West Michigan is a popular location for various races and runs... including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Photo by Rahul Pandit on Unsplash.com
(Scroll down to see more events in May.)
West Michigan is a popular location for various races and runs... including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Each April, AFFEW (A Few Friends for the Environment of the World) hosts an annual Earth Day event in Ludington.
To assist with your spring cleaning, areas of Mason County offer a Spring Cleanup day, so you and your family can tidy up!
West Michigan is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more 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.
Every year, the Mason-Lake Conservation District offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
West Michigan fishing tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.
During the summer is the Petunia Parade in Ludington featuring 30,000 petunias lining Ludington Avenue and the marina.
Dune Rides in your ATV or ORV are popular at Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Michigan, but many rules and regulations apply.
The Traverse City area has several arts and crafts fairs scheduled throughout the year, offering many unique handcrafted items.
Summertime means outdoor arts and crafts fairs, and communities in Manistee County often include these fairs as part of their festivals.
Current family-friendly events in West Michigan, great, fun, things to do for kids of all ages! Fun for the whole family!
Grab snacks, chairs, and blankets to enjoy a family friendly movie at Manistee’s beautiful First Street Beach near the Rotary Gazebo.
The communities along Lake Michigan are blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us throughout the year.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Motorcycles of all varieties and sizes make their way to Baldwin every May for the annual Blessing of the Bikes.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Book lovers will find bargains at the many used book sales held in Manistee, Ludington, and Hart in West Michigan.
Performance of A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love & Murder
Thursdays-Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays (AND May 17th) at 2pm. Old Towne Playhouse- 148 E. Eighth St., Traverse City.
Muskegon Civic Theatre Performance of Guys & Dolls
Saturday at 7:30pm & Sunday at 3pm. Frauenthal Theatre- 425 W. Western Ave. #401, Muskegon.
Ship Tours Begin
Boat tours of the SS City of Milwaukee and the USCGC Acacia ships begin. 99 Arthur St., Manistee. For more information, visit carferry.com.
Picture Perfect Weekend Photography Workshop
Workshop presented by Todd & Brad Reed Photography- 114 W. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Traverse City Uncorked
Take a self-guided wine tour of Traverse City powered by a digital passport complete with savings, special offers, and opportunities to win prizes. To get your passport and for more information, visit traversecity.com.
Mom 2 Mom Sale
Sale of gently used baby and kids’ items, spring and summer clothing, toys, books, and more. $2 entry fee (under age 12 free). Cornerstone Baptist Church- 121 Nelson Rd., Ludington. For more information, visit facebook.com.
Wellston Boosters Craft Sale/Seniors Bake Sale
Wellston Community Center- 1273 S. Seaman Rd., Wellston. To register, contact Denise at wellstonboostersassociation@gmail.com or (231) 330-2422.
Craft Show
West Shore Market- 850 US-10, Scottville.
Flea Market & Craft Show
Vintage finds, antiques, handmade crafts, and more at 10487 W. M-55, Wellston. To apply for a space, visit facebook.com or call (231) 862-3571.
Historic White Pine Village AND the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum Open for the Season
Historic White Pine Village– 1687 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington. Port of Ludington Maritime Museum– 217 S. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington.
Brews & Beats on the Village Green
Enjoy local craft beer, wine, cider, food, live music, yard games and more! Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door which includes a tasting glass and six beer samples. Get tickets at eventbrite.com.
Ludington’s Got Talent
ALL ages are invited to apply to appear in this talent show. This is a fundraiser for Sandcastles Children’s Museum and will be held at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington. It will take the place of the Local Masked Singer event. Apply at sandcastleschildrensmuseum.com.
Black & White Gala
This fundraiser for programming at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts includes entertainment, music, dancing, auctions, food, and drink. For tickets and more info, visit ramsdelltheatre.org.
