Coast Guard Festival facts for kids

The Coast Guard Festival is a super fun event held every year in Grand Haven, Michigan. It's a ten-day party that starts in late July and finishes in early August. More than 3 million people come to this festival! Even important leaders from the United States Coast Guard in Washington, DC visit. The main goal of the festival is to honor the brave men and women of the Coast Guard and remember those who gave their lives for our country.

What's the History of the Festival?

The Coast Guard Festival actually started way back in 1924. It was a small picnic just for Coast Guard members in Grand Haven. They even had rowing races! The first official festival for everyone began in 1937. Later, in 1971, it became a recognized charity organization. Grand Haven is so proud of its connection to the Coast Guard that it was officially named "Coast Guard City, USA" in 1998 by the President of the United States.

The festival was paused during World War II from 1942 to 1945. It was also cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What Fun Events Happen?

The Coast Guard Festival is packed with exciting activities for everyone! Here are some of the cool things that happen:

Weekend Fun

• Quilt Show: See amazing quilts made by local artists.
• Music Concerts: Enjoy tribute bands playing songs from famous artists.
• Coast Guard Run: Join a fun run for families.
• Kids Parade: Watch or join a parade just for kids!
• Cardboard Boat Race: See creative boats made of cardboard race on the water.
• Car Show: Check out cool cars at the "Cruise in Car Show."
• Flea Market: Find unique treasures at the flea market.
• Community Picnic: Share a meal with friends and family.
• Worship on the Waterfront: Attend a special service by the water.

Weekday Adventures

• USCG Ships Arrivals: Watch impressive Coast Guard ships arrive in Grand Haven.
• Ship Tours: Get to explore real Coast Guard ships! This is a popular event.
• Festival Idol: See who has the best singing voice in a fun competition.
• Golf Tournament: Play a round of golf with others.
• Kids Day: A special day with activities just for kids.
• Downtown Carnival: Enjoy rides and games at the carnival.
• Grand City Skiers: Watch amazing water ski performances.
• Street Dance: Dance the night away in the streets.
• Softball Tournament: Watch or play in a friendly softball competition.
• Senior Day: Special activities for older community members.
• Veterans Resource Fair: A place for veterans to find helpful information.
• Waterball Competition: See firefighters compete in a fun water challenge.
• Heroes and Legends Dinner: A special dinner honoring heroes.
• Walk of Coast Guard History: Learn about the Coast Guard's past.
• National Coast Guard Memorial Service: A respectful service to remember those who served.

Grand Finale Weekend

• Craft Fair: Find handmade crafts and gifts.
• Meijer Grand Parade: The biggest parade of the festival with floats, bands, and more!
• Fireworks Extravaganza: A spectacular fireworks show lights up the sky to end the festival.

Images for kids

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  Ship entering the Grand Haven channel as part of the 2017 festival.