Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program
The Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program is typically held each September and is a precursor to the Miss Michigan program.
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Summer Events in Ludington
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
Lakestride Half Marathon, 5K, & 10K - June 2026
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
Sunset Beach Bonfires - Thursdays June 25th, July 30th, & August 27th; 2026
On the 4th Thursday of June-August, 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.
Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival & Fireworks - July 3rd-4th, 2026 (Tentative)
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.
West Shore Art Fair - July 4th-5th, 2026
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 Offshore Classic Fishing Tournament - July 13th-19th, 2026
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.
West Shore Bank's Rhythm & Dunes Concerts - Summer 2026
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.
Western Michigan Fair - August 2026
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 2026
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 15th, 2026
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.
Current Events
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!
Ludington Area Festival of Lights
The Ludington Area Festival of Lights is a dazzling drive-thru light display that runs from Thanksgiving until the last weekend of December.
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!
Christmas Holiday Bazaars and Arts & Crafts Shows in Ludington
Arts & Crafts Shows and Bazaars during the fall/winter in Ludington have handcrafted and specialty items for your Christmas gift giving.
Visit with Santa
Find all the places where the kids and pets can visit and have pictures taken with Santa (and sometimes Mrs. Claus) 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.
Events Happening Soon
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Fishing on Hamlin Lake
If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
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.
Mason County Barn Quilt Trail
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
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.
Pet Friendly Places
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
