Support the Heritage Festival

Your support and donations have helped keep Ypsilanti's community festival free and fun for more than four decades. As one of the last remaining free admission festivals of its size in Michigan, the Ypsilanti Heritage Festival relies on the generosity of community members who believe in the power of celebration.

Why Your Donation Matters

The Heritage Festival welcomes nearly 100,000 visitors each year, and our commitment to free admission ensures that every family, regardless of their financial circumstances, can participate. Your donation directly supports:

Entertainment

Bringing quality performers to our multiple stages

Children's Programming

Ensuring young visitors have engaging, safe activities

Safety and Security

Maintaining a secure environment for all attendees

Facilities

Providing clean, accessible amenities throughout the grounds

Historic Tours

Connecting visitors with Ypsilanti's remarkable heritage

Festival Infrastructure

Stages, tents, signage, and equipment

Friends of the Festival

The Friends of the Festival program recognizes donors who make ongoing commitments to support the Heritage Festival. As a Friend of the Festival, you join a community of supporters who share a commitment to keeping this beloved tradition alive.

Friends of the Festival Benefits

  • Recognition in the festival program
  • Invitation to special donor appreciation events
  • Updates on festival planning and behind-the-scenes news
  • The satisfaction of knowing your contribution makes a difference

According to Charity Navigator, donations to local cultural events and festivals create measurable community benefits, from economic impact to social cohesion.

Ways to Give

One-Time Donation

Make a single contribution at any amount you choose. Every dollar helps, whether you can give $10 or $1,000.

Monthly Giving

Spread your support throughout the year with automatic monthly donations. This provides reliable funding for festival planning.

Memorial and Honorary Gifts

Honor a loved one's memory or celebrate a special occasion with a gift to the Heritage Festival.

Legacy Giving

Include the Heritage Festival in your estate plans to ensure this tradition continues for generations to come.

In-Kind Donations

Donations of goods and services can be as valuable as financial contributions. From office supplies to professional services, in-kind support helps reduce festival expenses.

Tax Information

The Ypsilanti Heritage Festival is organized as a nonprofit community event. Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of your contribution, and retain your donation receipt for your records.

Thank You

To everyone who has supported the Heritage Festival over the years, thank you. Your generosity ensures that families throughout southeastern Michigan can continue to gather each August for three days of celebration, connection, and community. Together, we keep the spirit of Ypsilanti's heritage alive.