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Family Friendly Events

January 2025

Ludington does a fantastic job of hosting events and activities that include the whole family. There’s so much happening that is geared specifically toward kids and families as a whole, and that’s part of what makes being here so amazing!

Every season in Ludington has it’s unique, fun things to do for kids of all ages- from babies up to the “young at heart”. Indoors or outdoors, no matter the time of year, there’s always something great going on along the lakeshore for families to experience together!

In addition to the following list, check out all the special events and programs provided by Sandcastles Children’s Museum and the Ludington and Scottville branches of the Mason County District Libraries.

Historic White Pine Village
Port of Ludington Maritime Musuem

Here’s a list of family friendly events happening in Ludington in January:

Wednesday, January 1st, 2025
11am

New Year’s Resolution 5k Race
Run course includes downtown Ludington and the 4th Ward area. For more information, visit downtownludington.org

Saturday, January 4th, 2025
6-8pm

Special Lantern-Lit Event
Walk at the Ludington State Park (8800 M-116, Ludington) using the trail along the south side of the Big Sable River on the open southern portion of the park. The route will be marked with lit lanterns and there will be a bonfire at the amphitheater. Parking will be in the lot at the end of the Amphitheater road adjacent to the Skyline Trail.

Sandcastles Children's Museum

Sunday, January 5th, 2025
2pm

Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program
Women between the ages of 18-28 from Mason, Manistee, Oceana, and Lake counties compete and are judged based on-talent, evening wear, on-stage interview, and their social impact initiative pitch. The winner is qualified to enter the Miss Michigan Pageant, a precursor to the Miss America Pageant. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington. To enter, email missludington@gmail.com.

January 17th-19th, 2025

Michigan’s Free Snowmobiling Weekend
Michigan offers the opportunity to snowmobilers to operate their machines without a snowmobile permit or trail pass. 

Sunday, January 18th, 2024
6-8pm

Great Start Book Walk
Held in conjunction with the Lantern Lit Event, families will receive a free copy of the book “One Light” (first come, first serve). Ludington State Park- 8800 M-116, Ludington.

Saturday, January 18th, 2025
6-8pm

Special Lantern-Lit Event
Walk at the Ludington State Park (8800 M-116, Ludington) using the trail along the south side of the Big Sable River on the open southern portion of the park. The route will be marked with lit lanterns and there will be a bonfire at the amphitheater. Parking will be in the lot at the end of the Amphitheater road adjacent to the Skyline Trail.

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Discover more to do in Ludington!

Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
 

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

The Baby Badger

A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.

Ludington Art Scene

Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.

Long Skinny Park

Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.

Mason County District Libraries

In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.