Summer is in full swing here in Michigan, and you know what that means: it’s time to get out and celebrate what makes our state so wonderfully unique! If you’re searching for new and exciting events to enjoy with loved ones, look no further. We’ve listed ten awesome festivals throughout the Great Lakes State that will undoubtedly make your summer complete.
- National Cherry Festival (July 1-8, Traverse City)
Facebook/National Cherry Festival This longtime Traverse City festival draws in scores of visitors each year, and you’re sure to have an absolute blast when you stop by to check it out. From a 5K run to an air show to the annual crowning of the Cherry Queen, we promise you’ll have a sweet experience during this fun-filled week.
- Muskegon Rockstock (July 2-4, Muskegon)
Facebook/Muskegon Rockstock If you’re a fan of rock music, it doesn’t get much better than this wonderful celebration in the West Michigan town of Muskegon. Get ready to rock along with all sorts of performers, including tribute bands paying homage to Ozzy Osbourne and Pink Floyd. What could be more fun?
- Venetian Festival (July 15-22, Charlevoix)
Facebook/Charlevoix Venetian Festival If you’re seeking an upbeat celebration that’s simply overflowing with Michigan charm, the Venetian Festival might just be perfect for you. Watch the breathtaking annual boat parade, enjoy a parade with the kiddos, marvel at street performers, or settle in to watch the fireworks. No matter how you spend your day at this festival, you’ll have an absolute blast.
- Lakeshore Art Festival (July 7-8, Muskegon)
Facebook/Lakeshore Art Festival Art enthusiasts of all ages will fall in love with this fun-filled festival, which brings together artists from all disciplines for two days of celebration. Enjoy some delicious street food, listen to live music, and peruse countless arts and crafts displays throughout the city. What’s not to love?
- Sault Summer Arts Festival (August 1, Sault Ste. Marie)
Facebook/I Love Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Venture to the Upper Peninsula for a fun-filled day of art and excitement with the family. Check out some incredible handmade jewelry, explore works of photography, or buy a new painting to display in your home. Regardless of your artistic preferences, you’re certain to find a new favorite item here.
- Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival (June 29-July 4, Battle Creek)
Facebook/Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival If you’re always wanted to experience a fascinating air show in person, head out to this one-of-a-kind festival in Battle Creek. Check out carnival rides, take a ride in a hot air balloon, or simply peruse the area to learn more about airplanes of all types. This is an absolute dream of a festival, and we think you’ll find it hard to leave!
- Algonac Pickerel Tournament and Festival (June 30-July 4, Algonac)
Flickr/Algonac Lions Club Michigan has no shortage of fishing enthusiasts, and the Pickerel Festival is an ideal event at which to express your love for the sport! Watch or participate in fishing tournaments, enjoy public fireworks, or mingle with new pals in the beer tent. This might not be your typical summer festival, but it sure is fun.
- Cheeseburger In Caseville (August 11-20, Caseville)
Facebook/Cheeseburger In Caseville Festival You might just be in paradise with a visit to this fun-filled celebration in the tiny waterfront town of Caseville. Tropical decor, colorful clothing, plenty of margaritas, and — of course — cheeseburgers await at this celebration of all things Jimmy Buffett. Does it get more unique than this? We think not!
- GRandJazzFest (August 19-20, Grand Rapids)
Facebook/GRandJazzFest Nothing says summer like jamming out to live music, and this jazz festival in Grand Rapids is the perfect place to groove. This weekend-long event is family-friendly and completely free — so it’s a great spot to explore the wonder of jazz and appreciate some quality time with loved ones.
- Boyne Falls Polish Festival (August 3-6, Boyne Falls)
Boyne Falls Polish Festival/Photo Gallery Even if you have no Polish heritage whatsoever, you’ll feel like an honorary Pole at this unforgettable event in Boyne Falls. This summer’s event marks 43 years of celebrating all things Polish, and there’s genuinely something here for everyone. Check out live music in the polka tent, indulge in traditional Polish food, or enjoy the annual parade.
Well, there you have it: a list of awesome celebrations to explore throughout Michigan this summer! Did we leave any of your favorite festivals off our list? We’re always eager to hear your suggestions in the comment section below!
Facebook/National Cherry Festival
This longtime Traverse City festival draws in scores of visitors each year, and you’re sure to have an absolute blast when you stop by to check it out. From a 5K run to an air show to the annual crowning of the Cherry Queen, we promise you’ll have a sweet experience during this fun-filled week.
Facebook/Muskegon Rockstock
If you’re a fan of rock music, it doesn’t get much better than this wonderful celebration in the West Michigan town of Muskegon. Get ready to rock along with all sorts of performers, including tribute bands paying homage to Ozzy Osbourne and Pink Floyd. What could be more fun?
Facebook/Charlevoix Venetian Festival
If you’re seeking an upbeat celebration that’s simply overflowing with Michigan charm, the Venetian Festival might just be perfect for you. Watch the breathtaking annual boat parade, enjoy a parade with the kiddos, marvel at street performers, or settle in to watch the fireworks. No matter how you spend your day at this festival, you’ll have an absolute blast.
Facebook/Lakeshore Art Festival
Art enthusiasts of all ages will fall in love with this fun-filled festival, which brings together artists from all disciplines for two days of celebration. Enjoy some delicious street food, listen to live music, and peruse countless arts and crafts displays throughout the city. What’s not to love?
Facebook/I Love Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Venture to the Upper Peninsula for a fun-filled day of art and excitement with the family. Check out some incredible handmade jewelry, explore works of photography, or buy a new painting to display in your home. Regardless of your artistic preferences, you’re certain to find a new favorite item here.
Facebook/Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival
If you’re always wanted to experience a fascinating air show in person, head out to this one-of-a-kind festival in Battle Creek. Check out carnival rides, take a ride in a hot air balloon, or simply peruse the area to learn more about airplanes of all types. This is an absolute dream of a festival, and we think you’ll find it hard to leave!
Flickr/Algonac Lions Club
Michigan has no shortage of fishing enthusiasts, and the Pickerel Festival is an ideal event at which to express your love for the sport! Watch or participate in fishing tournaments, enjoy public fireworks, or mingle with new pals in the beer tent. This might not be your typical summer festival, but it sure is fun.
Facebook/Cheeseburger In Caseville Festival
You might just be in paradise with a visit to this fun-filled celebration in the tiny waterfront town of Caseville. Tropical decor, colorful clothing, plenty of margaritas, and — of course — cheeseburgers await at this celebration of all things Jimmy Buffett. Does it get more unique than this? We think not!
Facebook/GRandJazzFest
Nothing says summer like jamming out to live music, and this jazz festival in Grand Rapids is the perfect place to groove. This weekend-long event is family-friendly and completely free — so it’s a great spot to explore the wonder of jazz and appreciate some quality time with loved ones.
Boyne Falls Polish Festival/Photo Gallery
Even if you have no Polish heritage whatsoever, you’ll feel like an honorary Pole at this unforgettable event in Boyne Falls. This summer’s event marks 43 years of celebrating all things Polish, and there’s genuinely something here for everyone. Check out live music in the polka tent, indulge in traditional Polish food, or enjoy the annual parade.
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