Michigan Summer Festivals Near You!
The ultimate guide to summer festivals in Michigan is here!
Keep yourself entertained with celebrations that are enjoyable for the entire family. Pack your schedule with Michigan summer fun from June to August.
We are sharing the best, most exciting, family friendly festivals that Michigan has to offer this summer. From the flower and vegetable-themed festivals, to the quicky and offbeat, we’ve got ’em.
Read on to find the best weekend summer festivals in Michigan, and if you’re looking for a “summer festivals near me,” you’re sure to find one here!
May Festivals in Michigan
Holland’s Tulip Time Festival
When: 5/6 – 5/14/2023
Where: Downtown Holland, MI
Start off the summer right with this tulip-themed festival in downtown Holland. Take in the Dutch architecture, charming shops along 8th street and local eats. Make sure to go on one of the unique “tulip tours” and walk through the expansive tulip fields.
This is one of the biggest spring events in Michigan, attracting visitors from around the world who come to view more than a million tulips in bloomin throughout the area. Use our Ultimate Guide to Holland for more information on what to at this fun festival.
PRO-TIP: Plan enough time to explore more of the this charming west Michigan. It has a rich Dutch heritage, and there is a lot of things to do in Holland, including visiting the famous “Big Red” Ligthouse.
National Morel Mushroom Festival
Where: Boyne City, MI
When: 5/18 – 5/21/2023
This annual celebration of the delicious morel mushroom is a perfect event for a May weekend getaway in northern Michigan.
Kick back and enjoy some of the mouthwatering morel-centric dishes at local restaurants or put on your boots and go hunting for morels in the annual morel hunt. With events such as the Lion’s Club Carnival and the annual arts and crafts there’s fun to be had for everyone in the family.
Michigan Petoskey Stone Festival
Where: Torch Lake Township, MI
When: 5/22/2023
The Petoskey is the state stone of Michigan, and what better place to celebrate them than in northern Michigan, where you can find them scattered along the shores of the lakes?
June Festivals in Michigan
Alpena Flower Festival
Where: Alpena, MI
When: 6/2- 6/3/2023
If you’re in the mood for fun, music, and anything floral, then the Alpena Flower Festival is the place for you! Beginning on the first Friday of June, downtown Alpena will be adorned with dozens of beautiful arrangements from local florists!
You’ll find live music and jazz music playing as you arrive and take part in tons of flower-related crafts and activities. Whether you’re a flower lover or simply looking for a great opening to the summer, the Alpena Flower Festival is a must-visit for all in Michigan!
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
Where: Mackinac Island
When: 6/9 – 6/19/2023
Kick your summer off with peace and serenity with the Mackinac Island lilac festival. The island is inundated with the sweet aroma of lilac as the lilac trees are in full bloom dressing the island from head to toe with their flowery beauty.
Take part in traditional events such as the lilac race, the queen’s coronation, the lilac poster reveal or one of the many lilac walks.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Mackinac Island because the crowds are a lot thinner, making it easier to see and explore everything on the Island, including the cute shops that line the main street.
PRO-TIP: Be sure and stay overnight on the island for the full Mackinac experience, and use our guide to the best places to stay on Mackinac Island to help you find your accomodations.
National Asparagus Festival
Where: Empire, MI
When: 6/10/2023
No one celebrates Asparagus like they do in Empire, Since 1974 right in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. has been the host of this green vegetable-themed northern Michigan festival. From crowning the Asparagus Queen in the beauty pageant, to ogling at this season’s largest asparagus, to arts and crafts and more, this festival has it all.
PRO-TIP: Try and manage some time to drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7.5 mile loop through the dunes with some of the most spectacular Lake Michigan views around.
Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival
Where: New Baltimore, MI
When: 6/21-6/25/2023
This volunteer-run festival on the banks of Anchor Bay has one mission – giving back to the community. Offering a scholarship to one lucky high-school senior in the anchor bay school district. Entertainment is all within a stone’s throw, whether it’s carnival games, free kids games, or the Miss Bay-Rama Pageant, this festival is filled with family friendly fun.
Marquette Trail Festival
Where: Marquette
When: 6/23-6/25/2023
Break out your running shoes or biking equipment, this festival aims to appreciate the natural beauty of the northern Michigan woodlands. Buckle up for an active weekend of non-motorized fun through Marquette’s nature trails.
Compete in one of the many races such as trail running and mountain biking or relax at one of the social’s at this nature-themed festival.
PRO-TIP: There are so many fun things to do in Marquette. Set on Lake Superior, Marquette is surrounded by stunningly picturesque landscapes like the famed Black Rocks cliffs and Presque Isle Park.
