show at 2:00pm
  • Micro Wrestling at 7:00pm

Thursday, July 13th

  • Horse & Pony Show at 9:00am (Trail and Reining)
  • Midway Opens from 1:00pm - 11:00pm
  • Livestock Auction Sale at 5:00pm
  • Super Kicker Rodeo Production Presents "Do My Thing" Summer Tour at 7:00pm

Friday, July 14th

  • Horse & Pony Show at 9:00am (Western, Speed and Costume Class)
  • Midway Opens from 1:00pm - 11:00pm
  • Truck & Tractor Puls at 7:00pm

Saturday, July 15th

  • Horse & Pony Show at 10:00am (Cloverbud and Peewee Classes including Cloverbud Costume Class)
  • Roping and Obstacle Course at 1:00pm
  • Midway Opens from 1:0pm - 11:00pm
  • Showmanship Sweepstakes at 4:00pm
  • Demolition Derby at 6:30pm

Painting With Toinette

Saturday, July 15

5:00pm - 8:00pm

Northend Riverside Park


I will walk you through creating a painting of your own on a 16x20 canvas. All materials provided. Just bring your own drinks and snacks. $40 per person. Cash or card when you get there. Only 30 spots available so click going to reserve your spot! Can’t wait to paint with you!

Junior Camp

July 3rd at 12:00pm - July 6th at 10:00am

Fort Faith Baptist Camp


Calling all 3rd through 6th graders to come have a blast at Fort Faith Junior Camp week! You’ll make new friends, play exciting games, cheer for your team, swim every day, and enjoy great preaching, songs, and games during the chapel services. All of this for only $190! We are looking forward to seeing you there! 

Ultimate Mega Monster Truck Tour 

Saturday, July 8 at 7:00pm

Morley Celebration on the Pond


 Attention all thrill-seekers! 

Prepare for the ultimate adrenaline rush as Morley, Michigan gets ready to experience an EPIC event like never before! 

 Witness the mind-blowing power of the BLACK WIDOW, PSYCHO CIRCUS, THRILLBILLY, and the legendary Hall of Fame driver, Jack Koeberna, tearing up the arena in the awe-inspiring TUFF E NUFF! 


And for the true daredevils out there, how about experiencing the ride of a lifetime?  Buckle up and buckle in as you take a heart-pounding spin in a REAL monster truck! Hold onto your seats, because this adventure comes with an additional fee that will leave you begging for more! 


 Tickets for this unparalleled extravaganza are ONLY $20 each, with children aged 5 and under enjoying FREE entry! Don't miss your chance to be a part of history in the making! 

The gates swing wide open at 4 PM, giving you plenty of time to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and get up close to these monstrous marvels during our exhilarating MEET AND GREET session! Get ready to mingle with the talented drivers and experience the thrill of being in the presence of greatness! 

Summer Camp; Handbuilt Pottery

July 11th - July 13th

10:00am - 3:00pm

Artworks


Instructor: Ruth Vermeer

Squishy, messy, moldable fun! Campers will enjoy creating various, usable clay projects during this favorite camp. Sessions 1 and 2 consist of the same projects.


Tickets

Wine & Canvas

Friday, July 14th

6:00pm - 9:00pm


Join Artworks for a unique wine and canvas experience that you won’t want to miss. Relieve the stress of your week with this social painting experience, as you are guided step by step through an acrylic painting. Bring your own beverages and snack and relax! No experience necessary; all materials provided.


Tickets

Big Rapids High School Annual All Class Reunion

Saturday, August 5

5:30pm

Downtown Big Rapids


Join us for the annual BRHS All Class Reunion on Saturday, August 5th, 2023 in Downtown Big Rapids.


This event will take place on the 100 block of Michigan Avenue and feature food, drinks, music, and great conversation.


Classes celebrating their reunions this year are welcomed and encouraged to use this venue as a meeting place.


Tables for specific classes will be available to reserve on our website, brhsalumni.com. 


Please check back for additional updates! 

