Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography 

Ludington Lake Jump

April 2027

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 was the West Shore Amateur Hockey Association. Proceeds went to support participation in hockey programs for youths who lack financial resources to do so on their own.

Jumpers head into the cold lake to take a dip for charity. | Todd & Brad Reed Photography

History of Lake Jump

2026 marked the 27th 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

lakejump.org

Stay tuned here for info on the 2027 Ludington Lake Jump!

Current Events

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!

Summer Music in West Michigan

After a busy day at the beach or at work, it’s time to kick back and relax a while. What better way than to listen to some music.

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

Festivals & Events

There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.

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

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

Beaches & Parks

Ludington has many beautiful beaches and parks to explore. Enjoy a day on the shores of Lake Michigan or take in the scenery at a local park.

Festivals & Events

There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.

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”.

Big Sable Point Lighthouse

The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Hamlin Lake Dunes

Hamlin Lake Sand Dunes

Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.