Grand Haven Art Festival
Where: Grand Haven, MI
When: 6/23-6/25/2023
Art fans rejoice: The 62nd Grand Haven Art Festival is right around the corner! For one splendid weekend in June artists from all over the country will come to display a multitude of grand and glorious works of art in downtown Grand Haven.
For no cost at all visitors can come to spectate and take in the communal gallery, which of course will be accompanied by music, food, and other various activities. If you’re looking for fun and a taste of the art of the day, then make sure to get to Grand Haven for the marvelous display of fine art! Don’t miss it!
Olive Burger Festival
Where: Lansing, MI
When: 6/24/2023
For the first time, on one day and one day only, Lansing offers a proud celebration for its century-old food item: the Olive Burger. On June 24th, foodies need to look no further than this fun event! Over a dozen of the finest olive burgers in the Lansing area will be made for all to enjoy!
Fun activities, drinks, and live music will also be present on the sure-to-be superb Saturday, as well as games for children and adults alike. Overall, if you like food, the Olive Burger Festival is the summer event for you!
2023 Marshall Bluesfest
Where: Marshall MI
When: 6/24/2023
For those looking for a little blues music in your summer plans, downtown Marshall is the place to be on Saturday the 24th! Sure to be second to none, the Marshall Bluesfest features some of the best and brightest of the blues scene, its lineup including the Marc Stone Band, the Fat Animals, and other great musical acts!
Food vendors and a cash bar beer tent will also be available for those looking to grab a bite or a drink during the event. So, if you’re a music lover, make sure to get down to Marshall for some great and far-out blues!
Manistee National Forest Festival
Where: Manistee
When: 6/29 – 7/4/2023
Make your northern Michigan Fourth of July weekend one to remember at the Manistee National Forest festival. Try your luck at one of the carnival games, take part in arts and crafts, purchase hand-crafted artisan goods from the marketplace or sit back and relax as you watch fireworks over the lake.
PRO-TIP: Manistee is a charming Lake Michigan beachtown, with some stunning beaches. Take some time to explore the pretty coastline, and downtown Manistee, too.
July Festivals in Michigan
Michigan Rib Fest
Where: Lake Orion, MI
When: 7/1 – 7/4/2023
Spice up your Michigan fourth of July plans with the rib fest in Lake Orion. Featuring mouthwatering bbq, ice cold beer, live music, games, and monster truck rides there is never a dull moment at this event. For those looking for a fun competition, make sure to check out the pig races and wiener dog races.
Traverse City Cherry Festival
Where: Downtown Traverse City
When: 7/1 – 7/8/2023
Look no further for the sweetest event of the summer – The National Cherry Fest in Traverse City. Taste fresh cherries, listen to live music from award winning artists, participate in one of the many cherry-themed events all while on the shores of the pristine waters of Lake Michigan. Combine it with a trip up the Old MIssion Peninsula for a tour of the Traverse City wineries.
Do not miss the spectacular fourth of July fireworks show over the Grand Traverse Bay.
PRO-TIP: The list of things to do in Traverse City is never-ending, and you’ll want to be sure and hit some of the best beaches in area. There are some gerat restaurnts, here, too, so use our local’s guide to the best places to eat in Traverse City.
Cadillac Freedom Festival
Where: Cadillac, MI
When: 7/4 – 7/8/2023
Those searching for fun on the Fourth of July and beyond, look to Cadillac for your Independence Day celebrations! This wonderful event will take place on and in the days after July 4th and will feature activities full of fun for the whole family! Attendees can look forward to food, music, and even a car show! Fitness enthusiasts, you’re also in luck! The festival will also include a 5k race on Friday, July 7th! So, if you’re looking to celebrate our nation’s independence with the beautiful backdrop of Lake Cadillac, the Freedom Festival is the event for you!
Blissfest Folk and Roots Festival
Where: Harbor Springs, MI
When: 7/7 – 7/9/2023
Music lovers, take note of this entry on the list! The Blissfest Folks and Roots Festival is the number one place to be this summer! For three days in Harbors Springs, Michigan, enjoy the music of countless musicians and artists in the summer sun! In addition to music, the event is also home to a multitude of fun activities such as crafts, open mics, and even a silent disco! The carefree atmosphere is a surefire way to find fun this summer! Be sure to get out to Blissfest for all your vacation needs!
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo & Wild West Parade
Where: Iron River, MI
When: 7/7- 7/8/2023
Giddy-on-up to Michigan’s only PRCA rodeo this July in Iron River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!
This pro-circuit event attracts top cowboys from the great lakes division to compete in thrilling events including the classic bull riding. Make sure to watch the Wild West Parade to see some of your favorite cowboys up close!
