12 Must-Visit Summer Festivals in Michigan for 2024

If you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, prepare to be amazed by the dazzling array of summer festivals that await you in Michigan this year. From the vibrant streets of downtown Royal Oak to the serene beaches of South Haven, the Great Lakes State transforms into a playground of food, fun, and festivities. Whether it's indulging in the culinary delights of the Royal Oak Taco Fest, marveling at the sky-high spectacles of the Jackson Hot Air Jubilee, or soaking up the rock and roll vibes at the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, there's something for everyone. These festivals promise unforgettable experiences, bringing together communities to celebrate everything from music and food to cultural heritage and seasonal bounty. Get ready to mark your calendars and dive into the best that Michigan has to offer this summer!

motorcitypride, Instagram

Motor City Pride Festival

date: June 8-9 (Sat 1-9pm | sun 12:30-7pm)
Hart Plaza | 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226
Website: Motor City Pride Festival

Returning to June Pride Month for the first time since 2019, the Motor City Pride Festival at Hart Plaza in Detroit will commemorate the 52nd anniversary of Detroit's first LGBTQ+ march. This epic celebration of equality, held on June 8th and 9th, features a vibrant parade, live music, family-friendly activities, and more. As Michigan's largest pride celebration, Motor City Pride attracts over 65,000 participants. This year's festival will feature special guests Matt Connors, Christy Walkins, Brent Matthews, and Trisha Johnson, making it a highlight event for the LGBTQ+ community and allies.

national_asparagus_festival, Instagram

The National Asparagus Festival

date: June 8 (Sat 9am-5pm)
16 S State St, Hart, MI 49420
Website: The National Asparagus Festival

Celebrating Michigan's status as the leading asparagus producer in the U.S., the National Asparagus Festival in Hart is a beloved annual tradition. Since 1974, Oceana County, proudly known as the "asparagus capital of the world," has honored this versatile green vegetable with a festival that features everything from asparagus-themed food and recipes to parades and live entertainment. Attendees can indulge in culinary delights, enjoy fun activities, and participate in various family-friendly events, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and families alike.

royaloaktacofest, Instagram

Royal Oak Taco Fest

date: July 4-7 (Thur-sat 11am-11pm | sun 11am-9pm)
Downtown Royal Oak | 301 W. Fourth Street, Suite #440, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Website: Royal Oak Taco Fest

Kick off your summer with tacos, cerveza, and tequila at the Royal Oak Taco Fest from July 4th to 7th in downtown Royal Oak. This street festival features over 50 taquerias and eateries, ice-cold margaritas at the Fro-Zone, and three stages of live entertainment. The event boasts a diverse musical lineup to entertain attendees of all ages. The family-friendly atmosphere includes the Kids Zone with bounce houses, a splash pad, face painting, and crafts. Highlights also include Lucha Libre wrestling, daily contests like the Kroger’s Taco Twosome Showdown and timed taco-eating contests, tequila sampling, and artisan vendors, promising a fun-filled experience for everyone.

Labadie Rib Fest, Facebook

Labadie Rib Fest

date: July 25-28 (Thur 4-11pm | fri 12-11pm | sat 11am-11pm | Sun 11am-8pm)
Veterans Memorial Park | John F Kennedy Dr, Bay City, MI 48706
Website: Labadie Rib Fest

Bay City's cherished Labadie Rib Fest is back at Veterans Memorial Park, promising four days of mouthwatering ribs, exhilarating concerts, and family fun. Featuring headline performances by national and local Michigan bands, the festival offers an array of delicious ribs from Michigan to Virginia to Texas. Attendees can also enjoy unique attractions like pig races, a family stage with activities for all ages, and the Celebrity Rib Cook-Off on Friday at noon, which includes free admission from noon to 1:00 PM. Powered by local non-profit partners, volunteers, and sponsors, Rib Fest aims to enrich the Bay City community through fun and food.

cherryfestival, Instagram

The National Cherry Festival

date: June 29-July 6 (9am-10:30pm)
521 S Union St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Website: The National Cherry Festival

The National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, held from June 29th to July 6th, is an eight-day celebration packed with food, fun, family-friendly activities, and entertainment. Originating in 1925 as the “Blessing of the Blossoms,” the festival now attracts over 500,000 visitors, making it one of the country’s largest and most popular events. Highlights include an exhilarating air show featuring the United States Navy Blue Angels, a lively midway with rides and attractions, and a variety of delicious food offerings from local vendors. Premier performers take the stage for live concerts each night, featuring Stone Temple Pilots with Special Guest Moon Fever on June 29, T.I. with Special Guests Ajax Stacks and DJ Xcape on June 30, Bret Michaels with Jefferson Starship on July 1, Leanne Morgan on July 2, Goo Goo Dolls on July 3, Dylan Scott with Special Guest DASHA on July 4, Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesias Live on July 5, and The Accidentals and Joshua Davis on July 6. With a perfect blend of entertainment and cherry-themed delights, the festival promises a “ripe” time for all attendees.

