Portage - The Celery City

From Muck to Market: The Celery Legacy of Portage, MI

Long before Portage’s modern suburbs and business parks took shape, much of the land between Kalamazoo and Portage was covered by fields of celery. In fact, by the 1880s, Portage had become part of what locals called the “Celery City” — an agricultural zone where celery farming flourished thanks to rich muck soils and strategic climate conditions.

These marshy lands were transformed by Dutch immigrants who brought specialized techniques from Europe. Unlike common green celery, Portage’s variety was paler, sweeter, and less bitter — the result of “blanching,” a method that shielded stalks from sunlight to improve flavor.

At its peak, over 1,000 acres of celery filled the Kalamazoo‑Portage region. A tight‑knit network of growers, packers, and rail distributors helped fuel local commerce and earned the city a national reputation.

As the 20th century progressed, urban expansion and farming shifts led to a decline in celery production. But its roots are far from forgotten.

Today, the Celery Flats Historical Area honors this agricultural legacy. Located in Portage, the site features restored historic buildings, scenic walking trails, and educational exhibits. You might even spot Mr. Crispy, the city’s beloved celery mascot — a playful nod to its past.

The fields may be gone, but the celery spirit still thrives in Portage’s story

Upcoming Events

Save the Date for the Kalamazoo Hamfest - A Must-Attend Event for Radio Hobbyists!

The Kalamazoo Hamfest happening on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center, is a popular event for radio hobbyists.

It offers forums, equipment swaps, vendors, and opportunities for community networking.

Admission details will be posted closer to the event date.

It is a great opportunity for radio enthusiasts to connect with others, learn new skills, and explore a variety of equipment and services related to their hobby.

Exploring the Historic Homes of Stuart Neighborhood: Guided Walking Tour on October 4, 2025 at 12:00 PM.

Join a guided walking tour of historic homes in the Stuart neighborhood on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM.

The tour will take place at Stuart / Woodward School for Technology & Research in Kalamazoo and will showcase the craftsmanship and stories behind these unique homes.

Registration is required for admission to this event.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Stuart neighborhood and the architectural beauty of its historic homes.

Save the Date for the Kalamazoo County Expo Center's Fall Craft Show on October 4, 2025!

The Kalamazoo County Expo Center will host a craft show on Saturday, October 4, 2025, featuring booths of local makers, artisans, and vendors selling handmade items, decor, jewelry, and more.

Admission details will be posted closer to the event date.

Join us for a Citywide Scavenger Hunt in Kalamazoo and Portage from October 3-5, 2025!

Join us from October 3-5, 2025 at Bronson Park in Kalamazoo for a citywide scavenger hunt.

With teams solving clues, completing challenges, and exploring local landmarks in Kalamazoo and Portage, this event is perfect for families, groups of friends, or team-building activities.

Admission is available through Eventbrite, and the hunt begins at 9:00 AM each day.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to explore the area in a fun and interactive way!

Visit the Portage Farmers Market Before October 12 for Fresh, Locally Sourced Goods and Support Local Vendors!

The Portage Farmers Market is wrapping up its 2025 season with only two weekends left to visit.

Taking place at the Portage City Hall Parking Lot, shoppers can browse a variety of local produce, meats, honey, baked goods, crafts, and more.

The market is open rain or shine and offers free admission.

Make sure to stop by before October 12 to support local vendors and stock up on fresh, locally sourced goods.

The 2025 Real Estate Market Trends in Portage and Kalamazoo: Positive Growth and Seller's Markets.

The mid-2025 real estate market in Portage and Kalamazoo shows positive trends in terms of median list and sold prices.

In Portage, the median list price is $349,500 (+3.4% YoY) with a median sold price of $290,000 (+3.8% YoY).

The average home value in Portage is $297,105, and homes typically spend around 34 days on the market.

On the other hand, the median sale price in Kalamazoo is $205,000 (+6.8% YoY), with a county median of $292,500 and an average home value of $240,395.

Homes in Kalamazoo have a relatively short turnaround time on the market, ranging from 17 to 39 days.

Some key market insights include Portage showing strength at higher price points and steady appreciation, while Kalamazoo remains a seller's market with faster turnover.

Supply constraints are impacting prices in both areas, and year-over-year trends indicate stable to modestly rising values.

It is important to note that data sources may vary, so it is recommended to consult with local real estate professionals for the most accurate information.

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