One of the best ways to explore a new area is to dive into local events and celebrations. That’s easy to do during your trip to the Wolverine State, especially with all of the Northern Michigan festivals that take place on a year-round basis! Whether you want to experience the local craft beer scene or watch a spectacular air show, you’ll find something new and exciting during your visit! You can find a full list of events, activities, and attractions around the state of Michigan in our free Vacation Guide!
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The Best Northern Michigan Festivals
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival packs in several different events into this 10-day celebration! Aside from the beautiful array of flowers on display, you can participate in A Taste of Mackinac Culinary Event, the Mackinac Island Dog and Pony Show, the Lilac Festival Grand Parade, and a myriad of other special offerings. So, hop on a ferry in early June and explore the gorgeous oasis in Lake Huron!
National Cherry Festival
Michigan is one of the leading producers of cherries in the country, and Traverse City celebrates this tradition every year at the National Cherry Festival! This weeklong Northern Michigan Festival features live entertainment, cherry field racing, food vendors, and of course, plenty of cherries!
Traverse City Film Festival
Calling all film buffs! The Traverse City Film Festival features films and filmmakers from around the world to showcase the art of cinema. In addition to a variety of movie viewings at the State and Bijou Theatres, the event also brings directors, producers, writers, and actors in for panel discussions. You can even enjoy free classic films on a large inflatable outdoor screen overlooking Grand Traverse Bay in the evening!
Annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk
The Mackinac Bridge Walk is an excellent way to experience the fifth-longest suspension bridge in the world! Take in the sweeping views of Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Mackinac Island as you traverse the five-mile-long bridge from either side.
Traverse City Beer Week
If sampling new and innovative local brews is your thing, you’ll love Traverse City Beer Week! This Northern Michigan festival is full of beer-themed 5k runs, a Flapjack and Flannel celebration, the TC Ale Trail IPA Challenge, and plenty of beer!
Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend at Crystal Mountain
Celebrate family, fun, and creating new memories at Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend at Crystal Mountain. This four-day holiday event in Northern Michigan packs in plenty of family-friendly activities like a turkey trot, a Thanksgiving Day buffet, and much more!
Manistee County Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend
Ring in the Christmas season with the Manistee County Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend event! This four-day Northern Michigan festival allows you to step back in time and celebrate Christmas with a Victorian era-themed. Carolers, bagpipers, and horse-drawn carriages are just a few things that you’ll see gracing the charming town of Manistee.
Book Your Northern Michigan Getaway!
You’ll find an extensive array of Freshwater Vacation Rental homes in the Northern Michigan region. Trying to find a lakeside cottage? What about a remote log cabin? Or maybe you want to be close to the action of Traverse City or Mackinac Island. Wherever you want to stay, we have the perfect rental home for you and your family so you can explore Northern Michigan the way you want to!
Book your vacation rental today and get ready for the trip of a lifetime! We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater family!