Now entering the 35th season of bringing quality, affordable, family entertainment to downtown Muskegon on Friday nights in the summer, Parties in the Park is unveiling some big changes for the 2019 season. Guests can look forward to a new variety of musical entertainment, new non-profit partners, and additional party enhancements!

“We have a very energized and community driven board of directors that’s looking to expand on the success of the past few years and partner with local non-profits and area businesses to bring new offerings to parties in the park goers this upcoming season,” says Chanda Cregg, Parties in the Park President.

One of the biggest changes coming is in the entertainment offerings. Historically, the non-profit partners selected their band/entertainment from a pre-approved list of local applicants. This process doesn’t allow for ample lead time when booking more regional acts that schedule further out. This year, the Parties in the Park Board is already making offers to bands that will bring additional top notch entertainment to the 2019 lineup.

The Parties in the Park Board is also actively recruiting new non-profit partners. Each year, non-profits apply to host one of six available Parties in the Park Fridays. Non-profit partners have the opportunity to gain a great deal of exposure, engage and activate volunteers and supporters and most importantly financially reap the benefits of hosting a party in the park! An open house was held last month in which 30 non-profits gathered to learn more about partnering for the 2019 season. The application process is improved from last year featuring an online application, earlier party selection date and a board position dedicated to assisting non-profits make the most of their party experience.

“With a wider variety of musical entertainment and new non-profits joining some of our past partners , we’re very excited about the opportunity to grow and expand our footprint in West Michigan this upcoming season,” adds Cregg. “We’re continuing to expand children’s activities, craft beverage offerings, and opportunities for teenagers so that all generations continue to enjoy Parties in the Park.”

Other changes for the 35th season include new sponsorship opportunities, more ways for the community to get engaged with parties in the park, increased marketing and promotions, park layout enhancements and more.

To learn more about Parties in the Park, apply to be a non-profit partner or inquire about sponsorship, visit www.partiesinthepark.com.

The Mission of Parties in the Park is to create a sense of community and appreciation for Muskegon’s Downtown through a family-oriented social event. Sponsored by a variety of Muskegon County not-for-profit groups, the proceeds from the Parties either make physical enhancements or quality of life improvements for the whole community.