13 Things To Do in Ottawa County This Summer

Summer in Ottawa County means one thing: festivals, fun, and unforgettable memories! Whether you’re into live music, local art, fireworks, or food trucks, there’s something happening nearby almost every weekend. From family-friendly fairs to cultural celebrations and lakeshore traditions, this season is packed with events you won’t want to miss. Grab your sunscreen, throw on some shades, and get ready to experience everything summer has to offer across West Michigan.

 

Haborfest
Kick off summer with this high-energy celebration along the waterfront in South Haven. Harborfest features live music, carnival rides, delicious food trucks, and the fan-favorite dragon boat races—an exciting and colorful spectacle you’ve got to see in person.

Details + Dates:

• Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20: 11:00am – 10:00pm
• South Haven

 

Juneteenth Freedom Festival
Celebrate history, freedom, and unity at Holland’s annual Juneteenth event. Enjoy an inspiring lineup of live music, community speakers, and local vendors while supporting programs that empower Black youth throughout West Michigan.

Details + Dates:

• Saturday, June 20
• 2:00pm – 7:00pm
• Kollen Park, Holland

 

Grand Haven Art Festival
Downtown Grand Haven transforms into an open-air art gallery for one of the most anticipated arts events of the season. Meet talented local and national artists, browse unique handmade works, and bring home a special piece of art that speaks to you.

Details + Dates:

• Free admission
• Friday, June 26: 12:00pm – 5:00pm
• Saturday, June 27: 10:00am-5:00pm
• Sunday, June 28: 11:00am – 4:00pm
• Washington Avenue, Grand Haven

 

Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival
Experience one of the biggest Fourth of July celebrations in the country with five days of non-stop action in the skies and on the ground. From elite air show performances and hot-air balloon launches to fireworks, concerts, and a full carnival, this event has it all!

Details + Dates:

• Tickets Required
• July 1-July 5
• Battle Creek Executive Airport

 

LAUP Fiesta
Celebrate Latin American culture at one of West Michigan’s longest-running heritage events hosted by Latin Americans United for Progress (LAUP). With traditional food, music, dancing, and joyful community spirit, this weeklong fiesta is a vibrant expression of unity and cultural pride.

Details + Dates:

• Free admission
• July 15 – July 19
• Downtown Holland

 

Ottawa County Fair
A local favorite for generations, the Ottawa County Fair brings classic fairground magic to Holland each summer. Enjoy thrill rides, 4-H animal exhibits, tractor pulls, tasty fair food, and a variety of shows and competitions for all ages.

Details + Dates:

• $5 Admission for Anyone Over 13
• July 27 – August 1
• Ottawa County Fairgrounds

 

Venetian Fest
Saugatuck’s beloved Venetian Fest returns! Enjoy an ‘80s concert in the park, rubber duck races, a magical lighted boat parade, fireworks, and a wild dinghy poker run. It’s the perfect blend of holiday cheer and lakeside summer fun.

Details + Dates:

• Admission Required for Select Events
• July 24 & 25
• Saugatuck & Douglas

 

Coast Guard Festival
This nationally recognized festival honors the men and women of the United States Coast Guard with over a week of community celebrations. From parades and ship tours to fireworks and waterfront concerts, it’s a patriotic party like no other in Grand Haven.

Details + Dates:

• Admission Required for Select Events
• July 24 – August 2
• Downtown Grand Haven

 

National Blueberry Festival
Celebrate the blueberry capital of the Midwest with four days of fruity fun in South Haven. Enjoy parades, pie-eating contests, farm tours, live music, and of course, plenty of fresh, juicy blueberries.

Details + Dates:

• Free admission
• August 6 – August 9
• Downtown South Haven

 

Coopersville Car Show & Summerfest
Rev up your summer with a weekend of classic cars, live music, and small-town charm. The Coopersville Car Show draws thousands of enthusiasts every year and includes arts and crafts vendors, family activities, and tasty food trucks.

Details + Dates:

• Registration Required for Participation
• August 7 & August 8
• Downtown Coopersville

 

Great Lakes Surf Festival
Board sport enthusiasts of all kinds gather on the shore for a day of beachside fun and surf culture celebration. This event welcomes surfers, paddleboarders, and water lovers of all skill levels to join the fun, connect with community, and enjoy the Great Lakes in style.

Details + Dates:

• Tickets Required
• Saturday, August 8
• 12:30pm – 6:00pm
• Pere Marquette Beach, Muskegon

 

Walk the Beat Street Music Festival
Music takes over the streets of Grand Haven as dozens of local artists perform at unique venues throughout the city. Grab a map, stroll through downtown, and discover new tunes around every corner at this fun and interactive community event.

Details + Dates:

• Free Admission
• Saturday, August 8
• 1:00pm – 5:00pm
• East End, Grand Haven

 

Burning Foot Beer Festival
Sip, stroll, and dance barefoot in the sand at one of Michigan’s most unique craft beer events. Held right on the beach, Burning Foot pairs regional brews with live music, beach art, bonfires, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan at sunset.

Details + Dates:

• Tickets Required
• Saturday, August 29
• 3:00pm – 10:00pm
• Heritage Landing in Muskegon

 

After spending the summer exploring everything Ottawa County has to offer, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to call the lakeshore home. When you’re ready to buy, our Grand Haven team is ready to help. From first-time homebuyers to experienced homeowners, we provide local mortgage expertise, quick closings, and personalized service every step of the way. Connect with our Grand Haven office to get started today.