Unique Summer Festivals for Michigan Families

Festivals are back in 2021. Here are 10 local options that put a twist on the traditional fairs that families love.

Have you been begging your kids to try new foods? There’s a festival for that (because everything is better on a stick)!

How do you introduce them to the wonderful world of art? Welcome back, Ann Arbor Art Fairs.

And who’s up for an adventure? Grab the sunscreen, the extra bottled water and your best walking shoes for fun outside to wrap up the summer.

Blake’s Lavender Market, Armada

July 9-11, 2021

Families can enjoy an open-air market with more than 100 Michigan artists, sip lavender lemonade or ice cream and attend classes or speakers about gardening and wellness topics. For kids, there is a children’s activity tent with crafts and entertainment, and all families can enjoy the u-pick lavender fields.

Kids Summer Olympics, Shelby Township

July 10, 2021

Kids ages 3-12 can test their skills in any or all events of their choosing. Awards will be given in age groups for the 40-yard dash, hurdles, disc toss, long jump and obstacle course. Registration is staggered by age group.

Ann Arbor Art Fairs

July 15-17, 2021

This massive art lover’s paradise is made up of three events this summer: the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, the State Street Art Fair. The 2021 version has been limited to three days instead of five and there will be more space between booths to allow for social distancing.

Bounce House Extravaganza, Auburn Hills

July 17, 2021

Enjoy bounce houses, balloon twisting and food trucks. After the extravaganza, stick around for the Friday Nights Downtown music series.

Marshmallow Fly and Fry, Farmington Hills

Aug. 10, 2021

More than 1,000 marshmallows will fall from the sky. Race to collect them and turn them in for a bag of goodies. Cook hot dogs and s’mores over the fire or purchase already-cooked dogs. Enjoy games, bouncers and more. Follow city of Farmington Hills on Facebook for updated information and changes due to weather or health and safety concerns.

African World Festival, Detroit

Aug. 20-22, 2021

Join other families for African-inspired dance and music performances, art, poetry reading, food and more. All ages are welcome.

Woodward Dream Cruise

Aug. 21, 2021

This annual procession of classic and vintage cars makes its way down Woodward Avenue through Birmingham, Berkley, Bloomfield Township, Ferndale, Pontiac and Royal Oak. Check with your city to learn about specifics.

Chelsea Community Fair, Chelsea

Aug. 24-28, 2021

Families can enjoy old-fashioned fair fun, including a tractor pull, demolition derby, figure 8 derby, livestock shows and sales, plus diesel truck pulls. Rides, carnival games, food, live animals and musical entertainment, too.

A Taste of Greece Festival, Plymouth

Aug. 26-29, 2021

Enjoy traditional Greek dancing and food as well as a kids’ corner and marketplace. Families are encouraged to tour the church and stick around for the live music.

Dragon on the Lake, Lake Orion

Aug. 26-29, 2021

This fest is inspired by a Nessie-like dragon that’s said to have terrorized the area in the 1890s. Today, the beast is celebrated with dragon boat races, art, music and fun. Kids can enjoy inflatables, sand art and face painters in the “Little Dragon Den.”

Looking for even more summer fun in 2021? Check out Metro Parent’s online calendar.


Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.

Metro Parent Editorial Team
Metro Parent Editorial Team
Since 1986, the Metro Parent editorial team is trained to be the go-to source for metro Detroit families, offering a rich blend of expert advice, compelling stories, and the top local activities for kids. Renowned for their award-winning content, the team of editors and writers are dedicated to enriching family life by connecting parents with the finest resources and experiences our community has to offer.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

Unforgettable Summer Camps in Sterling Heights—Your Kids Will Beg to Stay Longer

Find the top summer camps in Sterling Heights, featuring sports, arts, outdoor adventures and engaging activities for kids of all ages.

St. Clair Shores Summer Camps That Turn Every Day into an Exciting Journey

Find the best summer camps in St. Clair Shores, featuring sports, STEM, arts and outdoor adventures for kids of all ages.

English as a Second Language Courses in Macomb County

Brought to you by the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development and the Macomb Intermediate School District

Beat the Winter Blues at These Metro Detroit Summer-Themed Spots

Escape the winter cold with these fun indoor activities in metro Detroit where your family can enjoy a taste of summer.



- Advertisement -