Indoor Sidewalk Sales
Shops will offer deals and giveaways on Saturday from 10am-6pm & Sunday from 10am-4pm. There will also be $5 Tunnel Walks (12+ only) on Saturday from 2-5pm & Sunday from 11am-2pm. The B50 Store will offer $5 mimosa kit or bloody marys. And the AAUW will host a used book sale. The Village
Mother’s Day Tea & Etiquette
kids and adults will learn some etiquette (from a professional etiqette coach) and enjoy brunch. Cost is $15 per person and are available on eventbrite.com. Proceeds benefit the Ludington Area Scholarship Program. Cornerstone Baptist Church- 121 Nelson Rd., Ludington.
Performance of Modern Warrior
City Opera House- 106 E. Front St., Traverse City.
Corewell Health Ludington Plant Sale
This sale includes a variety of plants as well as hanging baskets and will be held in the circular drive next to the Corewell Health Ludington Medical Building- 7 Atkison Dr., Ludington. Proceeds benefit the Corewell Health Foundation.
Mason County Agriculture Night
This event celebrates the strong agricultural roots of the area. You’ll find FREE hotdogs from Lakeside Weiner Wagon & Sanders of Custer; interactive games & informational booths from area businesses & our farming agricultural community; FREE ice cream- thanks to Mason County dairy farmers; equipment displays; wagon rides; free books from the WSESD Book Bus; and more. Mason County Central Schools- 300 W. Broadway, Scottville. For more information, email cmayer@mccschools.org.
West Michigan Symphony presents a performance of Dvořák Cello Concerto
Frauenthal Theatre- 425 W. Western Ave. #401, Muskegon.
Performance of Harvey
7:30pm each day with 1:30pm matinee on 5/17. Central Park Place- 421 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven.
Mesick Mushroom Festival
Annual event for mushroom lovers. For more information, visit mesick-mushroomfest.org.
Riverton Fire Department Pancake Breakfast
Cost is typically $10 per person for those age 7 and up, free-will donation for those 6 and under. Substantial bake sale, silent auction, 50/50 drawings, and exceptionally fluffy pancakes, including regular, blueberry, and chocolate chip options. The menu will also feature sausage from Sanders Meats, Indian Summer juice and apple sauce, and premium maple syrup from Kistlercrest Farms and Maple Haus. Proceeds benefit the Fire Department. Riverton Township Hall- 2104 W. Hawley Rd., Scottville.
Newaygo Conservation District Native Plant Sale
Plants will be sold on a first come, first serve basis, we are not doing any preorders. Cash, check, and card payments will be accepted. Newaygo County Fairgrounds- 815 S. Stewart Ave., Fremont.
Hart Hills Bike Race
Race starts and finishes in downtown Hart with a 5, 10, 25, and 50 mile option offered. Refreshments will be available at the finish line. Overall and age group winners will be recognized with a unique medal. For more information or to register, visit harthills.com.
Rats ‘n Rods Car Show
260 St. Mary Pkwy, Manistee. For more information, call (231) 510-7452.
Cars & Coffee Car Meet
Free car meet with no registration or registration fees. All are welcome. Coffee for purchase at the Meraki Coffee Truck. Bish’s RV- 66 N. Dennis Rd., Ludington.
Spring Art Market
Denos Museum Center- 1701 E. Front St., Traverse City
Sheep Shearing Demonstration
Free to all seniors and individuals with special needs. A free will donation is requested from the general public. RSVP by calling (231) 462-3732 or email circlerockingsfarm@att.net. Circle Rocking “S” Children’s Farm- 5487 Tuttle Rd., Free Soil.
Spring Hike
Starting at the State Park Amphitheatre, The walk covers about a mile and a half, with easy terrain and views of the park’s diverse landscape. Ludington State Park- 8800 W. M-116, Ludington.
Performance of Candelight Concert: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More
City Opera House- 106 E. Front St., Traverse City.
Performance of Candelight Concert: Tribute to Fleedwood Mac
City Opera House- 106 E. Front St., Traverse City.
Performance of Jazz Cantatas
Lars Hockstad Auditorium- 301 Seventh St., Traverse City.
Screening of “Old Heart”
Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Performance of Harvey
7:30pm each day with 1:30pm matinee on 5/17. Central Park Place- 421 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven.
