The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) is proud to announce that Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially proclaimed Saturday, September 27, as Downtown Day across the State of Michigan.
This marks the sixth annual celebration of the day dedicated to recognizing and supporting the economic and cultural importance of downtowns throughout Michigan.
With downtowns continuing to serve as the heart of their communities—socially, culturally, and economically—the MDA initiated the proclamation to encourage Michigan residents to support these vibrant spaces by shopping, dining, attending events, or volunteering in their local downtowns.
“Downtowns, and the small businesses located within them, deserve to be celebrated,” said Dana Walker, executive director of the MDA. “They distinguish a community, drive economic development, and help create the sense of place that makes Michigan such a unique and welcoming state.”
The MDA is encouraging residents to get out and explore Michigan’s downtowns on Downtown Day, whether that means enjoying a local coffee shop, browsing retail stores, dining at a favorite restaurant, or simply taking in a community event. Many MDA member communities have organized special events to mark the occasion.
For example, Old Town Lansing will feature activities for all ages in the heart of downtown including a walking tour with the Historical Society of Greater Lansing, public art project at Turner Mini Park, and shopping perks and specials from local retailers.
“It's a great way to bring the community together while generating a positive economic impact for our businesses,” said Samantha Benson, executive director of the Old Town Commercial Association. “Old Town Lansing will be abuzz with plenty of family-friendly activity for Downtown Day.”
The MDA emphasizes that even simple acts can have a significant impact—such as leaving a positive review for a local business online, strolling the sidewalks, enjoying a Social District, or having a picnic in a downtown park.
“Downtowns are resilient, but our small businesses and downtown cores still need local support,” Walker added. “Downtown Day gives us the opportunity to show up and invest in the future of our communities.”
For additional information about Downtown Day or to find out how a community can participate, contact Dana Walker at 248-838-9711 or visit https://michigandowntowns.com.
This marks the sixth annual celebration of the day dedicated to recognizing and supporting the economic and cultural importance of downtowns throughout Michigan.
With downtowns continuing to serve as the heart of their communities—socially, culturally, and economically—the MDA initiated the proclamation to encourage Michigan residents to support these vibrant spaces by shopping, dining, attending events, or volunteering in their local downtowns.
“Downtowns, and the small businesses located within them, deserve to be celebrated,” said Dana Walker, executive director of the MDA. “They distinguish a community, drive economic development, and help create the sense of place that makes Michigan such a unique and welcoming state.”
The MDA is encouraging residents to get out and explore Michigan’s downtowns on Downtown Day, whether that means enjoying a local coffee shop, browsing retail stores, dining at a favorite restaurant, or simply taking in a community event. Many MDA member communities have organized special events to mark the occasion.
For example, Old Town Lansing will feature activities for all ages in the heart of downtown including a walking tour with the Historical Society of Greater Lansing, public art project at Turner Mini Park, and shopping perks and specials from local retailers.
“It's a great way to bring the community together while generating a positive economic impact for our businesses,” said Samantha Benson, executive director of the Old Town Commercial Association. “Old Town Lansing will be abuzz with plenty of family-friendly activity for Downtown Day.”
The MDA emphasizes that even simple acts can have a significant impact—such as leaving a positive review for a local business online, strolling the sidewalks, enjoying a Social District, or having a picnic in a downtown park.
“Downtowns are resilient, but our small businesses and downtown cores still need local support,” Walker added. “Downtown Day gives us the opportunity to show up and invest in the future of our communities.”
For additional information about Downtown Day or to find out how a community can participate, contact Dana Walker at 248-838-9711 or visit https://michigandowntowns.com.
