Downtown Alpena: a year-round cultural destination in Northern Michigan, blending historic charm with authenticity and unique waterfront experiences.

Located on the shores of the Thunder Bay River and beautiful Lake Huron, Downtown Alpena has been the economic hub of Northeast Michigan since the city was settled in the 1870's. Our downtown is home to a diverse and vibrant set of over 200 businesses, including art galleries, three theaters, a winery, brewery, and cidery, the first National Marine Sanctuary on the Great Lakes, and a variety of offices, restaurants, bars, non-profits and shops. Walk through downtown and you'll find over 30 pieces of public art and a variety of architectural styles including Italianate, modernist, and more! Alpena is the third largest city in Northern Michigan, and our downtown is proud to be the commercial and cultural heart of our community.

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What's New

Be part of Downtown Alpena's signature summer event

Sponsorships are now OPEN for the 2026 Alpena Flower Festival, taking place Friday, June 5 through Sunday, June 7, 2026! . By sponsoring, your business will be recognized as a supporter of one of downtown’s signature events—helping create an inviting atmosphere that brings people downtown and strengthens a place we all love. Sponsorships range $100-$2,500.

We would love to have you be part of the event to make this year’s festival a success! The deadline for sponsorship confirmation is April 15, 2026.

Help Beautify Downtown Alpena this Summer

Come help plant flowers through downtown and get it ready for the upcoming summer season!
  • Saturday, May 30, 2026
  • 9 am- noon
  • Culligan Plaza
Volunteers should check-in at Culligan Plaza, then they will be directed where to go to plant the flowers. Please bring garden gloves and a small trowel!

For $50, businesses, organizations, or individuals can sponsor a flat of flowers that will be planted around the downtown tree boxes. A small sign will be placed near each tree acknowledging the donation of each sponsor. After you donate, we will reach out to you to confirm what you would like written on your sign.

Vendor Applications Open 
​Alpena Flower Fest

We’re excited to invite vendors to be part of Alpena's signature event in the heart of Downtown Alpena. We are looking for vendors to join the Alpena Flower Festival on Friday, June 5 (4-8 pm) and Saturday, June 6 (10-6 pm), with vendor spaces located along 2nd Avenue—right in the center of the event’s activity and foot traffic.

We are seeking a variety of vendors to help create a lively and engaging experience for attendees, including artisans, makers, local businesses, and floral-related businesses. This is a great opportunity to showcase your products, connect with the community, and be part of one of downtown's busiest weekends.
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Vendor spaces are available for $25 per day. You may choose to participate on one or both days. Please note, submitting an application does not guarantee you a spot; we will review applications and select vendors by May 1, 2026. Payment is due at that point in time.

Upcoming Meetings

The January DDA Board Meeting is having a special meeting on Wednesday, April 14 at 4:30 pm at City Hall Council Chambers, with the option to join virtually. A link to attend is found on the agenda below which will be posted the week before the meeting. 

Calendar of Events

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