Add an Article Add an Event Edit

Victorian Days Festival


Each year, celebrating the start of the summer season, Grand Ledge holds its Victorian Days event on the first Saturday in May.      

Grand Ledge is a small, historic town in central lower Michigan, just west of the Lansing city limits.  The town's heritage began in early Victorian times, when it was renowned for its health spas and hotels.  Right downtown, a wonderful summer amusement park prided itself on a rollercoaster that spanned two of the seven islands in the Grand River, nestled in the midst of the spectacular ledges, for which the town was named.  Grand Ledge was one of "The" towns to visit in Michigan when one was inclined to travel during the summer months to cooler locations for a bit of fun.

Dr. Ethan Childs, Chiropractor (2002) In recent years, the residents and shop owners of the Grand Ledge area have begun to celebrate the town's rich heritage by presenting the Victorian Days event to one and all.  The wearing of Victorian costume is encouraged by all who visit and are so inclined, and a a costume show takes place during the High Tea on Saturday afternoon.  Artisans and craftspeople representing the era display their wares and demonstrate their nearly lost talents to one and all.

Storyteller, historian, and actress Marie Papciak, joined us last year. Marie Papciak is well known for her one-woman portrayals of "Women in History", featuring women such as Mary Todd Lincoln, Laura Smith Hamilton and Susan B. Anthony. Watch for her at the Victorian Funeral reenactment, the Teddybear Tea, the High Tea, in the parade, in Maypole Park and around town throughout the day.