Summer Concert Series

Downtown Big Rapids Pocket Park Music Series

June - September - Fridays from 12:00pm to 2:00pm

  • 6/2/23: Whiskey Bound (Country/Classic Rock)
  • 6/9/23: Still Wonder (Acoustic Rock)
  • 6/16/23: Colmus Family (Gospel)
  • 6/23/23: Wyatt and Shari Knapp - Americana
  • 6/30/23: Peter Jordan & His Fun-Lovin' Crowd - Old Country
  • 7/7/23: Divermento Jazz Duo - Jazz
  • 7/14/23: All That Jazz - Jazz
  • 7/21/23: Dave Yonker - Contemporary Christian
  • 7/28/23: Lisa Carol - Folk Rock
  • 8/4/23: The Backsliders - Country Folk Rock
  • 8/11/23: Progressive Rock - Mecosta County Historical Museum
  • 8/18/23: White Elephant Records Presents - Rock Mix
  • 8/25/23: Poppa Fish - Acoustic Classics
  • 9/1/23: Cold Leather Seats - Folk/Americana

Hemlock Park Bandshell Summer 2023 Concert Lineup

Free Admission

Concerts begin at 7:00pm on Wednesdays


  • June 21, 28 and July 5: Ferris Community Summer Band
  • July 12: Project 90
  • July 19: Dixon's Violin
  • July 26: Aaron Lewis
  • August 2: Out of Favor Trio
  • August 9: Angela Perley
  • August 16: Monte Pride

Tamarack Music Festival

July 28th at 12:00pm - July 30th at 2:00pm


A weekend of celebration & camping with an inspiring lineup of Michigan talent, artisan and food vendors for attendance around 150

2023 Lakeside Motor Sports Summer Concert Series

We are pleased to announce our lineup for the 2023 Lakeside Motor Sports Summer Concert Series. It will be a fantastic season and we hope to see you there!


All shows are 7:00pm - 9:00pm, free and open to the public at the Reuther Music Pavilion in Canadian Lakes. In the event of bad weather, concerts may be canceled.


  • 6/17/23 - Derek Winter Band
  • 6/25/23 - Lakeshore Big Band
  • Saturday, 7/8 - Brenda Loomis Band
  • 7/22/23 - Shimmie Pearl
  • 8/5/23 - Moonshot
  • 8/19/23 - Soul Syndicate
  • 8/27/23: Rick Reuther & Mary Rademacher

Music on the River 2023

Bromley Park, Mecosta

Friday Evenings

6:30pm - 8:30pm

All shows are FREE


Donations are appreciated


Bring a lawn chair or blanket, bug spray and non-alcoholic beverage. If rain, the event will be held at the Mecosta Free-Methodist Church in Mecosta.


  • 6/30/23: Elvis - The King, by tribute artist Jake Slater
  • 7/7/23: Kate Taylor - Nashville Singer/Songwriter
  • 7/14/23: Gravel Ridge Band - The best of Bluegrass
  • 7/21/23: Country Classics - Country from the 50's & 60's
  • 7/28/23: Free Flight - Classic Rock, you will remember
  • 8/4/23: Blue Water Ramblers - 60's folk and pop
  • 8/11/23: Youngman and Oldmen - Swing and Jazz
  • 8/18/23: The Adams Family - Classic Rock & Doo-Wop
  • 8/25/23: Sea Cruisers - The best of the 50's, 60's & 70's

JAMBOREE!

Saturday, July 8

2:00pm - 5:00pm

Wheatland Music Organization


Come and join this FREE and OPEN informal gathering of acoustic musicians!

Whether you’re just starting out, have been playing for years, or just want to listen to some tunes: A Saturday afternoon of music at Wheatland is happening every 2nd Saturday of the Month.

Jamborees are held in the Cabin on the Wheatland Music Festival site.

Farmers Markets in the Big Rapids Region

Big Rapids Farmers' Market

  • 226 N. Michigan Ave in Big Rapids
  • 231-592-4038


The season kicks off this Friday, May 5th! 9:00am - 3:00pm. Farmers Market is on Fridays through October 27th, 2023. Tuesdays beginning May 23rd - September 26th.


  • Tuesdays from 10:00am - 3:00pm
  • Fridays from 9:00am - 3:00pm

Saenz Greenhouse's & Produce Growers

  • 21875 Monroe Rd in Morley
  • 231-856-3380


Plants, flowers, gift cards and more!


  • Mondays - Saturdays from 9:00am - 6:00pm
  • Sundays from 11:00am - 5:00pm

LeeAnn's Flowers and Vegetables

  • 1205 N. State St in Big Rapids
  • 616-430-3004


Flowers and vegetables that will bring joy to you!


Season Opening on Mother's Day Weekend!

P&J's Plantiques

  • 10549 Northland Dr. in Big Rapids
  • 231-796-7950


Nursery with numerous flowers, season wonders and more!


Open 7 days a week:



  • Mondays - Thursdays from 9:00am - 6:00pm
  • Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00am - 6:00pm
  • Sundays from 10:00am - 5:00pm

Explore Farmers Markets in the Big Rapids Region!

