What began as a modest garden party has transformed into one of Wayne County’s most anticipated annual events. Grosse Ile’s IslandFest tells a powerful story of heritage, community, and growth, originating from a single flower and one family’s enduring passion for horticulture.
🌺 The Origins: From Azaleas to IslandFest
The roots of IslandFest trace back nearly a century to Ernest Stanton, a World War I veteran who began experimenting with non-native plants on what is now Michigan’s oldest family-maintained farm: Westcroft Gardens.
In 1984, his descendant Denise de Beausset, seventh-generation owner of Westcroft, launched the Azalea Festival to honor his contributions and celebrate the beauty of their gardens. That first celebration included:
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A live broadcast by Kelly and Co.
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A traditional Maypole dance
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A local parade down historic Macomb Street
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An arts & crafts exhibition
These elements quickly connected with locals, and the festival became a cherished tradition.
📍 From Westcroft Gardens to Grosse Ile Airport
As attendance rapidly grew, the festival expanded beyond Westcroft Gardens:
Key Milestones:
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1985: Event management shifted to the Macomb Street Business Association, reflecting the growing scale.
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1990s: Most events transitioned to Macomb Street to accommodate larger crowds.
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2002: Under the leadership of Tony Rutkowski, IslandFest officially moved to the Grosse Ile Airport.
Current Festival Location:
✈️ Grosse Ile Municipal Airport
Address: 9601 Groh Rd, Grosse Ile Township, MI 48138
This spacious new venue allowed for a broader event footprint while preserving the festival’s natural and historical charm.
🎉 The Modern IslandFest Experience
Today, IslandFest is a multi-day celebration offering something for everyone. It beautifully blends historic traditions with new, exciting additions.
Longtime Favorites:
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Macomb Street Parade
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Arts & Crafts Show featuring local artisans
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Carnival rides and amusements
These activities remain at the heart of the event, appealing to families and visitors of all ages.
🐾 New Traditions & Cultural Highlights
Over the past decade, IslandFest has kept things fresh by introducing new attractions:
Festival Favorites:
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TAILS Auction (Take Animals In Love & Service):
A beloved charitable event supporting animal welfare and adoption causes. -
Jazzapalooza:
A showcase of incredible local jazz talent, set against the scenic backdrop of Grosse Ile’s waterfront.
These additions reflect the community’s commitment to staying culturally relevant while continuing to support local artists and causes.
🏝️ A Festival that Celebrates Island Life
IslandFest continues to live up to its motto:
“Where the river ends and the fun begins.”
It’s more than just a festival—it’s a symbol of Grosse Ile’s resilience, growth, and deep community ties. From its azalea garden roots at Westcroft Gardens to its current home at the airport, the event captures the spirit of island life like no other.
