Runaway with George Zimmermann on board crossed the finish line in Mackinac of the Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race at approximately 2am this morning.  Listen to his final audio blog about his experience aboard the Runaway and check out some more amazing pictures taken during the race. 

Download audio file (final.mp3)

The race may be over for Runaway,  but you can follow the rest of the action on our site!

As the Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race continues, listen to this audio blog from our own George Zimmermann on the Runaway from earlier today.

Download audio file (sundayam.mp3)

And remember all the boats are equipped with a GPS tracking system, and we are proud to be the exclusive host of the live tracking.  Follow Runaway, and all the action on our site!

It’s a beautiful morning in Port Huron as our own George Zimmermann and the crew of the Runaway get ready to start the Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race.

Listen to George’s audio blog and check out the slide show of what is happening in Port Huron as they get ready to race.  Check in later tonight for an update on the Runaway’s progress.

Download audio file (porthuronam.mp3)

All the boats are equipped with a GPS tracking system, and we are proud to be the exclusive host of the live tracking.  Follow Runaway, and all the action on our site!

Thanks to Melissa Mackey for sharing her story about her trip up north with her husband and teenage twins!  Check out the end of the post to see the beautiful pictures she took!

This summer, instead of taking one long vacation like we usually do, my husband and I decided to take our 13 year old boy/girl twins to Northern Michigan for a long 4^th of July weekend.  We decided to stay in Mackinaw City and take day trips from there to Mackinac Island and the Pictured Rocks in the UP.  My husband and I had been to both places before, but the kids hadn’t, so they were psyched.

We arrived in Mackinaw City on Thursday evening, just in time for dinner at Darrow’s Restaurant.  Darrow’s is a must-visit if you’re anywhere near Mackinaw City.  Even if you’re not in the city, it’s worth the trip.  Portions are plentiful – enough for even the hungriest teen.  Cool family tip: Make sure to save room for dessert!  Darrow’s serves some of the best pie any of us have ever had.

After a restful night, we headed to the ferry docks bright and early the next morning for a day trip to Mackinac Island.  We chose Shepler’s Ferry this time.  The day was warm and sunny, so we followed our very excited children to the outdoor deck up top.

Cool Family Tip: Twice each day during peak season, Shepler’s takes the scenic route to the island – right under the Mackinac Bridge.  I’d driven across the bridge many times, but this was a view few get to see – and it was well worth it.

The trip to the island is an excursion in and of itself.  The kids were thrilled to be able to see the Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac from the boat.

Once we arrived at the island, we headed to the eastern shore for some scenery.  As you may know, there are no cars allowed on the island, so travel takes place by horse & buggy, bicycle, or on foot.  We opted to go on foot.

Much of the island is actually a state park, and trails and footpaths abound.  We hiked along the lakeshore until we reached the steps to Arch Rock, one of the most scenic national landmarks on the island.  The steps are steep, and we heard a few moans from the kids on the way up.  When we got to the top, though, the moans turned to gasps as we enjoyed the phenomenal view of Lake Huron.  My son took this cool picture of the lake as seen through the rock.

After Arch Rock, we hiked for another hour or so – until the kids complained they were hungry.  We made our way back to downtown and had lunch at the Pink Pony.  This is one of the hottest night spots on the island, but by day it offers great food and a family atmosphere, with wonderful views of the lake & harbor.

Cool Family Tip: Save time to visit some of the unique shops along Main Street downtown on the island.  From clothing & books to the famous fudge, there’s something for every member of the family.  And don’t miss the Grand Hotel – even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth seeing from the outside.  It’s a great photo opp, like this one from my son (he says it looks like I postcard, and I agree!)

The next day, we got another early start on the drive to Munising and the Pictured Rocks.  It’s about 2.5 hours from Mackinaw City, and we heard moans about that from the kids, too.  But again, moans turned to awed silence as we drove across the Mighty Mac and onto scenic US-2 in the UP.  This 2-lane highway follows Lake Michigan along the southern shore of the UP.  Much of the lakeshore is unspoiled and tranquil, and it had even my video-game-loving teens mesmerized the entire way.

In the summer, the Pictured Rocks boat tours go almost hourly.  We arrived in Munising in time for the 1 p.m. sailing.  My husband and I had taken the tour in June 1990, and it was so cold out on Lake Superior that year that, even with jeans & windbreakers, we got really cold and had to go inside the cabin of the boat (which is still great but not quite as awesome as up on deck).  So, even though the air temperature in Munising was a balmy-for-the-UP 86 degrees, we made the kids wear jeans and bring sweatshirts and jackets (talk about moaning!).  It ended up staying so sunny and warm that we not only didn’t need the jackets & sweatshirts, we were rolling up the legs of our jeans.  Important Family Tip: Dress in layers and be prepared for any weather!  Temperatures on Lake Superior can vary wildly, even in the summer.

Warm clothes aside, we were enthralled by the unbelievable views of the magnificent rocks on the 2 ½ hour tour.

