The Logging Festival in Newaygo has been a part of Labor Day weekend for more than 60 years. I have been trying to research the changes throughout the years and have learned that while some of the weekend’s events and activities have changed, the common theme of celebrating Newaygo’s logging history has always been front and center.
This year, September 3rd- September 5th, the Friday to Sunday Logging Festival will include an Arts & Crafts Show, BBQ & Food Vendors, Log Carving, and the Mid-Michigan Lumberjack Competition, which runs Saturday & Sunday. The events are being moved to Shaw Park (142 E Croton Drive) due to the amount of construction surrounding where the event is typically held. Shaw Park is a great venue with additional activities for the whole family! We have a great crew of Professional Lumberjack/jills competing again this year! Who knows, we could even see a new record at one of the events!
We are excited to be bringing back the Amateur Lumberjack/Jill Competition on Sunday, September 5th at 10:00am. A big thank you to the professional Lumberjack/jill competitors for making this a no- equipment-needed event for the amateurs. If you want to throw, chop, or saw and show off your lumberjack/jill skills here is your chance! My favorite is always the throw- it is a lot of fun (thanks Hope Meelker). Registration is available on the River Country Chamber’s website www.rivercountrychamber.com/events
Music lovers- stop by and check out the live music, or sign up for a spot to show off your musical talent Friday from 3-7 and Saturday and Sunday 3-5pm.
Kids’ activities include a Duck Pull and other fun things for the kids to do. There are still a few days left to get your kids hand-painted artwork dropped off to the Stream. Artwork will be on display and ready for community judging. Entries for the contest are due on August 27th. For more details contact River Country Chamber at 231.652.3068
Newaygo merchants and restaurants look forward to this annual event and will be hosting sidewalk sales, specials, and great food all weekend long. There will be shuttle stops available for easy access to all events. Watch for our event map on our website and Facebook page coming soon!
Additional Activities that are part of the Logging Festival are the Newaygo Fire Department Pancake Breakfast and the Marshall Memorial Run.
For more details check out the River Country Chamber website www.rivercountrychamber.com or call the office at 231.652.3068
