Make 2025 your year to explore, celebrate, and create lasting memories in South Haven! From sunny beach days, fall color tours, and serene snowy trails, every season pairs perfectly with the town’s legacy of seasonal festivals and celebrations!
May 23 | Blessing of the Fleet and Fish Fry
Celebrate South Haven’s maritime heritage at the Blessing of the Fleet, where vessels like the iconic Friends Good Will are honored for a safe season ahead. After the ceremony, enjoy a delicious fish fry with stunning waterfront views.
June 6-8 | GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival
Kick off summer at GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival at Gingerman Raceway, where car culture meets live music, E-sports, and high-energy entertainment. Watch drifting demos, camp under the stars, and experience the ultimate weekend getaway packed with fast cars and fantastic tunes.
June 7 | Festival of Cars / Kruisin’ for Kylie Car Show
For 23 years, the Festival of Cars has brought over 200 classic cars, trucks, and bikes to downtown South Haven. Marvel at vintage hot rods while supporting Hunt for a Cure Michigan and Cystic Fibrosis research. Plus, it’s a Farm Market day, so double the fun!
June 13-14 | South Haven HarborFest
Celebrate South Haven’s maritime history during HarborFest, held on Father’s Day weekend. Watch thrilling dragon boat races, explore artisan markets, enjoy free entertainment, and savor tasty bites from local vendors. It’s the perfect way to make memories with Dad!
July 3 | Light Up the Lake Fireworks
Enjoy a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Michigan! Top viewing spots include Riverfront Park, North & South Beaches, and the Monroe Boulevard bluff. Tune in to 103.7 COSY FM for music synchronized with the show.
July 5-6 | Annual South Haven Juried Art Fair
Explore a two-day juried art fair just one block from Lake Michigan. Stroll through Stanley Johnston Park to discover painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and wearable art. Hosted by the South Haven Center for the Arts, this event pairs fine art with scenic harbor views.
July 12 | 23rd Annual Fish Boil Fundraiser
Experience a Great Lakes tradition at the Michigan Maritime Museum’s Fish Boil Fundraiser. Enjoy freshly boiled lake fish, sides, desserts, and games—all while supporting the museum’s mission and taking in harbor views.
August 7-10 | 62nd National Blueberry Festival
Since 1963, South Haven has celebrated its title as the Blueberry Capital of the World! This four-day festival features free concerts, a craft fair, a parade, carnival rides, pancake breakfasts, and of course, blueberry pie-eating contests. Download the Blueberry Festival app to plan your visit!
August 22 | 4th Annual Rock the Boat Concert
The Michigan Maritime Museum puts the fun in fundraising! Dance the night away with The 1985 Band, bringing the ultimate ’80s music experience. Enjoy an evening of food, music, and nostalgia on the museum’s scenic waterfront campus.
August 30-31 | 49th Annual All Crafts Fair
Shop from over 150 craft vendors at the All Crafts Fair in Stanley Johnston Park. Discover handmade art, jewelry, home décor, and delicious food. Organized by the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.
September 4-7 | Antique Engine & Tractor Show
One of Michigan’s largest events of its kind, this show at the Michigan Flywheelers Museum showcases vintage farm equipment, live demonstrations, tractor parades, and entertainment. Downtown South Haven joins the fun with the grand Tractor Parade down Phoenix Street!
September 12-13 | South Haven Jazz Festival
Let the smooth sounds of jazz fill the air at Dyckman Park! Sip, savor, and sway in the Downtown Social District, where you can enjoy drinks while listening to live performances. Don’t forget your lawn chair! Organized in partnership with Foundry Hall.
September 13 | 14th Annual Lakeshore Harvest Ride
Cycle through the rolling countryside between South Haven and Saugatuck on a ride designed for all levels. Stop at wineries, cider mills, family farms, orchards, and art studios along the way. Choose from routes ranging from 15 to 62 miles.
October 4-5 | Blue Coast Artists Fall Tour
Celebrate art and autumn on the Blue Coast Artists Fall Tour. Visit nine local studios, watch live demonstrations, and explore original artwork—all set against Michigan’s breathtaking fall colors. A perfect excuse for a weekend getaway!
November 28 | Holiday in the Park
Kick off the holidays in South Haven! Festivities include the Santa Paws Pet Parade, a tree lighting ceremony, and free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy ice skating, campfires with s’mores, and the annual Lighting of the Luminaries fundraiser for Corewell Health Hospice.
December 31 | New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year lakeside in downtown South Haven! The streets transform into a pedestrian-friendly celebration with fireworks, a beach ball drop, a DJ dance party, and cozy warming stations. Stay for the weekend and start the year by the lake!
January 30th – February 1st, 2026 | 32nd Annual Ice Breaker Festival
Celebrate the sunnier days of winter at the 31st Annual Ice Breaker Festival, where dazzling ice sculptures, horse-drawn wagon rides, a Chili Cook-Off, a Cardboard Sled Race, and an outdoor Silent Disco bring energy to the season. Stroll downtown to admire over 40 incredible ice carvings, enjoy the Pub Slide, roast s’mores at blazing fire pits, and dance under the stars on Phoenix Street. With activities for all ages, it’s the perfect weekend to embrace the magic of winter in South Haven!
Make the most of your trip by booking your stay early—South Haven’s charming inns, cozy B&Bs, lakeside resorts, and vacation rentals fill up fast during event weekends! Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a festive winter retreat, there’s a perfect place to stay for every season. Browse lodging options here and secure your spot. And don’t stop here—South Haven’s event calendar is packed with celebrations all year long. Keep exploring, keep celebrating, and we’ll see you by the lake!
