By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

At the urging of the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed this Saturday, Sept. 26, to be “Downtown Day” in the State of Michigan. The official proclamation by the Governor recognizes downtown districts for driving economic development, contributing to the quality of life for residents and for serving as the social and economic centers in their communities.

“We applaud the MDA and Governor Whitmer for acknowledging the unique and important role that downtown districts play in their communities and in the local economy,” said Downtown Holland Marketing Coordinator Kara de Alvare. “In light of the difficulties created by the COVID-19 pandemic our local shops and restaurants need support now more than ever before if Downtown Holland is going to remain a vibrant and thriving destination well into the future.”

Downtown Holland will celebrate “Downtown Day” with a giveaway on their Facebook page, which will be posted the morning of Saturday, Sept. 26. By sharing what they love most about Downtown Holland on the Facebook post that day, one lucky commenter will receive a $100 gift card to the Downtown Holland business of their choice.

Local residents are also encouraged to take advantage of the beautiful weather forecasted for Saturday by visiting Downtown and spending their money locally at a Downtown Holland shop or restaurant. And with temperatures in the upper 70’s that day, it might be time to squeeze in one last trip Downtown for ice cream or another frozen treat before the fall weather arrives!