Victorian Day in Historic Grand Ledge

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Each year, celebrating the start of the summer season, Grand Ledge holds its Victorian Days event on the first full weekend in May.

Grand Ledge is a small, historic town in central lower Michigan, just west of the Lansing city limits. The town's heritage began in early Victorian times, when it was renowned for its health spas and hotels. Right downtown, a wonderful summer amusement park prided itself on a rollercoaster that spanned two of the seven islands in the Grand River, nestled in the midst of the spectacular ledges, for which the town was named. Grand Ledge was one of "The" towns to visit in Michigan when one was inclined to travel during the summer months to cooler locations for a bit of fun. In the 1890s, Grand Ledge was the second most popular destination in Michigan - even more frequented than Mackinac Island.

In recent years, the residents and shop owners of the Grand Ledge area have begun to celebrate the town's rich heritage by presenting the Victorian Days event to one and all. The wearing of Victorian costume is encouraged by all who visit and are so inclined, and a costume showing takes place at High Tea on Saturday afternoon. Artisans and craftspeople representing the era display their wares and demonstrate their nearly lost talents to one and all.

Scheduled events include: a Teddy Bear Tea and a Maypole Dance especially for the youngsters, a High Tea with costume showing, a Victorian Funeral reenactment, kite flying, carriage rides around town, artisans and craftspeople, magic shows, and a Civil War encampment, plus many more activities. The non-motorized parade begins at noon.

[edit] External links

• Victorian Day official Web site
• Grand Ledge Area Historical Society
• Grand Ledge Area Chamber of Commerce
• Michigan Historical Center
• Official State of Michigan Web site