GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — On the eve of the Coast Guard Festival, Grand Haven was calm with not too much action going on. However, organizers with the festival reassure 13 ON YOUR SIDE that come Friday morning, the city will look different.
"We have so many things to do that really range from concerts, ship tours, a carnival, we have a senior day, a kids day, two different parades," said Annie Lengkeek.
Festival organizer Annie Lengkeek was in the final hours Thursday afternoon, preparing for the over-a-week long festival that's become a main attraction in Grand Haven every summer.
At least, that's how local Jacob Thornell describes it.
"Yeah, every year," said Thornell. "I look forward to the fireworks because Coast Guard is the biggest show of the year, and it's the 100th anniversary, so it's going to be the biggest one yet."
The 100th anniversary of the festival, Lengkeek said, makes this year a little extra special.
"Over the years, it's grown to what it is today, which is a 10 day event, 350,000 people visit, and over 40 different things or events that you can do throughout the week," said Lengkeek.
From concerts, fireworks, food trucks and the new two night drone show, Thornell said he's looking forward to the upcoming week.
"Really just like to go to the beach too, hang out with family, that's it," said Thornell. "That's what it's all about."
As a Grand Haven local, he has some advice for visitors, both old and new.
"Get here early, especially on Saturday, because you won't find parking anywhere. I wish they would change that, but the best thing is all the people really," said Thornell. "All of the people and the energy, it's great."