Michigan ElvisFest Inc., Facebook

The 24th Michigan ElvisFest

date: July 12-13 (fri 4-11pm | sat 11am-11pm)
Wayne County Fairgrounds | 10871 Quirk Rd, Belleville, MI 48111
Website: The 24th Michigan ElvisFest

Celebrate the legacy of "The King" at the 24th Michigan ElvisFest, held on July 12th and 13th at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Belleville. This iconic festival is a must-attend for Elvis fans, featuring top-notch Elvis tribute performers, a classic car show, and a variety of food and beer tents. With tickets priced at $30 for Friday and $50 for Saturday, attendees can also enjoy family-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the weekend. This event promises a memorable experience for all ages, honoring the enduring appeal of Elvis Presley.

hotairjubilee, Instagram

Jackson Hot Air Jubilee

date: July 19-21 (7pm Thursday night to 7am Sunday morning)
Ella Sharp Park | 3225 Fourth St, Jackson, MI 49203
Website: Jackson Hot Air Jubilee

Experience the enchanting spectacle of the Jackson Hot Air Jubilee, taking place from July 19th to 21st at Ella Sharp Park in Jackson. This magical event features morning and evening hot air balloon launches, culminating in mesmerizing nightly balloon glows at dusk. Whether you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, attendees can witness the vibrant colors and majestic flights of the balloons, creating a picturesque and memorable experience. In addition to the balloon activities, the event offers a range of family-friendly entertainment, food vendors, and more, making it a perfect summer outing for all ages.

coastgdfestival, Instagram

Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival

date: July 26-Aug 4
Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium | 1 N Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Website: Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival

The Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival is a cherished annual event, running from July 26th to August 4th at the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium. This festival honors the men and women of the United States Coast Guard, thanks to the collaboration of the Coast Guard, local municipalities, volunteers, and corporate sponsors. Highlights include parades, memorials, picnics, carnival rides, fireworks, a car show, and a craft fair, among many other activities. The downtown area along Washington Street hosts a vibrant carnival, while the waterfront area is lined with delicious food vendors, perfect for indulging in classic carnival treats. This celebration is a heartfelt tribute to the Coast Guard community and a fun-filled event for all ages.

elk_rapids_harbor_day, Instagram

Elk Rapids Harbor Days Festival

date: July 31-Aug 3 (10am-4pm)
Downtown Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Website: Elk Rapids Harbor Days Festival

The Elk Rapids Harbor Days Festival, from July 31st to August 3rd, is a delightful four-day celebration in downtown Elk Rapids. Kicking off with the lively Evening on River Street, the festival features food, music, Kids Day games, athletic events, carnival rides, a parade, and musical performances. Visitors can relax on the beaches, visit the historic museum, and enjoy the Art Park. The highlight is the Zambelli International fireworks display on Saturday night. Organized by the Harbor Days Association Board of Directors, the event supports local service organizations and is made possible by generous sponsors and volunteers, offering most activities free of charge.

Blue Water Sand Fest, Instagram

Blue Water Sandfest

date: Aug 2-4
Fort Gratiot Light Station County Park | 2802 Omar St, Port Huron, MI 48060
Website: Blue Water Sandfest

Celebrating its 10th year, Blue Water SandFest, held from August 2nd to 4th at Fort Gratiot Light Station County Park, brings together Pro-Am sand sculptors from across North America to transform 500 tons of sand into stunning art. As Michigan's first and only Pro-Am Competitive Sand Sculpting and Amateur Competition and Festival, it serves as the Michigan State Championship of Sand Sculpting. This unique three-day event offers a visual feast of intricate sand sculptures, showcasing the incredible talents of both professional and amateur artists.

nationalblueberryfestival, Facebook

National Blueberry Festival

date: Aug 8-11 (9am-6pm)
345 Water Street, South Haven, MI 49090
Website: National Blueberry Festival

The National Blueberry Festival in South Haven, held from August 8th to 11th, is a vibrant celebration featuring parades, live beachside music, blueberry eating contests, and a plethora of family-friendly activities. This annual event highlights the region's rich blueberry heritage, offering endless fun and entertainment against the scenic backdrop of Lake Michigan.

Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival, Facebook

Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival

date: Aug 8-11 (9am-6pm)
Caseville Chamber of Commerce | 6632 Main Street, Caseville, MI 48725
Website: Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival

Since its inception in 1999 as a three-day event, the Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival has grown into a ten-day extravaganza from August 9th to 18th, 2024. This festival features burger stands on every corner, live tropical music, a variety of vendors and retailers, and activities for all ages. A highlight is the whimsical "Parade of Fools," making it a fun and unique celebration not to be missed.

So, whether you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, these 12 must-visit summer festivals in Michigan for 2024 promise a season brimming with excitement, culture, and unforgettable memories. From the pulsating beats and tantalizing tacos of the Royal Oak Taco Fest to the breathtaking views and fruity fun at the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, each event offers a unique flavor of Michigan's vibrant festival scene. The spirit of community, the thrill of live performances, and the sheer joy of celebration await you. Pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready to immerse yourself in the best summer experiences that the Great Lakes State has to offer. Your perfect summer adventure starts here!