If there’s one day in the year to visit Albion, Michigan, and truly experience its vibrant community spirit, it is the Saturday of the Festival of the Forks. Held on the third full weekend in September, this festival celebrates Albion’s historic heritage and rich diversity.  Albion, settled near the Forks of the Kalamazoo River, is historically referred to as “The Forks,” symbolizing the town’s unity and diversity.

The day kicks off with a morning parade featuring area bands, grade school children, local politicians, fire trucks, and family favorites like the Shriners with their little cars. Following the parade, Superior Street and the Farmer’s Market area (Stoffer Plaza) come alive with vendor booths offering a variety of ethnic foods and live music from several venues.

The mural also highlights key landmarks and activities such as the Bohm Theatre, Bohm II,  and various river activities including canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The Albion River Trail, part of larger hiking trails, is also depicted. This view of Albion during the festival, including the bandshell, is part of a 56-foot long mural in the drive-thru of the former Huntington Bank in downtown Albion.

The Albion River Mural shows four seasons, with the art selections here showing Sledding, Spring, Summer, and the Festival. The mural design was by Maggie LaNoue, who also helped to paint and recruited help.  Tony Hendrick, a master muralist, led the young artists in the creation of the Albion River Mural by not only guiding their artistic vision but also providing the necessary materials and encouragement. Tony will be remembered as a compassionate artist who lived authentically, shared his gifts openly, and fostered a collaborative spirit in all his work.  Albion River Mural, Michigan. Four seasons of Albion from sledding in Victory Park, to the Festival of the Forks are included in one mural in downtown Albion.

Learn more about the mural at this link: AlbionMich.net/mural.

Albion River Mural Festival – Catalog # 224