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Summer has finally hit West Michigan, bringing a host of fun summer events for the whole family. Whether you like to grill out on the beach or hike Michigan's beautiful inland woods (before the black flies arrive), there's plenty to do in the lakeshore community.

This coming Memorial Day weekend will kick off the summer season around Lake Michigan, with parades, carnivals and fireworks schedule in every city up the lakeshore, from Grand Haven to Ludington.


In the list below, we've collected a few notable events happening throughout West Michigan this Memorial Day weekend and over the next several weeks. If there are any events we didn't mention which you'd like us to list here, just comment and we'll add it to our Facebook page.

Grand Haven Offshore Challenge

Well-known by Grand Haven locals, the Grand Haven Offshore Challenge runs June 4th-6th and is a favorite lakeshore annual event. The challenge includes events for kids, ladies, amateurs and pros to participate in, and the Grand Haven community offers plenty for non-participants to do while the run is on. This year, the Pro division grand prize has been upped to $10,000!

Fruitport Old Fashioned Days

A complete roster of family events running all week, through the 31st. Fruitport's week-long Memorial Day celebration will feature a host of fairs, parades, car shows, tournaments and concerts. A carnival midway, Lions Ox Roast, riverboat cruises, fireworks, a children's petting zoo and many other activities will be running throughout the week.

For more info, visit the daily event schedule for Fruitport Old Fashioned Days.

Frederik Meijer Gardens

The Frederick Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids are host to countless activities, exhibitions and concert events - not to mention their beautiful indoor and outdoor gardens. Their indoor gardens are complete with a large tropical conservatory, and the outdoor grounds are a maze of playgrounds, wildlife and fascinating sculptures, perfect for a romantic getaway or family event.

This summer, the Frederick Meijer Gardens are hosting internationally renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly's latest exhibition: A New Eden. If that's not enough, check out their impressive summer concert lineup.

John Ball Zoo Summer Kick Off

If you're in Grand Rapids enjoying the Frederick Meijer Gardens, you might as well stop by John Ball Zoo as well. This summer, John Ball Zoo is kicking off the season with Guinea baboons and colobus monkeys. As West Michigan's most loved zoo, John Ball is a great place to spend the afternoon with your family. Admission prices are $7.50 for adults and $5.50 for kids.

Mayfaire Renaissance Festival

Marshall, Michigan is a ways to travel for those of us who live on the lakeshore, but if you have a sliver of medieval nerd in you, Mayfaire Renaissance Festival is worth the trip. This medieval festival is family-friendly and has everything for spectator and participant alike. Enjoy jousting tournaments, sword fights, live music, food and more. The Mayfaire festival even features activities for spectators. Dress up in a 15th century Cardinal uniform and whack your family members with a foam sword. What could be better?

Cadillac Memorial Day Weekend

Carl. T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center is hosting a weekend of events in one of Michigan's most delightful getaway towns. Enjoy the Live Michigan Snakes program, a guided wetlands hike, foat fishing, archery and marksmanship challenges throughout the weekend. Or, better yet: leave the men at the Fishing Center while you and the girls enjoy relaxed shopping and dining in Cadillac's beautiful downtown district. Cadillac's one and only Wex Flea Market runs Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer.