Lake Michigan College to Host Blossomtime History Event

Free public program will explore the legacy of Southwest Michigan's cherished festival

Mar. 4, 2026 at 10:32pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Lake Michigan College will host "Deep Roots & Beautiful Blooms: The History and Heritage of Blossomtime" on Sunday, March 23rd from 4:00-5:00 PM. The free public event will bring together local historians and archivists to discuss the history and cultural significance of the Blossomtime Festival, a longstanding tradition in Southwest Michigan.

Why it matters

The Blossomtime Festival has been a cherished part of the cultural identity of Southwest Michigan for generations. This event provides an opportunity for the community to connect with and learn more about the rich history and legacy of this iconic regional tradition.

The details

The program will feature presentations by historian Jayson Otto, as well as Olivia Beebe and Neave Carroll from the Israelite House of David Archives & Collections. They will explore the history of the Blossomtime Festival, the role of archives in preserving local history, and showcase artifacts and ephemera from the Israelite House of David's collection.

  • The event will take place on Sunday, March 23rd, 2026 from 4:00-5:00 PM.

The players

Jayson Otto

A cultural environmental historian and PhD candidate at Michigan State University, with expertise in West Michigan history.

Olivia Beebe

A Michigan native who earned her MA in Art History & Curation from the University of Birmingham, England, and has focused on increasing the accessibility of the Israelite House of David Archives & Collections.

Neave Carroll

Recently earned her MA in History from Louisiana State University, where she also served as an Archives Specialist at the Louisiana State Archives, and now brings expertise in cataloguing and conservation to the Israelite House of David Archives & Collections.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a wonderful opportunity for community members to connect with a piece of Southwest Michigan's cultural identity.”

— Lia McCoskey, Lake Michigan College English Faculty

The takeaway

This event highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich history and cultural traditions that have shaped the identity of Southwest Michigan for generations. By bringing together historians, archivists, and the community, it provides an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the Blossomtime Festival's enduring legacy.