
Horse Shows at Ludington’s Mason County Fairgrounds
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
West Michigan Farmers Markets – West Michigan Guides
One of the best things about West Michigan is the fresh goodness of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Various farm markets around the region offer a bounty of the best-tasting produce around. Shopping for fresh produce is convenient, with many of the local farm markets open from May until September or October.
To register or for more information on Leelanau County Farmers Markets, visit leelanaufarmersmarkets.com.
Although the seasons are dependent upon the weather, we’ve listed the time periods when local crops typically are harvested.
Late April-June: Asparagus, Raspberries, Rhubarb, Strawberries
July-August: Apples, Blackberries, Blueberries, Cherries, Corn, Green Beans, Peaches, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Zucchini
September-October: Apples, Green Beans, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Zucchini
Interested in learning more about local agriculture? Read our story about the Agricultural Trail in Mason & Oceana Counties and download a brochure for more details.
Asparagus starts the season in the spring, with Michigan being the third largest producer in the nation. Oceana County is actually known as the “Asparagus Capital of the World,” due to its high production of this healthy crop.
Also in the spring comes the maple syrup, a true American sweetener. Here in Mason County, Kistlercrest Farm on Old PM Highway produces about 1,200 gallons of syrup every year. The real thing is thinner than the brands of syrup you buy in the supermarket, but the taste is far superior. The Kistlers also make maple sugar candy, granulated maple sugar, and at Christmas, maple cream candies.
As summer arrives, so does a bounty of fruits and vegetables, including apples, cherries, lettuce, sweet corn, and strawberries. Local farm markets and roadside stands sell the freshest produce, picked daily. Near the end of summer, it’s blueberry time. Michigan tops the list for the most blueberries grown in the nation. Various U-picks in the area let you choose your own blueberries.
Autumn is a wonderful time in West Michigan, with cool temperatures, trees sprouting gorgeous colors of reds, yellows, and oranges, and best of all…pumpkins! Driving through the countryside in search of the perfect pumpkin is enjoyable in itself, but once you arrive at your destination, you’re in for a treat. Many farms offer corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin decorating, just in time for Halloween.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Summertime and music just go together perfectly and at the Village Green in the center of Pentwater, the evening is simply charming.
The Traverse City area has several arts and crafts fairs scheduled throughout the year, offering many unique handcrafted items.
The communities along Lake Michigan are blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us throughout the year.
The Silver Lake Sand Dunes Apple & BBQ Festival spans two days and includes a wide variety of activities that are fun for all ages.
Much of West Michigan is bicycle-friendly, and you’ll find many nice paths on which to ride. It’s great exercise with great scenery to enjoy.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
Various farm markets around Traverse City offer a bounty of the best-tasting produce around, with many open from May until early fall.
Hop aboard the Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry! Take the famous cruise across Lake Michigan and experience the Badger and all it has to do!