When Kristin Giancola’s husband, Domenic, mentioned hosting a community-wide health and wellness festival, she quickly got on board. Owners of iCRYO in Grosse Pointe Farms, they totally understand the benefits of preventative and holistic medicine. Their business offers vitamin infusions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ozone therapy, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and more to boost people’s health and immune systems.
“We're really excited,” she says. “I'm a part of the Hill Association, and we were talking about other events we could do on the Hill that would be fun for the whole family. One thing I hear a lot from moms is that there aren't enough health-focused events where you can bring your child.”
They presented their idea to the mayor and the Grosse Pointe Farms Council, and they wholeheartedly approved it. The Grosse Pointe Thrive on the Hill festival will be held on Saturday, July 15, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
“The Grosse Pointe Chamber has really worked hard to partner with us on all of the logistics that it takes to host a large festival here on the Hill. They've been very, very helpful.”
The plan is to showcase all of the local health and fitness businesses. “Grosse Pointe is so health-focused,” says Kristin. “We have many Pilates and yoga studios, gyms, and healthy food offerings. This is a fun way to bring these local businesses together and celebrate them. We want everyone to participate, whether they're our competitors or synergistic, because it's not about us.”
As of May 18, they already had 23 vendors signed up, with another 20 pending, and they are hoping for even more as word gets out.
The event is completely free, and attendees can participate in classes, learn about gardening, and sample healthy foods. “One focus has been on getting all of the movement places involved. We're going to have about eight free live classes lasting about half an hour or so.” There will even be chair yoga for those with mobility issues.
Children will be able to conquer a giant 60-foot inflatable obstacle course, jump around in a bounce house, have their faces painted, and interact with a balloon artist. “We’re really including all generations of the family,” she says.
People will also be able to receive giveaways, enter raffles, listen to lively music, and enjoy the many restaurants on the Hill. “It's just a great marketing event for so many vendors and business owners,” says Kristin. “We’re bringing people to the area and letting them know what we’re doing.” Nonprofits such as The War Memorial and The Family Center will also be participating.
If the event goes well, Kristin and Domenic plan to form a committee and hold it annually. “There have already been several local business owners who have said they would like to help out,” she says.
Enjoy this fun and health-focused day with your family! To find out more about the Grosse Pointe Thrive on the Hill festival, go to GrossePointeChamber.org, Instagram.com/reels/DYP1YsskjVB or Facebook.com/events/1409719427127596.
Pull quote: “Grosse Pointe is so health-focused,” says Kristin. “We have many Pilates and yoga studios, gyms, and healthy food offerings.”