8 Unique Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss in Michigan

Michigan is spoiled with the beauty of 4 seasons, dreamy tourist destinations, and a robust selection of arts and cultural offerings in every corner of it’s fresh coast - but many people would agree that the thousands of festivals that pop-up from as far south as Coldwater in the Lower Peninsula to the northern most point of Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula, are what make the mitten state such a vibrant place to call home and visit. Every person and family can find something that intrigues, inspires and encourages them to explore the state and explore a new town.

Here is a list of a few unique festivals you should check out and be certain not to miss. But we couldn’t make a list as long as we would have liked with ALL of the festivals you should check out, so if you want to explore more of them, head on over to MichiganFun.com for a full listing of all the festivals in Michigan - they are the festival experts in the Fresh Coast State.

Blue Water Sturgeon Festival REIMAGINED | August 22, 2021

The Blue Water Sturgeon Festival will look a little different this year compared to years past, but the non-profit organization, “Friends of the St. Clair River” will be hosting a reimagined event for 2021. Lake Sturgeon, known as “The Gentle Giants of the Great Lakes,” due to their ability to grow over 6 feet in length and 150 pounds in weight, are unfortunately on the Michigan Threatened Species List. The festival aims to raise money for the organization's conservation, education, and stewardship programs. Located in Port Huron, visitors can enjoy the Sturgeon Full Moon Lighthouse Climb on August 22nd.

Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival | July 30 - August 8, 2021

Grand Haven, also known as Coast Guard City U.S.A., is home to the Coast Guard Festival to celebrate and honor the brave men and women who serve in the United States Coast Guard. High-ranking officials attend the event every year, and the festival provides exciting family-friendly activities throughout the week.

National Blueberry Festival | August 12 - 15, 2021

The South Haven area is one of the largest producers of blueberries in the State of Michigan, and the National Blueberry Festival intends to celebrate the agricultural community and the large impact the annual blueberry crop has on the local economy. To accomplish their mission, the festival hosts a Farm Day, Blueberry Festival Parade, Pie Eating Contest, live music all weekend long, and much more!

East Lansing Art Festival | August 7 - 8, 2021

Stroll through the streets of Downtown East Lansing, home to Michigan State University, as you explore over a hundred fine art booths. The festival is celebrating it’s 58th year of bringing high quality art to the streets of East Lansing along with live music, children’s activities, food trucks and much more!

Sparta Celtic Festival | August 14, 2021

The Sparta Celtic Festival is a free event that focuses on celebrating the expression of Celtic heritage. Celtic culture is a part of every event that includes music and dancing, games, historical encampments and much more! The festival takes place in Sparta and is perfect for the whole family.

Cedar Polka Festival | August 26 - 29, 2021

One of the few remaining polka festivals in the United States, the Cedar Polka Festival celebrates the rich Polish heritage in the area and draws in Polka enthusiasts from all across the country. Some of the best polka musicians in the country play at the event, and attendees can dance along, enjoy some delicious polish food and beer, and indulge in the unique atmosphere of the event.

Mackinac Island Fudge Festival | August 27 - 29, 2021

Mackinac Island is home to some of the best fudge in the world, and the community celebrates that fact every August at the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival. Visitors to the island can enjoy live fudge-making demonstrations, fudge-related foods and cocktails and a weekend full of family fun! It’s the perfect weekend for everyone who loves Mackinac Island fudge. (Who doesn’t?)

Romeo Peach Festival | September 2 - 6, 2021

The annual Romeo Peach Festival is the perfect event to cap off your summer fun in the state of Michigan. With events starting on Thursday and continuing through Labor Day, including peach candy tasting, peach pies, a craft show, softball tournament, and much more, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Romeo Peach Festival!