Even at 50 years old, Southwestern Michigan College knows how to throw one heck of a birthday party.

And the best part: the entire community is on the guest list.

This Saturday, the college will host an-all extravaganza celebrating a half-century of operation at their Dowagiac campus. Dozens of events will open to the public, most of which are offered free of charge.

“We wanted to do something to thank the community for 50 years of support, not just financially but for sending their kids here,” said Eileen Crouse, vice president of student services and one of the main organizers of Saturday’s festivities. “We wanted to host an event that would encourage our alumni to return as well.”

Among the highlights of the activities the college will offer visitors this weekend includes live music from both student and professional musicians, a giant Ferris wheel, and an explosive fireworks display to cap off the day.

Naturally, the planning process for the bash didn’t take place over a single weekend. Overseen by core committee, a number of different subcommittees have spent the last several months devising attractions that would make the day a can’t-miss event for students, staff and residents.

“I think every single employee is involved in one way, shape or form in the activities for the day,” Crouse said. “If you look, many of the events are tied in with our

academic programs.”

One such exhibition will be the school of business and advanced technology’s car show, featuring vehicles refinished by SMC students and vintage cars owned by members of the community. Another will be the art fair, organized by staff with the school of visual arts, which will offer the works of alumni artists, for display and for sale.

The student activity center will also open its doors to visitors on Saturday, offering disc golf, rock climbing and other recreational events for the entire family.

Besides providing an entertaining way to spend the day, the anniversary celebration has a number of events aimed at former students, such as an alumni welcome tent, as well as prospective students, including tours of their campus and residence halls.

“We could handle thousands of visitors, and I hope we do,” Crouse said. “We’re ready for them, and we’ve done a good job spreading the word to the community.”

The campus opens up 8:30 a.m., with events running until after 9 p.m. Most of the events will have an alternative indoor location in case of rain.

“I encourage everyone to come out and see what we’ve done,” she said. “We’re proud of our accomplishments, and we think our visitors should be too.”