ESCANABA — Downtown Escanaba will celebrate Michigan’s Downtown Day on Saturday, Sept. 26, giving shoppers an opportunity to experience Ludington Street now that the major downtown reconstruction project is complete.
The event comes less than two weeks after Ludington Street reopened to traffic following two years of construction. The project included major water and sewer improvements, new streetscape features and improvements designed to make the downtown corridor more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
“We are beyond thrilled to welcome everyone back to Ludington Street this Downtown Day. Ludington Street is open, our doors are wide open, and there’s no better time to rediscover the heart of our community,” said Sue Parker, chair of the Escanaba Downtown Development Authority and owner of Nyman Jewelers.
The DDA is encouraging residents to make a day of Downtown Day by visiting local businesses, restaurants and other downtown destinations.
The Escanaba Farmers Market will be open from 9 a.m. to noon at the Escanaba Marketplace, offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items and other locally produced goods.
"The Farmers Market is a great place to start your Downtown Day," said Judy Schroeder, market manager, "It is the perfect way to taste and experience the very best of what our community has to offer before heading down Ludington Street for breakfast or to visit downtown shops."
Downtown shoppers can visit stores, boutiques and specialty shops along Ludington Street, while restaurants, diners and bars will offer opportunities to grab a meal or drink.
“We’ve been very busy since Ludington Street has reopened,” said Josh Hoogerhyde at Swedish Pantry. “It is great to see everyone back downtown."
The Bonifas Arts Center and East Ludington Gallery will also provide opportunities to experience and support local art.
"Come see our latest Studio Gallery exhibition, which highlights our Membership Show Featured Artist Award winner, Austin Ash," said Kate Oman, Bonifas gallery director. "It is a fantastic opportunity to see a dedicated solo collection up close."
Escanaba also has a Social District, giving visitors another way to enjoy Downtown Day. Shoppers can purchase a drink from participating establishments—including South City Pub, Cat-Man-Do’s Bar & Grille, Mugshots and LaCatrina Mexican Restaurant—and enjoy it within the designated Social District while exploring downtown.
The DDA says Downtown Day, initiated by the Michigan Downtown Association, is an opportunity to showcase the businesses and organizations that make up the downtown district while encouraging people to return to Ludington Street and explore the changes.