The Purple Pepper

  • 18700 20th Ave in Barryton
  • 231-250-5151


The market is open 7 days a week from 7:00am - 7:00pm! They also are part of the Big Rapids Farmers Market and can catch them there as well as their market in Barryton.

Mum-Bees Honey Farm

  • 22537 Monroe Rd in Morley
  • 231-250-6507


Market season opens Saturday, May 13th from 10:00am - 3:00pm


Shopping, food, handmade goods, candles, and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Hearty Harvest

  • 5356 9 Mile Rd in Remus
  • 989-309-1325


Family-owned farm market in Remus. Open again for the upcoming season with flowers, produce and more!


Opening Mother's Day Weekend!

Barryton Farmers Market

  • 195 Rose Ave in Barryton


Located within Central Park behind William's Cafe in Barryton.


Saturdays from 9:00am - 2:00pm

Stone Hatchery Park Farmers Market & Yard Sale

  • 21331 Northland Drive in Paris
  • 231-796-6201


Free Farmer's Market & Yard Sale

Time: 9:00am - 2:00pm


2023 Dates: 

  • June 8 & 22  
  •  July 6 & 20
  •   Aug 3, 17 & 31  
  • Sept 14 & 28   


Various Venders: New items, yard sales, crafts


Also fruit, veggies, plants and flowers

Something for everyone

City of Big Rapids: Charles E. Fairman Pool

The Charles E. Fairman Community Pool is now open for the season!



Check out the attached information for swim lesson sessions, hours, fees, and more.

Libraries in the Big Rapids Region

Big Rapids

Community Library

  • 426 S Michigan Ave in Big Rapids
  • 231-796-5234

June & July Programming at the Big Rapids Community Library

 Scavenger Hunt: Piece It Together

All month long. Ages 6-12.


Stop by the circulation desk on the first floor of the library for an activity sheet and more information on participating in June’s Scavenger Hunt. Once it has been completed, turn your sheet in for a treat!

Seed Library is Open! 

Take up to 10 packets of seeds with your BRCL library card. Visit the first-floor desk for more information.

Michigan Activity Pass

Your library card is a passport to adventure this summer! The Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) program is a statewide collaborative effort between Michigan’s public libraries and participating destinations. Destinations range from cultural destinations to state parks, campgrounds, and recreation areas. MAP allows Michigan library card holders to discover/learn more about participating cultural destinations, state parks, campgrounds, and recreation areas at a discounted rate.


Find instructions here: https://miactivitypass.org/resources-2/#anchor-brochures

Phelps Little Free Libraries

BRCL has recently added 6 new Phelps Little Free Libraries around town at the City of Big Rapids Charles E. Fairman Community Pool, City of Big Rapids City Hall, Eastwood, and our local parks City of Big Rapids Parks & Recreation! Special thanks to everyone who contributed to this project: building the libraries Mecosta County Habitat for Humanity, painting the libraries Artworks in Big Rapids, and the generous volunteers of GFWC-Big Rapids that fill the libraries with books! Shout out to David Hamelund for all of his support of library projects!


We will update our Phelps Little Free Library map with the new locations soon, but you can find more information here:

https://www.bigrapidslibrary.org/phelps-libraries

Storytime in the Park

Wednesdays @ 10:00am

July 12-August 23


Located: the Bandshell, along the Riverwalk

Join Mr. Howard for stories, songs, movement, and music!


Find more Summer Reading event information at: https://www.bigrapidslibrary.org/events-1

2023 Summer Reading ProgramJune 5 to August 17


Participate in the ALL AGES reading program to earn books, rewards, and a chance to win fun prizes! Register in the library or on Beanstack. Find more information at www.bigrapids

library.org under the 2023 Summer Reading Program tab.

 

All events are in the Literacy Park, next to the library, unless otherwise noted.

Kick-Off to Summer Reading: July 1

@ 1:00 – 3:00pm

Games, Snacks, Bubbles, and more outdoor fun for the whole family! Water-friendly clothes are recommended. Featuring Michigan Warrior Clowns, Department of Public Safety, and the Friends of the Big Rapids Library.

Magic Show w a2magic. July 6 @ 11:00am

Attend an amazing magic show full of visual humor and audience interaction. 

Wizard of Oz Puppet Show. July 8 @ 3:00pm

Located at the Bandshell in Hemlock Park. ALL AGES WELCOME. 

Archives Overview. July 25 @ 6:00pm

Located in the BRCL Community Room.


Take a guided tour through the Archives of Michigan with their staff Archivist! We will learn about the types of records they have, how to access the archives, and their collection resources.


Registration is recommended. 

