SAND LAKE, Mich. — Sand Lake, a village of just more than 500 people, is expecting thousands over the next few days as they begin their 154th annual 4th of July celebration.
"Fourth of July weekend, it means everything," said Jim Trolard, a member of the Sand Lake Chamber of Commerce, and a founder of Unique Motor Sports USA and Demo Derby.
Trolard says the community looks forward to hosting thousands from across the state each year, as his group organizes the demolition derby, a marquee event for the festival.
However, this year has a more unique event to look forward to.
"We wanted to bring something really special. We wanted to bring motorhome demo derby," said Trolard. "We are going to completely destroy these motorhomes right here in beautiful Sand Lake."
There will be 14 motorhomes involved, many of them coming from junkyards, or have been discarded.
Visitors will be able to enjoy the show at 6 p.m. on July 4 and 6 at the Sand Lake Village Water Tower.
"These things are going to blow apart. There's going to be pieces and parts everywhere, and the crowd loves it," said Trolard. "The kids are going to just make all kinds of noise."
Costing $15 for adults, and $10 for kids, the event is a six-in-one show, including an off-road derby and a burnout competition.
The festivities are beginning Wednesday evening with a carnival set up in downtown Sand Lake, and a rodeo taking place at the water tower at 6 p.m.
July 4 will see a parade at 1 p.m., along with the demolition derby. On Friday, there will be a greased pig contest, mini tractor pull, karaoke in downtown, and fireworks at 10:30 p.m.
Saturday is kids' day, involving power wheel racing, and many other activities in addition to the demo derby.
"It makes us proud. Very proud," said Craig Moore, co-owner of Rosie's Ice Cream in downtown Sand Lake, along with the president of the Chamber of Commerce, on how the community feels hosting thousands for the celebration each year.
"It helps all the businesses. It helps the restaurants, the gas station, the bank stays busy," said Trolard. "This town really appreciates everybody that comes here. We often wonder where everybody comes from, but it's just family fun, entertainment, and it helps this little community out so much here in north Kent County."
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