NACD to Host Inaugural Northside Day on August 8th, Celebrating Community, Connection, and the Future of Kalamazoo's Northside
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 3rd, 2026
KALAMAZOO, MI - The Northside Association for Community Development (NACD) is proud to invite residents, families, businesses, and visitors from across Kalamazoo to the inaugural Northside Day 2026, a full day of community celebration taking place on Saturday, August 8th.
Designed to celebrate the people, history, and momentum of Kalamazoo's Northside neighborhood, Northside Day brings together hundreds of community members for a day filled with wellness, entertainment, local organizations, small businesses, food, and family-friendly activities.
The day begins with the Northside Day 5K Walk/Run, followed immediately by the Community Celebration at LaCrone Park, and concludes with Beats on Northside Alley, an evening concert that transforms the neighborhood into a vibrant gathering space.
"Northside Day is about celebrating who we are as a community," said Jonathan Yarbrough, Executive Director of the Northside Association for Community Development. "Every organization, volunteer, sponsor, performer, vendor, and resident plays a role in making the Northside stronger. This day is an opportunity to come together, celebrate our progress, and continue building momentum for the future."
NACD Board President, Raymond Ryan, added, “The Northside’s strength has always come from the people and partnerships that move it forward. This acquisition is another example of what’s possible when we work together to invest in our community’s future.”
A Full Day of Activities
Northside Day offers something for every age.
The morning begins with the Northside Day 5K Walk/Run, welcoming runners and walkers of all experience levels as they travel through the heart of the neighborhood.
Beginning at 11:00 a.m., LaCrone Park will come alive with the Community Celebration featuring:
Live entertainment throughout the day
Local food vendors
Community organizations and resource booths
Family-friendly activities and games
Children's attractions
Local marketplace vendors
Health and wellness resources
Opportunities to connect with neighbors and community partners
Entertainment will feature performances from Markeva Love, Yolonda Lavender, the Suicide Squad Dance Team, with music throughout the day from DJ Kee and emceed by Quincy Ellis.
As the sun begins to set, the celebration continues with Beats on Northside Alley, featuring live music from The Skeletones alongside DJ Chuck, creating an evening experience that celebrates music, culture, and community.
A Celebration Made Possible Through Community
Northside Day is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who believe in investing in Kalamazoo's Northside.
Earlier this month, NACD announced that community support for Northside Day surpassed $125,000 toward its fundraising campaign, reflecting the growing investment and excitement surrounding the event.
"Seeing so many people and organizations rally behind Northside Day is a reminder that this neighborhood has so much potential," Yarbrough said. "This celebration belongs to the entire community, and we're grateful to everyone helping make it possible."
Everyone is Invited
Whether you're a lifelong Northside resident, a former neighbor returning home, or someone visiting for the very first time, Northside Day offers an opportunity to experience the culture, pride, and community spirit that define the Northside.
Admission to the Community Celebration and Beats on Northside Alley is free and open to the public.
For a complete schedule of events, race information, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, and additional event details, visit www.nacdkzoo.com/community-events/northside-day-2026.
About NACD
Since 1981, NACD has been a driving force for growth and opportunity in the Northside community. Through our training programs, economic development initiatives, and housing resources, we are committed to providing the tools and support residents need to build a brighter future.
For press inquiries or to learn more about NACD’s work, please contact:
Jonathan Yarbrough
Executive Director, NACD
Phone: [269-344-5490]
Email: [info@nacdkzoo.com]
Website: https://www.nacdkzoo.com/
