There’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than West Michigan, where charming towns, scenic lakeshores, and vibrant communities come together to create unforgettable holiday experiences. From parades and fireworks to art fairs, live music, and unique local traditions, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the Fourth of July throughout the region.
South Haven – Light Up the Lake
- South Haven’s Fourth of July celebration combines lakeside charm with one of the most stunning fireworks displays over Lake Michigan. Spend the day relaxing at the beach, browsing local shops, and enjoying waterfront dining before the night sky bursts into color during the Light Up the Lake show.
Berrien Springs – Pickle Festival: A Dilly of a Time!
- For a fun and quirky twist, don’t miss the Berrien Springs Pickle Festival at Courthouse Square on July 4th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Explore 60+ food and craft vendors, sample pickles in the Tasting Room, and join unique games like the Pickle Fling or Relish Eating Contest. A truly one-of-a-kind West Michigan experience for the whole family!
Allegan Event - Coming Soon Sky Tour® Zipline
- While you’re exploring West Michigan this summer, keep an eye out for Allegan Event’s exciting new attraction—the Sky Tour® Zipline Experience, launching in summer 2025. This thrilling outdoor addition will feature six self-paced zip rails with panoramic views of Allegan’s scenic beauty. Ideal for adventurers of all ages, it's a perfect blend of thrill and tranquility.
Lansing – Baseball, Fireworks & Family Fun
- What's more American than baseball on the Fourth of July? Head to Jackson Field to watch the Lansing Lugnuts take on the Fort Wayne Tin Caps at 7:05 p.m. Post-game, enjoy the largest fireworks show of the season set to patriotic tunes. Plus, enjoy family-friendly entertainment including face painting, balloon artists, and more. Bonus: You’ll also catch Lansing’s city fireworks across the river at Adado Riverfront Park!
Saugatuck - Red, White & Blue on the Lakeshore
- Saugatuck offers a classic West Michigan Fourth of July celebration full of small-town charm and lakeside fun! Start your day with a patriotic parade down Butler Street at 11 a.m., featuring floats, bands, and members of the armed forces. After the parade, head to Coghlin Park for free family fun—games, face painting, and an apple pie–eating contest! Return at dusk on July 5th for a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Kalamazoo.
Coldwater Country - Fireworks, Flotillas & Family Fun
- Coldwater Country is the perfect spot for a star-spangled getaway. Kick things off on July 3rd, with Fireworks, Food & Field Events in Union City’s Alumni Park. On July 4th, enjoy parades in Quincy and Colon, plus the Red, White & Blue Flotilla on the area’s beautiful lakes. That evening, catch fireworks at Coldwater’s Heritage Park or from the comfort of your vehicle at the Capri Drive-In. With over 100 lakes and a warm community spirit, Coldwater Country makes for a relaxed and memorable Fourth of July.
Ludington – Freedom Festival on the Lake
- Celebrate in true West Michigan style at Ludington’s Freedom Festival. The Grand Parade begins at 2 p.m. on July 4th and winds through downtown with floats, music, and festive flair. At dusk, head to Stearns Park Beach or hop aboard the S.S. Badger for a special shoreline cruise (tickets go fast!) and enjoy breathtaking fireworks over Lake Michigan.
Holland - Patriotic Shopping, Street Performers & Fireworks
- Spend Independence Day in one of West Michigan’s most charming downtowns—Holland! On July 4th, wear red, white, or blue and enjoy 20% off at participating shops and restaurants throughout downtown. Then, head to the shores of Lake Macatawa for an evening of food trucks and fireworks. Arrive early Thursday for street performers or catch Hope Repertory Theatre’s lively What the Constitution Means to Me. With live music all weekend, Holland offers a festive, family-friendly Fourth of July celebration.
Grand Haven - Fireworks Over the Waterfront
- Looking for an unforgettable way to celebrate the Fourth of July in West Michigan? Head to Grand Haven on July 4th, for a spectacular Independence Day fireworks show that lights up the lakeshore! From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the City of Grand Haven invites locals and visitors alike to gather along the scenic waterfront near Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, this popular location offers prime viewing for one of the most breathtaking fireworks displays in West Michigan.
Frankfort Fourth of July – Classic Americana on the Shore
- Spend Independence Day in beautiful Frankfort. The celebration begins at 10 a.m. with the beloved Fourth of July Parade downtown—featuring floats, local heroes, and a wave of patriotic spirit along Main Street. Stick around for Art in the Park, showcasing over 30 local artists and crafters, perfect for finding a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music at local breweries and restaurants before heading to the Lake Michigan shoreline for beach fun. Don’t miss the Sandcastle Sculpture Contest at noon, and cap off the day with a dazzling fireworks show over the lake at dusk.
Harbor Springs – A Bayfront Celebration of Community
- Celebrate Independence Day in picturesque Harbor Springs, located along the sparkling Little Traverse Bay. Start the day with the Paul Revere 5K and 10-Mile Run at 8 a.m., followed by a hearty American Legion breakfast. Browse the 4th of July Art Show in Zorn Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., then line the streets for the 1 p.m. parade—an iconic display of small-town pride. Cap it all off with fireworks over the bay at 10:30 p.m., and for night owls, catch a $2 movie screening at The Lyric Theatre at 11 p.m.
Cadillac – Freedom Festival
- Celebrate freedom in Cadillac with three days of festivities along Lake Cadillac. From a classic car and motorcycle show to parades, vendors, and family activities, there’s something for everyone. On July 4th, marvel at a unique drone light show, followed by a traditional fireworks grand finale on July 5th.
Petoskey Area - A Northern Michigan Tradition
- The Petoskey Area is home to several can't-miss Independence Day events. In Petoskey, you’ll find a festive July 4th parade followed by live music and a fireworks show at dusk—perfect for a family evening under the stars. Boyne City, just a short drive away, lives up to its reputation as “The Best Fourth in the North” with an action-packed celebration. Visitors can enjoy the Waterside Art & Craft Fair, an Independence Day Run, Grand Parade, Pie Eating Contest, and the fan-favorite Commemorative Raft Race, all leading up to a fireworks finale.
Shanty Creek Resort - Celebrate in Northern Michigan Style
- Make this Independence Day unforgettable with a stay at Shanty Creek Resort. On July 3rd, don’t miss their annual Fireworks Display behind The Lakeview Hotel, offering stunning views of Lake Bellaire and a sky filled with color. With on-site dining, 90 holes of golf, and a wide range of family-friendly amenities, Shanty Creek is a top destination for a July 4th getaway in West Michigan.
Mackinac Island - Star-Spangled Traditions
- On Mackinac Island, the Fourth of July is a spectacle of Americana set against the backdrop of its timeless charm. The day begins with the oldest Stone Skipping Competition in the US, followed by family games at Windermere Point, a Star Spangled 4th of July at Fort Mackinac and ends with a mesmerizing display of light as fireworks conclude the day of fun.
St. Ignace - Fireworks Over the Straits
- Celebrate the Fourth of July in St. Ignace with a full day of family fun, live music, and patriotic festivities, all capped off with a stunning fireworks display over the Straits of Mackinac—one of the most picturesque views in Michigan.
Marquette – Sensory-Friendly Laser Show
- For a more inclusive celebration, check out Marquette’s Fourth of July Sensory-Friendly Laser Show. Set against the iconic Ore Dock and Lake Superior, this show offers a comfortable and awe-inspiring experience for guests with sensory sensitivities, featuring the largest architectural laser show in North America.
Looking for more? Find out what other events are happening around West Michigan by checking out our events calendar!
