Category: Local Event Review

Rebecca Reviewed It: Grand Rapids Lantern Festival

If you are in the mid-Michigan area (or up for a road trip), go check out the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at the John Ball Zoo. You will not be disappointed. The event is hosted by Family Fare. 

The Lantern Festival started on April 19th but it runs through June 11th. The festival illuminates the zoo Wednesdays through Sundays from 7 pm to 11 pm.

Cost

 If you are a non-member, like me, the cost of the ticket is $22.00. Or for members, the cost is $19.00. But trust me, the price is worth the cost. Children under the age of 2 are free. The tickets are staggered which means your ticket is for a specific time slot. But once you enter the zoo area, you are free to enjoy the exhibit at your own pace. 

Pros

Absolutely beautiful set up of lanterns throughout the zoo. Some of the lanterns move which made my night. 

  • Easy walking area. But be aware the walk throughout the zoo area is at least a mile long.
  • Wheelchair and stroller accessible. 
  • Beverage and food areas are open.
  • The gift shop is open. 
  • Bathrooms are available. 

Cons

Well, if you are not used to walking, the exhibit can seem long. But there are rest areas to stop and take a break if needed. 

  • For younger children, you may want to use a stroller or wagon.  
  • Dress appropriately. The weather was a little on the cooler side the night we went. So, I would take a jacket along. 
  • Rain or shine. It’s Michigan. There are no refunds for rainy days.

Would I go again?

Most definitely. The lanterns lit up against the evening sky were almost magical. The music playing added to the atmosphere of the evening. I would not have any objections to going to this exhibit or a similar one again.

Go check out the Lantern Festival at the John Ball Zoo. Let me know what you think of the experience.

Local Event Review: New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in St. Johns

Most of the time on New Year’s Eve, I stay home with my pets. Living in Michigan, the weather is not exactly great for hanging outside around midnight. Leaving my house at 10 pm is just not something I do. Yes, I realize this behavior makes me old. This year in St. Johns, Michigan, there was a ball drop event.

Watching the ball drop in New York is one of my items on my bucket list. I realize our little local ball drop is nothing in comparison. But the event was still fantastic to attend.

Favorite Part

I admit, there is something special about a group of diverse people loudly counting down to midnight to usher in the new year. The bright colored ball with 2020 shining brightly against the dark sky was perfect.

Least Favorite Part

Even though the local bars were still open for business, I personally would have loved to seen local vendors set up. What can I say, an elephant ear or fried cake would have been an excellent addition to the evening.

Will I attend the event again? 

Yes, most definitely.  The ball drop did not occur properly due to a  malfunction. I would like to witness the ball drop as the count down happens. Of course, I am still hoping for an elephant ear covered in powder sugar.

What you need to know if you attend? 

If you attend in the future, dress in warm clothes.  The Michigan nights are cold. Even with the close proximity to everyone, the night air was chilly.