Movies in the Park

July 28 @ 9:15 pm

Join us for a free movie at sundown. Bring your own blanket and snack. Find title information at www.bigrapids

library.org.

Wheatland Township Library

  • 207 W Michigan Ave in Remus
  • 989-967-8271

Live Music

WTL Presents: Troy Graham

Wednesday, July 12th at 7:00pm

207 W. Michigan Ave in Remus

Come hear music & stories

Morton Township Library

  • 110 S James St in Mecosta
  • 231-972-8315

SUMMER READING PROGRAM 2023

Children of all ages are invited to join us for an exciting summer of reading, special events, and FUN!

Summer Reading Challenge for Children and Teens

June 14 - July 26, 2023


Pre-readers and Readers, toddlers to age 18, are invited to participate in our summer reading challenge! Completers will receive a prize bag on or after July 26th. 


More Information and Registration

Events for Children

Wednesdays 1:30 - 2:30 pm

June 14 - July 26, 2023

Schedule of Events

Events for Tweens/Teens Entering 5th -12th grades

Thursdays 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

June 22 - July 27, 2023

Schedule of Events

Summer Preschool Story Hour

Tuesdays or Thursdays 10:00 - 11:00 am

June 13 - July 27, 2023



Children, ages 0 -5, and parents/caregivers are invited to join us for an hour of fun! Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, crafts and a snack.

Page Turners' Book Club

Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 1:00pm


Are you interested in reading a variety of literature? Do you enjoy discussing literary works? If so, this is the group for you! New members are always welcome.  


Monthly Book Selections  

Friends of the Library Summer Book Sale

  • Friday, June 30 10:00am - 6:00pm
  • Saturday, July 1 10:00am - 1:00pm


Library Community Room

Come browse through a large selection of hardcovers, paperbacks, audiobooks, children's and teens' books and DVDs. All proceeds support the children's programs and special library projects.  

Summer Lego Contest

Entries are being accepted now through July 7th! Thank you, Mecosta County Optimist Club, for sponsoring this event!

Walton Erickson Public Library

  • 4808 Northland Dr in Morley
  • 231-856-4298

Summer Library Hours

Updated Hours:


  • Mondays: 9:00am - 4:30pm
  • Tuesdays: 12:30pm - 6:30pm
  • Wednesdays: 9:00am - 4:30pm
  • Thursdays: 9:00am - 6:30pm
  • Closed: Fridays-Sundays

Barryton Public Library

  • 198 Northern Ave in Barryton
  • 989-382-5288

Summer Reading Program 2023

Summer Reading Program 2023: Sign up going on now!


Program happening Wednesdays in July at 1:00pm. Stories, crafts, snacks, friends, fun! Prizes just for reading.

NEMCSA Head Start GSRP Preschools

No cost education program for children 3 to 5 years old and their families. Apply now! Contact us to see if you qualify.


Big Rapids Region Contact:

GSRP for Mecosta & Osceola Counties: 231-592-9605

Ancestry.com Workshop at Barryton Library

Thursday, July 13th at 5:00pm


Join us to learn:

  • How to build a family tree
  • How to search for ancestors
  • How to search an find answers to your family's past

Libraries in Mecosta County

Mecosta County has libraries around the area that are dynamic forces in our communities that provide a friendly environment, quality information and open access to resources, along with hosting events and more!

Golf in the Big Rapids Region

Tullymore Golf Resort

  • 11969 Tullymore Dr. in Stanwood, MI 49346
  • 231-972-4837

Tullymore Family Classic

Saturday, July 8th at Tullymore Golf Club: 2 Person Family Scramble


Introducing a new event – the 2023 Tullymore Family Classic coming this July 8 – a two person family scramble. Your registration includes 18 holes with a cart at Tullymore, range balls and lunch at the turn. Register today before this event fills up! https://www.tullymoregolf.com/familyclassic/

Memberships Available

Don't miss out on the benefits of a Tullymore Golf Resort Membership! There is something for everyone – and it may be more affordable than you think. Learn more about a golf, social or corporate membership by calling our Membership office at (231) 972-4837 ext. 256.

Packages at Tullymore Golf Resort

Is there anything better than getting your friends together for a weekend of golf? We don't think so.



Learn more about a golf trip to Tullymore Golf Resort - and the money you save when you book at a group package!

Clear Lake Golf Club

  • 14777 150th Ave in Big Rapids, MI 49307
  • 231-796-8200

Lessons & Junior Camps

Lessons and Junior Camps by Ron Welch


Adults 18 and older:

30 Minute - $30

60 Minute - $50


Juniors 5-17 yrs old:

45 Minute - $35


Junior Golf Camp:

Junior Golfer - $85


2 Day Golf Camps are Tuesday and Thursday 6pm-8pm. Pick what session works best with your schedule. Minimum of 6 junior golfers per session.


