So great to get out again and catch some festivals this summer. Jackson county fair is coming with Toby Keith and Lynard Skynrd, East Lansing Art Festival, and Common Ground at Jackson Field just to name a few on the way.  One festival I looked forward to in the Chicago suburbs before I moved was a big one that had boat races.  I was hesitant the first time I went, but it was so much fun.

Get our free mobile app

Where To Check Out New Festival

Well here is your chance to check one out,  There's a new festival on its way to Grand Rapids this fall. Mark your calendar for the September 25th Global Water Festival.  Wolverinestatewatch.com says it will be at Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids with dragon boat races, paddleboard lessons, and fly board demonstrations. Plus plenty of food, and beer, as well as music in Canal Park.

Dragon boat races are an ancient Chinese custom. The boats will hold about 10 people and have 8 paddlers, one drummer, and one person who controls the boat. I would like to be the guy who controls the boat, lol. The paddlers look like they work way too hard. 8 teams will battle for first place throughout the day, Marasigan said.

We have such a great river,” said Ace Marasigan, a Grand Rapids broker who also serves as the executive director of the Grand Rapids Asian Pacific Festival. “We’re just trying to activate the flow so people can enjoy it.. A big part of the festival is highlighting global cultures.

This looks like fun for the whole family, and a chance to do something different. The event is free and ready for you to enjoy in September.

A Virtual Tour of Downtown Grand Rapids

Five Celebrities From Grand Rapids

MORE TO EXPLORE: A Look Inside the Old Allegan Jail

More From 94.9 WMMQ