Prior to 1971, Dexter Daze was known as “Sidewalk Days” and local merchants displayed their goods for purchase on the sidewalk in front of their businesses.
In 1972, Elaine Owsley and Nancy McLeod began chairing the first “Discover Dexter Days” for the Dexter Chamber of Commerce. The event was held on August 4 & 5, and activities included old-time movies, a pie-baking contest, square dancing, a parade and much more.
In 1973, several additional events were added and an ad in the Standard highlighted “Dexter Days Specials” submitted by the local IGA. Many more Main Street Merchants participated in the festivities including:
~ A Dime Store operated by the Arnolds
~ Coin Laundry
~ Dancer's
~ Detroit Edison Office
~ Goodyear's Outpost
~ Hackney Hardware
~ 7 M’s Bar which preceded the Waters Pub and the Dexter Pub
~ LaRosa's Confectionary, Soda Fountain and Bar
~ LaVallie's Drug Store
~ Needle Nook
~ Penny's TV Repair
~ Sportsman's Bar
~ Weber's Furniture
~ Zeeb's Meat Market
In 1974, “Dexter's Sesquicentennial” replaced “Discover Dexter Days” and the festival greatly enlarged. This was also the year when discussions emerged about “Days or Daze”.
From 1975 until today, “Dexter Daze” has occurred every year. Enthusiasm, as well as community growth, has developed an event that includes over 100 booths of artisans and crafters, free entertainment for the whole family, and a sense of “community” with people knowing and caring for their neighbors.
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