This holiday shopping season, Mt. Pleasant's small businesses invite you to make a big impact by shopping local. With special discounts, events, and unique holiday offerings during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, local shops are ready to help you find thoughtful gifts while supporting the local economy. Discover why shopping small is a big deal for Mt. Pleasant’s community this holiday season.
As Veterans Day approaches, Mt. Pleasant’s Michigan Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Island Park stands as a solemn tribute to the state’s fallen, missing, and captured service members. Dedicated on July 15, 1990, this memorial includes 16 plaques listing the names of 2,705 Michigan casualties, MIAs, and POWs, alongside a flag gallery, footbridge, and an information booth.
November in Mt. Pleasant brings a variety of community activities to enjoy, no matter the weather. This month’s events range from gardening workshops and live poetry readings to seasonal festivals and Small Business Saturday shopping downtown. Highlights include the Dahlia Digging and Storing workshop at FlowerBird Farm & Garden, Michigan Poet Laureate Nandi Comer’s reading, the kid-friendly Pumpkin Palooza Fall Festival, and the annual Parade of Trees.
Sacred Heart students Claire Campbell and Olivia Harding were winners of the United Way of Gratiot & Isabella County's annual PITCH-ER THIS! competition this past winter. Their winning idea, centered around the power of public art, has recently come to life in downtown Mt. Pleasant with the unveiling of a vibrant mural—celebrating the city’s landmarks and culture, plus aims to draw foot traffic, foster community pride, and improve mental well-being.
Since 2018, Isabella Bank has held its annual Compassion into Action event, a day-long company-wide community service initiative that allows all employees to volunteer across seven counties in mid-Michigan. The event, which takes place every October on Columbus Day, enables staff to participate in meaningful projects with local nonprofits.
This year, Central Michigan University celebrates 100 years of its Homecoming tradition, which began in 1924. The centennial Homecoming will honor a rich history of alumni reconnecting with their alma mater. From its humble beginnings to becoming the largest alumni event annually, CMU’s Homecoming remains a cherished celebration of school spirit, community, and legacy.
As Mini City celebrates its first year of providing an imaginative and inclusive space for children in downtown Mt. Pleasant, we check in with the co-owners to learn more about their 12 themed rooms that resemble everyday businesses—where kids can explore, role-play, and learn.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or simply joining for the experience, there are five 5K events in Mt. Pleasant, Alma, and Clare this Fall. Don glow-in-the-dark gear, bring your pup, give back to area organizations, or celebrate Homecoming — discover the region’s racing options.
This October, Mt. Pleasant and Isabella County are brimming with autumn excitement, offering something for everyone. From local farmers' markets to craft fairs and food drives, the season brings a range of activities that highlight community connection and fall fun. Get ready to mark your calendar!
Dylan Banagis, founder of Life Unplugged in Mt. Pleasant, saw a need for intentional public conversations and offline connections. In 2024, he opened his brick-and-mortar store downtown, offering a welcoming space for people to unwind, connect, and enjoy a positive environment. Discover Banagis’s belief in the growth of downtown, while he strives to make it a vibrant hub of activity and connection, in Epicenter’s Top 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders series.
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