We’ve made it to May and with it, our first sign of festival season here in Michigan. And there is something for everyone this weekend. I guarantee it.
Highlights include a tequila fest out west, mushroom festivals, events to get your Mother’s Day shopping done, and so much more.
As always, I’d love to hear your suggestions! If you know of an upcoming event you’d like me to highlight, please send me a note here (suggestions should be submitted at least one week before the event).
West Michigan
Saturday, May 9
DeVos Place Convention Center (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)
“More than 10,000 people are expected to compete in the event which features the largest 25K road race in the country and offers the only 25K Wheelchair racing division in the world along with a 25K Handcycle division.”
Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo
“Sample, savor, and vote for your top pick while enjoying a delicious afternoon of community fun downtown. Come hungry, bring your friends, and be part of the mac-and-cheese madness…you won’t want to miss this crowd favorite!”
Saturday, May 9, 6-10 p.m.
DeVos Place (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)
“Attendees of The Grand Rapids Tequila Fest will be treated to samplings of the finest brands and varieties of premium and ultra-premium tequilas, as well as tequila liqueurs, crèmes, infusions, mezcals and flavored tequilas. Tantalizing tacos and other Mexican favorites from some of the area’s best taco trucks will be available for purchase.”
4. Royal Stagg Renaissance Faire
May 9-10
Calhoun County Fairground (720 Fair St., Marshall)
“Take a trip to a fantasy world full of medieval merchants, thrilling sword fighting, silly idiots, local food vendors, mead, musicians and magic! Fun for the whole family on mother’s day weekend.”
Northern Michigan/UP
5. Jeep The Mac
May 8-9
St. Ignace
“Every spring, Jeep enthusiasts from across the Midwest roll into St. Ignace for Jeep the Mac—a weekend dedicated to off-road adventure, community, and the rugged beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The event features a Mackinac Bridge parade, scenic trail rides, vendor displays, and evening socials, all framed by the stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac.”
May 8-10
NMU Superior Dome (1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette)
“This is a three day event craft fair with dozens of booths showcasing talented crafters and artisans in the Upper Peninsula. TV6 Craft Shows have become the most popular shows in the U.P. and are well attended by both quality crafters and interested buyers.”
May 8-10
Mesick
“Mesick MI. is the mushroom capital in the United States. Come enjoy our adventurous fun filled days, for people of all ages. There are many activities to be enjoyed by the family. Come hunt for mushrooms, Blessing of the Jeeps, food of all kinds, concerts, many events for kids, baseball and volleyball.”
8. 2026 Spring Art Market at The Dennos
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
1410 College Drive, Traverse City
“Celebrate Mother’s Day with an artful stroll at the Dennos Museum’s 5th annual juried Spring Art Market, featuring 27 Michigan artists and free admission and parking. Sip Mawby bubbly from our cash bar, enjoy live piano by Dorothy Vogel, and get creative with a fun card-making activity—an inspired Saturday for art-lovers and the whole family.”
9. Lewiston Morel Mushroom Festival and Art Show
May 9-10
Lewiston
“Spring in Northern Michigan brings more than fresh air and budding trees—it brings the highly anticipated Lewiston Annual Morel Mushroom Festival, returning May 9th and 10th, 2026 for a weekend filled with outdoor adventure, community connection, and small-town charm.”
Mid/South Michigan
10. Urban Air 2026
May 7-10
Downtown Eaton Rapids
“Come on out to Eaton Rapids for the annual Urban Air festival. Airstream Travel Trailers line the streets for folks to admire and sometimes walk into. The fair is free. Various activities and all food and drink have fees.”
11. Stoopfest
May 8-9
Lansing
“Stoopfest is an annual not-for-profit DIY music, comedy and arts festival taking place all across Lansing’s Eastside Neighborhood. With art and performances in a combinations of parks, backyards, garages and bars all on within walking distance on the same day.”
12. Mighty Uke Day
May 8-10
1120 S. Harrison Road, East Lansing
“Mighty Uke Day has organically grown into the premier ukulele festival in the Midwest; featuring some of the finest performers in the ukulele community.”
Saturday, May 9, 3-8 p.m.
Jackson Field (505 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing)
“This festival features 300+ different beers, ciders, hard seltzers, meads, spirits & wines. The festival also features live music, other vendors and food from the Lugnuts concession stands.”
14. Osseo Heritage Day & Great Mushroom Hunt
Saturday, May 9
Osseo
“Morel fever is heating up in Osseo, MI! Mark those calendars for Saturday, May 11th and join us for the 23rd Annual Osseo Heritage Day & Great Mushroom Hunt!”
Southeast Michigan/Thumb
May 8-9
5055 Ann Arbor Saline Road, Ann Arbor
“This immersive experience brings your darkest nightmares to life with spine-chilling attractions and devilishly delightful entertainment. Whether you’re a industry supplier, a seasoned haunt operator, a Home Haunter, or an enthusiast, Halfway To Halloween promises a wickedly good time.”
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Indigo Lavender Farms (631 N. Van Dyke Road, Imlay City)
“Come one, come all to the Indigo Lavender Fairy Festival! Enjoy live music, vendors, food, kids’ crafts and more!”
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Downtown Maybee
“Flower sale, fair food, 60+ vendors, fun for the kiddos and more.”
18. Art Birmingham
May 9-10
Downtown Birmingham
“The fair is surrounded by convenient parking for artists and fairgoers and within easy access to the many unique stores and fabulous restaurants of downtown Birmingham. This highly respected event will showcase juried artists in an elegant and extraordinary setting.”
