Holly, Michigan, is the ideal vacation location for you to celebrate the end of summer. This unique destination is great for your entire family thanks to the friendly midwestern charm, abundant outdoor activities and beautiful downtown area.
This city has plenty to offer including history, scenery, great events and delicious food. The minute you enter the historic downtown area, you’ll be washed over by the vibrant atmosphere, preserved buildings and unique stores. Form boutique shops selling one-of-a-kind items to general stores selling those “must have” items, it's all here. Restaurants in the city cover a spectrum of culinary flavors, and include Northern Oak Brewery, Blackthorne Pub and The Holly Hotel.
Holly is a great location to enjoy the outdoors. Some great parks to check out include Seven Lakes State Park, Holly Recreation Area and Rose Oaks County Park. Enjoy everything from camping to disc golf, or hit the water at Waterworks Park on the Shiawassee River, Heron Lake and Crotched Lake with activities like waterskiing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and more. Holly is also home to fun events and festivals, perfect for the entire family, like the Michigan Renaissance Festival.
The Michigan Renaissance Festival has been among the top attractions in Michigan since its founding 38 years ago. The event is a huge hit and attracts an average of 250,000 people during the seven-week run. Ideal for families, you’ll love the live entertainment, abundant kid’s activities and fun competitions. If you're not with the family, there are many events specifically for adults over the age of 21. Food options at the festival will be plentiful and include everything from turkey legs to tacos. Take your next vacation back in time to a new level of fun at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. We got the chance to interview Kim Heidger, Marketing Manager for the festival, to talk about this fun family event.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
KH: This year the Michigan Renaissance Festival will be celebrating 38 years of family fun.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
KH: We draw more than 250,000 people over seven weekends.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
KH: At the festival you’ll see a mix of demographics. Not only do we have events that are themed for couples and patrons over the age of 21, we also pride ourselves on having 50 free children’s activities.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
KH: The event is unique because there is so much variety. Yes, we are a Renaissance Festival with your typical castle and royal court, but we also have music, comedy, athletic competitions and more.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
KH: Everyday there are royal events like our Pub Crawl or the all new Royal Painting with Picasso’s Grapevine. You can also enjoy 16 stages of entertainment and a live armored joust.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
KH: Each weekend features guest appearances, as each weekend features a different theme. Highland Fling weekend, August 27th and 28th highlights the fan favorite US/Canadian Highland Heavy Games where patrons can witness amazing feats of strength and skill.
RAL: What will patrons find for dining options?
KH: We have more food than you can imagine. Patrons enjoy our giant turkey legs, but you can also find everything from hamburgers to vegan tacos. Each day we also feature a six-course Feast of Fantasy that is a two-hour dinner theatre show.
RAL: What is the environment of the event like?
KH: The environment can vary depending on what area of the Festival you’re experiencing. You may find yourself among whimsical fairies and mermaids, or up on stage participating in the various shows.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
KH: We do work with area hotels where you can find our discounted tickets, and some run specials during that time. If you are looking for a B&B, there are multiple options in Holly, but I would suggest booking early. Here is a link to our accommodations page.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
KH: The festival absolutely brings in business to the local community. Many people stay in the area on the weekends and dine at local restaurants.
RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community? (School funds, etc.)
KH: We donate to support local schools and charity events across Michigan throughout the year. One the first three weekends of the festival, you can also come out and donate food to Gleaners Food Bank and receive a discount at our gate.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
KH: We truly have something for everyone. When you come to the festival, you will find one-of-a-kind entertainment and unique goods. The events are endless and will keep you busy for an entire weekend.
For more information about The Michigan Renaissance Festival please visit their website.