As the Blossomtime Festival draws closer, a pair of early events highlight just how wide a net the tradition casts—from a kid-focused parade downtown to a lesser-known evening event that’s still finding its audience.
Youth Parade: A family favorite returns May 2
The most familiar—and one of the cornerstones of Blossom Week is the annual Youth Parade, set for Saturday, May 2 at noon along State Street in downtown St. Joseph.
It’s a natural draw for families with younger children, offering a chance to see (or be part of) a parade built just for them. Participants range from preschoolers through middle schoolers, with everything from decorated bikes and wagons to scout troops, pets, and costumed groups.
Lineup begins at 11 a.m. at Bear Park, behind the St. Joseph Library, with pre-registration required by April 29. Awards will be presented following the parade at the bandshell.
Leading the way this year will be 2026 Bud Princess Harper Jones and Bud Prince Korey Lopez, along with Blossomtime royalty from across the region.
Youth Ball: A lesser-known option the night before
The evening before the Youth parade—Friday, May 1—is a separate event that many in the community may not be as familiar with: the Blossomtime Youth Ball.
Held at the Shadowland Ballroom at the Silver Beach Carousel from 6 to 8:30 p.m., the event is open to the public and designed as a more structured, social experience for kids and families.
Organizers describe it as a “magical evening,” featuring a DJ, dessert offerings, and even rides on the nearby Silver Beach Carousel. Tickets are $22 per person and must be purchased in advance through the Blossomtime office—there are no door sales.
While the Youth Parade thrives on visibility and tradition, the Youth Ball is still building awareness in just its third year. For families looking for something a little different—or a way to extend the Blossomtime experience beyond the daytime events—it’s an option worth considering.
The ‘finale’ of Blossomtime, of course, is the Grand Floral Parade on Saturday, May 9, stepping off at 1 pm in downtown St. Joseph and making its way across the Bicentennial Bridge to downtown Benton Harbor for the 120th time. Fittingly, at least 120 units will participate.
For many, the parades will remain the centerpiece. But for those willing to try something new, the Youth Ball adds another dimension to Southwest Michigan’s most enduring community celebration.