Scottville Clown Band Performance at Baldwin AmVets Blessing
1959 W. 24th St., Baldwin
Performance of Classic Seger: Bob Seger’s Greatest Hits Live
Frauenthal Theatre- 425 W. Western Ave. #401, Muskegon.
First Sailing of the Season for the S.S. Badger Carferry
For reservations, call (800) 841-4243.
Musical performance by Midtown Quartet
Hart Middle School Auditorium- 308 Johnson St., Hart.
Thrift & Gift Crawl
Stay tuned for more info. takemetohart.org.
Tight Lines for Troops
Charity fishing tournament for Michigan’s disabled veterans.
Vendor/Craft Show & Flea Market
Friday from 11am-6pm and Saturday from 9am-3pm. Message Dawn Quick at facebook.com for more info or to register. Scottville United Methodist Church- 114 W. State St., Scottville.
Horse Shows
MCE Equestrian Speed Show at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington.
Ludington Petunia Parade Planting Day
Along Ludington Avenue and around Ludington Municipal Marina, Ludington.
Wag & Walk
The new self-paced event hosted by Friends of Ludington Police invites participants and their pets to walk as much of the roughly 1.25-mile loop through the Ludington Avenue and James Street business districts as they wish. Along the way, walkers can stop at participating businesses to pick up a bag of dog treats. The walk begins and ends at Rotary Park- corner of Lewis St. & Ludington Ave., Ludington. Register at friendsofludingtonpolice.org.
Blast Into Summer Party
Annual benefit for the Alzheimer’s Association presented by the Lakeshore Pyrate Heads. 50/50 raffle, live auction, and music by Two Dudes in Flip Flops. Sportsmans/The Mitten Bar- 109 W. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Girls Rock
Celebration of women through music, poetry, and speakers. Hosted by Ludrock. Doors open at 6:30pm. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Musical performance by the Michigan Mandolin Orchestra
The Playhouse at White Lake- 304 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall.
Craft and Vendor Fair
For more information or to register, visit facebook.com. 3300 Heights Ravenna Rd., Muskegon.
Performance of The Human Voice – A One Act Play in the Bohemian Social Club
Saturday at 8pm & 10pm and Sunday at 6pm & 8pm. City Opera House- 106 E. Front St., Traverse City.
Horse Shows
Mason County Saddle Club Show at Mason County Fairgrounds- 5302 W. US 10, Ludington.
Friends of the Ludington State Park Guided Hike
Two volunteer hike leaders will guide the group. No prior hiking experience is necessary, as the pace and distance will be adjusted based on participants’ preferences. The event is free to join—meet at the parking lot near the Skyline Trail. Ludington State Park- 8800 W. M-116, Ludington.
Annual Wine & Art Scholarship Fundraiser
Sponsored by Pentwater Women’s Club, fundraiser for college scholarships for graduating seniors. Includes silent auction, over 30 wines for sampling, hors d’oeurves, desserts, and raffle. Tickets are typically $25 in advance or $30 at the door and will be available from Port View- 560 S. Hancock St. and Jilly’s Gallery- 226 S. Hancock St. Event held at Park Place- 750 N. Rush St., Pentwater. For more information, visit pentwaterwomensclub.org.
Blessing of the Bikes
Motorcycles of all varieties and sizes make their way to Baldwin for this annual event.
Little Sable Point Lighthouse Opens for the Season
Silver Lake.
Kindergarten Round-Up at Spitler Elementary School
Families with children turning 5 on or before September 1st are invited to register from the upcoming school year. In order to register, parents should bring the child’s birth certificate, up-to-date immunization records, proof of residency, hearing/vision screening, and the parent or guardian’s photo ID. Children will receive a free goody bag and raffle entry. Contact the school at (231) 873-6237 for more information.
Fruitport Old Fashioned Days
Annual festival with fun for the whole family. Includes midway, live music, food, car show, and more. For more information, visit fruitportlionsclub.com.
White River Light Station Opens for the Season
Whitehall.
