The Sanford Rising Festival 2025 is set to be one of the most exciting events of the year in Sanford, Michigan. This annual festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a tribute to the strength and resilience of a community that has worked hard to recover and rebuild after the devastating 2020 flood. From May 15 to 18, 2025, the streets of Sanford will come alive with a variety of events, activities, and opportunities to connect with neighbors and visitors alike. Here’s what you can expect from this year’s festival.
Sanford Rising Festival began as a way for the community to come together after the 2020 flood that caused widespread devastation in the area. The town has worked tirelessly to rebuild, and this festival symbolizes the community's unwavering spirit and dedication to recovery. The Sanford Rising Festival is a celebration of not just Sanford’s past, but also its bright future.
If you’re planning to attend the Sanford Rising Festival 2025, here are the top events you simply can’t miss:
The festival officially starts on Thursday, May 15, with a community blood drive at the Jerome Township Fire Station. From 12:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., residents and visitors can donate blood to help save lives. It’s a meaningful way to start the Sanford Rising Festival and make a difference in the community.
On Friday evening, join local storyteller Marty "The Meatman" Sosnowski for a night of captivating tales. Marty will share stories about the flood and the recovery process, offering a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs that have shaped Sanford. This event takes place at Cultivate Coffee in downtown Sanford at 7:00 p.m. It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the past and look ahead to the future during the Sanford Rising Festival 2025.
Start your Saturday morning right with a pancake breakfast at the Sanford Centennial Museum. From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., enjoy delicious pancakes, sausage, and more. This breakfast isn’t just about great food—it’s also about supporting the local community. The proceeds will go toward funding the new village pump track, making this a fun and charitable way to kick off the Sanford Rising Festival.
One of the highlights of the Sanford Rising Festival 2025 is the Fourth Annual Wiener Dog Races. This quirky event is a crowd favorite, drawing attention from dog lovers and casual festival-goers alike. The races take place on Saturday, May 17, at 11:30 a.m. at Village Park. It’s always fun to watch these little dachshunds race to the finish line. Whether you have a dog in the race or just want to watch the spectacle, this event is sure to bring a smile to your face.
If you’re looking for a little friendly competition, head over to the dunk tank at Village Park on Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Local Girl Scouts will be running the dunk tank, and you can take your turn dunking local personalities for a good cause. The event will raise money for local programs, so not only will you have fun, but you’ll also be supporting the community during the Sanford Rising Festival 2025.
The Sanford Rising Festival 2025 is a great opportunity to enjoy some live music from local bands and artists. Throughout Saturday afternoon, you can enjoy a variety of performances that showcase the talent of Sanford’s residents. Whether you’re into rock, pop, or country, there’s something for everyone at the festival. It’s a perfect way to relax, enjoy the sunshine, and support local musicians.
Sports enthusiasts will be excited to hear about the Sanford Rising Baseball Tournament taking place during the festival. From May 16 to 18, Sanford Village Park will host teams from 9U to 13U divisions. Whether you’re watching a family member play or cheering for your favorite team, this event is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat. The tournament brings the community together and showcases the importance of youth sports in Sanford.
The Sanford Rising Festival 2025 isn’t just for adults—it’s a family-friendly event with something for everyone. Along with the pancake breakfast and wiener dog races, there will be games, food vendors, and booths throughout the festival grounds. Kids can enjoy activities like face painting, games, and crafts, while adults can browse local artisans and vendors. It’s a great way to spend quality time with the whole family.
While you’re enjoying the festival, don’t forget to support Sanford’s local businesses. Many shops and restaurants will have special deals and promotions during the event. Whether you’re picking up a souvenir, enjoying a local meal, or exploring the town, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to support the community while enjoying the festivities at Sanford Rising Festival 2025.
At its core, the Sanford Rising Festival 2025 is about connection. It’s a chance to come together as a community, celebrate Sanford’s recovery, and create new memories. Whether you’re participating in an event, watching a race, or simply enjoying the music, the festival is a reminder of how far the town has come and how strong its residents are. It’s an event you won’t want to miss.
The Sanford Rising Festival 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of resilience, community, and fun. With exciting events like the wiener dog races, pancake breakfast, live music, and youth sports, there’s something for everyone. The festival is a chance to come together, reflect on the past, and look forward to a bright future. Mark your calendars for May 15 to 18, and make sure you don’t miss out on this incredible event in Sanford!
Discover the significance of National Day of Praye..
Discover the latest Mega Millions jackpot winner, ..