Shanty Days helps Algoma party like it’s 1987

ALGOMA – Shanty Days took place last weekend from August 14-16. The annual three-day festival featured a large parade, arts and crafts fair, 5K run, classic car cruise and show, volleyball games and live music on the shores of Lake Michigan. The event drew large crowds of over 2,000 attendees to the main grounds, despite concerns about the weather and the long-term financial profitability of the festival.

Regarding the event’s overall sustainability, the Algoma Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement:

“Shanty Days has reached a point where the revenue is struggling to keep pace with the cost of producing the event. Our goal is to find a sustainable path forward. If this year’s event is not financially successful, Shanty Days may need to look different in the future. That could mean changes to the format, entertainment, schedule or other aspects of the event. However, before we consider retiring Shanty Days altogether, we will explore every reasonable avenue to make this community tradition financially sustainable.”

While the future of Shanty Days may still be unknown, one thing is for sure — this year’s annual festival was a huge success for the community of Algoma, bringing together residents and visitors alike to celebrate on the lakefront.