Plymouth Art In the Park
Where: Plymouth, MI
When: 7/7 – 7/19/2023
Artists and art enthusiasts alike can join in this fun summer celebration! Plymouth’s Art in the Park is a wonderful occasion over the weekend following the Fourth of July.
Over 400 artists from all over the U.S. will take part in this gathering, which boasts a yearly attendance of over 300,000 visitors! Paintings, ceramics, and many other forms of art will be present and for purchase.
Numerous activities for adults and children will also be available, all of course in a fun and delightful way. So, make sure to get on out to Plymouth this summer to enjoy the sun, the fun, and of course, the art!
Tawas City Summerfest
Where: Tawas City MI
When: 7/14 – 7/16/2023
Situated on the sandy beaches of Lake Huron, Tawas Summerfest is a three day festival celebrating the busiest time of the year for this area. This family friendly event features classic car shows, kids activities, 5K races and live music. If you get too hot in the summer sun, take a dip in one of the many nearby swimming areas.
PRO-TIP: The Tawas area is one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets! This fun resort town comes alive in the summer and really caters to visitors. You’ll find sandy beaches and a gorgeous lighthouse at Tawas Point State Park. The shallow water is perfect for splashing along the shores.
Brown Trout Festival
Where: Alpena, MI
When: 7/14 – 7/23/2023
The longest-running fishing tournament in the Great Lakes hosts several competitions over the course of its 10-day span, including the new children’s fishing tournament & high stakes tournament. Aside from fishing, this festival features live music, an expansive beer tent, and a day dedicated to family fun.
PRO-TIP: Alpena is a very kid-friendly vacation town, with beautifully manicured beaches with playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic shelters, splash pads and more. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and allow time to relax on the shores of Thunder Bay.
Ann Arbor Art Fair
Where: Downtown Ann Arbor MI
When: 7/20- 7/22/2023
It’s in TreeTown, or, as it’s more commonly known, Ann Arbor, that you will find this next entry.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair is a momentous occasion that brings together next to a thousand artists to display their creations in the streets of the small city. In addition to the artworks, a multitude of musicians and performing artists will play to thousands of visitors across the three-day event!
Furthermore, if you happen to be inspired by the artwork and are looking to get involved, you can take part in the Chalk the Walk event, which sees artists and visitors taking part in the creation of countless amounts of street art in the city.
Overall, if art, music, and fun are your forte, the Ann Arbor Art Fair is the most definite place to be this summer!
Michigan Lavender Festival
Where: Imlay City
When: 7/23 – 7/25/2023
The “Symphony for the Senses” is back for their 21st annual celebration this year in Imlay City. Learn about the many uses for lavender during one of the many lavender talks or in one of the fiber booths. Taste food from Michigan’s favorite food trucks or purchase lavender-themed artisan goods from the marketplace.
Lake Bluff Summer Artisan Fair
Where: St. Joseph, MI
When: 6/3, 7/15, 8/19, 9/2
Taking place on one weekend in each of the summer months, the Lake Bluff Artisan Fair is a great opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of Lake Bluff Park and shop the diverse offerings of the artisan market. Bring the whole family along to take part in the family-friendly arts and crafts.
PRO-TIP: Pretty St. Joseph is known as the “Riviera of the Midwest,” and with good reason. Make a stop at popular Silver Beach and play along the wide Lake Michigan beach, where you even rent a kayak or paddleboard for some extra fun!
Coast Guard Festival
Where: Grand Haven
When: 7/28 – 8/6/2023
Taking place in the warmest months of Michigan’s summer, Coast Guard Festival sets sail in quaint downtown Grand Haven and spans down the street to the picturesque Grand Haven state park beach. This “don’t miss” event even features a tribute band of popular classic artists every night, right on Lake Michigan’s shores.
Marquette Art on the Rocks
Where: Marquette, MI
When: 7/29 – 7/30/2023
The Upper Peninsula art event of the summer is back for the 63rd annual Art on the Rocks on scenic Lake Superior. This eclectic market has a wide variety of vendors, spanning from sculptures to drawings and hand-painted pictures.
August Summer Festivals in Michigan
Elk Rapids Harbor Days
Where: Elk Rapids
When: 8/2 – 8/5/2023
This must-see event of the summer takes place on the east arm of Grand Traverse bay and features a different set of family friendly events each day, including a world class fireworks show over the lake. Be sure to browse through the comprehensive brochure on the website and plan out your visit.
Frankenmuth Flower Festival
Where: Frankenmuth, MI
When: 8/4 – 8/6/2023
Celebrate the wonderful bloom of Michigan’s flowers this year with the Frankenmuth Flower Festival! For three days, visitors can view the beauty of the flower season in a celebration that features food, drink, art, and much more!
