Visit Ludington Photo
Patriotism is alive and well here in Ludington, Michigan, 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.
Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, Line-up begins at 5pm with step-off at 6pm
The fun begins with the Children’s and Pet Parade at the south end of Ferry Street in downtown Ludington. Local children decorate their wagons or bikes, and even try to dress the family pet in red, white, and blue. Categories are Patriotism, Originality, Creative Use of Pets, and Themed Group; with prizes awarded to the winner of each. The first 250 participants will receive a goody bag. It’s a great kick-off to the holiday, and so much fun to watch. Line-up is at the corner of Ferry and Loomis Streets with the parade heading east to Waterfront Park.
Thursday, July 4th, 2024 (Tentative)
This is a 1-Mile Fun Run where runners are invited to run the Grand Parade route prior to the parade step off on July 4th to help raise money for the evenings fireworks. The annual fireworks display is funded 100% by donations.
Advanced entry is $30 and late entry online and on race day is $35 Entry includes a t-shirt and a finisher’s medal. Prizes will be awarded to top male and female runners. Shirts are only guaranteed to those who pre-register. Remaining shirts will be available first come/first serve at packet pickup/registration on race day. Registration begins at 12:30pm at Leveaux Park- 900 E. Ludington Ave., Race begins at 1:35pm.
Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at 2pm
The Freedom Festival Grand Parade gets underway July 4th and features floats, bands, politicians, local residents, and of course, the Scottville Clown Band. Thousands line Ludington Avenue to watch this hometown parade.
The route travels downtown from Madison Street to Lakeshore Drive and is a great way to celebrate the warmth and excitement of our nation’s birthday. If you would like to enter a float into the parade, please register at eventbrite.com.
Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at Dusk
What would July 4th be without fireworks, and Ludington doesn’t disappoint its residents or visitors. On the evening of July 4th starting around dusk (approximately 10:30pm), pick your favorite “viewing” site, such as Stearns Beach, Copeyon Park, or Waterfront Park, and enjoy the show. Basically, anywhere you see water, you’ll see the fireworks. Most people make an evening of it, arriving early to picnic or let the kids enjoy their sparklers. The colorful 20-minute display delights the crowd watching on land and from boats. It’s the perfect ending to this annual celebration. Click here for more information on other firework displays in the area.
The Ludington Area Jaycees are always seeking sponsorships and donations for their Freedom Festival Fireworks which light up Lake Michigan each 4th of July.
The Freedom Festival brings tens of thousands of people to the beautiful Lake Michigan coastal city of Ludington and into local businesses operating there. The event is 100% funded by donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals.
Ludington Area Jaycees
(231) 843-4663
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
The Ludington Lake Jump takes place in spring at Stearns Park Beach. Participants raise funds for a non-profit and jump in the lake.
Each April, AFFEW (A Few Friends for the Environment of the World) hosts an annual Earth Day event in Ludington.
Advertisement – Please scroll below for more information.
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Find all of your favorite drinks, snacks, and foods right next to the beach at Sunset Side Concessions at Stearns Park Beach!
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
THANK YOU!