Tag: St. Johns Community

Rebecca Reviewed It: Hometown 4th

I live in a rural farming area. But I have always considered St. Johns, Michigan my hometown. When I was younger, I spent a lot of my childhood in town. Naturally, when the 4th of July celebration was announced I made plans to go. I am glad I did.

First, I must admit, I am a fan of community events, fairs, and festivals. The celebration in St. Johns did not disappoint. Before heading to the park, we (my cousin and I) stopped at Little Caesars for pizza. The young man that waited on me was polite and professional (a trait, I value in customer service). 

My cousin and I met the rest of our family at St. Johns City Park. The Performance Shell area has plenty of room to watch concerts or other events. Many people bring blankets or lawn chairs along. The area also has a small pavilion. 

Closer to the road leading into the park are picnic tables for public use. We were lucky enough to find one in the shade. Yes, the 4th of July was a hot day for us in Michigan. Luckily the area is close to restrooms and the playground. 

The music, performed by Stone Street Revival, began around 7 pm. I enjoyed listening to the older songs. I found myself singing along to a few of the songs including Sweet Caroline. Yes, I am sorry for anyone who could hear my voice. 

Prior to the start of the fireworks, our group moved toward the other end outside of the St. Johns Redwings football field. We had a perfect view of the fireworks display. I do not know if the show impressed me because I had not seen fireworks in years. Or I was simply happy to be out after everything was canceled in 2020. The Rotary Club of St. Johns hosted a wonderful family-friendly evening.

Will I Go Again? 

In my opinion, if you can spend an evening with family, eat pizza, listen to music, and watch fireworks, do it. Yes, I plan on attending the 4th of July celebration in St. Johns again. In fact, The Clinton County Arts Council will host different music events throughout the summer at 7 pm on Wednesday nights. I am hoping to attend a few more concerts in the park.  

July 4th, 2021…a beautiful night


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.