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Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Top Events in Ludington

The communities located in Ludington offer fun events and festivals that have something for everyone. From festivals to fishing tournaments, there’s fun for all.

Here we’ve condensed the most popular annual happenings, so you can see at a glance which time of year you may want to visit our wonderful area. Welcome to Ludington!

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Spring & Summer Events

Fishing Tournaments

Two free fishing weekends are held during the year in Michigan, allowing anyone to fish for free without a license.

The Offshore Classic Fishing Tournament has something for everyone, where men, women and youth all head out to Lake Michigan in search for the biggest salmon.

1st Sailing of the S.S. Badger Carferry

It’s a special day in Ludington when the S.S. Badger sounds its horn for the first sailing of the season. Area residents and the local fire department are on hand for the festive event.

Lakestride Half-Marathon

Since 1980, the Lakestride Half-Marathon has taken place every June. It consists of a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, with Lake Michigan as its backdrop.

Gus Macker 3-on-3 Charity Basketball Tournament

Ludington is considered one of the best and biggest Gus Macker tournaments, as the courts are set up along Stearns Park Drive…where the beach is an added bonus.

Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival

Sponsored by the Ludington Area Jaycees, the Freedom Festival features a patriotic parade and fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

Summer Art Fairs

Always held close to July 4th, West Shore Art Fair is a favorite among residents and visitors. It’s held in Rotary Park and is sponsored by the Ludington Area Center for the Arts.

The Gold Coast Artisan Fair is held every August in Rotary Park. You can shop for jewelry, art, photography, pottery, and very unique gift items.

Rhythm & Dunes Concert Series

Sponsored by West Shore Bank, Rhythm and Dunes is an outdoor concert is held at Waterfront Park and features a popular out-of-town act for 2 weekends in July and August.

Western Michigan Fair

Everyone loves the Western Michigan Fair, with its carnival, exhibits, 4-H animals, harness horse racing, demolition derby and grandstand events.

Suds on the Shore Beer & Wine Festival

Suds on the Shore offers an opportunity to enjoy over 100 samples of beer, hard cider and wine at this popular event in Rotary Park. Live music and food make it a fun afternoon.

Western Michigan Boat, RV, Outdoor & Home Show

If you’re shopping for a new boat or RV, the Western Michigan Boat, RV, Outdoor & Home Show is where you want to be. It’s fun to see the variety, and there’s live music and food during the show.

Fall & Winter Events

Fall & Halloween

Fall is beautiful in this area and the perfect time for a color tour. You can also enjoy pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and lots of great Halloween events.

Ludington “Aglow on the Avenue” Christmas Parade

Welcome Santa to town and get into the Christmas spirit with “Aglow on the Avenue”! Shops and restaurants downtown stay open late to accommodate the spirited crowd.

New Years Eve Lighted Ball Drop

Ludington is proud to host one of the few lighted ball drops in Ludington. Shop, eat and drink downtown, then enjoy the ball drop at midnight.

Fishing Tournaments

Two free fishing weekends are held during the year in Michigan, allowing anyone to fish for free without a license.

Check out the ice fishing tournaments! When the ice freezes on our inner lakes, diehard fisherman put up their shanties and try their luck at catching a variety of fish.

Pure Ludington Brrrewfest

Chase the winter blues away at Pure Ludington Brrrewfest, held in Legacy Plaza. Sample delicious varieties of beer, wine, cider and mead.

More Ludington area info:

Planning a visit to the Ludington area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help: 

Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area.
 

Experience the Ludington Area

Ludington North Breakwater Light

Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!

Ludington State Park

One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.

Big Sable Point Lighthouse

112-feet of lighthouse awaits you at the Ludington State Park! Take a tour and follow the winding staircase to the top!