Arts & Crafts Classes in Ludington
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Ludington Lake Jump
April 18th, 2026
Each year during the transition from winter to spring, area residents and businesses take pledges and try to raise as much money as possible for the Ludington Lake Jump. In return, that person must run into the icy waters of Lake Michigan at Stearns Park Beach on Lake Jump Day. Many local businesses also help out with hot drinks and food at the event.
The 2026 Lake Jump beneficiary is the West Shore Amateur Hockey Association. Proceeds will support participation in hockey programs for youths who lack financial resources to do so on their own.
History of Lake Jump
2025 marks the 26th year for the Ludington Lake Jump, which began when two local disc jockeys made a dare. Since then, nearly $875,000 has been raised for local charities, such as West Shore Family Support, Sandcastles Children’s Museum, the Rotary’s STRIVE program and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts.
The Childhood Cancer Campaign received over $56,000 from the 2022 Jump. Over $60,000 in proceeds from the 2023 event went to the Youth Advisory Council of the Community Foundation for Mason County. In 2024, the Friends of the Ludington Police raised over $34,000 for their K9 program.
Most recently, over $33,000 went to the four senior centers in Mason County—Free Soil, Ludington, Scottville, and Tallman, a result of the 2025 Lake Jump.
Click here to see the current temperature of Lake Michigan.
For more information on the Ludington Lake Jump, please contact the event organizer:
Ludington Lake Jump Board of Directors
Current Events
Fishing Tournaments & Events
Ludington fishing tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.
Pure Ludington Brrrewfest
The Pure Ludington Brrrewfest hosts breweries that offer patrons a taste of their beers, wines, ciders, and meads from all around Michigan.
Family Friendly Events
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
Enjoy Winter Activities in the Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park offers winter activities. With snowshoeing tours, cross country skiing, and natural beauty, it’s a winter paradise!
Performances in West Michigan
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
Events Happening Soon
Michigan’s Free Activity Weekends
The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors “free” weekends to fish, ORV, or snowmobile each year.
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
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.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Hamlin Lake
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Trails and Tours
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
Waterfront Park Sculptures
The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
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.
Where to Watch the S.S. Badger Carferry in Port Ludington
Where’s the best place to watch the S.S. Badger arrive or depart Ludington? Here are great locations for viewing the Lake Michigan Carferry.
