In Hamtramck, we know how to survive and have fun

To the many visitors who are here for the Hamtramck Labor Day Festival, welcome.
This is the 36th year the festival is taking place, and as you’d expect it’s had plenty of ups and downs during that period.
The festival was originally started in 1980 by former Mayor Robert Kozaren, who decided the city needed an emotional uplift after Dodge Main suddenly and unexpectedly announced it was closing.
That was a huge kick in the pants to the city since the auto plant, now long gone, was the number one employer and taxpaying entity.
The loss in tax revenue was going to be staggering, but instead of wallowing in grief, Mayor Kozaren said there was still plenty to celebrate about.
And that main thing was Hamtramck itself. This is one of the most unique cities in America and certainly everyone’s favorite in the metro area.
We are a United Nations of sorts, with several ethnicities being represented here in this small town.
Hamtramck has been the focus of numerous media articles and documentaries just because of this uniqueness.
Sure, the city has been hit with hard times financially in the last several years, but which community hasn’t been? The amazing thing is Hamtramck keeps bouncing back because we are a resilient people.
Our festival is sometimes overshadowed by other events taking place over Labor Day weekend, but when it comes down to it, we enjoy the most fun.
There is nothing stuffy or commercialized here.
And considering that it is absolutely free to attend, you can get a lot of bang for your bucks. The festival boasts of some of the best bands in the area and plenty of activities for the family and kids.
Our favorite part is meeting up with friends and neighbors and enjoying the sights, sounds and suds.
Enjoy yourselves, folks, and be sure to come back for another visit. Hamtramck’s “welcome” sign is always lit up.

 

One Response to In Hamtramck, we know how to survive and have fun

  1. rebecca

    December 22, 2015 at 1:24 am

    Love the Zipper

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