Summer Events in Manistique, MI

Small towns do not mean “small fun”, especially in Manistique, MI. Located in the Upper Peninsula against the shores of Lake Michigan, this little town puts the “Pure” in the state slogan, “Pure Michigan”. 

You may already know Manistique for the boardwalk along Lake Michigan, the East Breakwater Lighthouse, or its proximity to historical sites like Fayette State Park. Or, you may be familiar with the Rails to Trails program, the scenic landscape, and the outdoor recreation. These things alone make Manistique a great place to visit any time of the year. However, to make the most of your visit, you should join in on the town’s fun! 

Here are some local summer events to add magic to your Manistique visit.

Worth Traveling For

Even a small town like Manistique hosts events that attract tourists. Indeed, the beautiful natural landscape and position on the lake shore make it the perfect backdrop for any event.

 If you are planning a trip to the Upper Peninsula, try to schedule your time in Manistique around these events!

Folk Fest 

Every town has something they are known for, and for Manistique, that something is Folk Fest. This annual event has earned Manistique a reputation as a great “small-town getaway” with good reason.

Featuring local artisan vendors, crafters, musicians, and more- this celebration of life shows locals and visitors alike how vibrant small-town life can be.

Trout and Salmon Derby

If you’re an angler, angling for a good time, check out the Trout and Salmon Derby. This event was started in 1985 by local fishermen, and has grown to include over 300 participants from all over the Great Lakes region!

This fishing event pays out prizes for 1st - 8th place in both the Trout and Salmon categories.

Anglers can also enjoy the pre-fishing tournaments that take place the Monday - Wednesday preceding the big weekend event. If you don’t like fish, don’t worry. This community event is fun for all ages and features local vendors and food too!

Tour De Yoop, Eh

Ride and raise money for families battling childhood cancer. The Tour De Yoop, Ed is a 1200-mile bike tour around the Upper Peninsula. The tour begins and ends in Manistique, passing by scenic waterfalls, lake views, landmarks, and more! If you aren’t a cyclist yourself, come out and support our riders for a cause! Learn more about the tour and partnership between Lions of Childhood Cancer and Tour De Yoop, Eh HERE.

Local Events

No matter how small a town is, there are always a few local events that mark the season. Every year the community comes together to celebrate holidays, show off their talents, and reconnect with each other. Some of our favorites are:

Niiwin Noodin Pow Wow

Located at the Manistique Tribal Community Center, this event features local Indigenous crafts, dancing, and food. The event is hosted by the Tribal Community Center but is open to the public. Everyone is welcome to come, learn, and enjoy this cultural experience. 

Car Show

What’s a summer without a car show? We don’t want to know, and you won’t have to since the Manistique Car Show is an annual event! The show features custom cars, hot rods, and classics you won’t want to miss.

Start the weekend with the Friday Night Cruise, then enjoy a Saturday of strolling the show, shopping the vendors, and enjoying all the local music and food.

Small Town Favorites

The best part of Manistique is that there is always something to do. Even if you miss the big calendar events, you can always liven up your stay with a little some of these small-town favorite events, like:

Farmer’s Markets and Maker’s Markets

Where can you buy local produce, browse artisan crafts, and enjoy a snack? At the local markets! Almost every city in the country has a local market that runs throughout the summer, and we do too.

Whether you are in town to enjoy some quiet time by the lake or hike around in nature- make sure to stop by the evening market at the park.

Bingo Night

Bingo Night isn’t just for Grandma to gossip with her church friends, it's a great night out for everyone! There’s a reason Bingo has become a weekly staple in many communities across the U.S; It’s good, wholesome fun. Manistique has several places you can play, which you can find HERE.

Drive-in Shows

Even if you’ve never done it before, there’s something nostalgic about a drive-in movie. From kid-friendly flicks to sci-fi classics, Manistique has several Drive-In events throughout the summer. See what movies they’ll be showing next on the city website HERE. 

Stay at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground

Enjoy the calming waters of Indian Lake during your stay in Manistique. Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground is located on the shores of the Lake, close to all the best attractions in the Upper Peninsula. 

Enjoy all the fairs and festivals of Manistique, without missing all the other nearby attractions like Kitch-iti-kipi, The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Fayette State Park, Lake Michigan, AND Lake Superior.

Start making your own magical summer memories and Book Today!