If sunflowers are your thing, then help yourself to the festival’s pick-your-own sunflower event! Overall, if you’re in the mood for beauty and nature, make sure to visit Frankenmuth and its wonderful Flower Festival!
Belle Isle Art Fair
Where: Belle Isle, Detroit MI
When: 8/5 – 8/6/2023
Enjoy a trip to beautiful Belle Isle this year to get a look at its wonderful yearly art fair! Rich in history, the Detroit island is home to one of the most amazing summer gatherings of artists in the state! Watch as artists from all over display countless wonders and creations.
While there, help yourself to a tour of the island, whose origin lies all the way back in 1880! So, if you’re looking for summer fun in the Metro Detroit area, make sure you plan a trip to Belle Isle!
National Blueberry Festival
Where: South Haven
When: 8/10 – 8/13/2023
There’s nothing sweeter than the Blueberry Festival in South Haven. This west-Michigan festival has fun for the entire family, with live music on beach, races, parades and a children’s blueberry eating competition. Be sure to stop by the sandy South Haven beaches and enjoy some fun in the August sun.
PRO-TIP: South Haven in southwest Michigan is a must on any Michigan summer vacation bucket list. You’ll find a cute, walkable downtown that’s both kid-friendly AND dog-friendly!
Cheeseburger Festival
Where: Caseville
When: 8/11 – 8/20/2023
The quiet beach town of Caseville transforms into Margaritaville, USA for this 10-day Jimmy Buffet themed festival. Take part in cheeseburger themed events such as judging the best dressed business or judging the best cheeseburger.
Be sure to check out the Beach Pup Doggie Swimsuit Fashion Show & Beauty Contest.
Upper Peninsula State Fair
Where: Escanaba
When: 8/14 – 8/20/2023
Nothing says fun like a state fair. Experience the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in its full form at the U.P. state fair.
This celebration of northern Michigan culture and heritage in beautiful Escanaba has fun for the whole family, with carnival games and rides for all ages.
Howell Melon Festival
Where: Howell, MI
When: 8/18 – 8/20/2023
Looking for games, activities, and excitement? How about melons?
The Howell Melon Festival is a fun and awesome summer event for all who attend! Over the weekend of the third week of August, attendees can enjoy its countless fun events and activities, such as its Classic Golf Scramble, the 46th Annual Melon Run, and even a mechanical bull ride.
You don’t want to miss this wonderful weekend of fun and sun.
Mackinac Island Fudge Festival
Where: Mackinac Island
When: 8/25 – 8/27/2023
Finally, make sure to finish off your summer right by visiting the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival. This exciting event is a marvelous occasion that occurs on the last weekend of August, and it is home to wonderful activities such as hands-on fudge making, a Fudge Quest, and even the cleverly titled Fudge Olympics.
Celebrate the famous fudge of Mackinac by taking a visit to this first-rate summer festival and finishing off the summer right!
Michigan Paranormal Convention
Where: Sault Ste. Marie
When: 8/24 – 8/26/2023
Get spooked with some of the biggest names in the paranormal industry at Michigan’s Paranormal convention in Sault Ste. Marie. PARACON has experts & tv stars covering intriguing topics such as aliens, ghost hunting, demons and even more. Make sure to grab your tickets for a thrilling weekend in northern MI.
PRO-TIP: Michigan is home to some pretty spooky places with *interesting* backgrounds. Check out our guide to 30 Most Haunted Places in Michigan to explore more paranormal activity.
Hops On The Harbor
Where: Manistique
When: 8/19/2023
From craft beer aficionados to the casual hard cider sipper, Hops on the Harbor has something for everyone. This event is not kid friendly but is a summer staple for older families. Located in beautiful Manistique, visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery with a cold drink and some delicious local food.
Michigan State Fair
Where: Novi
When: 8/31 – 9/4/2023
Last, but certainly not least, round out your summer of fun with the Michigan State Fair. The biggest festival in the state takes place in Novi Michigan, and features an event list that the whole family can enjoy. From carnival games to fun rides, livestock and delicious eats, be sure to make it to the State Fair for the perfect ending to a great summer.
More Things to do in Michigan in Summer
- 20 Best Lake Huron Beaches in Michigan
- Top 15+ Michigan Chocolate Shops: Best Michigan Chocolatiers
- 12 Stunning Stops on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive (UPDATED)
- 30 Best Michigan Beaches to Explore: Beach Vacation Travel Guide UPDATED
About the Author-
William Orr has been a native Michigander all his life. He was born in Plymouth, Michigan in 2002 and now attends college at The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor studying English and Communications. William is currently a content writer for My Michigan Beach and in the future, he dreams of becoming a novelist. William’s interests include guitar, fitness, and writing.