Favorite Michigan Summer Festivals have a way of adding magic to anyone’s getaway! Whether it’s listening to a local band play in the town square or walking through an antique fair, Michigan has a festival that will find its way into your vacation and your heart. Our area is widely known for its mid-western hospitality, beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and relaxed way of life. A lesser-known fact about Michigan is that our state is filled with summer festivals celebrating all the best things in life- old-fashioned fun, music, art, and locally grown food. Below, we’ve listed our Favorite Michigan Summer Festivals and the Best Michigan Bed and Breakfast to stay nearby that are MBBA-approved and inspected. Attending a Michigan Festival is a great way to “Live Like a Local” and enjoy all the celebrations that Michiganders hold close to their hearts.
The Best Summer Festivals in Michigan
Michigan May Festivals
Holland’s Tulip Time Festival
When: 5/4 – 5/12/2024
Where: Downtown Holland, MI
Springtime brings thousands of tulips blooming in Holland. Enjoy the Dutch architecture, charming shops along 8th Street, and local eateries and tasting bars. Check out this previous blog that includes all our favorite things to do during this fun festival.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Dutch Colonial Inn-Holland-charming rooms and wonderful hospitality
Inn at Old Orchard Road–Dutch Farmhouse with beautiful gardens
Lake Bluff Summer Artisan Fair
Where: St. Joseph, MI
When: Summer Events Calendar
The Lake Bluff Artisan Fair is a great opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Bluff Park and shop the diverse offerings of the artisan market.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Goldberry Woods B&B– Union Pier- farm-to-table bed and breakfast that sits on the Galien River with an organic farm, outdoor pool, and glamping in vintage campers.
Garden Grove Inn– Union Pier- beautiful gardens with comfortable rooms and warm hospitality
The Kite Festival at Grand Haven
Where: Grand Haven, MI
When: 5/18 – 5/19/2024
A great way to celebrate spring is to witness a sky filled with colored kites. This event is hosted at the Grand Haven State Park. World-famous stunt kite fliers perform to music on the center flying field while kites larger than a school bus hover just to the south. Bring your own kite to fly on the open flying field at the north end of the event, or test fly the year’s newest kites on one of the manufacturers’ fields.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Looking Glass Beach Front Inn– Grand Haven-lakefront views and a beautiful patio to watch the kite festival
Washington Street Inn– Grand Haven- known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts with a perfect downtown location
National Morel Festival
Where: Boyne City, MI
When: 5/18 – 5/19/2023
Each spring, hundreds of morel mushroom lovers from around the country travel to small-town Boyne City, Michigan, seeking and celebrating the marvelous morel at the National Morel Mushroom Festival. The Festival is held the weekend after Mother’s Day and features morel tastings, a national competitive hunt, seminars, an arts & crafts show, a concert, and a fun carnival.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
House on the Hill Bed and Breakfast, Ellsworth-charming rooms, lakeside location, and delicious breakfasts.
Park Street Inn- Bellaire-farm fresh eggs for breakfast and comfortable rooms.
Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast– Central Lake- beautiful lake views with watersports galore.
Michigan Petoskey Stone Festival
Where: Torch Lake Township, MI
When: 5/27/2023
The Petoskey is the state stone of Michigan, and what better place to celebrate them than in northern Michigan, where you can find them scattered along the shores of the lakes? The 18th annual Antrim County Petoskey Stone Festival will be held, as always, on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast– Central Lake-beautiful lake views with delicious breakfasts
House on the Hill Bed and Breakfast, Ellsworth-charming rooms, lakeside location, and delicious breakfasts.
Park Street Inn- Bellaire-farm fresh eggs for breakfast and walking distance to the lovely town of Bellaire.
Michigan June Festivals
Alpena Flower Festival
Where: Alpena, MI
When: 6/2- 6/3/2023
All of downtown Alpena will be decorated with dozens of beautiful arrangements from local florists. You’ll find live and jazz music playing as you arrive and participate in many flower-related crafts and activities.
Always a Holiday! Bed and Breakfast-East Tawas-short walk to the quaint downtown and lighthouse.