On the return cruise, we got a close-up view of the Grand Island Lighthouse, built in 1863.

Cool Family Tip: Stop in St. Ignace on your way back from the UP.  We ate pasties at the Mackinac Grille, and walked along the boardwalk next to the St. Ignace ferry dock.  The kids loved just watching the boats go to and from Mackinac Island, and we grownups loved the sunset over the lake.

We headed home on July 4, wishing we could stay longer, but glad our teens got to experience these Pure Michigan gems.

Melissa Mackey is Online Marketing Manager at Ann Arbor-based Fluency Media, where she is proud to be part of the team that works on the Pure Michigan online account. A lifelong Michigander, she and her husband live in East Lansing with their 13 year old twins.  Share your thoughts about Melissa’s story on Twitter (@Mel66), or by leaving a comment below.

Thanks to Matt Eder, co-creator of MichiganDads.com, for sharing his experiences from his recent family trip to Oscoda.

The water was cool but the sand was warm. The birds happily chirped as the squirrels scampered around the lush trees and green grass looking for food. Sure, it rained a bit – seems like it does every year – but it was brief and could not dampen the spirits of our surroundings. My two-and-a-half-year-old son squealed with joy as Lake Huron nipped at his toes. Even six-month-old Anabelle seemed happier breathing in the fresh “up north” air.

For many Michiganians, the trek up north is steeped in tradition. Maybe it was summers at the family cottage on Houghton Lake or winter weekends snowmobiling in Munising. When talking about taking trips up north the final destination and activity was almost irrelevant – the only thing that mattered was the departure date.

I spent plenty of time up north as a younger lad, but over the last 10 years or so, my wife and I have made an annual canoe trip with her family to Oscoda. We would lazily canoe (float) down the Au Sable River for the better part of an afternoon drinking, munching and enjoying the views. Our getaway weekend often coincided with the longest, non-stop canoe-only race in North America, the Au Sable Canoe Marathon, which starts in Grayling and finishes in Oscoda. Now that we have young kids we’ve unfortunately had to forgo the canoe portion of the trip, but fun still abounds.

For the past two years we’ve rented cabins from Perfect Landing. The cabins are on Lake Huron just north of downtown Oscoda. They are clean, well maintained and full of the amenities that make you feel right at home (cable TV, washer/dryer, full kitchen, grills, fireplace, etc.). Plus, the price is reasonable so I see no reason why we won’t be back again next year.

With a grill, fire pit, Lake Huron and plenty of seating in the backyard, cooking for ourselves has become the favored option for meals. The kitchen is serviceable, so breakfasts, brunches or lunches are easy enough to prepare. And who doesn’t enjoy a bonfire with barbeque and s’mores at night? When we do venture out for a meal, it’s usually to Bavarian Bakery & Restaurant for breakfast or Au Sable Inn for the all-you-can-eat perch or cod dinner (I prefer the lake perch). Oscoda is not a foodie town, but both of these places offer quality food at reasonable prices. Add in a dose of kid-friendliness and decent service and you’ve had a good meal and an enjoyable experience. Plus, someone else washes the dishes!

If playing in the backyard and swimming in the lake isn’t your cup of tea, Oscoda has plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained. Canoeing and tubing down the Au Sable River rank at the top of my list and Oscoda Canoe Rental has always served us well. If floating down the river sounds like too much work, you can also tour the Au Sable River from the cozy confines of the Ausable River Queen. And of course, there are gems to be found exploring quaint downtown Oscoda in addition to up north staples like putt-putt golf (or real golf if you’re lucky enough) and various museums like the Oscoda Historical Museum or the Wurtsmith Yankee Air Force Museum.

The museums sound interesting but I can’t vouch for them because I haven’t been able to pry my son away from the sand and water. And to be honest, I haven’t wanted to. Being barefoot in the sand and splashing in the waves provides a release for me like nothing else can. Maybe it’s being outdoors and enjoying the company or, maybe it’s being on the same emotional and intellectual level as a two-year-old for a change. Maybe it’s a combination. Either way, it’s Pure Michigan and I love it.

Our trip home wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Big Red Barn, a well-known Oscoda gift shop that sells every imaginable sort of nick-nack.  From there it’s US-23 South to I-75 South back to reality. During the car ride home my son said, “Daddy, maybe we go back to cabin up north soon?” He is already hooked on northern Michigan and he’s not even three yet. I am certain it won’t be long before our daughter is expressing the same feelings. The tradition continues.

What are some of your favorite up north destinations? Do you have any fun, unique up north traditions? Please share them with us in the comments section.          

Matt Eder is a lifelong Michigan resident who is passionate about his family and his home state.  He works on marketing and branding issues for a Michigan-based manufacturing company by day, spends evenings and weekends with his family and devotes the rest of his waking hours to making MichiganDads.com another home-grown success story.

