IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – In Dickinson County, City Park in Iron Mountain is all set to host an exciting weekend event filled with fun and games, aimed at benefiting the local community. With the joint efforts of the ‘Friends of City Park’ President and the Mayor, residents and visitors are invited to join in supporting the ongoing park improvements.
Taking place tonight and tomorrow evening, City Park will be transformed into a vibrant hub of entertainment. Food stalls will be catered by Smokler’s Barbeque, The Curious Pig, and Flavor Blast LLC. The people of Iron Mountain will have an opportunity to unite over refreshing beverages, live music, and engaging games. Anticipating a significant turnout, the President of the ‘Friends of City Park’ is particularly thrilled to showcase talented musicians like Jordan Blanchard, a renowned artist who previously triumphed at the Hodag Festival.
Additionally, the Fire Department has curated a range of activities specifically designed for children, including the installation of three exciting bounce houses. For those interested in learning new games, expert bocce ball coaches will be available to offer guidance, while a giant Jenga game promises hours of entertainment. Adding to the excitement, this year’s event will introduce a novel game called “9 Square in the Air.”
“It’s sort of like volleyball, but it’s played up in the air with nine people, and you know if you miss you’re out, and you switch with somebody else who’s waiting in line,” explained Caroline Sullivan, the Friends of City Park President.
City Mayor Dale Allessandrini emphasizes that all proceeds from this event will be dedicated to enhancing City Park, while he also thanked all the generous sponsors that are contributing to the success of the weekend festivities.
The improvements to City Park will encompass crucial aspects such as upgrading children’s play equipment, enhancing the living conditions for the resident deer, and implementing strategic tree planting initiatives to manage the park’s urban forest. Furthermore, plans to expand the skate park are being considered, while the city is generously providing materials for many of these improvement projects. Additionally, a grant application is currently underway to further augment the city’s budget allocation for these endeavors.
“We’re actually trying to get a grant to get bigger equipment. So there’s going to be a match to that. This money will go towards that match,” informed Allessandrini. “I hope everybody comes down, and has a great time. It’s a great event. We did it after 5:00 pm because of Gus Macker this weekend. We’re hoping all the people from Gus Macker will come down and listen to our great bands we have,” he added while also giving thanks to LIUNA Laborers’ International Union of North America 1329 of Iron Mountain, RIZE, MJ Electric, Lume, First National Bank, and AmericInn by Wyndham.
Adult wristbands are $20 at the gate good for both days, children 12 and under are free. Bounce house access (with height restrictions) for children is $10 and good for both days.
Volunteers interested in contributing their time for park projects can find “Friends of the Park” or “Saturday in the Park” on Social Media to learn more on how to get involved.