Last year, 2020, was a bit of a bust when it came to events. This July is looking a lot more… eventful!
Although many events have been cancelled or moved online, based on the information known at hand at the time of the decision or based on comfort level, there are still plenty of events to fill up your days and weekends. Most are outdoors, though some are inside. These descriptions are from the events themselves. Visit the event website for additional details.
BRICKLIVE Supersized! Grand Rapids
All summer
BRICKLIVE Supersized! is making its North American debut at John Ball Zoo, having traveled from Great Britain. This awe-inspiring exhibition magnifies nature’s small and mighty life forms into towering works of art. Imagine a twelve-foot-tall tarantula, a gigantic spitting cobra, and an overgrown Venus flytrap made of colorful toy bricks. This spectacular Zoo-wide exhibition of more than 30 sculptures is certain to capture the imagination and spark curiosity. BRICKLIVE Supersized! is included in general Zoo admission.
Pictured Rocks Sunset Tour, Munising
Weekends in July
Come join us on a short hike (2.5 miles round trip) along the Pictured Rocks cliffs to watch the sunset over Lake Superior. This tour begins with an easy 1.25-mile hike to our sunset spot. Along the way we discuss local history, geology of the sandstone cliffs, area shipwrecks, and more! We will provide coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and treats to enjoy as we watch the sun descend over Lake Superior. Sitting pads will be provided as well as headlamps for our return walk to the parking area. All of the above will be carried by your guides, so you can relax and enjoy a night at the rocks. Total time commitment is approximately three hours and all tours are private with just your group.
Upper Chippewa River Kayak, Midland
July 7, 13, 29
Spend an evening paddling six miles down the Chippewa River with a naturalist as you look for turtles, fish, eagles, and other wildlife. This trip starts at CNC’s Universal Access Site on Chippewa River Road west of M-30 and ends at the canoe/kayak launch on CNC’s Homestead Road. CNC will provide a kayak, paddle, and life jacket for each participant. Pre-registration required for kayaking events.
Detroit Beer History Walking Tour, Detroit
Various dates
Our Public Guided Detroit Beer History Walking Tour will take you around the Eastern Market area of Detroit to visit old brewery sites. You learn about the pre- and post-prohibition breweries that once thrived in Eastern Market. All tour guests enjoy an included pint of beer at Eastern Market Brewing at the end of the tour. This walking tour is based on the book “Detroit Beer – A History of Brewing in the Motor City.” Written by Stephen Johnson, the owner of Motor City Brew Tours and your guide for this tour.
Jurassic Quest Drive-Thru, Village of Clarkson
June 18-July 4
Our exhibit has been transformed into an interactive drive-thru experience, featuring over 70 MOVING and ROARING dinosaurs, as well as our 50 – foot – long Megalodon! Although the drive-thru experience means you’ll stay safe inside your vehicle, you’ll still need to watch out for the swinging tail of our 80-foot-long Spinosaurus! Go on a quest with our online audio tour that will take you throughout our exhibit where you will encounter some of the largest dinosaurs to ever roam the earth, and some of the eeriest marine creatures to ever lurk the ocean’s depths! NOTE: Drive-Thru Tickets are required to get into the event. The ‘Add-On’ Quest Packs DO NOT include a Drive-Thru Ticket.
Ann Arbor Summer Festival, Ann Arbor
June 17-July 5
Ann Arbor Summer Festival is back and thrilled to announce a mix of new, in-person, and digital events! You’ll discover a series of concerts, pop-up events in public parks and spaces throughout Ann Arbor and the Ypsilanti area. This year, look forward to new lineups and excitement. Find what you can do during the Ann Arbor Summer Festival including reserving an intimate concert for yourself and friends, or taking a special dance class!
Old Fashioned Mackinac Fourth of July Celebration, Mackinac Island
July 1-6
Join us for a Mackinac Island tradition and come celebrate the July Fourth holiday at Grand Hotel! Experience two days of an exciting children’s carnival! One day we will host an ice cream social, and the second day will be a BBQ luncheon in the Tea Garden. Complimentary golf for ages 17 and younger and 50% off for accompanying adults on The Jewel, beer and wine reception, and breakfast and dinner daily will also be included. Celebrate the Fourth of July evening with a Grand fireworks show seen from the Front Porch.
Manistee National Forest Festival, Manistee
July 1-5
Hosted every year over the Independence Day Holiday, the Manistee National Forest Festival is a Manistee County tradition stretching back over 80 years. Drawing thousands of tourists to the area along with many residents returning with ties to the community, this festival embodies the idea of “community” that so many love about this area. Each year, the Forest Festival highlights events such as the festival marketplace, carnival, fireworks over Lake Michigan, and much more!
