By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
Since its inception nearly four decades ago, the Creative Art Festival has become an autumn tradition in downtown Otsego.
That tradition will continue on Saturday, Sept. 27, as the festival celebrates its 38th year of existence from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Clarissa McDonald serves as chairman of the Creative Arts Festival Committee and is Board Director for the Otsego Plainwell Area Chamber
“The Otsego Creative Arts Festival is highly anticipated and well attended each year,” McDonald said. “This event is a wonderful way to bring our community together and celebrate local talent, businesses and traditions.”
Described as a “celebration bringing the community together in downtown Otsego,” the festival is, as always, free and family friendly.
“The Otsego Creative Arts Festival has been a beloved tradition for nearly four decades, offering something for all ages and interests,” organizers said in a release.
The Creative Arts Festival parade and pet parade are once again among the highlights of the event, with the parades scheduled to step off at 12:45 p.m. and run along M-89 in downtown Otsego.
Recently retired Otsego Public School superintendent Jeff Haase will serve as grand marshal for the parade.
Registration for the pet parade is from 11:30 a.m. to noon, with judging taking place at noon. Prizes will be awarded for best costume, most unique pet and cutest pet.
Those wishing to participate in the car show can do so by registering between 8 and 11 a.m. Cost is $20 and the first 100 vehicles will receive a welcome bag and dash plaque.
In addition, there will also be an antique tractor show and motorcycle show. Awards for the car, antique tractor and motorcycle shows are scheduled for 3 p.m.
Children’s activities include the Friendship Family Festival hosted at First Baptist Church from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with games, inflatables and a free lunch.
There will also be free pony rides, the Home Depot Kid’s Workshop, Mari’s Country Critters Petting Zoo, free face painting and Otsego Fire Department family activities.
But wait, as they say in those late-night infomercials, there’s more.
Because more than 80 craft, business and non-profit vendors will be set up in the Otsego United Methodist Church and Winkel Funeral Home parking lots. For food, several food trucks will be on hand in addition to local restaurants such as Maude’s Taphouse, Judy’s Restaurant, Mezzo Coffee House and Our Table Family Restaurant.
“Join us and be part of one of Otsego’s most anticipated community events,” organizers said.
For more information about the Creative Arts Festival, visit facebook.com/OtsegoCreativeArtsFest.
