Entries categorized "Things to Do"

Mall Mixers

Mixer Downtown Kalamazoo's Mixers on the Mall are a middle of the week community social after hours on Wednesdays. A blend of music, co-workers, great weather, and good times happen each Wednesday from 5:00 until 7:30 starting June 4. Save the following dates:

  • June 4, 11, 18, 25
  • July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
  • August 6, 13, 20, 27

More details will be posted on myKalamazoo.com

Greekfest

The start of the Kalamazoo downtown festivals happens in just a few weeks with the 2008 Greek Festival. This year's festival sponsored by Theo and Stacy's takes place on June 5-7, 2008. Learn more about the Theo and Stacy's Greek Festival from visiting an article on myKalamazoo.com. This is the 32nd annual festival during the first weekend in June which boasts great food and music. Learn more also from visiting the new website of the Greek festival.

Kalamazoo Highlights

Since 1999, Southwest Michigan First has been a local organization committed to creating and supporting a thriving economy through entrepreneurial innovation. They have created a top list of why living in the region is cool.

Here are just a few from the list:

  • #3- Derek Jeter
  • #7- Creation of big yellow taxi cabs
  • #16- At one point in time, 90% of the world's peppermint oil was supplied from A.M. Todd - a Kalamazoo company
  • #30- Home of the United Kennel Club
  • #35- Kalamazoo County is the leading producer of bedding plant in the U.S.
  • #58- Westnedge Avenue is the second busiest street in Michigan
  • #66- Oakwood Bistro ranks among the nations 100 top restuarants as selected  by culinary professionals

Greek Festival

The 2008 Greek Festival organized by Theo and Stacy's is slated for June 5, 6 and 7, 2008 at the Arcadia Festival Place in beautiful downtown Kalamazoo. In it's 32 year history, this festival has been known to kick off the summer season in Kalamazoo on Super Saturday. Learn more about this year's festival.

Cinco de Mayo

Downtown Kalamazoo will host the first citywide Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Saturday May 10, 2008 at the Arcadia Festival Site from noon until 11:30 pm. Highlights include:

  • Los Bandits
  • Orquesta Sensacional (Salsa Band)
  • Mariachi
  • Mexican dancers
  • Pinatas
  • Mexican/Latin Food
  • Variety of vendors
  • Salsa dancing competition

Kleinstuck Preserve

Just away from the intersection of Oakland Avenue and Winchell quietly sits the Kleinstuck Preserve. Truly a natural gem in the heart of Kalamazoo, the Preserve is a destination for neighbors, wildlife and many species of plants. Over the winter months, the Stewards of Kleinstuck, have embarked on a long range plan to help rejuvenate the Preserve and restore many of the native plants and forestation.

Fit MI 2008

Fit MI is a self-directed fitness program designed to increase your level of physical activity and do your part to improve the health of your community. Bring the kids! Or form a team at work, church, school, or in your neighborhood. Compete for recognition. It's more fun to do as a team. Consider all of the moving activities that can be done to improve our health.

Register online to participate. There is no fee. You will be immediately connected to other Fit MI movers.

Neighborhood Yard Sales

Kalamazoo neighborhoods will be celebrating the return of spring and summer with their 2008 neighborhood yard sales. Whether you are looking for that next Grisham novel, or looking for baby outfits, you'll be sure to find more than you'll be searching for. This is a great time to showcase your home if it is for sale. If your neighborhood is hosting sales this year, please leave a comment below for our readers. In addition, you might consider selling/buying Kalamazoo related merchandise on eBay.

Borgess Run for the Health of It

The 2008 Kalamazoo Borgess Run for the Health of It series of races takes place on April 25 and 26. Learn more about the 2008 races including a 5K/half marathon, 5K walk, Kids Fun Run, 5K Racewalk and a Motivational Mile. Visit www.BorgessRun.com for more details.

Kalamazoo Komen Race for the Cure

The annual Southwest Michigan Race for the Cure is scheduled at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place on May 17, 2008 from 7:30-11:30. Take part in this annual event that aims to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening, and treatment.