Surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes, Michigan offers many activities along its lake shores and at beaches, parks and recreation areas, as well as in the city of Detroit. The state hosts festivals in every season, featuring a wide range of interests including food, sports, history, music and community events that reflect the diversity of what Michigan has on offer.
The Michigan Renaissance Festival is held on weekends from the end of August until October. Each weekend has a different theme, such as Royal Ale Festival, High Seas Adventure, Sweet Endings and Buccaneer Beer Fest. Artisan markets, cook-offs, wine and beer tastings and entertainment including live music, performances and fencing contests are also held throughout the festival. Ticket prices range from $20 per day to $80 for a season pass to $120 for a "Royal Pass," which includes admission to the festival and brunch each day it is open.
Michigan Renaissance Festival
12600 Dixie Highway
Holly, MI 48442
800-601-4848
michrenfest.com
Held the first weekend of December, the Holiday Balloon Fest educates children and the community about ballooning. This free event hosts balloon flights, competitions, food vendors, entertainment, kid's activities, bike shows and balloon education events in Battle Creek, Michigan.
Holiday Balloon Fest
450 E. Ave. N.
Battle Creek, MI 49017
800-397-2240
holidayballoonfest.com
Oktoberfest celebrations in Frankenmuth are held over three days in mid to late September. Based on the Munich Oktoberfest festivals and "the only Oktoberfest outside of Germany that's officially sanctioned by the city of Munich," according to the event's website, the Frankenmuth festival has existed for more than 20 years. Dancing, entertainment and traditional Oktoberfest food and drinks along with ethnic and American foods are available. Tickets can be booked in advanced or purchased at the gate on the day of the festival, with $8 admission for adults and no charge for kids under 12 or for any visitors on Sunday.
Frankenmuth Oktoberfest
Heritage Park
601 Weiss St.
Frankenmuth, MI 48734
frankenmuthfestivals.com
The Apple & BBQ Cook-Off is held each fall over a September weekend. Barbecue cook-offs for kids and amateur cooks, live music, apple pie competitions, craft shows, eating contests and dune buggy and car shows are part of this fall festival for families, visitors and the local community.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area Chamber of Commerce
2388 N. Comfort Drive
Hart MI, 49420
800-870-9786
thinkdunes.com
