Easter Events
There are a large variety of family friendly Easter activities that occur each year throughout West Michigan.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
May 2023 Events Calendar
Browse by Week
Featured May Events
(Scroll down to see more events in May.)
During the summer is the Petunia Parade in Ludington featuring 30,000 petunias lining Ludington Avenue and the marina.
Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs... including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Book lovers will find bargains at the many used book sales held in Manistee, Ludington, and Hart in West Michigan.
Ludington hosts two of the most popular arts & crafts fairs in West Michigan in the summer at Rotary Park (formerly City Park).
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that's part of what makes the area so great!
May 1-7, 2023
SOLD OUT
Friday, May 5th-Sunday, May 7th; 2023
Picture Perfect Photography Weekend Workshop
Presented by Todd & Brad Reed Photography. Held at the Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast- 602 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Saturday, May 6th, 2023
11am AND 3pm
Souper Hero’s and Princesses Par-Tea
This event is a fundraiser for the Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program. Kids and their favorite adult are encouraged to dress up for this event which includes learning manners, a light luncheon of assorted soups or a lite dinner, and a photo opportunity! 11am-1pm is a session for children ages 3-9 and a separate session for friends 10 and over will be from from 3-5pm. Adult participation is required for both sessions. For the most updated information, visit facebook.com. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Saturday, May 6th, 2023
6pm
COVE Birthday Bash- Mason County
This event is a benefit for Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (COVE). Tickets are $30 and include appetizers. COVE staff will talk the history and current services provided by COVE.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a “birthday gift” for COVE in the form of pillows, full sized blankets, large kitchen utensils, silverware sets, laundry soap, toilet paper, mixing bowls, table lamps, new washing machines, or a monetary donation. For tickets or more information, click here. Scotty’s Restaurant- 5910 W. US-10, Ludington.
May 8-14, 2023
Tuesday, May 9th, 2023
10am
Big Sable Point Lighthouse Opens for the Season
Big Sable Point Lighthouse- 8800 M-116, Ludington.
Friday, May 12th, 2023
7:30pm
Westbound Situation Progressive String Band
Ludington Area Center for the Arts– 107 S. Harrison St. Ludington.
Saturday, May 13th, 2023
9:30am-3pm
150th Birthday Party for Ludington
To celebrate Ludington’s Sesquicentennial, this event will include stations providing hands-on activities that exemplify the differences from 150 years ago. Those attending are encouraged to dress 1870 style. There will be live music by Eric Engblade, crafts by Deb Borema, biscuits with Mary Lou Ohnsman, games, some giveaways, and cake. Entry fees apply. Sandcastles Children’s Museum- 129 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Saturday, May 13th, 2023
10am-3pm
Archery Day
Those 8 years of age and older are invited to learn about the history of archery, proper techniques, and have the opportunity to shoot. Those under age 17 must have a parent or guardian with them. All supplies are provided and no registration is necessary. Ludington State Park– 8800 M-116, Ludington.
May 15-21, 2023
Thursday, May 18th-Sunday, May 21st; 2023
7:30m
10-Minute Play Festival
Entries due by February 12th. For guidelines, visit ludingtonartscenter.org/10-minute-play-festival. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St. Ludington.
Thursday, May 18th, 2023
9am
First Sailing of the Season for the S.S. Badger Carferry
For reservations, call (800) 841-4243.
Saturday, May 20th, 2023
9am
Ludington Petunia Parade Planting Day
Along Ludington Avenue and around Ludington Municipal Marina, Ludington.
Saturday, May 20th, 2023
9am
RunLudington Harbor Run
Downtown Ludington.
May 22-31, 2023
Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023
10am
Ludington Breakwater Light Opens for the Season
Stearns Park- 420 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Saturday, May 27th & Sunday, May 28th, 10am-4pm; 2022
West Shore Family Support Craft Fair
Register by visiting docs.google.com. Rotary Park- corner of Ludington Avenue & Lewis Street, Ludington.
The following events are from 2022. Stay tuned for information on dates for these events in 2023!
Mason County Garden Club Plant Exchange/Sale
Bring plants to exchange, or purchase plants. Leveaux Park- 900 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Historic White Pine Village AND the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum Open for the Season
Historic White Pine Village– 1687 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington. Port of Ludington Maritime Museum– 217 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Horse Shows
Caswell Horse Park at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington.
Play Tennis Midwest
Free interactive tennis activities, games and play for adults and children age 6 and up. Space is limited. Register at usta.com/playtennismidwest. For more information, contact Coach Brown at (517) 745-6113.
Submissions Accepted for the Celebrating the Ludington State Park Art Exhibit
Artists will display their multi-media artworks celebrating the State Park on August 5th-27th at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts– 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington. Submissions cost $5/piece with a limit of three submissions. For more information or to submit art, visit ludingtonartscenter.org/modes-of-abstraction.
Auditions for Stratford “Off” the Avenue Theatre Festival at LACA
The Stage Left Theatre Company is holding is seeking seasoned and new actors, ages 5th Grade and up for their 6th Annual event. Those wishing to audition are asked to arrive at the starting time and plan to stay for the duration of the auditions. Sides will be provided. The festival is scheduled for August 5th-7th and August 12th-13th at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts– 106 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Check back often for updates to this calendar of events!
Current Events in Ludington
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.
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!
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!
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More Activities & Attractions in Ludington
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.
Power
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Hamlin Lake
Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
Sunset Times
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
Step back in the past and learn about Ludington’s rich maritime history at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Value of Sports Museum
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
Weather & Water Conditions
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Museums
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
Activities & Attractions
There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!