Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Summer Events in Ludington
May-August, 2022
Summer is Ludington’s favorite season, so if you’re considering a vacation in the area, we’ve got the festivals and events to keep you entertained! Have fun at the event, and then catch a beautiful Lake Michigan sunset or dip your toes in the lake to check out the water temperature!
Ludington’s Top Annual Summer Events
Sunset Beach Bonfires – June, July, August
On the 4th Thursday of each month , bring your blanket or beach chair to the south end of Stearns Beach from 8-10pm and enjoy a huge bonfire while listening to some great music. These Sunset Bonfires are FREE and open to the public.
Lakestride Half Marathon, 5K, & 10K – June
The Ludington Lakestride is held on one of the most beautiful and scenic courses in Michigan, attracting 800-1,000 runners from around the state and beyond. The 5K run which winds its way through Cartier Park, the 10K which runs out to Decker Road and back, and the Half-Marathon
West Shore Bank’s Rhythm & Dunes Concerts – July, August
West Shore Bank offers its annual Rhythm & Dunes Summer Concert Series at the Waterfront Park Pavilion in downtown Ludington as a fundraiser for area school’s music programs. The main concert is generally preceded by a performance by Jazz Bands from area schools.
West Shore Art Fair – August
The West Shore Art Fair is sponsored by the Ludington Area Center for the Arts and is a juried fine arts and crafts show which means a more stringent criteria is used and only the highest-quality artists are admitted. Awards are given to artists in various mediums by LACA.
Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival & Fireworks – July
Patriotism is alive and well here as demonstrated in the annual Freedom Festival, held every year since 1874. Sponsored by the Ludington Area Jaycees, this event is one of the few great July 4th festivals still in existence in Michigan.
Ludington Offshore Classic Fishing Tournament – July
The Ludington Offshore Classic sponsored by Captain Chuck’s takes place each July. This tournament is open to any boat 18′ or longer equipped with a marine radio.
Western Michigan Fair – August
The Western Michigan Fair has been held every year since 1936 at the Mason County Fairgrounds on US-10 in Ludington. It features the midway, demolition derby, harness horse racing, entertainment, still exhibits, grandstand events, and carnival rides.
Gold Coast Artisan Fair – August
Located at Ludington’s Rotary Park (formerly City Park), over 170 vendors from across the state and beyond sell a variety of wonderful handmade items, jewelry, photographs, paintings, and more at the annual Gold Coast Artisan Fair. Shop for gift items, or pick up something unique for your home.
Suds on the Shore Beer & Wine Tasting Festival – August
Suds on the Shore is a popular summer festival featuring over 50 top vendors from all around Michigan, The vendors serve samples of craft beer, hard cider and Michigan wine, while participants also enjoy live music and food.