Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – Opening night for the Grand Haven Musical Fountain is set for Friday, May 22, 2026, kicking off another season of nighttime shows along the waterfront.
This year brings major upgrades behind the scenes, including a revamped choreography program designed to boost creativity while making show design easier. A new Programmable Logic Controller system will handle commands from computers, operating water valves and other moving components with greater precision.
There’s also a new operator program aimed at simplifying nightly operations, automating many tasks that were previously done manually. Meanwhile, the fountain’s new AC3 Animated Choreography Software has entered public beta, giving creators even more tools to enhance performances.
Brad Boyink, one of the masterminds behind the fountain, has been instrumental in helping guide these upgrades and improvements:
Before opening night, crews will test new music and programming during special sessions scheduled for May 8th, 9th, 15th, and 16th.
The community is also invited to pitch in ahead of the season. A spring volunteer day is set for April 25th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the fountain hill. Volunteers of all ages can help with a variety of projects, including painting, gardening, trash pickup, and even some electrical work. Lunch will be provided, and participants can come and go as their schedules allow. Sign up here.
Those interested in helping or staying updated on future opportunities can sign up through the fountain’s website.
With new technology, fresh music, and community support, the Musical Fountain is gearing up for another memorable summer in Grand Haven.
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