In 2001, volunteers organized the first Ferndale Blues Festival, an event raises raises money for local organizations and causes like youth assistance programs and HIV/AIDS prevention. One hundred percent of all proceeds from the festival is donated.
The festival is primarily held in clubs and bars in downtown Ferndale in late January. Other venues include churches, restaurants, schools and community centers.
Most concerts are free and volunteers distribute blue piggy banks, a festival tradition, during performances for attendees to donate money.
In 2009, concertgoers could choose from more than 70 concerts at 23 different locations over several days. National and local acts perform at the festival. On Sunday during the festival, musicians perform at a blues brunch.
Ferndale Blues Festival/MAC
429 Livernois
Ferndale, MI 48220
248-545-1435
ferndalebluesfestival.org
The three-day Funky Ferndale Art Fair and the DIY Street Fair happen simultaneously during the late summer in Ferndale, along with a Live Green Fair.
The three events feature hundreds of booths featuring local artists showcasing their work and a marketplace where craftspersons and entrepreneurs sell their creative do-it-yourself wares. At the Live Green Fair, business and nonprofits staff booths about green-living practices, green products and sustainability.
Fairgoers are entertained by live music. Kids can play at a kids zone area. Food booths sell all types of cuisine to the crowds. Beer aficionados can visit the beer garden and drink beverages from local breweries.
The festivals are managed by the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority.
Ferndale DDA
149 W. Nine Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
248-546-1632
downtownferndale.com
The Ferndale Holiday Ice Festival features winter activities in December. Ice sculptures created by notable ice carvers are on display during the festival. The carvers also participate in the festival by giving live demonstrations.
Other events include live music shows, strolling musicians, fire jugglers and hayrides. Kids can take photos with Santa Claus, view live reindeer and ice skate at a park rink. Vendors sell holiday fare such as roasted chestnuts and hot cider.
The festival is managed by the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority.
Ferndale DDA
149 W. Nine Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
248-546-1632
downtownferndale.com
