Sunset Grille hosted a rooftop fireworks viewing fundraiser for Save the Dunes on its rooftop cantina on Thursday, July 4. Sunset Grille’s location right on the beach of Lake Michigan made for an unforgettable viewing experience for all attendees.
“It's a beautiful view. You can't get a better seat for the fireworks in Michigan City. You're up out of the crowd,” Sunset Grille Events and Catering Manager Julie Krause said. “We have a great buffet, you’re waited on hand and foot, and it is a beautiful view of the fireworks.”
While attendees waited for the sun to set and fireworks to begin, they were treated to a dinner buffet featuring a summertime grill theme using Sunset Grille’s always-fresh ingredients as well as a show from Southern rock group the Sunday Sons. Tickets to the event also included access to a cash bar and party favors.
The main draw of the night, however, was the private seating on Sunset Grille’s rooftop to watch the fireworks show over Lake Michigan once dusk settled in. Because Sunset Grille’s rooftop had a ticketed entrance, crowds were limited, and attendees were able to enjoy the show from a higher vantage point.
“We have a sold out house tonight. We are completely full and ready for everyone to arrive,” Krause said.
Having such a well-attended event was important to Krause and the team at Sunset Grille. Not only did it give the community an opportunity to experience the unique benefits of Sunset Grille, it also raised more money for Save the Dunes.
Save the Dunes is a non-profit dedicated to ensuring the Indiana Dunes and beaches are healthy, fun, and accessible for those living, working, and recreating in Northwest Indiana. All fees from tonight’s viewing went towards supporting Save the Dunes’ mission.
As a property making great use of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area, protecting the Dunes is especially important for Sunset Grille.
“Every year that we do this we try to donate back to an organization that's attached to the park. I think this is the second time we've donated to Save the Dunes. We've done the zoo, we've done the lighthouse Museum, so we tried to do something associated with the park. It's great,” Krause said.
Without the Dunes and the people protecting them, events like Sunset Grille’s fireworks viewing party wouldn’t be possible. It also wouldn’t be possible without continued community support.
“I’d like to thank my staff and the Parks Department. There's a lot of staff, not only the ones that are here, but all the ones behind the scene that make this happen. The Park Department works really well with us in setting it up and making it happen,” Krause said.
While the fireworks are past, Sunset Grille still has a lineup of fun activities planned for the summer on the lake. From live music featuring local performers to karaoke nights featuring you, Sunset Grille’s full plan of events can be found on its website.
Sunset Grille is open Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 11 a.m., weather permitting, with the rooftop cantina opening at 4 p.m. To stay up-to-date on dates, events, and the always-fresh menu, visit sunsetgrilleatthebeach.com.
