Saturday Morning Filled with Family Friendly Activities during Portland 150 Celebration Weekend
Saturday was packed full of activities included in the three-day Portland 150 celebration weekend. This is the first of two pieces in the Beacon covering the Saturday sesquicentennial celebration events scheduled by the Portland 150 organizing committee.
The morning kicked off at 10:00 AM with the Step Back in Time Parade. Sponsored by PFCU, the parade route started near the Bogue Flats on Water Street and ended on Kent Street near Crescent.
From 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the Portland Area Historical Society opened the doors to the Sesquicentennial Museum at the Red Mill. The museum offered visitors an up-close look at many aspects of the community’s history over the last 150 years.
At 11:00 AM, a new Historical Marker was revealed at Scout Park. United States Senator Debbie Stabenow was present for the revealing.
From 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, crafters displayed their goods during the Artisan Craft Fair on Bridge Street between Kent and Maple. Over a dozen local artisans were included in the craft fair.
There was a High Wheeler Bike Demonstration 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Captain Bill Smith of the Michigan Wheelman provided demonstrations with his 1890 Columbia Volunteer High wheel bike.
Youngsters got a first-hand look at a variety of animals during the Petting Zoo in Toan Park from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This event was a huge hit with the kids.
Bubble Ball was also taking place at Powers Park 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Bubble Ball is a mix of soccer and a human bounce house.
Photos by Robert Lathers.
