GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — For the past several days visitors from near and far have been in Grand Haven for the 100th annual Coast Guard Festival.
On Saturday evening, hundreds of people made their way into Waterfront Stadium, eager to get the best seats for the festival's beloved fireworks show and its inaugural drone show.
"We've never been to such an awesome community. Everybody's so having such a great time, you can feel the energy everywhere," said Richard Wolfe, a first-timer at the festival. "I had pretty high expectations, and I've got to say that so far, they've been grossly exceeded."
Some of those sitting in Waterfront Stadium told 13 ON YOUR SIDE that the 100th edition felt bigger and better.
"Every year we come here, the bands are great, all the bands are great, so it's just great atmosphere," said Keith Westerfielde. "This time of year, we see all people come from other places, other states and enjoy it so much. It's a reminder of the special thing we have here in Grand Haven."
People also spoke of how the festival acts as a homecoming for Grand Haven natives who have moved to other cities and states.
"Everybody comes back once a year. We all hang out together," said Brian Fett.
Brian said he's able to see many people he went to high school with at the festival and his favorite part of this year's edition is his brother traveling from Atlanta.
"Having the Coast Guard festival, having all the dignitaries come in, celebrating the armed forces, it's just absolutely something that you can't find in any other city," said Brian's brother, Adam Fett. "To actually be here and enjoy everything with friends and family, it means a lot to me."
Coastguardsman Devin Richey has been serving in the U.S. Coast Guard for over 10 years and traveled from Washington D.C. for his very first festival as a part of the Silent Drill Team.
"It's rejuvenating," said Richey. "Just the overwhelming excitement for the Coast Guard being here. And I'm really proud and grateful to be here for that."
Richey said he's been texting friends and his fellow service members, encouraging them to make the trip next year.
"I re-found that passion for the Coast Guard through this Grand Haven experience," he said.