Welcome to your handpicked selection of the best weekend events in Michigan.
Highlights include art festivals in nearly every corner of the state, a festival dedicated to pirates and mermaids, jazz in Flint, and even a celebration all about bologna (the lunch meat, not the Italian city).
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).
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Cyclospora outbreak shows signs of slowing (NBC News): Michigan health officials say the state’s massive cyclospora outbreak may be slowing, though more than 9,500 people have been sickened. But officials stress the outbreak isn’t over, with ongoing investigations into lettuce and other produce.
Michigan AG opens investigation into fake Buttigieg child abuse allegation (ClickOnDetroit): Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has opened an investigation into a false child abuse report targeting former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Officials say they’ll examine whether laws were broken after Buttigieg was forced to spend a night away from his 4-year-old twins in June, following the report.
Fifth inmate at Women’s Huron Valley dies (WOOD-TV): A fifth inmate has died at the Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility since mid-May, with prison officials saying 69-year-old Dasie Forbes had been receiving palliative care. The latest death comes as the prison remains under scrutiny over medical care and facility conditions.
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Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)
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🚢 Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival
Through Aug. 2
Downtown Grand Haven
“Each year since the first picnic in 1924 and the first festival in 1937, we have celebrated our heroes, the men and women of the United States Coast Guard with fun filled family events at the annual Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival. Grand Haven is honored by its designation as “Coast Guard City, USA” by an Act of Congress and signed by the President of the United States on November 13, 1998.”
🌊 KWave Summer Fest 2026
Saturday, Aug. 1, 1-5 p.m.
Hero’s & SHero’s Corner Grand Rapids (4809 Eastern Avenue SE, Kentwood)
“Get ready to vibe at KWave Summer Fest 2026, the ultimate in-person K-culture party of the year!“
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🫐 Downtown Blueberry Festival
Friday, July 31, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
West Washington & South Front streets, Marquette
“Downtown comes alive with sidewalk sales and a wide variety of blueberry-themed food and drink options. Indulge in the many blueberry delights, from blueberry pizza to blueberry beer, offered by the downtown restaurants, and take advantage of the “blue” specials available at the many shops.”
🎨 906 Art on the Lake Art & Music Festival
Saturday, Aug. 1, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Erickson Center for the Arts (Saw-Wa-Quato Street, Curtis)
“For the 2026 season, the Erickson Center for the Arts is re-imagining our summer event, combining the best parts of the 906 Festival with the historic Art on the Lake event into an Arts and Music Festival focusing on Upper Peninsula arts and culture. Live music and entertainment, fine art vendors, family activities, beer tent and food trucks.”
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🌻 Frankenmuth Flower Festival
July 31-Aug. 2
7775 Weiss St., Frankenmuth
“Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Michigan’s Little Bavaria, along with a list of events including acres of Sunflower Fields & U-Pick, Dinner in the Sunflowers, Sunflower Fun Color Run, Crafting in the Sunflowers, Yoga in the Sunflowers, Craft Vendors and Food Trucks at Grandpa Tiny’s Farm.”
🎺 Flint Jazz Festival
Aug. 1-2
140 E. Second St., Flint
“Enjoy two days of the finest jazz by local, regional, and international jazz musicians.”
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🪨 St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit Highland Games
July 31-Aug. 1
Greenmead Historical Park (20501 Newburgh Road, Livonia)
“Our annual Highland Games celebrate our Scottish heritage on the first weekend in August. Join us for a Cèilidh on Friday night and a full day of activities on Saturday. We’re proud to be the longest continuous Games in North America!”
🪼 Belle Isle Art Fair
Aug. 1-2
1 Casino Way, Detroit
“Experience one of the country’s top-ranked art fairs at Belle Isle State Park, featuring 100 talented artists from across the nation showcasing and selling their work. Enjoy interactive art activities, immersive installations, and a vibrant atmosphere with something for all ages.”
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Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.
With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.
Interested?
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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Paula Solis.
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