Croswell, a Sanilac County town in east Michigan, is the definition of a small town. In the 2003 census, Croswell counted only 2,439 citizens. Though the population isn't large, the city of Croswell keeps things interesting with a few festivals throughout the year. In addition to festivals, Croswell offers annual parades and fairs. Keep an eye on the city's official website to keep abreast of current events.
Croswell's historic Swinging Bridge, a relic of 1905 and the only remaining pedestrian suspension bridge in Michigan, takes center stage at the Annual Swinging Bridge Festival. The city bills this summer festival as a “salute to agriculture.” Events at the annual weekend-long fest include car and canoe races, parades, a dunk tank and themed tea parties. Revelers participate in a variety of contests as well, including fishing contests, catapult contests, zucchini contests and a mother-in-law toss. Antique displays and sales booths – including crafts and books – provide additional attractions.
The city of Croswell welcomes each new year with the annual Croswell Winter Fest. Like the Annual Swinging Bridge Festival, this event centers around the Swinging Bridge at the Croswell Riverbend Park. The Croswell Commercial Club sponsors this daytime festival, which includes such events as human dog sled racing, hockey putt putt, ice sculpting, an ice fishing contest, cardboard sledding and sleigh rides. Youngsters participate in pinata bursting, a magic show and a treasure hunt.
A summertime event, the Croswell fair occurs over the course of three days at the Croswell Fair Grounds on the corner of Harrington Road and Croswell Road. Croswell's yearly fair centers around motor sports events. For example, the schedule might include an off-road derby, demolition derby, burnout contest and lawn tractor derby. Visitors to the fair enjoy festivities such as food, a petting zoo and antique tractor displays.
Parades and other events accent Croswell's major festivals throughout the year. In November, the Croswell Commercial Club sponsors the Santa Claus Parade, featuring an appearance from the famous holiday gift-giver. In May, the Memorial Day Parade offers morning festivities starting at 9 a.m. Halloween brings an annual haunted house sponsored by the Croswell Lions at the Croswell Lions ball field.
