Michigan Junior Optimists are kicking off the new Optimist year with a day of friendship, fun, and fellowship at Orchard of Optimism, a special fall gathering at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill in Armada.
The event will take place Saturday, September 26, from 12:00–3:00 PM and is open to Junior Optimists and Optimist members from Alpha, Junior, Octagon, and Adult Optimist Clubs. It’s a great opportunity to meet Optimists from across Michigan, make new friends, share ideas, and enjoy one of Michigan’s favorite fall traditions together.
A Day of Fun, Friendship & Optimism
The group will meet near the pavilion by the Orchard Cafe at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill. The afternoon will begin with some fun icebreakers before everyone has an opportunity to explore the many activities available throughout the orchard.
Activities may include:
- Apple picking
- Animal petting farm
- Cornfield maze
- Inflatables
- Straw Mountain
- Haunted Village
- John Deere Speedway
Optimists are welcome to arrive before noon or remain after the gathering to spend additional time enjoying the orchard.
At approximately 2:45 PM, everyone will gather again at the pavilion to hear club updates, project ideas and plans, and important Michigan District announcements.
Building Friendships and Brighter Tomorrows
Orchard of Optimism is more than a fall outing. It is an opportunity for our Junior Optimists to build friendships, exchange ideas, and strengthen the connections that make JOI such an important part of the Optimist family.
When young people from different clubs come together, they discover that they are part of something much larger than their own school or community. Events like this help encourage leadership, service, teamwork, and the friendships that can last for years.
We encourage Michigan Optimists to help spread the word and invite the Junior Optimists in their communities to attend.
Event Details
Orchard of Optimism
Saturday, September 26, 2026
12:00–3:00 PM
Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill
17985 Armada Center Road
Armada, MI 48005
Meeting Location: Pavilion near the Orchard Cafe
There is no fee to attend the gathering. Some optional orchard activities, including apple picking, may require an additional fee.
Come enjoy a Michigan fall afternoon filled with good friends, great memories, and brighter tomorrows. We hope to see Junior Optimists and Optimists from throughout the Michigan District at the Orchard of Optimism!
