In less than one week, we’ll be gathering under the pavilion at W.J. Hayes State Park for our first-ever community picnic, and we’re looking forward to an afternoon filled with good food, good fun, and the people who make this community so special.
Whether you’ve been involved with Irish Hills Concerned Citizens from the beginning or you’re just getting connected, this picnic is for you, our neighbors and friends. It’s a chance to step outside, meet some of the community, and enjoy the beautiful place we’re all working together to protect.
Come for the fun. Stay for the community.
Things get started at 3 p.m. with live music, lawn games, appetizers, swimming, beach time, and plenty of opportunities to relax and mingle. Pack up the kids and a few lawn chairs and come ready to have some fun!
Throughout the afternoon, we’ll have face painting, button making, a nature walk, community updates, and a Hayes & Watkins State Park history talk. There will be plenty to do, but just as importantly, there will be plenty of time to connect with the people around you.
And, of course, there will be a picnic!
We’ll have hot dogs, drinks, coleslaw, pasta salad, and other sides ready to go. We’re also inviting everyone who can to bring a dish to pass. After all, nothing says community quite like a table filled with food that everyone helped bring together.
A few things to bring
Pack up your picnic goodies! Lawn chairs, sunscreen, bug spray, a water bottle, pop-up tents, beach toys, or anything else that will make the afternoon more fun. And if you’re able, bring a dish to share!
Since the picnic is taking place inside a Michigan state park, a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, you’ll need to purchase one. If you’re coming on your own, consider carpooling with a friend or neighbor!
The details
📅 Wednesday, August 26
⏰ 3:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 W.J. Hayes State Park Pavilion: 1220 Wamplers Lake Rd., Onsted, MI 49265
We hope you’ll join us for this special afternoon. Come catch some waves, play a game, grab a hot dog, make a button, take a walk, learn a little history, or simply pull up a chair and enjoy some time with your neighbors.
How to get to the pavilion
Use the Beach & Boat Launch Entrance just north of the park office (the provided address). Park in west lots. The pavilion located between playground & concession stand.
Let’s make our first IHCC Community Summer Picnic one to remember!
And now, the most important question:
Are you planning to join us?