A family playing at an outdoor carnival game in winter

Fairs & Festivals

Michigan events celebrate the state’s cultural and agricultural heritage by showcasing the cuisine, arts and seasons – and, above all, the fun-loving spirit you’ll find here.

Celebrate year-round at these Michigan fairs and festivals.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Michigan, time your visit with an annual fair or festival. These events celebrate the state’s cultural and agricultural heritage by showcasing the cuisine, arts and seasons of Michigan – and, above all, the fun-loving spirit you’ll find here. In spring, head to Holland for the award-winning Tulip Time Festival. Spring is also when Ann Arbor hosts its annual film festival, the longest-running independent and experimental film series in North America.

In summer, the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City is a must. You could keep busy watching the festival parades, air show, concerts and race series, or stroll the arts and crafts fair, enjoy amusement rides and elephant ears on the Midway, or indulge in pancakes and other foods brimming with Traverse City’s iconic fruit. Another essential summer to-do is Frankenmuth’s Bavarian Festival, alive with the rhythm of German music and dance – and, of course, traditional foods and beers.

Come September, county fairs are in full swing. Attend one of the grandest, the Allegan County Fair. Established in 1852, its livestock barns and arenas are some of the largest in the state and make a prime spot for witnessing rodeo performances. Fall also marks the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, one of the largest culinary festivals in the Midwest. Attendees can sample more than 1,000 wines, beers and hard ciders, including Michigan-made varieties, and taste small plates created by featured chefs.

As fall deepens into winter, events such as Zehnder’s Snowfest in Frankenmuth celebrate the season with snow-sculpting and ice-carving competitions.

Ready to celebrate? For details on these festivals and additional events, start your Pure Michigan adventure here.