Bombstyle Blueberry festival downtown IC

One-day event packed with activities for everyone

 

IMLAY CITY — Plans continue to be finalized for the rapidly approaching Bombstyle Blueberry Festival.

The one day event, on June 21, has been being planned for the past several months by a group of people who have a vision to attract visitors downtown and offer activites for everyone. The event runs from 2 p.m. until 2 a.m.

Organizers say this is NOT a private business event. It’s organized by a group of locals who want to bring something fun and positive back to downtown.

One of the key sponsors is BombBurgers of Imlay City, but there are others taking part as well including Jalisco’s, Botana’s, Heavenly Sweets, Sweet Pea Bakery, Meesch’s Ice Cream and the Historical Museum—many of whom have been active in community meetings since day one.

Many who attended the first organizational meeting months ago felt the event should have the name “Blueberry Festival.”

Event organizers say it’s more about nostalgia and community pride—not the blueberry harvest itself.

“We’re not competing with SummerFest (put on by the Imlay City Chamber of Commerece in August),” said Gjon Marku, one of the organizers. “This is a smaller, grassroots effort focused on downtown revitalization and supporting local businesses. We need to work together. It will help make everyone more successful. That’s what it’s all about.”

Marku says 100% of the profits will be going to the Imlay City School District. Any profits will be split between athletic programs and a teacher supply closet.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to browse vendors spread throughout the downtown area, enjoy music, food trucks and much more.

Volunteers are vital. Every volunteer post links to a sign-up form detailing tasks and time slots, most under four hours. While teen help is welcome at the festival, some roles require adults for responsibilities like handling cash.

“We’ve got all kinds of spots open—bounce house wranglers, dunk tank daredevils, info booth stars, security helpers, setup/cleanup legends, and more,” said Mindi Steffen. “If you can give just a few hours, you’ll be helping make something really special happen.”

A small group of volunteers has a simple goal for the festival. “Our goal: Bring back something the community has asked for, with transparency, good vibes, and inclusion at the core”.

Among the planned activities are a Mechanical Bull, Bounce House, Wranglers, a Dunk Tank and live music.