Shay Days is a two-day, family-focused celebration of inventor Ephraim Shay with numerous activities for visitors of all ages to explore Shay’s impact on our history. The event takes place at Shay Park on Main Street as well as at the Harbor Springs History Museum on Friday and Saturday, July 15 and 16 from 10am to 3pm both days.

SCHEDULE

July 15 & 16 | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | Steam Trains
Stop by and meet the Michigan Small Scale Live Steamers, a group of model train experts who will be running theirmodel locomotives both days. The trains have real steam boilers and are a delight to watch. The steamers are also happy to chat about how Shay’s geared locomotive operates and why it was superior to rod-driven trains.

July 15 & 16 | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | Crafts & Games
Kids crafts, games and STEAM projects will take place under a tent in Shay Park both days. These include many train-themed projects as well as a “penny float” boat experiment. There will also be a “drainpipe regatta” where visitors can put together their own sailboats and race them.

July 15 & 16 | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | Models & Demonstrations
Using carefully constructed models, guests can see demonstrations on artesian wells and lumber transportation in the late 1800s. Demos take place every half hour and are great for all ages. Both models will be on the second story of the Harbor Springs History Museum.

July 15 & 16 | 10:30 am & 2:00 pm | Story Time
A short history of Ephraim Shay specifically designed for children. A great introduction to all things Shay! Talks take place at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm by the Aha boat in Shay Park.

July 15 & 16 | 10:30 am | Walking Tour

A walking tour, beginning at the History Museum on Main Street, follows some of the railroad grade of the historic Hemlock Central railway. Advance registration is appreciated. 231-526-9771.

This event is sponsored by Kelbel Pharmacy, the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation,
the Petoskey Area Visitor’s Bureau and Meyer Ace Hardware. THANK YOU!