Michigan

2023 Fire & Ice Festival in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

The Fire & Ice Festival in Downtown Rochester is back January 20th and 21st for another year of family fun and winter festivities that you can enjoy for FREE. The community celebration will be packed with events like axe throwing, cornhole, climbing wall, ice sculptures along Main Street, fireworks on both nights, The Big, Bright Light Show, live music, TasteFest, and so much more!

“The Fire & Ice Festival is a fun-filled opportunity to get out of the house, even in the depths of winter, to enjoy some fresh air and regain a sense of community. The event attracts thousands of people from across the region to get a taste of how joyful and active winter can really be.”

-Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter

The Fire & Ice Festival runs from 5 – 9 p.m. on Friday, January 20th and 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Saturday, January 21st. The fireworks are at 8 p.m. both days.

Take a look at our video for a preview of the fun:

Continue reading →

Nature’s Way Almanac 2023

Oakland County, MI Government 2 Comments

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

January

On New Year’s morning, I usually meander down to my marsh in the dawn’s early light. It just feels like the right thing to do. Crows announce my approach as cattail stalks rattle in the winds. I often see a buck that bed downs between the woodlands and the cattails, and he sometimes all but poses for a photo. He snorts at my approach and is gone. If my approach is exceedingly stealthy, and the wind is in my favor, every once in a while I have a fleeting glimpse of a coyote that shares my habitat and frequents the marshy area. I take satisfaction in knowing that even when I do not see a coyote, one may have seen me. I am good neighbors with my wildlife.

Continue reading →

Flurries of Fun All Winter Long with Oakland County Parks and Recreation

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
family sledding

Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) provides opportunities for you to stay active and enjoy nature all year – so don’t let the cold weather keep you indoors this winter! From cross-country skiing to fat tire biking, and birdwatching to participating in a hands-on program at one of the nature centers, there is always a reason to get outside and enjoy the crisp air, beautiful scenery, and fresh snow.

For a list of winter recreation opportunities by park, click here.

Continue reading →

Knocking on Winter’s Door

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
snow-covered trees in the woods

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

December 21st brought us the Winter Solstice, the first day of winter. Perhaps you heard winter knocking at your door? That moment in time officially arrived at 4:48 p.m. EST. It was the shortest day of the year with only 8 hours and 46 minutes of daylight. Hours of daylight are now slowly increasing as we creep towards the dawn of spring; just three months away but still well-hidden over the horizon. The dawn of winter, however, is an exciting time. It reminds me to get my cross country skis out of hibernation to be ready for winter adventure in our parks and to plan northern adventures.

Continue reading →

Key Tips for Surviving Inflation

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

As the Consumer Price Index rises, the cost of goods and services continues to skyrocket along with credit card interest rates, and our purchasing power declines. Here are a few tips from the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office that will help reduce the financial strain and build toward your future.

Review and modify your spending habits

It’s important to assess your expenses and embrace a more cautious spending approach.

Establish clear spending priorities and save money

Set priorities to cover your essential needs and make regular deposits into your savings account.

Compare prices for the best deal

Shop around before buying and maximize your loyalty and reward programs.

Clip coupons regularly

Use paper, digital, and mobile coupons on sale items for the best savings.

Continue reading →