This Weekend Brings the MIHA District 9 Horse Show
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
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 2027
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
Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival & Fireworks - July 3rd-4th, 2027 (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 2027
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 2027
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.
Gold Coast Artisan Fair - August 2027
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.
West Shore Bank's Rhythm & Dunes Concerts - Summer 2027
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.
Western Michigan Fair - August 2027
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 2027
Suds on the Shore is a popular summer festival featuring vendors serving samples of craft beer, wine, and cocktails, while participants also enjoy live music and food.
Sunset Beach Bonfires - Monthly, Summer 2027
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.
Current Events in the Ludington Area
Ludington’s Petunia Parade Flower Removal is Saturday
During the summer is the Petunia Parade in Ludington featuring 30,000 petunias lining Ludington Avenue and the marina.
Outdoor 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.
The Next Ludington Auto Club Cars & Coffee Car Meet is September 20th
Ludington is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
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!
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.
Ludington Area Events Happening Soon
Ludington Lumber Days
Experience Ludington’s storied past and honor the lumber legacy that shaped our community at Ludington Lumber Days.
Festivals & Events
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
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.
Victory Township Park on Upper Hamlin Lake
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Fall Color Tour
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
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.
Enjoy Winter Activities in the Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park offers winter activities. With snowshoeing tours, cross country skiing, and natural beauty, it’s a winter paradise!
Night Life
The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.