Travel to a foreign land, nor is a million dollars involved in this race, though the physical and mental challenges may be just as difficult.

Returning Saturday, July 22, during Dowagiac Summer in the City is the Amazing Race. Chamber Trustee Joe Silvia, who manages the Dowagiac branch of Chemical Bank, and Dean Orvis, director of the Pokagon Band Fitness Center, are co-chairing this third-annual event.

“We’re expecting 20 four-member teams, which will race in and around the community, moving from pit stop to pit stop, performing tasks involving brain and physical skills,” Silvia said.  “Some tasks may tap into your creativity, while others will require you to be resourceful, but all are meant to be fun. Teams will race against the clock and each other.

“A shotgun-type start kicks things off, as each team is given its first clue to various pit stops. Some clues are direct, while others may need to be solved before moving on. Activities may include all contestants, while others may need only two from the team. Contestants on each team will take turns completing the assigned activities.”

Businesses and community organizations can sign up for the Amazing Race by calling Silvia at (269) 782-2337.

Presented by the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce July 20-23, Summer in the City features vocal and instrumental entertainment and dance, and an array of family events. From roaming entertainers to boot scootin’ cowboy rock, organizers said this festival has it all.

Now in its 32nd year, the four-day summertime gala was underwritten by AK Montgomery, Burling & Gillesby DDS, Chemical Bank, Clark Chapel / Starks Family Funeral Homes, Creative Vinyl Signs, D. MottL Realty Group, Dowsett Chiropractic Health Center, Kim MacGregor’s Office of Edward Jones, Family Fare, Four Winds Casino, Lyons Industries, Olympia Books, Southwestern Michigan College, Wightman & Associates, Who Knew? Consignment and Wolverine Mutual Insurance Co.

Summer in the City opens Thursday evening, July 20, as one of southwestern Michigan’s brightest up and coming country singers, Jared Knox, presents a special 90-minute concert beginning at 7 p.m. at Beckwith Park.  Vickie Phillipson, Chamber of Commerce and DDA program director said the concert is part of the Beckwith Park Summer Concert Series, underwritten this year by Chemical Bank, Honor Credit Union and Huntington Bank.

The summertime bash swings into full gear Friday and Saturday with merchant sidewalk sales, family events and live entertainment.  Highlighting Friday is Summer on Tap, presented by Sister Lakes Brewing Company, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. and Nashville’s Kari Lynch Band that takes the stage at Beckwith Park, beginning at 7 p.m.  The festival wraps up Sunday afternoon, as ACTION presents a community praise jam at 2 p.m.

For a full schedule of events or to book a sidewalk booth at the event, call the Chamber of Commerce at (269) 782-8212 or visit DowagiacChamber.com.