1st Session:

June 27th & June 29th

*more dates to follow


Golf Camp Format: Fundamentals, Instruction, Golf, Games and Fun!

Tuesday: Short game, including putting and chipping with Golf and Games

Thursday: Full Swing, including irons and drivers with Golf and Games


Sign up is required to participate in the camps. Will adjust camps to meet the demand for junior golfers.


Register today: https://ow.ly/flrN50OKgIn

Any questions call:

231-796-8200

Katke Golf Course

  • 1003 Perry Ave in Big Rapids, MI 49307
  • 231-591-3765

Junior Camp 2023

Looking for a fun summer activity for your kids? Sign them up for our golf lessons! Get them out of the house and into the sunshine. With one session at just $30 and all six at $150 (that's a $30 savings!), it's an affordable way to keep them active and engaged. Swing into summer with us!

Katke Giveaway

It's time for a Katke giveaway! Now through July 31, buy $150 worth of apparel in a single purchase in the Pro Shop and be entered for a chance to win a Bushnell GPS Watch! Fill out an entry after your purchase and we will select a winner on August 1st! Happy shopping!

Katke Ladies Golf Clinic

Looking to improve your golf game? Join us for the Ladies Golf Clinic at Katke Golf Course! Get coaching and guidance for only $15 per lesson, or sign up for the six-session package for just $75. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to refine your skills and have fun on the course with other ladies.

Ken Janke Sr. Golf Learning Center

This facility features over 10,000 square feet of the best technology in golf including:


  • 4 state‐of‐the‐art Trackman Simulators
  •  “The Michigan Golf Hall of Fame”


The indoor golf center offers year-round access for golf, learning, and practice. It also provides an educational element to students in the PGA Golf Management Program to develop their abilities in coaching, instruction, and fitting and club repair, which better prepares them for their careers as PGA Golf Professionals.


Rates for 1-2 persons

$40/hr Monday – Thursday

$50/hr Friday – Saturday

Contact Katke for special rates on PGM and golf team players.

Call the Katke Clubhouse to reserve a time at the indoor golf center. 231-591-3765.


FULL BAG FITTING

Finding the correct equipment combination is one of the most important decisions a golfer can make


. A Trackman fitting will focus specifically on a golfer launch angle, spin rate and dispersion while optimizing those variables based on the ability of the golfer to hit the center of the club face.


This fitting will allow a golfer to find the best combination of club head design and shaft combination to deliver the best overall distance and accuracy. This fitting is recommended for the golfers who wants thirteen new clubs.


A Full Bag Fitting will take 60-90 minutes.

Disc Golf in the Big Rapids Region
Disc Golf Courses Link

Disc Golf is a fast-growing outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Much like golf, disc golf is full of joys and frustrations. Whether you throw that first long drive or hit the first tree off the tee, you are sure to have an amazing time exploring one of these great disc golf courses.

Band of Locals
55th Annual Labor Day Arts, Crafts & Food Festival

The Band of Locals Arts, Crafts & Food Festival will be held on Michigan Avenue, Downtown Big Rapids on Labor Day - September 4th from 10:00am - 4:0pm. Arts & crafts enthusiasts and foodies can enjoy the unique hand-crafted items, artwork, holiday gifts, crafts, jewelry and more along with great food from local restaurants and vendors.


It is going to be a great year in the Big Rapids Region!


You can find the Vendor Form Online at www.BandOfLocals.org and there are printed copies at the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau Welcome Center.

Purchase a Band of Locals Blue Band for just $10.00 and start saving with discounts and specials from local businesses.



Best of all- there is no expiration date on the band! Bands can be purchased at The Old Pioneer Store and Emporium/Kilwins of Big Rapids.



Every Friday morning at 9:15am, the Band of Locals has a radio segment with Steve from Sunny 97.3 hosted by Band of Locals President, Carlleen Rose.



Different Band of Locals members are featured weekly on air as they tell us what their business is about and more.




You can tune in on air at 97.3 or via Facebook Live on the Band of Locals page.


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The Mecosta County

Visitors Bureau's

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Mecosta County Visitors Bureau Staff

Executive Director - Connie Koepke

Office Manager - Sandra Braden

Mecosta County Visitors Bureau 

127 S. State St, Big Rapids

| 231.796.7640| BigRapids.org | [email protected]

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