'Downtown Day' taking place September 23

For the fourth year in a row, the fourth Saturday of September has been proclaimed “Downtown Day” by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer with the initiative requested by the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA).

Understanding that now more than ever Michigan residents need to support downtowns and the businesses within by shopping, dining, attending an event, or volunteering, the MDA contacted the governor’s office and requested that Saturday, September 23, 2023, be declared Downtown Day. The organization received the official Proclamation, signed by Whitmer, earlier this month.

The MDA encourages community members to visit a Michigan downtown on September 23 and enjoy its shops, restaurants, and recreational and cultural aspects. Many MDA member communities have special events planned to celebrate the special day.

For example, Downtown Lapeer will host PorchFest, an event that turns 12 public and private porches in the community into stages that will feature live music from more than 20 bands and musicians.

“It's a great way to bring the community together and create a great, positive energy in the downtown that also helps bring additional traffic to Historic Lapeer and generates a positive economic impact for our businesses,” James Alt, executive director of Lapeer Downtown Development Authority and Main Street, said. “Historic Downtown Lapeer will be a buzz with plenty of family-friendly activity for Downtown Day, including a Farmers Market,” he continued.

Also taking place in downtown Lapeer will be the annual Oktoberfest Celebration hosted by Tilted Axis Brewing Co. and the monthly Jeep Night presented by Vinyl Bar and Grill.

“The events are designed to work together to celebrate our downtown, the community, and the businesses and people that make it great,” Alt explained.

“The MDA believes Downtown Day brings positive attention and recognition to small businesses and downtown cores,” Dana Walker, director of the MDA, said. “There are many opportunities for Michigan residents to support downtowns like strolling sidewalks, having a picnic in a park, enjoying a social district, purchasing goods from a retailer, or leaving a positive review for a small business on social media,” she continued.

The MDA states a downtown is the commercial core of a community that serves as its social and economic center.

“Downtowns, and the small businesses located within, deserve to be celebrated for they distinguish a community, are the drivers of economic development, and help to offer a sense of place that contribute significantly to the quality of life of residents,” Walker said. “The small businesses located within a downtown create jobs, commerce, and investment.

“The last few years have taken a toll, but downtowns are resilient and are adapting to current situations,” Walker said. “Our small businesses and downtowns need locals to support them in whatever way possible.”

The MDA, founded in 1980, is a state-wide, non-profit organization and a driving force in the interest and growth of downtowns and communities throughout Michigan.

For additional information regarding Downtown Day and the Michigan Downtown Association, visit www.michigandowntowns.com.