Events in Downtown Howell
SUNDAY FARMERS' MARKET (May thru October)
A traditional Sunday destination for those in search of locally grown produce, plants and flowers. Local craftsmen, as well as live entertainment round out the downtown ambience.
The market is hosted by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Howell Downtown Development Authority. Stop by the Howell Main Street and DDA booth at the June 6th Farmers' Market, and get the latest downtown information.
MICHIGAN CHALLENGE BALLOONFEST (June 25-27, 2010)
The state championship of hot-air ballooning! This event attracts over 100,000 spectators. A weekend of uplifting adventure includes stunt kites, K-9 dog show, family fun tent, custom car show, carnival, skydivers, arts and crafts show, plus more then 50 hot air balloons in five scheduled launches and an evening balloon glow.
Downtown activities include Kids Day on Saturday and Music Day on Sunday. The Michigan Challenge Balloonfest is hosted by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce and also includes the 5K Chase. For more information visit michiganchallenge.com.
CONCERTS AT THE COURTHOUSE (Fridays, July thru August)
Organized by the Livingston Arts Council, a variety of entertainers perform live at the Courthouse amphitheater every Friday evening throughout the summer. Bring your family, a blanket or chair and enjoy!
50th ANNUAL HOWELL MELON FESTIVAL (August 20, 21, 22, 2010)
This four day event includes a Melon Ball kick-off event at McPherson Mansion on Thurs. Aug. 19th, featuring dueling pianos, food, champagne, and more! The Melon Run takes place on Friday night, along with a Medilodge barbacue, Concert at the Courthouse, amusement rides on Walnut and Radio Disney! On Saturday, the event is in full gear with Sidewalk Sales, Farmers' Market, arts and crafts, Festival Tent with Michigan Micro-Brew and Tastes at the Opera House, sponsored by Lake Trust Credit Union, amusement rides, Bed Races, Pajama Party and Saturday Night movie. Sunday rounds out the event with lots more of the same, and the Livingston Sensation Finals from 2 to 5 pm. Citizen's Insurance is the proud Signature Sponsor of the 50th Howell Melon Festival.
Don't forget to purchase a Howell melon and enjoy some Howell melon ice cream. Now accepting Sidewalk Sale and Arts/Crafts vendor applications. For more information and the most updated schedule visit howellmelonfestival.com.
LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOWELL (October 23, 2010)
The legend continues in downtown Howell every year on the last Saturday before Halloween.
Trick-or-Treat through the streets at 20 sweet and treat stations, enter the costume contest, get on a hay ride, enjoy live entertainment and much more.
Don't forget to visit the Haunted Alley, too! The Legend of Sleepy Howell is Livingston County's premier Halloween event.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSES (November)
This is the official kick-off of the holiday shopping season. Howell merchants invite customers to their stores for a special weekend of live entertainment and refreshments while they showcase their holiday wares.
FANTASY OF LIGHTS PARADE (November)
The tradition of the Fantasy of Lights Parade takes place each year the day after Thanksgiving.
Up to 60 floats and marching bands dazzle and delight the crowded streets of downtown Howell. Each float has a minimum of 5,000 lights used to provide a breath taking display.
The parade ends with the arrival of Santa. The parade is organized by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce and also includes a 5K run. For more information about the Fantasy of Lights Parade click here.
HOWELL FOR THE HOLIDAYS (December)
Shop Downtown Howell on the right days, and you’ll see there’s even more that makes us different – like our Special Events. Many have become popular family traditions, highlighting the yearly calendar for young and old alike. From open-air markets and savory Summer delights to Fall fun and Holiday happenings, these events bring thousands out to our wonderfully decorated streets.
Downtown Howell truly is a destination that’s different, here to welcome you no matter what time of year you visit. Careful though - a lot of folks who come here end up staying!
See video from Howell for the Holidays here.