Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament
Ludington’s Gus Macker Basketball Tournament’s location is premium. Hoops are placed in Stearns Park, with Lake Michigan just steps away.
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 13th, 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
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 - Saturdays, July 25th & August 1st, 2026
West Shore Bank offers its annual free Rhythm & Dunes Summer Concert Series at the Waterfront Park Pavilion in downtown Ludington. Donations at the event benefit area school’s music programs. The main concerts are generally preceded by a performances by Jazz Bands from area schools.
Gold Coast Artisan Fair - August 8th-9th, 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.
Western Michigan Fair - August 11th-15th, 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.
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
Michigan’s June Free Fishing & ORV Weekend Happening This Weekend
The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors “free” weekends to fish, ORV, or snowmobile each year.
The Ludington AAUW Annual Book Sale is Coming June 19th-20th
Book lovers will find bargains at the many used book sales held in Manistee, Ludington, and Hart in West Michigan.
Horse Shows at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
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.
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!
Ludington Lakestride 5K, 10K & Half Marathon
Each summer, the Ludington Lakestride offers three races: a 5k through Cartier Park, a 10k to Decker Road and back, and a half marathon.
Races
Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
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!
Car Shows
Ludington is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
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
Sunset Beach Bonfires at Stearns Park Beach Begin June 25th
Enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on the beach! The Ludington Fire Department mans the fire while you enjoy the sunset.
Rescheduled Love Ludington Street Party & Car Show are Coming on June 26th
Celebrate all things Ludington at Love Ludington Weekend including a street party, art walk, boat blessing, car show, and more!
Festivals & Events
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
Car Shows
Ludington is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
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.
Cool Things to Do
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Disc Golf Courses
Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.
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!
Murals of Ludington
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
Ludington Salmon Fishing
Ludington’s natural resources, charter captains, and outfitters provide great salmon fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.
