As the warm weather continues this summer, we encourage you to get a breath of fresh air in downtown Kalamazoo.
Everything we have heard from the community is that people want fun and safe outdoor experiences. This is exactly what our team is striving to offer downtown.
SkeleTour returns to Downtown Kalamazoo
We are thrilled to announce the return of SkeleTour to the streets of downtown this October! This outdoor-focused event is a great opportunity for families to safely visit downtown, check out the skeletons, do some shopping, and grab a bite to eat.
We will be working with Northville-based Begonia Brothers Landscaping to create a variety of skeletons designed to reflect community businesses, and entice visitors to check them out! The skeletons are custom designed using rebar and latex, and can be placed in every position/pose imaginable.
If you are a business/organization interested in sponsoring a skeleton this year, please send us an email. No matter the type of business focus you have, there is an opportunity for you to participate with your very own skeleton!
Dine Out Downtown
With the pandemic still top of mind for many, downtown businesses have had to be creative in creating safe, enjoyable spaces for the community to patronize.
Many downtown restaurants and bars have expanded their outdoor seating and patio experiences with your safety and comfort in mind – see some of them below:
The Stamped Robin
Enhanced canopy coverage in a charming patio space along Exchange Place Alley. The perfect spot for a glass of wine after a long week.
Rustica
With an emphasis on fresh, sustainable, and local products, Rustica blends influences from France, Italy, Spain, and other European countries along with regional Michigan fare. And now they have expanded outdoors on the Kalamazoo Mall with the same great food and amazing experience.
Food Dance
Giving you the same fresh, local menu items, Food Dance has expanded its seating to an outdoor tent right in their parking lot. Socially-distant deliciousness.
There are plenty more restaurants with outdoor seating – check them out here!
Upcoming Events
Downtown Kalamazoo Mall businesses are bringing their retail and dining to the sidewalks!
Every Friday this summer (June-September), the Kalamazoo Mall will transform the sidewalks into an outdoor experience where customers can freely shop, dine, and enjoy downtown Kalamazoo businesses in a safe and comfortable environment.
On Friday, August 14 from 5-8 p.m., come listen the musical talents of Radiant City Music.
Beats on Bates is a weekly summer live music series hosted every Wednesday night 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Take a break from work and grab drinks or dinner at one of the Bates Alley businesses while enjoying live music.
August 12 – Zion Lion will be sure to get you moving and grooving.
August 19 – The West Michigan-based band James Reeser and the Backseat Drivers bring you some West Coast and swing style blues.
Make sure you pack your workout gear this summer for Workout Wednesdays in downtown Kalamazoo! This is a free event every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo! There’s plenty of room in the park for social distancing.
August 12 – Grab the whole family for an All Ages Dance Jam with Wellspring Dance Academy! This class will incorporate creative movement concepts that will get you moving and shaking and having a blast together. Pre-register here.
August 19 – Join Guess Who’s Dancing for Twerk werk – a “turn up” and basically a form of Hip Hop Cardio that will help you burn calories while having fun, getting sexy and dancing the latest Hip Hop and R&B tracks! ALL fitness levels welcomed and you DON’T have to know how to dance or twerk. Be FEARLESS, FABULOUS, FIT & FREE!
All classes begin at 5:30 p.m. and are free to attend – view the schedule on our Facebook Event.