Presque Isle Lodge Bed and Breakfast- Presque Isle– lovely lakefront lodge with old-fashion hospitality
Huron House– Oscoda- romantic rooms with views of Lake Huron
Michigan Antique Festival
Where: Midland County Fairground, Michigan
When: 6/3 & 6/4/2023
The Michigan Antique Festival takes place at the Midland County Fairgrounds. For 2 days, you’ll find hundreds of unique dealers with treasures from all over history, including vintage gifts and unique finds, Americana, Art Deco, Shabby Chic, Primitives, Jewelry, Coins, Repurposed and Upcycled, Retro Collectibles, and More!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Knob Hill Bed and Breakfast, Flint-a 1926 Colonial-style mansion with a central location
Historic Webster House, Bay City –Nestled in the city’s historic district and close to the riverfront downtown
Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast, St. Johns- a historic building with large rooms and spa-like baths
Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, Caro- historic charm and legendary farmer’s breakfast
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
Where: Mackinac Island
When: 6/9 – 6/19/2023
Kick off your summer with a fun 10-day celebration of lilacs and their history that began during the Victorian Age when lilacs grew in popularity. Take part in a lilac race, the queen’s coronation, the lilac poster reveal, or one of the many lilac walks.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Bay View Bed and Breakfast- Mackinac Island –charming gardens, an impressive interior with exquisite period pieces and artwork
Love Ludington Weekend
Where: Ludington, Mi
Ludington turned 150 years old in 2023. So much to do in Ludington so we give you their Events page.
A town celebrating its history, and this year they are celebrating 150 years of Ludington in 2023! The festivities include a fun street party, dancing and singing, games, and fireworks.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Cartier Mansion, Ludington- a historic and grand mansion that is dog friendly.
Ludington House B&B, Ludington- a historic lumber baron home with outstanding breakfasts and a great location
Lamplighter Inn, Ludington- beautiful Victorian Architecture with warm hospitality
Candlelite Bed and Breakfast, Ludington- close access to beach and park
National Asparagus Festival
Where: Empire, MI
When: 6/10/2023
Empire in Northwest Michigan has celebrated Asparagus with a Fun Festival since 1974. After the festival, don’t miss the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore close by.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Cottonwood Inn Bed and Breakfast, Empire-country location with close access to the Sleeping Bear Dunes
Glen Arbor Bed and Breakfast– Glen Arbor-delicious breakfast and water views with close access to town
Grand Haven Art Festival
Where: Grand Haven, MI
When: 6/23-6/25/2023
June is a perfect time to visit Grand Haven when artists from all over the country come to display their art in downtown Grand Haven. Visitors enjoy music, street food, and outrageous good art.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Looking Glass Beach Front Inn-Grand Haven Manistee-lakefront views and a beautiful patio to watch the kite festival
Washington Street Inn– Grand Haven-known for their warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts with a perfect location downtown
Olive Burger Festival
Where: Lansing, MI
When: 6/24/2023
Have you ever tasted an Olive Burger? Yes, it is a thing celebrated for one day only in Lansing, Michigan. On June 24th, foodies need to look no further than this fun event!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Canterbury Chateau Bed and Breakfast- Brighton-charming gardens, an impressive interior with exquisite period pieces and artwork
Nordic Pineapple-St Johns-beautifully decorated suites with romantic jacuzzies
2023 Marshall Bluesfest
Where: Marshall MI
When: 6/24/2023
Listening to Blues Music is a perfect way to spend a summer day, and Marshall, Michigan, is a perfect place to host this fun event. The Marshall Bluesfest features some of the best and brightest of the blues scene, and its lineup includes the Marc Stone Band, the Fat Animals, and other great musical acts!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Villa on Verona is an upscale lodging with beautiful gardens and a summer pool.
National House Inn, Located in downtown Marshall, is Michigan’s oldest bed and breakfast.
Manistee National Forest Festival
Where: Manistee, Michigan
When: 6/30 – 7/4/2023
Manistee is a charming Lake Michigan beach town. During the Fourth of July weekend, this Michigan town comes alive with old fashion fun! Try your luck at one of the carnival games, take part in arts and crafts, purchase hand-crafted artisan goods from the marketplace, or sit back and relax as you watch fireworks over the lake.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Dempsey Manor, Manistee-charming gardens, an impressive interior with exquisite period pieces and artwork
Canfield House– Onekama-known as the inn on two lakes that overlooks beautiful Portage Lake
Michigan July Festivals
Traverse City Cherry National Festival
Where: Traverse City, Michigan
When: Annual
Looking for some outdoor fun combined with an old-fashioned summer festival? You’ll find plenty of hiking and biking opportunities in Traverse City. During the National Cherry Fest, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to taste fresh cherries, listen to live music from award-winning artists and participate in one of the many cherry-themed events, all while enjoying the shores of Lake Michigan. Combine your visit with a trip up the Old Mission Peninsula for a tour of the Traverse City wineries and stay at one of our acclaimed bed and breakfasts that are also wineries highlighted below.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Antiquities’ Wellington Inn, Traverse City-enjoy a 1905 Neoclassical mansion within walking distance of town.
