Looking for the Best Things to Do in Michigan in June? Find Top June Events in Michigan, Concerts, Lilac Festival, Art Festivals, Balloon Fest and More
The summer season is heating up with tons of events and things to do in Michigan in June. Michigan festivals and events in June are all about kicking off summer with great outdoor fun in the sun.
Whether it’s a festival of the arts on a quaint downtown street in a Lake Michigan beach town, or a music festival unlike any other in the heart of one of Michigan’s largest cities, like Detroit or Grand Rapids, there’s something for everyone.
June in Michigan
Michigan in June is a time to welcome the warm weather with plenty of events festivals and county fairs. Here are some of our favorite can’t-miss Michigan events this June and amazing places to visit in June.
We’ve divided them by region to make it easier if you’re looking for “things to do in June near me!”
PRO-TIP: Don’t miss Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend on June 11 -12. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for all species of fish. This also means you will not need a state park recreation pass to enter Michigan’s state parks. From Lake Huron and the AuSable River to South Haven and St. Joseph and beyond, this is a great opportunity to do some fishing!
Things to do in East Michigan in June
Swartz Creek Hometown Days
Where: Swartz Creek
When: June 2- 5
You’ll find carnival games, lunch, rides, music and much more at this popular festival in Swartz Creek just south of Port Huron on Michigan’s Thumb Coast. It’s the largest festival in the area, drawing almost 40,000 people annually.
Original Michigan Lavender Festival
Where: Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds; 195 Midway St, Imlay City, MI
When: June 3-4
Immerse yourself in the sights and smells of lavender at a true “symphony for the senses” in Imlay City. For 20 years the Original Michigan Lavender Festival has provided a relaxing atmosphere where lavender lovers can appreciate the herb and support local artisans. Over the years this festival has settled comfortably at the Eastern Michigan Fairgrounds as the largest lavender festival on the east coast.
Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix
Where: 300 Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243
When: June 3-5
Belle Isle Park comes alive in June with the sound of roaring engines, and the 32nd Grand Prix event in Detroit is sure to draw a crowd. This event includes several races, the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix, the Chevrolet Sports Car Classic, the Indy Lights Series, and more.
The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix is fun for the whole family, but fans of cars or vehicular racing especially will really love this event.
PRO-TIP: Plan some extra time to visit the Detroit Riverwalk and take in the amazing views. You’ll see Canada across the Detroit River, and great views of Detroit, too.
Michigan MEGA Food Truck Rally
Where: Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Ct,Lake Orion,MI
When: June 4-5, 2022
The Annual Michigan MEGA Food Truck Rally will showcase an unparalleled selection of unique cuisines, beers, wines and cocktails, food trucks, music, and shopping. This annual family-friendly event will also feature loads of fun for all ages and guests will enjoy hours of action-packed entertainment.
Detroit River Days
Where: Detroit RiverWalk, Detroit, MI
When: June 11
The Detroit River Days Festival is a great opportunity to kick off summer in downtown Detroit. Watch jet-ski demos from the riverwalk as live music fills the air. Admire magnificent sand sculptures or try to build one of your own. Don’t forget to enjoy some delicious food provided through vendors and food trucks. The best part? Admission to River Days in Detroit is only $5!
2022 Ford Fireworks
Where: Downtown Detroit
When: June 27
The Ford Fireworks are a summer favorite in Detroit and every year they seem to get better and better. This year’s theme is “Hey Detroit! The Sky Shines for You,” which recognizes Detroit’s strength and resilience.
Detroit’s summer kickoff, The Rooftop Party presented by Ford, is again held by The Parade Company. Attend The Rooftop Party with friends for the best views of the show and plenty to eat and drink.
Michigan Challenge BalloonFest in Howell
Where: Howell High School 1200 W Grand River Rd, Howell, MI
When: June 24 – 26
Have you ever seen the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons in flight? Here’s your chance.
It’s worth a road trip to southeast Michigan to visit the 37th annual balloon festival, which has become a June destination for visitors across the country.
You’ll find a full weekend of family fun entertainment in addition to the balloon competition, too. There’s a lot going on here: a carnival, an arts festival, food, music, sky-diving jumps and more. The highlight of the event is the Balloon Glow on at dusk on June 25, when about 20 hot-air balloons will inflate on the launch field and glow against the beautiful summer night sky.
Heroes and Villains: the Art of the Disney Costumes at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn
Where: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
When: June 25 , 2022 – January 1, 2023
This amazing exhibit at The Henry Ford Museum features 70 original pieces, including ball gowns, sorcerers’ capes, military uniforms, tiaras, and of course glass slippers, the exhibition explores the vision, process, and craft used to create the costumes worn by some of the biggest names in entertainment.