2021 National Cherry Festival, Traverse City
July 3-10
The National Cherry Festival, steeped in tradition, resonates Pure Michigan through and through. From bringing ‘pure’ local agriculture to the one of Pure Michigan’s premier destinations; to hosting guests in one of Pure Michigan’s most beautiful beach towns, the Cherry Capital of the World Traverse City, the National Cherry Festival is proud be one of Pure Michigan’s brightest gems. Please visit the website for more event information.
Blake’s Lavender Festival, Armada
July 9-11
We are excited to announce the return of Blake’s Annual Lavender Market. Immerse yourself in our tranquil orchards and stroll our open-air marketplace featuring 100+ Michigan artisans! Sip on a refreshing lavender lemonade or ice cream while enjoying a homemade lavender treat. Blake’s Hard Cider Co. and Blake’s Brewing Co. will be featuring our limited, seasonal lavender infused hard cider and beer. Admission to the festival includes: Over 150 artisans featuring Made in Michigan products; FREE classes, speakers and demonstrations on topics such as natural wellness, aromatherapy, farming and gardening, benefits of local honey and more; DIY make and take workshops with real lavender; Children’s activity tent with FREE crafts and entertainment for kids 12 and under; U-pick lavender, fruits, and vegetables; Lavender infused food and drinks including lavender lemonade, ice cream, cupcakes, donuts, and more!
Charlevoix Summer Art and Craft Show, Charlevoix
July 10-11
The show features quality art displayed on the shore of scenic Round Lake Harbor. Participating artisans are carefully selected to ensure a well-rounded event offering a variety of fun and unique creations. From contemporary to whimsical, it is a wonderful representation of craftsmanship and artwork with many beautiful items on display. Join us as we welcome the arrival of summer in northern Michigan at the Summer Art Show, where works of art and scenic views are just a step away!
57th Annual Alpenfest, Gaylord
July 13-17
From delicious food and outstanding entertainment, to a popular 60+ artist craft show and numerous events including a parade, kid’s games and contests, and carnival rides for all ages, this Alpine-inspired celebration honors the city’s heritage and partnership with sister city, Pontresina, Switzerland. The summer tradition, now in its 57th year, features an impressive lineup of free outdoor concerts each night on the main stage.
Charlevoix Venetian Festival, Charlevoix
July 17-22
What began in 1930 as a candle lit boat parade in Charlevoix’s picturesque harbor, has become an eight-day celebration of family and community pride. With both national and local music acts performing in three waterfront parks, a Kid’s Day, fifteen athletic tournaments, two nights (Friday and Saturday) of world class fireworks and the acclaimed Venetian boat parade, there is something for everyone at the Charlevoix Venetian Festival held the fourth week of each July in “Charlevoix the Beautiful.”
Lake Bluff Artisan Fair, St. Joseph
July 17
This eclectic craft fair, held in picturesque Lake Bluff Park, offers a variety of handcrafted goods. With over 50 local vendors, there’s something for everyone – anything from home decor and furniture to jewelry, candles and more!
Sunset Beach Bonfire Series, Ludington
July 22
Known for beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets, the Sunset Beach Bonfire Series is a way to celebrate it all. On the fourth Thursday of June, July and August, you are invited to bring your beach chairs and blankets to Stearns Park Beach to enjoy a true Up North evening that includes a bonfire, music and, of course, a beautiful sunset. Celebrate summer with golden sands, cool water, warm fire, and beautiful sky. Sunset Bonfires are open to the public and free to attend, from 8-10 PM.
Brighton Wine Arts Music Festival, Brighton
July 30-August 1
Join us for fine art, fine crafts and a vintage market! Come down and delight in a summer weekend with some shopping, art, music in beautiful downtown Brighton! Popping up at WAM – an open air pop-up vintage market – a joint venture between the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce and Beeyond Treasures! Come check out some great vintage wares from fantastic local vendors.
Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, Grand Haven
July 30-August 8
The Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival is committed to honoring men and women of the United States Coast Guard by hosting a nationally recognized festival that honors and respects these men and women who serve. Hosting a festival that provides family friendly activities. Focusing year round on the men and women of the United States Coast Guard serving in the West Michigan area. Building relationships with Coast Guard leadership that fosters the theme of Grand Haven – “Coast Guard City, USA.”