Oddities fest: Explore haunted history and horror icons at Crossroads event

GENESEE TWP, Mich. — Crossroads Village will once again embrace the unusual with its second Curious at Crossroads: Oddities Fest — a celebration of ghost stories, historical quirks and all things strange.

The family-friendly event runs Saturday, June 21 through Sunday, June 22, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring more than 100 vendors, guest speakers, daily programming, and themed attractions. Highlights include an appearance by Tony Moran, best known as the unmasked Michael Myers in the 1978 film “Halloween.”

“The idea was sparked by a desire to explore Crossroads Village from a different angle — highlighting its historical quirks, ghost stories, and community of collectors and artists who specialize in the unusual,” said Jacklynn Domerese, communications, event and brand manager for the Genesee County Parks and Recreation Commission. “It’s a celebration of curiosity, storytelling and the magic of the unexpected.”

Last year’s event drew more than 2,000 visitors. This year’s edition features even more vendors and haunted village tours extended beyond the festival weekend.

Vendors are selected for their alignment with the festival’s “oddities” theme, offering antiques, taxidermy, vintage goods, metaphysical items, art and what Domerese describes as “handmade curiosities.”

Guests can explore the historic village grounds, browse spooky books and art from the “Tub of Terrors,” and enjoy food from local trucks or the Crossroads Café. A curated exhibition by paranormal investigator Nicole Beauchamp will also be on display.

A separate ticketed experience, Messages & Mimosas, will also be offered as part of the weekend’s programming. The 21+ event features a presentation from historian and shipwreck expert Ric Mixter, author of “Bottled Goodbyes.” Mixter will share stories of Great Lakes legends and messages in bottles. The $18 ticket includes the presentation, a mimosa, small plate brunch and a book signing.

A separate 21-plus ticketed experience, Messages & Mimosas, will be offered as part of the weekend. The $18 ticket includes a mimosa, a small plate brunch, and a presentation by historian and shipwreck expert Ric Mixter, author of Bottled Goodbyes, who will share tales of Great Lakes legends and messages in bottles. A book signing will follow.

The Oddities Fest takes place at Crossroads Village, 6140 Bray Road in Flint. For more information, tickets, and vendor applications, visit geneseecountyparks.org.