Celebrating at Celebration on the Grand

Celebration on the Grand's shift to summer came with a almost fall-like weather on Friday afternoon.

However, it wasn't autumn.

It was the Fourth of July -- Independence Day, with summer in full bloom on a holiday weekend.

The City of Grand Rapids' effort for sustainable special events debuted with excellent weather at Ah-Nab-Awen Park for the 35th annual Celebration on the Grand, which made the grand move from its fall dates.

Shimmie Pearl performed Friday afternoon at Celebration on the Grand in Ah-Nab-Awen Park in Grand Rapids. (Photo: Tony Wright)

The Outer Vibe was the headliner for the festival.

Other performers included Kris Hitchcock and Small Town Son, Shimmie Pearl, Jimmie Stagger Band, Kathy Lamar & Her Crew and David Molinari & Creolization.

There were no fireworks, however.

The Independence Day weekend's downtown Grand Rapids technicolor display has been moved.

This year, it's Saturday night during the Amway Family Fireworks celebration at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. The second day of a partnered two-day event also includes music, family-friendly activities like Re/Max of Grand Rapids' Family Fun Zone, food and other festivities.