Summer is just around the corner and this means some of the best festivals are just about to happen. If you are taking a break this summer from your hectic schedule, but if you are not heading to any of the international destinations these summer festivals are the best way to enjoy the sunshine with some art, culture, music and good food and drinks. West Michigan is known for its trendy nature, art, culture, music and food which make it a perfect place for you to enjoy these festivals as they celebrate life, the people, history and the art that is produced locally. Here are some of the best summer festivals in West Michigan you should have on your list.
Local First Party
Saturday, June 3
3 pm – midnight
Outside Bistro Bella Vita
44 Grandville SW Grand Rapids 49503
Price: Free
If you are in Grand Rapids on Saturday, June 3, don’t miss the Local First Party. This is the 14th annual Street Party presented by Founders Brewing Company which will bring in talented musicians and performers. Enjoy local brews and get your hands on the best food you can find in Grand Rapids. The festival can be attended by people of all ages and it is completely free so be there from 3 pm until midnight.
The National Cereal Fest
Downtown Battle Creek
Do you love cereals? Let’s celebrate the most important meal of the day on June 9th and 10th as The National Cereal Fest kicks off in style in a place that is the birthplace of the cereals. The festival takes off with the Grand Cereal Parade. The celebrations will continue throughout the day as local and regional entertainers come in to keep you excited. The next morning you can enjoy your breakfast at the World’s Longest Breakfast Table and enjoy your favorite cereals for free.
The Festival of the Arts
Downtown Grand Rapids
If you are an art lover this is the summer festival you shouldn’t miss when you are in West Michigan. The Festival of the Arts takes place in Grand Rapids from June 2nd to 4th and brings together some of the best names in the art business. This three-day community festival will also hold some great performances and have great food and drinks run by nonprofit organizations to help their cause. See some of the Michigan artists take the center stage and see them perform.
Marshall Blues Festival
Are you passionate about blues? If you are then head to Marshall on June 24th and get to hear some of the best blue bands playing the best blues music. You can bring in your lawn chair and enjoy some great music and food. The 14th annual Blues Festival will have Luther Badman Keith Blues Band playing along with other guest bands that will play all day long to keep your foot moving to the blues music.
South Haven Harborfest
Harborfest is the celebration of Southwestern Michigan’s unique maritime history. If you love to know more about maritime history this is the place you should be. The annual festival kicks off on June 16th, 17th and 18th. The festival takes place on the Father’s Day weekend allowing locals and people
from all over the visit it. Enjoy kid’s activities, dragon boat races and some delicious food and drinks here. The local businesses and volunteers of South Haven sponsor the festival.
The Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival
The 19th annual The Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival is one festival which you should be on your list when you are in West Michigan this summer. Here you get to see some of the best vintage cars and boats that you can’t find on a regular basis. The highlight of the event is the Parade of Vintage Cars and Boats followed by the awards ceremony. If you are passionate about vintage cars and boats and history this is the festival you should not miss this June 22nd to 24th.
Arcadia Ales Summer Music Series
Summer is all about great food, beer and excellent music. If you are passionate about all three then head to the beautiful town of Kalamazoo to enjoy the Summer Music Series on June 24th, July 22nd, August 12th, and September 16th. The event is not for free for adults so book your tickets online in advance. The event will have various bands performing on different days. You can also check the food lineup for each of the days online.
Lakeshore Art Festival
The annual Lakeshore Art Festival is for art lovers and attracts more than 50,000 visitors annually to beautiful Downtown Muskegon. This festival is a unique blend of art, craft, food, beer and music that can help you to relax and unwind. There are street performances and interactive art for all age groups. Kids can enjoy art and craft in the Children’s Lane while there are street performers playing music that you can enjoy. The Lakeshore Art Festival takes place on July 7 and 8 this year.
Charlevoix Venetian Festival
One of the oldest summer festivals in the West Michigan area, Charlevoix Venetian Festival usually takes place around the waterfront parks. This will be the 87th year of the festival and will start on July 15 to July 22. This week-long event has boat rides, carnivals, street parade, Venetian games, Queen Competition and fireworks. The event will also have some great food and beverages for you to enjoy so don’t miss this out this summer.
Traverse City Film Festival
Are you a movie buff? Traverse City Film Festival is all about great movies. If you love movies this is the summer festival where you should come. The festival presents classic movies free of charge on a giant screen. There are free panel discussions with the makers and actors and quite a bit of learning for film students and avid film lovers. Founded by Academy award-winning director Michael Moore, this festival takes place for five days. This year you can visit this festival from July 25th to 30th.
