This weekend is perfect for getting out and experiencing everything the state has to offer (just bring along a jacket).

Highlights include the kick-off to the world-famous Tulip Time festival, along with Cinco de Mayo festivities across the state, and much more.

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).

Michigan House votes to repeal Cesar Chavez Day (Michigan Advance): The Michigan House of Representatives voted to repeal the state holiday honoring Cesar Chavez following newly reported sexual assault allegations.

DNR begins stocking millions of fish (Midland Daily News): Michigan Department of Natural Resources crews have begun stocking more than 200 million fish in lakes and streams statewide as the annual spring season gets underway. The effort, running through early June, aims to boost fish populations and expand fishing opportunities across more than 1,000 Michigan waterways.

DTE proposes new rate hike (WXYZ): DTE Energy is seeking approval for a nearly $500 million rate hike just months after a previous increase took effect, drawing sharp criticism from customers and watchdog groups. A final decision on the requested hike isn’t expected until early next year.

Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)

West Michigan

1. Tulip Time

May 1-10

Holland

“Celebrating its 96th year, Tulip Time transforms Holland, Michigan into a breathtaking springtime destination each May. Over the course of 10 days, the city comes alive with the vibrant colors of more than 5 million tulips blooming across parks, gardens, and city streets.”

2. Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival

Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

250 Seward Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

“Come celebrate the official kick-off to the food truck season in Grand Rapids”

3. MeXo Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Saturday, May 2, 3-9 p.m.

118 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids

“Enjoy an unforgettable night of great spirits, amazing food, and serious fun. Taco stations, craft cocktails, live DJ from 6-9 p.m.”

4. Sip & Shop Spring Vendor Market

Sunday, May 3, 12-5 p.m.

The High Five (19 La Grave Ave. SE, Grand Rapids)

“Join us at The High Five GR for a day full of good vibes, great finds, and fun sips! Browse a curated mix of unique vendors, support local makers, and treat yourself to something special (or a few things—we won’t judge 😉).”

Northern Michigan/UP

5. Fresh Coast Film Festival Traverse City

April 30-May 3

Traverse City

“The festival features 50+ documentary films celebrating the outdoor lifestyle and spirit of the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest, with nearly two dozen filmmakers attending from 11 states.”

6. Bay-Con

May 1-2

Bay College, Escanaba

“Bay College welcomes you to celebrate pop culture at BAY-CON! Featuring large vendor and artist spaces, celebrity guests, cosplay, trivia, vintage video games, food trucks, and so much more, BAY-CON is Upper Michigan’s largest con!”

7. Taste of Clare

Saturday, May 2, 1-5 p.m.

204 W. 4th St., Clare

“Come out to taste of best of the Clare Area on May 2nd! Many local Chamber Member Businesses from Clare, Farwell, and Lake will have delicious samples to try.”

Mid/South Michigan

8. Saginaw Cinco de Mayo

Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Jolt Credit Union Event Park (300 Johnson St., Saginaw)

“The Cinco de Mayo celebration brings great pride to our area by allowing local Hispanics to express their pride culturally and showcase their contributions to a diverse Great Lakes Bay Region.”

9. Cinco de Mayo at BAD Brewing

Saturday, May 2, 3-6 p.m.

440 S. Jefferson St., Mason

“Cinco de Mayo comes early at BAD Brewing Company!🎉 Join us for an afternoon packed with great vibes, delicious eats, and live music by Wesley Maharas.”

10. Cinco de Mayo at Lansing Shuffle

Sunday, May 3, 4-8 p.m.

325 Riverfront Drive, Lansing

“Last year was such a beautiful event filled with culture, community, and so much joy. We’re honored to be part of it again this year! Enjoy those Latin vibes while on the patio. All ages welcome!”

Southeast Michigan/Thumb

11. Everything Everyone Lincoln Park Festival

Saturday, May 2, 12-6 p.m.

1280 O’Connor Ave., Lincoln Park

“Free event, vendors, crafters, food, entertainment, bounce houses, face painting! Fun family event!”

12. Michigan Antique Festival

May 2-3

12451 Andersonville Road, Springfield Township

“With hundreds of dealers, live music, amazing food, and full-service camping, it’s more than a market—it’s an experience.”

13. St. Florian Strawberry Festival

May 2-3

2626 Poland St., Hamtramck

“Ring in spring to polkas, the best Polish foods & everything strawberry!”

14. St. Pat Irish Festival

Sunday. May 3, 1-8 p.m.

58 Parsons St., Detroit

“Enjoy music and dance on three stages, St. Pat’s unique Irish cuisine, bartending by the FOUIs, auctions, family activities, and chances to win prizes—including the $10,000 drawing, a $1,000 entry raffle, the Chair of Cheer, and the Irish Quilt.”

15. 2nd Annual Detroit Vinylfest

Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Eastern Market, Shed 5 (2934 Russell St., Detroit)

“Over 70+ vendors will be selling vinyl records/LPs, CDs, cassette tapes, music-related posters, ephemera, T-shirts, and more.”

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Paula Solis.

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