Traverse City comes alive during the summer months, with a diverse array of festivals and events that celebrate the region's culture, heritage, and natural beauty. From food and wine festivals to art fairs and music concerts, Traverse City offers something for everyone to enjoy. In this comprehensive guide, we'll highlight the top summer festivals happening in Traverse City, ensuring you don't miss out on the excitement and fun of the season.
1. National Cherry Festival: Kicking off the summer festival season with a bang, the National Cherry Festival is Traverse City's signature event, celebrating the region's cherry harvest and cherry industry. Held annually in early July, this week-long extravaganza features parades, live music performances, cherry-themed culinary delights, carnival rides, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the spectacular fireworks display over Grand Traverse Bay, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling array of colors.
2. Traverse City Horse Shows & Equestrian Festival: TCHS (June 5th - August 11th) serves as a hub for the equestrian community, offering over $7 million in prize money across FEI and national-level competitions in jumpers, hunters, and equitation. With world-class course designers and classes for all levels, we attract Olympic athletes, top trainers, and riders from around the globe. Highlights include Major League Show Jumping, the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ North American League Qualifier, the FEI North American Youth Championships, and the iconic American Gold Cup.
3. 76th Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival: The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival (June 7th-16th) is the largest and most historic festival on Mackinac Island. It’s 10 days celebrating the lilacs and their uniqueness and history to Mackinac Island. Join us for the Lilac Queen coronation, official poster reveal, 10K Run/Walk, lilac walking tours, lilac planting seminars, bounce houses, Michigan Cornhole tournament, live music, the Grand Parade, and more!
4. Charlevoix Venetian Festival: Venetian Festival (July 20th-27th) is a celebration of heritage and life in Charlevoix, through family oriented festival events and activities, which fosters the sense and value of community and promotes relationships with family, friends and neighbors.
5. Petoskey’s Festival by the Bay: The Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend the 17th Annual Festival on the Bay, August 15-17, 2019 at the Petoskey, Michigan waterfront. Every year, visitors enjoy great music inside the Entertainment Tent and a fun Children’s Area all weekend. Other activities include The BIG Art Show, a Petting Zoo and so much more!
Northern Michigan’s summer festivals offer a rich tapestry of culture, entertainment, and excitement, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer. Plan your summer getaway today and immerse yourself in the magic of Traverse City's vibrant festival scene at Lakemore Lodge! Book your stay at Lakemore Lodge HERE.