Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program
The Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program is typically held each September and is a precursor to the Miss Michigan program.
Photo by Liz Fitch on Unsplash.com
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 Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program is typically held each September and is a precursor to the Miss Michigan program.
The Ludington Area Festival of Lights is a dazzling drive-thru light display that runs from Thanksgiving until the last weekend of December.
Arts & Crafts Shows and Bazaars during the fall/winter in West Michigan have handcrafted and specialty items for your Christmas gift giving.
West Michigan is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Set in the heart of downtown Ludington is the Todd & Brad Reed Photo Gallery, and it’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates true beauty.
The historical Vogue Theatre in Manistee, renovated as a modern-day movie theater, shows current movies, classic films, and family movies.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
The Michigan Audubon Society Lake Bluff Center overlooks Lake Michigan near Manistee and features wildlife and a bird sanctuary.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
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!