If boats and beach time aren't your thing, plan to spend an evening at the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival instead. The main streets around the intersection of S. Harbor Drive and Washington Avenue shut down and play host to a variety of street food vendors and carnival vendors. For the best evening experience, plan to spend the last Saturday of the festival in Grand Haven for food, games, and fireworks (Aug. 3 for the 2013 festival). Bring your blankets and stake your claim to prime viewing for the firework show. Choose a spot along the shore that has an open view of the Musical Fountain across the river. Now that your territory is claimed, its time to play some games or eat some food. Washington Ave will be your source for carnival rides and games. The crowds will be thick, but the rides and games are plenty. Kids will be amused by all the lights and you'll be entertained by the people. If food is what you're looking for, skip the restaurants. Instead, opt for one of the more unique food vendor options like the barbeque truck with a variety of styles, the Greek stand, or my personal favorite, the roasted corn stand. It is by far the best corn on the cob I've ever had. Perfectly roasted and seasoned, it's a yearly favorite. If you must indulge in the elephant ears and funnel cakes, grab some right before you head back to your blanket for the show. You'll be able to eat and relax while enjoying the best fireworks show in Michigan.