Diapers & Donuts
Families are invited by West Shore Family Support to receive free diapers and donuts at CrossRoads Church- 1463 E. US-10, Scottville . Sponsored by the Turf Care Mole Man.
Live in Legacy Plaza
Live music featuring Mike Lenich in Legacy Plaza- 112 N. James St., Ludington.
Elk Rapids Arts & Crafts Show
To register, visit elkrapidschamber.org. River Street, Elk Rapids
Sip ‘n Shop Spring Indoor Craft Show
This event includes 80+ local artisans and crafters offering spring-themed gifts, home décor, jewelry, and more. There will also be food/drink specials at the Curly Horse American Bistro and Rustler’s Roost. Free admission for shoppers. Arthur Hills Thoroughbred Gold Club at Double JJ Resort- 5900 Water Rd., New Era. For more info or to register, visit doublejj.com.
West Michigan Old Engine Club Tractor Pull
Scottville Riverside Park- 700 S. Scottville Rd., Scottville.
Beginner Friendly Fishing
Free event. Bringing your own fishing pole is encouraged, but a limited number will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bait will be provided. All participants aged 17 or older must have a valid Michigan Fishing License. Ludington State Park Amphitheater and walking to the Sable River Trail. Ludington State Park- 8800 W. M-116, Ludington.
Michigan Beer & Brat Festival
Enjoy live entertainment while sampling an enormous selection of Michigan’s finest microbrews, meads, hard ciders, wine, liquor, and gourmet brats from northwest Michigan markets. Crystal Mountain Resort- 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr., Thompsonville. For more information, visit crystalmountain.com.
West Shore Family Support Craft Fair
This show includes a variety of talented crafters & artists as well as food trucks. Rotary Park- Ludington Ave. & Lewis St., Ludington. For an application, click here.
Memorial Weekend Amateur Salmon & Trout Fishing Derby
Sponsored by the Pentwater Sportfishing Association. For more information or to register, visit pentwaterpsa.org.
Win & Bette Matteson Annual Big Fish Contest
Sponsored by the Pentwater Sportfishing Association. For more information or to register, visit pentwaterpsa.org/annual-big-fish-contest.
Blessing of the ORV’s
Cost is $5/vehicle for an all-day pass (cash only). Events include a Law Enforcement Workshop, Blessing of the ORV’s at 12pm, Vendors, Food, and Manistee Forest ORV merchandise. Skinner Park- 5074 W 10 1/2 Mile Rd., Irons.
Sip ‘n Shop Craft Show
Event includes works by many local artisans and food by Dakidd BBQ at Pincrest Bar & Lanes- 6571 Airline Hwy, Fruitport. To register or for more info, email Jodi Koster at jodikoster@outlook.com or call (616) 502-2922.
Fountain Horse Pull & Activities
Registration at 11am with horse pull at 12pm. In addition to the pull, there will be food & drinks for sale and a kids bouncehouse. Fountain Hardware- 4932 N. Foster St., Fountain.
Manistee Memorial Day Observance
9am- Poppy placement with rifle salute at Taps at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery- 1628 Maple Rd. 10am- Memorial Day Parade beginning at the corner of River & Division Streets and ending at Veteran’s Memorial Park- 117 Memorial Dr., Manistee. Immediately following the parade ceremonies- Poppy placement with rifle salute and Taps at Oak Grove Cemetery- 1040 Veterans Oak Grove Dr.
Pentwater Memorial Day Observance
Parade at 10am beginning on 1st St. Veterans, Girl Scouts, and Boys Scouts are encouraged to participate. Services to follow parade at Pentwater Marina and the Village Green, Pentwater.
Downtown Hart Memorial Day Observance
Parade in Hart.
Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Fishing Tournament
For more information and to register, visit tournamenttrail.net/tournaments.
A Night of Fine Dining
Tickets include hors d’oeurves, two entree options, drinks, and dessert; along with speakers who will talk about the accomplishment of the fundraiser’s benefactor, Blue Hat Ministries. For more information, visit facebook.com. Ludington Area Center for the Arts- 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington.
