It’s warm, sunny, and we appear to be seeing a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel. Restrictions are easing. So, for the first time in over a year, our suggestions of things to do includes all live events. Get out and enjoy life this month! Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in June 2021.
June 4-13 Lilac Festival – Mackinac Island
June means lilacs are blooming, which also means the place to be is Mackinac Island. The community is celebrating its 73rd Annual Lilac Festival, June 4 -13, 2021. It’s the first and largest summer event on the Island. Thus, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the country. Festivities for the 10-day festival include the coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen, Court and Princess, daily walking tours with Lilac Expert Jeff Young, Lilac Festival Run/Walk, Michigan Cornhole Tournament, and much more. There will even be some virtual events this year for those unable to attend in person.
June 5-30 The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited – Dearborn
This exciting new exhibit showcasing the creative genius of Jim Henson opens at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation this month. Henson, the man behind the iconic characters of Muppet and Sesame Street fame, left an indelible mark on pop culture through his work. This exhibition explores Henson’s unique contributions to the moving image, and how he and a talented team of designers, performers, and writers created an unparalleled body of work that continues to delight and inspire people of all ages.
June 10-13 Bavarian Festival – Frankenmuth
June means it’s time for one of Frankenmuth’s favorite weekends. Celebrate the heritage that made the town famous during this annual event. 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 with musicians jamming on Friday and Saturday nights. The Friday Night Street Party is going to fill Main Street with bands, beverages and games. Saturday will play host to a number of events happening throughout town including the Kindertag Parade and the RAD Tour Bike Ride. The tents will be closed on Sunday so everyone can enjoy the one and only Bavarian Festival Parade. Admission for the entire weekend’s festivities is just $5 per person and free for children 12 and under.
June 11-12 Gizzard Fest – Potterville
Come on, how can we not be intrigued by a celebration built around gizzards? It’s really just an annual fest loaded with small town fun. There’s a Midway filled with rides and a 5k to get your juices flowing. Enjoy a community pancake breakfast, motorcycle ride, line dancing lessons, cornhole, and vendor booths. Hang out in the beverage tent for some cold refreshment and live music, and yes, of course there is a gizzard eating contest at 3pm on Saturday.
June 11-13 Motor City Irish Fest – Livonia
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have been a bit diminished the past two years. If you’ve been hankering to connect with your Irish heritage, or just love a good party, then head to Greenmead in Livonia for this celebration of the Emerald Isle. You’ll find music and dancing, magic and stunts, tea and whiskey. Sunday’s events include an outdoor Catholic mass at 12pm and the Michigan Irish American Hall of Fame 2021 induction ceremony from 2:00pm-3:30pm.
June 12-13 Free Three Weekend – Statewide
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will host its “Three Free” weekend Saturday, June 12, and Sunday, June 13. Residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride the off-road trails and visit state parks all free of charge. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the state, and you may just decide to continue the adventure throughout the rest of the year.
June 11-13 Grand Prix – Detroit
The roads are smooth, the grandstands are up, Belle Isle is taking on its racing look once again. The 2021 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix comes roaring back to town mid-month. The event features the cars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES racing in the Chevrolet Dual in Detroit doubleheader, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires Series. The Comerica Bank Free Prix Day is scheduled for Friday, and gives fans a chance to see the action up close at no cost. Gates open for that, and the ticketed events on Saturday and Sunday at 7:30am.
June 17 Princess Day at the Zoo – Grand Rapids
We all know how much princesses and animals love each other. Therefore, it’s only natural that princesses would meet up with their furry friends, as well as tiny little cherubs who want to grow up to be royal too, at a zoo. Whether fairy or wizard, prince or princess, everyone is invited. Come to John Ball Zoo in costume on Princess Day from 9am-3pm. While dressed as their favorite character, guests can meet special royalty rotating throughout the day. Those special guest include Cinderella, Aurora, Belle, Ariel, Jasmine, Tiana, Snow White, Elsa, Anna, Merida, Elena, Rapunzel, Moana, Mulan, Raya, and Tinker Bell.
June 18-20 Arts & Acts Festival – Northville
This year’s event takes place a bit off the beaten path in Northville rather than the center of town. Naturally, that’s due to Covid-19 restrictions. Yet, you’ll still find plenty of art and fun. It features three fairs: Art in the Sun, Maker’s Mart and Young Artist Juried Art Fair. There will be food vendors, live music, chalk art, a dog show. Plus, plenty of art to make your creative heart swoon.
June 19 Hello-O Summer Fest – Hell
Ever wish you could combine summer weather with Halloween fun? Go to Hell to get your chance. The town welcomes summer with a family-friendly, but Hellishly fun festival. Take a stroll on Hell’s grounds and enjoy kookie, spooky, creepy, Halloweenish and Hellish wares, art and entertainment, and devilishly good food. Admission and parking are free.
June 26 Porch Fest – Port Austin
As events go, this one is a delightful nod to yesteryear. Folks around the lovely town of Port Austin invite musicians and strangers to hang out on their porches and just enjoy lovely music on a summer night. This year includes 35 musical acts, several of whom are returning artists and groups. Nine are newcomers, and five are performers who have been present at every Porch Fest so far. What a great way to spend an evening.
June 25-27 Michigan Challenge Balloonfest – Howell
Here’s another awesome opportunity to watch hot air balloons fill a sky with color. Twenty-four pilots will be competing in this year’s challenge, which will feature four flights throughout the weekend with launches taking place around the Howell area. Come to this adorable town to shop, dine, and look up!
Join us on social media for ongoing discussions about Michigan travel destinations. Tweet @BuyMichiganNow to tell us about your favorite places or questions you have. We’d especially love to know if you make it out to one of our 12 things to do in Michigan in June 2021. For next month’s events, or to get ideas for your local bucket list, be sure to visit our Michigan Tourism page.
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