Discover What Makes Ludington Special: Upcoming Events to Explore
There’s something special about this time of year – and Pure Ludington is the perfect place to experience it all. A vibrant lineup of seasonal events invites you to celebrate, explore, and connect with the community in unforgettable ways.
Whether you’re savoring local flavors during Downtown Ludington Restaurant Week or welcoming the return of warmer days with the opening of Big Sable Lighthouse, each moment captures the spirit of the lakeshore.
From the historic S.S. Badger’s maiden voyage and Open Boat Night to the energy of Love Ludington Weekend and the tradition of Ludington Lakestride, these events showcase the heart and charm of this lakeside destination. Take a look at what’s ahead – you won’t want to miss it.
Downtown Ludington Restaurant Week
Downtown Ludington Restaurant Week is back April 20–26, bringing a delicious showcase of the area’s top dining spots as they welcome visitors with special menus and unbeatable prices. Enjoy breakfast or lunch for just $10, or take advantage of dinner entrées priced at 2 for $35.
It’s a great opportunity to explore local flavors, support downtown restaurants, and enjoy a relaxed meal with friends this spring in Downtown Ludington. Learn more at http://downtownludington.org/events/restaurant-week/
Big Sable Lighthouse Opens
Proudly perched inside Ludington State Park, the Big Sable Lighthouse will open on May 4 for its 2026 season, welcoming visitors to explore the beauty and expanse of the park. Nestled among jack pines and reached by a stunning 1.8-mile hike along a scenic trail, Big Sable’s striking black-and-white tower rises 112 feet above the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Climb to the top of the light, explore the lighthouse keepers’ quarters, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday.
SS Badger Maiden Voyage and Open Boat Night
Launching its season on May 15, the S.S. Badger carferry offers travelers a truly authentic steamship experience. This relaxing four-hour journey spans 60 miles across Lake Michigan, carrying passengers and their vehicles (including cars, RVs, tour buses, motorcycles, bicycles, and commercial trucks) between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Daily crossings are scheduled throughout the summer until October.
A new event on May 16 will allow visitors to step aboard, unwind, and experience the Badger from a whole new perspective, right from the dock. This will be a relaxed evening aboard the S.S. Badger while it’s docked in Ludington.
For just $10, guests can explore the passenger areas and outer decks at their own pace or enjoy live entertainment from Joe Stickney in the Cabana Room. The gift shop, concessions, and full-service bars will be open, offering snacks, drinks, and unique souvenirs to round out your visit. RSVP NOW
Joe Nichols Concert at STIX
STIX of Ludington kicks off its summer concert series on Memorial Day weekend with a performance by Joe Nichols on Saturday, May 23, in the biergarten.
This Multi-Platinum Quartz Hill Records artist is one of country music’s most-lauded recording stars. He’s ranked by Billboard among the Top Country Artists of the 21st Century!
Nichols is a modern traditionalist who is both timely and timeless with a half-dozen No. 1 singles, ten Top 10 hits and a sound that blurs the boundaries between country music’s past and present. Hear his new honky-tonk heartbreaker “Goodbyes Are Hard to Listen To,” from his next studio project, slated for release in 2026.
Love Ludington Weekend
Love Ludington Weekend is a celebration that gives a nod to all things Ludington! This annual event celebrates the love we have for our city, complete with a giant street party, Blessing of the Boats, a farmers market, car show and more.
Kick off the summer season with us with a full lineup of events that also includes historic home tours and a day of fishing for local veterans. A complete schedule is outlined HERE.
Ludington Lakestride
The Ludington Lakestride Half-Marathon/10K/5K is a long-standing lakeshore tradition, celebrating more than 40 years in Ludington. Runners can choose their preferred distance while taking in the scenic beauty along the course.
This annual event attracts athletes from across the country and has helped put Ludington, Michigan, on the map. Learn more and register at ludingtonlakestride.com.
