Our Story

How Believe in Brighton Came to Be

Brighton, MI is Established

Brighton, established in 1832, incorporated as a village in 1867 and became a city in 1928.
Known for its charming downtown area and vibrant community, Brighton blends small-town
appeal with modern amenities, offering a rich history and welcoming atmosphere.

1927 Buy, Build, Believe in Campaign Launches

The Brighton Argus published an article in 1927 promoting the need to “Buy, Build, Believe in
Brighton” to support local businesses during a period of economic challenge. Its goal was to
encourage residents to invest in their community by purchasing from local merchants,
constructing new developments, and fostering a strong belief in the town’s potential. The
campaign’s inspirational messaging promoted an equal playing field for all businesses,
emphasizing collective support for Brighton as a whole. Its enduring legacy reflects the
community’s resilience and commitment to mutual growth and prosperity.

The First Taste of Brighton Festival

Downtown merchants organized the first Taste of Brighton Festival. Evolving from Summerfest,
which focused on sidewalk sales, the event added local food vendors, live music, activities,
dance performances, and continues to grow every July!

A Taste of Brighton Incorporates

A Taste of Brighton becomes a 501c3 Michigan nonprofit organization managed by a Board of
Directors consisting of local business owners for the purpose of promoting and supporting
Brighton, Michigan businesses with a special emphasis on Downtown Brighton. The focus is the
annual Community Celebration and Summer Festival, A Taste of Brighton, along with various
other projects and events that support and create awareness for the community and its
businesses.

Buy Build Believe Inspires Believe in Brighton

As local business owners themselves, the directors of A Taste of Brighton understood the need
to support local during the nearly yearlong Streetscape construction project. The idea was
sparked by an Historical Society post of the 1927 Buy, Build, Believe in Brighton campaign. With
a group of over 60 downtown Brighton business owners the Board launched the Believe in
Brighton campaign and website to support merchants during the construction and beyond.

A Taste of Brighton Begins Conducting Business Under the Name Believe in Brighton

The organization formally utilizes the assumed name, Believe in Brighton as this rebranding
reflects its commitment to further their mission to support the local businesses’ and promote
Brighton through the annual Taste of Brighton Festival, Ladies Night and other endeavors.