We’ve made our way out of Fake Spring and into another stretch of cold weather, which can only mean one thing: winter festivals are back on track across the state.
Other highlights this week include: A women’s sports expo in Grand Rapids, chili cook-offs across the state, and even a bar crawl in our capital city.
As always, I’d love to hear your suggestions! If you know of an upcoming event you’d like me to highlight,
please send me a note here (suggestions should be submitted at least one week before the event).
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$475M shortfall predicted for Michigan’s general fund by 2028 (Michigan Advance): The House Fiscal Agency told lawmakers that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed budget would leave the state’s general fund about $475 million in the red by fiscal year 2028, while the school aid fund would maintain a roughly $532 million balance. Whitmer’s plan includes tapping $400 million from the state’s rainy day fund and accounts for rising costs tied to federal policy changes, including Medicaid and food assistance.
Shelved tribal boarding school report called for state apology (Bridge Michigan): A $1.1 million, 300-page report examining Michigan’s role in Native American boarding school abuses was never publicly released, despite recommending a formal apology and other actions. Lawmakers have scheduled a hearing to question why the study was withheld after completion.
‘Urgent’ wheelchair shortage at Michigan women’s prison (Detroit Free Press): Disability Rights Michigan says inmates at the Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility are missing meals, medications, and programming because there aren’t enough working wheelchairs or attendants. The report alleges systemic violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)
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1. Muskegon Snowfest
Saturday, Feb. 21
Frauenthal Center (425 W. Western Ave., Suite 200, Muskegon)
“As the region’s largest winter festival, Snowfest offers a full weekend of family-friendly activities, local food, and community events in downtown Muskegon.”
2. Gun Lake Winterfest
Saturday, Feb. 21
Gun Lake County Park (2397 Patterson Road, Wayland)
“Attendees can enjoy games, local vendors, a beer tent, kid’s activities, participate in a cornhole tournament, a disc golf tournament, and the ever popular Polar Dip. It’s a festive occasion that brings the community together to enjoy the winter spirit.”
3. Women’s Sports & Health Expo
Saturday, Feb. 21, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
DeVos Place (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)
“The Women’s Sports & Health Expo brings together learning, movement, and connection in a hands-on experience for every every age. Now in our second year, this experience is built not only for women and girls, but also for the families, friends, and supporters who cheer them on.”
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4. Pure Michigan Winter Weekend
Feb. 20-21
The Highlands (600 Highlands Drive, Harbor Springs)
“Hit the slopes by day, then gather around the bonfire with a Michigan craft beer in hand. Test your euchre skills, show off your trivia knowledge (how well do YOU know the mitten?), and taste the best of Michigan with local wines, spirits, and menu favorites you won’t find anywhere else.”
5. Top of the Lake Snowmobile Show & Ride
Feb. 20-21
Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum (W11660 US Highway 2, Naubinway)
“34th Annual weekend of fun with the old sleds in Naubinway, MI, Sponsored by the Top of the Lake Communities Association. This event is 45 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge on US 2. Featured Sled 2025: Yamaha.”
6. Alpena Ice Festival
Saturday, Feb. 21, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Downtown Alpena
“Join us for a day of winter fun at the annual Alpena Ice Festival. The event begins at Mich-e-ke-wis Park with the Alpena Farmers Market, ice sculptures arrive from Ice Creations of Napolean, Ohio, a huge bonfire by the Alpena Fire Department, sledding, and other snow and ice-related activities.”
7. 8th Annual Chilly Chili Cook Off
Saturday, Feb. 21, 12-3 p.m.
Downtown Elk Rapids
“Taste your way through 11 delicious chilis on River Street and at Shorts and Pearls and vote for your favorites!”
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8. Lansing Bourbon Fest
Saturday, Feb. 21
111 N. Grand Ave., Lansing
“Lansing Bourbon Fest features 100+ rare / high end whiskeys and bourbons, classic cocktails and local distilleries. In addition we’ll have food vendors, live music, and other vendors.”
9. Mac & Cheese Fest
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2-5 p.m.
Horrocks Farm Market (420 W. Saginaw Highway, Lansing)
“Join us for a cheesy celebration! We will have 5 types of mac and cheese, and tons of your favorite toppings. Grab your mac and stick around for Atomic Annie playing from 5pm – 8pm.”
10. Downtown Lansing BrrrCrawl
Saturday, Feb. 21, 4-9 p.m.
Midtown Brewing Company (402 S. Washington Square, Lansing)
“Grab your crew and head downtown for delicious drink specials, good times and the chance to win Downtown Digital Dollars. Whether you’re searching for your new favorite beer or the perfect mocktail, you’ll be chasing the winter blues away!”
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11. New Baltimore Winterfest
Feb. 20-22
Downtown New Baltimore
“Three days packed with winter fun, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you come for the thrill of the Polar Plunge, the warmth of the Beer Tent, or the joy on your kids’ faces, Winterfest has something for everyone.”
12. Blake’s 10th Annual Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, Feb. 21, 1-4 p.m.
17985 Armada Center Road, Armada
“Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of bold flavors, live music, and winter fun at Blake’s 10th Annual Chili Cook-Off!”
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