DOWAGIAC, Mich. -- Miss Dowagiac Natasha Griggs and her Court of Honor are inviting local children to join them for a Princess Tea Party at 1:30 p.m. on April 20, at Caruso’s Candy Kitchen.

"If you have an inspiring princess at home, Dowagiac’s upcoming Spring Open House provides the perfect opportunity for your child to receive her cherished tiara," organizers said. ".

The event is free as part of downtown Dowagiac’s Spring Open House Weekend on April 19-20.

During its first year, the open house focused on in-store sales, this year the focus has turned towards more entertainment to draw people to the downtown area.

“As we grow the community event, we are pleased this year to roll out a spring runway of live storefront window mannequins, strolling musicians and the Princess Tea Party on Saturday,” said organizer and owner of Cottage Gallery Vickie Phillipson. “Spring Open House is being underwritten by our friends and associates at Family Fare, Garage Doors Plus More and Honor Credit Union. With their help, we are excited to feature activities on Saturday afternoon to engage the public.”

Seating for the tea party is limited to 20 children. To reserve a seat, parents should all (269) 591-9185.

"Attendees will receive a tiara and enjoy cookies, story time and photos with Miss Dowagiac Natasha Griggs before they stroll Front Street with members of the Court of Honor Abby Dobberstein, Jamie Howard and Hayley Jones," organizers said. 

Downtown businesses hosting Spring Open House Weekend include: Bow Wow Bakery & Bath, Caruso’s, Cottage Gallery, Deck the Halls, Flowers by Anna, The Marshall Shoppe, Oh My – Old Made New, Olympia Books, Rosy Tomorrows, Vincent J. Jewelers and Who Knew? Consignment.

“This special weekend provides shop owners with the opportunity to showcase their new spring and summer merchandise,” Phillipson said. “The weekend event opens on Friday, April 19, with in-store promotions as businesses also feature drawings, sweet treats or giveaways. On Saturday, as activities gear up for the community, guest in-store vendors will also join us downtown.

The Princess Tea Party is hosted by Caruso’s and the Miss Dowagiac Court of Honor and is free to all children.