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!

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Ludington's Top Annual Summer Events

2024

Lakestride Half Marathon, 5K, & 10K - June 8th, 2024

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 - June 27th, July 25th, & August 29th, 2024

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.

Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival & Fireworks - July 3rd-4th, 2024 (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 6th-7th, 2024

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 15th-21st, 2024

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 - July 27th & August 3rd, 2024

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 6th-10th, 2024

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 10th-11th, 2024

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 17th, 2024

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.

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More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Value of Sports Museum

Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.

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.

Power

The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!

Bicycle Trails

Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!

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.

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.

Night Life

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.