Chateau Chantal, Traverse City- immerse yourself in an Old World experience that combines a vineyard and winery with an upscale and comfortable B&B
Grey Hare Inn– Traverse City-elegant country vineyard surrounded by a breathtaking vineyard, cherry orchard, and distant views of Grand Traverse Bay
Cadillac Freedom Festival
Where: Cadillac, MI
When: 7/4 – 7/8/2023
A fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Cadillac, Michigan. This popular event will take place on and in the days after July 4th and will feature a 5k race, Military Tribute, classic car show, and the Pork in the Park BBQ Competition!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Dempsey Manor, Manistee-charming gardens, an impressive interior with exquisite period pieces and artwork
Music in the Park
Where: Lexington, Michigan
When: July & August- Friday evenings
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to Patrick Tierney Park at Lexington Harbor on Fridays and enjoy a series of free outdoor concerts! Check out the calendar of musicians here.
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Lexington House– Lexington-1870 Victorian architecture with easy access to downtown and your very own ice cream shop on the property.
Plymouth Art In the Park
Where: Plymouth, MI
When: 7/7 – 7/19/2023
Artists and art lovers gather in Plymouth to celebrate Plymouth’s Art in the Park, where over 400 artists from around the U.S. offer paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, glass, woodwork, photography, folk art & much more. Entertainment and cuisine will complement the art exhibitors.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Robyn’s Inn- Plymouth-luxury accommodations with delicious homemade breakfasts.
Tawas City Summer Fest
Where: Tawas City MI
When: 7/14 – 7/16/2023
This fun summer festival takes place on the beaches of Lake Huron in the quaint town of Tawas City. It’s a three-day festival celebrating the busiest time of the year with a classic car show, 5K races, and live music.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Always a Holiday! Bed and Breakfast, East Tawas– quaint 3-room Bed and Breakfast with close assess to Tawas Point State Park and Lighthouse.
Huron House, Oscoda, Mi-the inn offers 14 guest rooms with beautiful views of Lake Huron.
Brown Trout Festival
Where: Alpena, MI
When: 7/14 – 7/23/2023
This 10-day event is the longest-running fishing tournament in the Great Lakes.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Presque Isle Lodge Bed and Breakfast- Presque Isle
Michigan Elvis Fest
Where: Ypsilanti, Michigan
When: 7/7 -7/8/2023
Elvis impersonators and fans gather to enjoy the best of the best impersonators belt out The King’s classics while enjoying local brews and food. While you’re in “Ypsi,” take in the area’s automotive history at the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum & National Hudson Motor Car Company Museum or the Michigan Firehouse Museum.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Newton of Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti, Mi –delightful chef-owned property
Robyn’s Inn, Plymouth, Mi- totally renovated modern designed bed and breakfast
Ann Arbor State Street Art Fair
Where: Downtown Ann Arbor MI
When: 7/20- 7/22/2023
The largest juried art fair in the nation, the Ann Arbor Art Fair features nearly 1,000 artists and a footprint spanning 30 city blocks in downtown Ann Arbor. The Ann Arbor Art Fair has three juried, nonprofit art fairs that run consecutively.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Newton of Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti, Mi –delightful chef-owned property
Robyn’s Inn, Plymouth, Mi- totally renovated modern designed bed and breakfast offers five guest rooms
Coast Guard Festival
Where: Grand Haven
When: 7/28 – 8/6/2023
The Coast Guard Festival takes place in the quaint town of Grand Haven and spans down the street to the picturesque Grand Haven state park beach. This popular event includes a tribute band of popular classic artists every night, right on Lake Michigan’s shores.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Looking Glass Beach Front Inn-Grand Haven Manistee-lakefront views and a beautiful patio to watch the kite festival
Washington Street Inn– Grand Haven-known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts with a perfect location downtown
Michigan August Festivals
Elk Rapids Harbor Days
Where: Elk Rapids
When: 8/2 – 8/5/2023
This small-town festival kicks off on Wednesday night with the popular Evening on River Street. With the street closed, the downtown merchants and vendors are ready to satisfy your appetite for food, music, and entertainment!
