While reflecting on your youth, you may discover that some of your favorite memories occurred at drive-in movies and concerts.
There was nothing quite like feeling the breeze on your face, as you gazed at the stars. Not to mention, the adrenaline of a live concert was hard to describe or surpass, too.
In fact, the experiences may have been so great for you that they remain fully ingrained in your memory. It may even feel like they happened yesterday.
Luckily for you, they can still happen yesterday—and today—within miles of Beacon Hill. Here are some open-air concerts and movies for you to check out this summer, while reliving your youth yet again.
Open-air Concerts All Summer Long
Concerts in the Park, East Grand Rapids: This summer, you’ll be able to watch six concerts completely free of charge. Held at East Grand Rapids’ John Collins Park, the concerts will occur on Monday nights from early June to late July.
Ed Dunneback and Girls Farm Market’s Summer Concert Series: Once again, this 100-year-old family farm will be hosting a summer concert series. Held on Wednesday nights once a month all summer, the concerts feature drinks, food, and “farm swag.”
Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens: If you’re looking for variety in music, look no further than this concert series. You’ll have an opportunity to hear several genres, while witnessing the talents of musical legends like Chaka Khan, Diana Krall, Smokey Robinson, and Wynonna Judd.
Relax at Rosa: Throughout the summer, you’ll have an opportunity to witness the talents of 20 Michigan-based bands and performers firsthand. Not only is each outdoor concert (held at Rosa Parks Circle) free, but a food truck is available too, as every concert will occur at lunchtime.
Studio Park: Ionia Avenue’s Studio Park will be hosting various concerts at its 200-seat outdoor venue this summer. Each concert will be held on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evenings, typically starting at 7:30 p.m.
Open-air Movies Under the Stars
Byron Center Movies in the Park: Once a month this summer, Byron Center will be showing free movies at Bicentennial Park. All movies will begin at 7 p.m. on Fridays; they’ll also be kid-oriented, so bring your grandchildren with you!
Getty Drive-In: Without question, Getty Drive-In is a bit of a drive from Beacon Hill, as it’s located in Muskegon. But it’s certainly worth every minute of the trip, as it will provide you a true “blast to the past.” Currently celebrating its 82nd year of business, the drive-in offers four double-features. Go take a true step back in time!
Movie in the Park, Roosevelt Park: To enjoy yet another outdoor movie, you’ll need to travel to Muskegon once again, as the city’s Roosevelt Park will be hosting its annual “Movie in the Park” on August 22. Starting at 8 p.m., the movie will be kid-friendly, providing you another opportunity for an outing with your grandchildren.
Movies in the Park, East Grand Rapids: From early June to early August, John Collins Park will be showing four movies on an inflatable screen. Beginning at dusk each time, every movie is free!
Sunset Cinema, Studio Park: Aside from hosting concerts, Studio Park shows movies throughout the summer, too. Free of charge and held on Saturdays at 8 p.m., this summer’s movies include classics like “Back to the Future,” “Jurassic Park,” and “Toy Story.”
There is no doubt about it. West Michigan offers plenty of opportunities for you to feel like a kid again. Plan some trips with fellow Beacon Hill residents, as you all celebrate summer, music, and movies together!
