Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sponsored by the Ludington Area Jaycees, the Freedom Festival features a patriotic parade and fireworks display over Lake Michigan.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Chase the winter blues away at Pure Ludington Brrrewfest, held in Legacy Plaza. Sample delicious varieties of beer, wine, cider and mead.
Planning a visit to the Ludington area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help:
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!
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
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!
112-feet of lighthouse awaits you at the Ludington State Park! Take a tour and follow the winding staircase to the top!
Along the Lake Michigan shoreline between Ludington and Manistee, you’ll find natural splendor- the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness area.