St. Clair Art Fair
Where: Palmer Park on the St. Clair River
When: June 25-26
One of the oldest art fairs on the east side of Michigan, the St. Clair Art Fair features over 100 visual artists along one of the largest freshwater boardwalks in the world.
Things to Do in West Michigan in June
National Asparagus Festival
Where: 16 S State St, Hart, MI
When: June 11
Did you know that Michigan is a U.S. leader in asparagus production? In fact, West Michigan grows so much asparagus that Oceana County is known as “The Asparagus Capital of the Nation.” In Hart, Michigan, the National Asparagus Festival has celebrated the cultivation of asparagus since 1974, making it the longest-running asparagus festival in the country.
Stop by for plenty of activities, games, and food, all centered around this favored crop. The annual Queen’s Pageant will even crown 2022’s Asparagus Queen.
Beyond Van Gogh, The Immersive Experience – Grand Rapids
Where: 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When: June 14 – July 9
This summer, art lovers in Grand Rapids have an opportunity to see Van Gogh like never before at the DeVos Place. Beyond Van Gogh is an immersive experience, where visitors see over 300 of Van Gogh’s works in a new way.
The artworks break free from their frames, occupying entire rooms, some moving, shifting, or appearing and disappearing altogether. With every surface around you transformed into an impressionist’s perspective, you’ll feel as though you walked into the canvas.
Outlaw Music Festival
Where: Van Andel Arena, 130 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI
When: June 25
This summer, the Outlaw Music Festival comes to Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. Since it started in 2016, the Outlaw Music Festival has grown to be one of North America’s biggest annual touring franchises. With big name headliners like Willie Nelson, Chris Stapleton, and the Avett Brothers, any fan of the country, rock, and folk music genres won’t want to miss this show.
Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival
Where: 3140 5th Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49037
When: June 30 – July 4
Make your way to W.K. Kellogg Airport, where you’ll find more than 50 hot air balloons, and an air show featuring the US Air Force Thunderbirds. You’ll find a lot more fun, here, too, including a carnival, crafts, a flea market, music and food. Stick around to see a ½ mile drag race, too.
June Events in Mid-Michigan
Midland Classic Car Show
Where: 6905 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48642
When: June 4 – 5
At the Midland County Fairgrounds, summer is welcomed warmly with Mid-Michigan’s largest car show. See plenty of classic, antique, hot rod, muscle, and special interest vehicles as they come out from storage to ride for the summer. This event is fun for the whole family, especially for those with a particular interest in unique or vintage automobiles.
Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival
Where: Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn
When: June 9 – 12
There’s simply nowhere else in the U.S. to celebrate Bavarian culture than Michigan’s own “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth. There’s plenty to do here, including games for kids, activities for all ages, plenty to eat and drink, and even the one and only Bavarian Festival Parade.
Enjoy traditional German music and entertainment while spending a day out with the whole family.
Lansing Beer Fest
Where: 1147 S Washington Ave, Lansing, MI
When: June 11
The 8th annual Lansing Beer Fest is coming this summer. This outdoor festival features live music performances, food trucks, vendors, and of course plenty of beer. Over 100 craft beers and ciders from across 20 Michigan breweries will have any beer fan in central Michigan ecstatic.
Try something new or savor a favored flavor while enjoying the lively atmosphere. There’s simply no wrong way to enjoy this beer festival as long as you’re enjoying a brew.
Things to Do in Northern Michigan in June
Bayfront Spring Art & Craft Show – Petoskey
Where: Bayfront Park, 101 E. State Street, Petoskey
When: June 4-5
This two-day arts and crafts festival is located right downtown overlooking beautiful Little Traverse Bay. You’ll find works by painters, sculptors, mixed media artists, glass blowers, wood worker, jewelry and more.
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
Where: Mackinac Island
When: June 3 – 12
The Lilac Festival is the largest and most historic festival that takes place on Mackinac Island. This 10-day celebration highlights the unique history of lilacs on Mackinac Island with lilac-themed activities for all ages, including a 10K, the Lilac Queen Coronation, lilac walking tours, and live music performances, and more.
Don’t forget to watch the Grand Parade as it comes through downtown Mackinac, and remember, this year’s theme is “Flower Power: Peace, Love, Lilacs.”
PRO-TIP: Plan ahead for somewhere to stay using our Guide to the Best Hotels on Mackinac Island.