Silver Lake Jeep Invasion
An annual event for Jeep enthusiasts held on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
Fish on for Freedom
Veterans Fishing event on Lake Michigan in Ludington.
Muskegon Party in the Park
Live music featuring Yard Sale Underwear, kids activities, food/drink trucks, and more. Hackley Park- 350 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon.
Live in Legacy Plaza
Live music featuring JD & the Bees Knees in Legacy Plaza- 112 N. James St., Ludington.
West Michigan Symphony presents a performance of American Landscapes
Frauenthal Theatre- 425 W. Western Ave. #401, Muskegon.
NWMI Art & Culture Summit 2025
This vibrant, multi-venue festival takes place in the heart of downtown Traverse City, designed to foster meaningful connections among creative individuals. It features engaging keynote sessions, interactive workshops, and immersive art experiences. For tickets or more information, visit nwmiarts.org.
Frankfort-Elberta Restaurant Week
For more information, visit frankfortelbertarestaurantweek.com.
Friends of the Shelby Area District Library Plant Exchange
Bring plants to exchange (and leave a donation if you wish) or purchase garden items. Proceeds go towards maintenance of the library garden. Shelby Area District Library- 189 Maple St., Shelby.
Mason County Garden Club Plant Exchange/Sale
Bring plants to exchange, or purchase plants. Leveaux Park- 900 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington.
Waves & Wheels Safety Day
Various stations will teach biking and swimming safety. There will also be bike and bike helmet checks, skills course, water safety with the DNR and Coast Guard, free hot dogs, giveaways, and more. Loomis Street Boat Launch- 998 W. Loomis St., Ludington. For more information, visit chamber.ludington.org.
Paddle Antrim Season Kick Off Gathering
Kick-off the paddling season on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail with Short’s Brewing Company. Grab your paddle craft of choice and a life jacket for an hour-long paddle on Elk River followed by a gathering at Short’s Pull Barn. No registration required but all participants must fill out a waiver. For more information, visit paddleantrim.com. Elk Rapids Rotary Park- 305 US-31, Elk Rapids.
Pentwater VFW Pancake Breakfast
Pentwater VFW- 8440 N. US-31, Pentwater.
Scottville Memorial Day Observance
VFW and Auxiliary Post 5096 Honors Ceremony at Mason County Central High School (300 W. Broadway St., Scottville) at 9am then to Riverside Park. Then to Custer and Free Soil Cemeteries and the Tpr. Paul Butterfield Memorial for prayers.
Ludington Memorial Day Observance
Fallen Hero Memorial Service at Mason County Courthouse (304 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington) at 9:45am. Parade traveling from the courthouse to Stearns Park (420 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington) with 10:15am step-off. Ceremony at Veterans Mall in Stearns Park at 11am. Complimentary luncheon for all veterans at 12pm at American Legion Post 76- 318 N. James St., Ludington.
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 Traverse City area has several arts and crafts fairs scheduled throughout the year, offering many unique handcrafted items.
During the summer is the Petunia Parade in Ludington featuring 30,000 petunias lining Ludington Avenue and the marina.
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.
Every year, the Mason-Lake Conservation District offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
West Michigan is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
Grab snacks, chairs, and blankets to enjoy a family friendly movie at Manistee’s beautiful First Street Beach near the Rotary Gazebo.
The communities along Lake Michigan are blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us throughout the year.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Scottville Riverside Park, along the Pere Marquette River, has over 50 modern sites and is popular for camping and fishing.
The Pere Marquette River area is rich with wildlife, offering great outdoors hunting and fishing opportunities.
Enjoy the happiest of holidays in West Michigan! From Manistee to Ludington and every city in-between, there is holiday cheer all around!
A site to behold along Lake Michigan, these structures with a rich history give both a sense of safety and a beautiful site.
Before you make a splash in Lake Michigan, check out the water temperatures for beaches from Manistee, Ludington, Pentwater, and Silver Lake.
Take one of the most scenic drives in the nation as you travel across M-22 in West Michigan. A long winding road of adventure awaits!