The weather is downright hot, graduates are marching, and fests are on the rise. Summer has finally arrived in Michigan, and so have a huge bevy of events. Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in June 2018.

June 1-3 Lyon Township International Kite Festival – New Hudson

Here’s hoping for a few light breezes as kites fill the sky over James Atchison Park in New Hudson. This high-flying event features professional kite flying demonstrations and competitions. Games, food, live entertainment and children’s activities add to the fun. While supplies last, kids even receive a free kite to decorate. They can learn to fly it with the help of professionals. Admission is $5 per vehicle for parking on Saturday and Sunday.

June 1-3 Belle Isle Grand Prix – Detroit

If you’ve been on Belle Isle recently then you know exactly what time of year it is. The pristine state park has given way to grand stands and banners for the big racing weekend. It’s an amazing experience to see and hear those powerful cars careening around the tiny island. The event will feature the cars of the Verizon IndyCar Series, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the high-flying trucks of the SPEED Energy Stadium SUPER Trucks and the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli. Practice and qualifying rounds take place on Friday, June 1. That means admission is free, courtesy of Comerica Bank. Individual and multi-day tickets are available for purchase to see the official races.

June 9 13th Baraga County Lake Trout Festival – L’Anse

Baraga County has been named the Lake Trout Capital of the Great Lakes. Hence, this celebratory fest. It combines the Keweenaw Classic Fishing Tournament with some old fashioned family fun. Take the kids to the carnival. Enjoy the “Little Miss Superior” contest. Try your luck at the fishing pond or in the pie-eating contest. You’ll also find a beach volleyball tournament, runs, a junk art contest, and a cribbage tournament. Then there’s the Tour de L’Anse Bike Race. Of course the firemen’s street dance on Saturday night is sure to be a party.

June 6-10 Festival of Flags – Davison

Many communities host Independence Day celebrations, but in Davison there’s always a gigantic lead-up to Flag Day. The patriotic party lasts for five days and includes a talent show, art demonstrations, vendors, sporting competitions, a parade, carnival rides, and much more.

June 7-10 Bavarian Festival – Frankenmuth

Sure, it may have a Bavarian theme all year long, but for sixty years, Frankenmuth has been truly celebrating its heritage during this annual event. This year the Main Tent will be located in Zehnder park, with a number of traditional German entertainers and polka bands. There will be a Rock Tent behind Tiffany’s that will feature The Sinclairs Band on Friday and Saturday night. The Chamber Platz will feature a beer garden and bands. Be sure to stick around until Sunday for the parade. Admission is $5 and free for children under 5.

June 9 National Cereal Fest – Battle Creek

This spring tradition started out as a simple anniversary celebration and has grown into a local institution. Where else but Battle Creek could be home to the world’s longest breakfast table filled with cereal bowls. The fun begins with the Grand Cereal Parade on Friday evening. Then Saturday morning, sit down amongst a ton of new friends and enjoy a nutritious, delicious and FREE cereal breakfast. You’ll also find live entertainment, exciting children’s activities, inflatables, vendors, demos and more. It’ll be Grrrrrreat!

June 14-16 CheeseTown Festival & Races – Pinconning

Pinconning isn’t just a cheese, it’s a town…not surprisingly, the town where the popular cheese was invented over one hundred years ago. Hence the name of this summer fest which includes popular races, ball games, inflatable rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, and even fireworks. Most of the fun takes place at Doc Letchfield Park, 200 N. Mable.

June 16 Founders Fest – Grand Rapids

Billed as a celebration of beer and music, Founders Fest has grown into one of Grand Rapids’ most anticipated summer events. In keeping with the season, will feature Founders Fest Wheat, along with some specialty brews. The music lineup includes: Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Antibalas, Monophonics, San Fermin, Desmond Jones, and FBC All Stars, which is a musical collaboration of employees from the Founders Brewing Company team. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.

June 16-18 National Strawberry Festival – Belleville

It’s time for those luscious, sweet red treats to be plucked from the vine and turned into pies, poured over shortcake, and popped in one’s mouth. Strawberry season is upon us, and over 1,500 pounds of the juicy, red berries are served up during these three days. With six venues, the entire area will be a buzz with berries. You’ll find them on shortcake, ice cream sundaes, cheesecake, and in intoxicating pies and delicious smoothies. Aside from the berries, you’ll also find two Midways, a beer tent, music and concerts, bingo, crafters, magnificent food, a children’s area, a parade and of course, the Strawberry Queen.

June 22-24 Michigan Challenge Balloonfest – Howell

This is a weekend full of high-flying fun for the whole family. The Michigan Challenge Balloonfest event is one of the premier summertime activities in Michigan, offering entertainment for the entire family–from skydiving and stunt kite shows to carnival rides, kid attractions, fireworks, and the always-popular balloon launches, fly-ins, and evening glow. This summer party will make you soar.

June 23 International Bridge Walk – Sault Ste Marie

Lace up your sneakers and get ready to walk a Michigan landmark. The annual International Bridge Walk takes an easy pace and provides spectacular views of the twin Saults, the St. Marys River rapids, and the Soo Locks. Bicyclists are invited to join the round-trip Bike Parade, which leaves Lake Superior State University at 8:30am, while the walk steps off at 9:30am. Admission is free, and bus transportation is available for just $4 to bring walkers from Mill Market or return them to Norris Center.

June 23 Porch Fest – Port Austin

In a style reminiscent of some musical events in the south, Porchfest provides a unique means by which to discover local talent. Port Austin’s Porch Fest is a community music celebration that will take place on the front porches of homes throughout the town. This free, family-friendly musical extravaganza features musicians from a wide variety of genres. Attendees stroll from porch to porch as they enjoy live performances by talented local musicians.

Join the conversation on social media and let us know which of our 12 things to do in Michigan in June 2018, you got a chance to enjoy. Tag @BuyMichiganNow in your posts. For our things to do in Michigan next month and other travel tips, be sure to visit our Michigan Tourism page.

Author: BMN Staff