Tall Ship Manitou Sails
Where: 13258 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684
When: June – September
This summer, the Tall Ship Manitou sails out of Traverse City. This ship is a replica of an 1800’s “coasting” cargo schooner, which is like those which sailed the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean during that era. Look into the different cruises offered, including Moomers Ice Cream Cruises, Evening Sails, Brunch Cruises, and more to curate your perfect Great Lakes sailing experience.
PRO-TIP: This is only one of the 30 Top Things to Do in Traverse City!
Boyne City’s Stroll the Streets
Where: Downtown Boyne City
When: June 10
Stroll the streets of Boyne City, listen to music, visit merchants, dine in the many restaurants.
Harbor Springs Cycling Classic
Where: Birchwood Inn, 7291 S. Lake Shore Drive, Harbor Springs, Michigan 49740
When: June 11-12
Bike through the Michigan’s famous Tunnel of Trees just north of Harbor Springs. Choose from a 20, 42, or 62 mile routes.
M-22 Challenge in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Where: 6900 South Dune Highway, Empire, MI US 49630
When: June 11
Voted the “Best Endurance Event” in northern Michigan, the M-22 Challenge gives you the chance to run, bike and paddle through Sleeping Bear Dunes. It’s a 17-mile ride through scenic Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, along with a 2.5 mile run and a 2.5 mile paddle.
Even if you’re not participating, it’s fun to cheer the athletes on to victory in beautiful Empire and Glen Arbor, MI.
Torch Lake Whitefish Festival
Where: Depot Park in Alden, MI
When: June 11-12
This two-day long nature-themed arts and craft show also features a fishing tournament. You’ll find a wide variety of boating and fishing vendors as well a chance to taste some delicious whitefish.
Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival
Where: Village at Bay Harbor, 4000 Main Street, Bay Harbor, MI 49770
When: June 25
See a fantastic collection of classic cars and wooden boats at this popular festival near Petoskey, MI. Don’t miss the parade of classic cars at 10 a.m.!
Charlevoix Summer Art Festival
Where: Downtown Charlevoix
When: June 25
It’s the 23rd annual summer art show in “Charlevoix the Beautiful.” Find a mix of art and crafts displayed on the shores of scenic Round Lake in downtown Charlevoix.
June Events in the Upper Peninsula
Carney Round Up Rodeo
Where: US 41Carney, MI 49812
When: June 4-5
Ever seen a real, live rodeo before? Here’s your chance! Find family-friendly entertainment at the 13th annual rodeo in the western Upper Peninsula.
Kruisin Klassics Car Club Fun Run and Car Show
Where: UP State Fairgrounds 2401 12th Ave N Escanaba, MI 49829
When: June 3 -4
Pictured Rocks Days
Where: Binsfeld Bayshore Park
When: June 11 – 12
What better way to celebrate the beauty of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore than with a festival on the shores of Lake Superior?
Pictured Rocks Days is a two-day festival held in Greater Munising in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Adults will love the live music, food trucks, vendors, and beer tent, but kids will have plenty of fun with bounce houses, a petting zoo, and plenty of arts and crafts.
Yooper Ride Free Days
Where: Bay Shore Park, Munising
When: June 11-12
If you live in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and have never seen the beautiful Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from the water, Saturday and Sunday, June 11 & 12 is your opportunity to do so for free!
St. Ignace Car Show
Where: 6 Spring Street, St. Ignace
When: June 23- 26
Go See a Michigan Minor League Baseball Game
Nothing goes together better than Michigan summers and baseball. Check out our guide to Michigan Minor League Baseball teams and get reay for some summer fun at the ball park!
Art Fairs in Michigan
Summertime is art fair season. The nice warm weather welcomes artists and art-lovers to festivals all around the state to appreciate art, and to buy and sell artworks. Here are some must-visit art fairs in Michigan.
- Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Fair, Kalamazoo
June 3 – 4 - Summer Art Fair, Midland
June 4 – 5 - Flint Art Fair, Flint
June 11 – 12 - Art in the Sun and Maker’s Mart at Arts and Acts, Northville
June 17 – 19 - Grand Haven Art Fair and Festival, Grand Haven
June 24 – 26 - St. Clair Art Fair, St. Clair
June 25 – 26 - Lakeshore Art Festival, Muskegon
June 25 – 26
Places to Visit in June
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About the Author-
Bella DiMascio is a Content Editor for mymichiganbeach.com. She grew up in the Detroit suburb of Westland and later attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo where she majored in Communication Studies and minored in English: Writing. Creative writing has been a hobby and interest of Bella’s since she was in elementary school and she is thrilled to be using her talents to highlight the Great Lakes State. Outside of writing, Bella enjoys getting outside with her two Australian Shepherds, playing video games, and binging shows on Netflix.