HOUGHTON/HANCOCK, Mich. (WZMQ) – Vendors, floats, and celebration were on full display on Friday in Houghton-Hancock as communities combined for this year’s Bridgefest.
The festival celebrates the bridge that connects the two cities, bringing everyone together. With all of the entertainment available, everyone has a favorite part of the celebration. “Getting to enjoy the sunshine for a good 10 hours of the day, and just seeing everyone come together in the community,” said Annie Miller, a face-painter.
While there is plenty of fun to have, there’s also a chance to give back to non-profits in the area with many of them set up for the festival. “It’s important for everybody, from a business to a non-profit, just to get their exposure out there and get the word out that they’re here and any way we can support them,” said Katie Schlief, Bridgefest coordinator.
One of those organizations is the Baraga County Shelter Home who work to help victims of violence and domestic abuse. “The community has been very supportive,” said Sally Borgen, a crisis advocate for the group. “Many of them have stopped by and listened. We’ve told them about the services. We do have a 24-hour crisis line that anyone can call. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone.”
Friday capped off with the yearly parade and then a music headliner, but there’s still a lot of activities left on the schedule for the rest of the weekend. You can find a full schedule here.