The next three days include games, athletic events, carnival rides, a festival parade, and musical entertainment. Others may choose to relax on our beautiful beaches, visit our historical museum or stroll through the Art Park. The celebration’s main event lights up the sky on Saturday night as Zambelli International fireworks sparkling colors display over the Harbor, Carnival area, and a long stretch of park shoreline.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Spring Lighthouse, Elk Rapids- Peaceful views of East Grand Traverse Bay from the inn
Frankenmuth Flower Festival
Where: Frankenmuth, MI
When: 8/4 – 8/6/2023
Celebrate the wonderful bloom of Michigan’s flowers this year with the Frankenmuth Flower Festival! For three days, visitors can view the flower season’s beauty in a celebration featuring food, drink, art, and a pick-your-own sunflower event!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Frankenmuth Country Bed and Breakfast-Frankenmuth-charming country location with newly renovated rooms and delicious breakfasts.
Belle Isle Art Fair
Where: Belle Isle, Detroit MI
When: 8/5 – 8/6/2023
Belle Isle, an island in Detroit, is filled with history dating back to 1880! The island hosts a yearly art fair for a glorious weekend in August. Enjoy juried artists who set up their work near the beautiful Scott Fountain.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Frederick K Stearns House– Detroit-upscale newly remodeled boutique hotel complete with a ballroom & Speak Easy Pub
The Cochrane House– Detroit-Art-filled home with glorious baths and warm hospitality.
Blue Water Sand Fest-
Where: Lake Huron, Michigan
When: 8/4- 8/6-2023
Are you a sandcastle builder extraordinaire, or enjoy the viewing? Check out the installations, and enjoy live music and the beauty of Port Huron.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Lexington House– Lexington-1870 Victorian architecture with easy access to downtown and your very own ice cream shop on the property.
Bluewater Area Antique Yard Sale Trail
Where: Along many communities on Lake Huron, Michigan
When: 8/13-8/15/23
This is quite a unique yard sale that spans 150 plus miles from New Baltimore and Algonac in the south to Sebewaing in the north, M-25 / M-29 follows the majestic banks of the St. Clair River, then continues along the shoreline of beautiful Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay. Many communities along the route offer unique shops, “antiquing”, museums full of local history, and small diners for convenience and comfort.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Lexington House– Lexington-1870 Victorian architecture with easy access to downtown and your very own ice cream shop on the property.
Raymond House Inn Bed and Breakfast, Port Sanilac-laid-back harbor town with lighthouses and seven comfortable guest rooms.
Port Austin Bed and Breakfast, Port Austin- entirely renovated, restored mid-Nineteenth Century Victorian home, complete with a turret and wraparound porch.
National Blueberry Festival
Where: South Haven
When: 8/10 – 8/13/2023
The National Blueberry Festival’s Mission is to “recognize, appreciate, and celebrate the cultural and economic significance of blueberries, blueberry production, and agritourism in the Southwest Michigan region by holding an annual National Blueberry Festival. To promote the education and future of agriculture in Southwest Michigan.”
And we can all agree that there is nothing sweeter than attending an old fashion festival and enjoying fresh-picked blueberries. The festival includes live music on the beach, races, parades, and a children’s blueberry-eating competition. The National Blueberry Festival is held on the second weekend of August each year and is one of the country’s oldest continuously-running fruit festivals!
Vintage Inn at Veritas Estate- -South Haven-a new inn in South Haven. Farm-to-table breakfasts and comfortable rooms set this inn apart.
Cheeseburger Festival
Where: Caseville
When: 8/11 – 8/20/2023
The quiet beach town of Caseville transforms into Margaritaville, USA, for this 10-day Jimmy Buffet-themed festival. Take part in cheeseburger-themed events such as judging the best-dressed business or the best cheeseburger.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Port Austin Bed and Breakfast- Port Austin-charming historic inn that has been thoughtfully renovated to be a bed and breakfast in this coastal town on the tip of the thumb.
Rubber Ducky Festival and Race
Where: Bellaire, Michigan
When: 8/14 – 8/19-2023
The 36th Annual Rubber Ducky Festival will be taking place in downtown Bellaire. Witness two thousand numbered rubber ducks being dumped into the river. Tickets are for sale; if your ticket number matches the first 27 rubber ducks to cross the finish line, you win a prize. Also, enjoy rubber duck races and duck-themed festivities!
Bellaire is also home to Shorts Brewing Company and the gorgeous Grass River Natural Area.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Inn at Breezy Hill Farm, Bellaire- an extraordinary farm-to-table experience
Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast, Central Lake-beautiful views of Torch Lake
House on the Hill, Ellsworth- charming rooms, lakeside location, and delicious breakfasts.
Margaritaville Fest & Music in the Park
Where: Lexington, Michigan
When:
Come by land or boat to this free concert and visit the beautiful town of Lexington. The festivities will include a decorated bike and golf cart parade, stilt walking, animal balloons, a themed motorcycle night, music in the harbor, a cheeseburger eating contest, and much more!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Lexington House– Lexington-1870 Victorian architecture with easy access to downtown and your very own ice cream shop on the property.
Mackinac Island Fudge Festival
Where: Mackinac Island
When: 8/25 – 8/27/2023
For an entire weekend, the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival celebrates the Island’s most famous treat and features fudge-making demonstrations and fudge-inspired food and cocktails.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Bay View Bed and Breakfast- Mackinac Island –charming gardens, an impressive interior with exquisite period pieces and artwork
Michigan State Fair
Where: Novi
When: 8/31 – 9/4/2023
The biggest festival in the state takes place in Novi, Michigan, and features an event list that the whole family can enjoy. From carnival games to fun rides, livestock, and delicious eats, be sure to make it to the State Fair for the perfect ending to a great summer.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Stag’s Leap Farm– Oxford- Charming bed and breakfast nestled in the country with natural beauty and wonderful hospitality
Canterbury Chateau-Brighton- comfortable lodging in the suburbs of Detroit.
Michigan September Festivals
Allegan County Fair
Where: Allegan, Michigan
When: 9/8 – 9/16/2023
Looking for an old fashion county fair with fabulous rides and games? For nine days, the first Friday after Labor Day, the fairgrounds come alive with a Rodeo, Tractor Pulls, Demolition Derby and parade, and two days of Harness Racing. Over the years, the fairgrounds have continued to grow and currently encompass 110 acres featuring a race track allowing for racing 5-wide, a horse complex, a 38,000 sq. ft. indoor exhibit hall complex, livestock barns and arenas, a fully-covered grandstand, the Allegan County Pioneer Village. Activities occur at the fairgrounds year-round.
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Jade Estate Inn, Allegan- beautifully restored mansion
Kingsley House, Fennville- central location and very romantic
The Castle in the Country Bed and Breakfast– Allegan- an upscale country inn with luxury rooms and spa services with its own lake and canoes.
Michigan Antique Festival
Where: Midland County Fairground, Michigan
When: 9/23 & 9/24/2023
The Michigan Antique Festival takes place at the Midland County Fairgrounds. For 2 days, you’ll find hundreds of unique dealers with treasures from all over history, including vintage gifts and unique finds, Americana, Art Deco, Shabby Chic, Primitives, Jewelry, Coins, Repurposed and Upcycled, Retro Collectibles, and More!
Quality inspected and assured MBBA properties close by-
Knob Hill Bed and Breakfast, Flint-a 1926 Colonial-style mansion with a central location
Historic Webster House, Bay City –Nestled in the city’s historic district and close to the riverfront downtown
Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast, St. Johns- a historic building with large rooms and spa-like baths
Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, Caro- historic charm and legendary farmer’s breakfast
Summertime is a glorious time to visit Michigan!
You’ll find more than 11,000 crystal-clear lakes, thousands of rivers and streams, and more freshwater coastline than any other state. Our Michigan B&Bs offer city life, country life, and everything in between. Check out our website to see our collection of more than 60 quality-assured inns and choose the perfect destination. You might also consider planning your getaway around the Best Summer Festivals In Michigan.
If you are looking for a great gift for a colleague, a friend, or a family member, consider giving them a quality-assured Gift Certificate from the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association.
Purchase your MBBA Gift Certificate Today
The process is so simple. Check out this link to purchase your gift certificate, and we will send a copy for you to print and the original embossed version in the mail the next day.
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