Tina Lassen, Michigan Travel Ideas contributing writer, gives insiders tips on affordable one-day trips in the UP. For more affordable family vacations ideas, see the article in the 2010 issue of Michigan Travel Ideas.

A good place to base yourself is in Paradise at either Harmon’s Birchwood Lodge cabins ($66-$130/night, three-night minimum in summer) along Whitefish Bay or at the Shipwreck Museum ($150/night, includes museum admission) in the restored 1923 Coast Guard lifeboat station crew quarters.

Platforms provide great views of the 200-foot-wide wall of frothing water in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Photographer: Jason Lindsey

Then, head to Tahquamenon Falls State Park (state park vehicle permit required, $6 residents, $8 nonresidents). For a better experience, bypass the entrance to the Lower Falls and continue to the Upper Falls. This is the river’s marquee cascade, a 200-foot-wide wall of frothing amber fury. It’s even more majestic when you have the viewing platform to yourself, so it pays to get there early.

Then, backtrack to the Lower Falls. Better yet, try to talk someone in your group to shuttling the car and hike the four-mile River Trail to the Lower Falls and enjoy surprisingly quiet trails that lead to century-old white pines and wilderness lakes.

Enjoying the serenity of the four-mile River Trail from the Upper Falls to the Lower Falls. Photographer: Dennis Cox

When you leave continue southwest on M-123, then west on H-37 to Oswald’s Bear Ranch where wild bears (none are bred or purchased) roam to and fro. Oswald’s provides a lifelong home for young bears whose mothers have been killed or mature bears who, for a variety of reasons, can’t be released in the wild. Admission fees ($15 per vehicle) help fund the bears’ diet of fruit and meat purchased by the ton.

Total cost for the whole family? Less than $30.

Trip Guide:

1)      Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Hiking, fishing, nature programs and camping centered around the Tahquamenon River and its waterfalls. Vehicle permit required. Rent rowboats or canoes in the Lower Falls concession area.

2)      Oswald’s Bear Ranch: Open Memorial Day weekend through late September. Admission $15/vehicle.  

3)      The Tahquamenon Logging Museum: Chronicles the region’s 19^th-century lumbering era, with displays on life in the logging camps, the evolution of logging equipment, and fun old photos and newspaper clippings from the region. Small admission fee.

4)      The Toonerville Trolley: This classic UP attraction combines a narrow-gauge, open-air railroad ride with a boat tour to the Upper Falls. Train/Boat tour runs six or more hours; train-only trip is two hours.

5)      Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub: Homemade pasties, wild rice soup, whitefish sandwiches and other local flavors round out a comprehensive menu for lunch or dinner. Nice timber-frame building with deck in Upper Falls. Entrees $6-$24.

When Tina Lassen was 8 years old, she watched wide-eyed as a moose trundled out of the woods on Isle Royale and into a wild Lake Superior bay. She’s been enamored with Michigan ever since. Tina has written extensively about the state for magazines like Midwest Living and National Geographic Adventure, and for guidebooks including Moon Michigan, National Geographic’s Guide to America’s Outdoors: Great Lakes, and 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: US and Canada.

Independence Day is just around the corner, so we wanted to share some of the fireworks celebrations taking place all over Pure Michigan!

Fireworks BBQ Sail, July 1, 2010

See the fireworks from the best seat in the house – the Deck of a Tall Ship! Join us on the Appledore IV for a three-hour sail, a BBQ meal and the Bay City Fireworks. Departing from Wenonah Park at 6:00pm and returning at 9:00pm. Stay aboard and watch the fireworks at 10:00pm. Tickets include access to all Wenonah Park Festivities.

Bay City Fireworks Festival, July 1- 3, 2010

Annual three-day community celebration including carnival rides, a craft show, musical concerts, food and one of the largest fireworks displays in this part of the Midwest with fireworks being shot out over the Saginaw River from both Wenona and Vets Park each evening of the festival! 

 4th of July Bessemer Blast 2010, June 30–July 4, 2010

This week long event has something for everyone. Come out and see an F16 Fighter jet fly over, parade, largest fireworks display in the Upper Midwest region, a mud run, a demo derby, 3 on 3 basketball tournament and a softball tournament. Come out for some small town charm and celebrate with them. Events are free to watch.

An Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration in Wakefield, June 25- July 4, 2010

Come to the Wakefield MI 4th of July Old Fashioned Celebration starting on June 25th and running through July 4th. Come join the fun!

Greatest 4th in the North 2010, June 30– July 4, 2010

The 2010 Celebration will begin Wednesday, June 30 and end on Sunday, July 4. We have a lot of great events that take place, including lots of FREE entertainment. Catch the main stage acts, a clown or even a juggler. Other fantastic finds will be “Battle of the Bands”, a karaoke contest, a two day arts and crafts show, a 2K, 5K and a 10K race. Most of all, enjoy the Grand Parade and fireworks which will take place on July 4th.

Independence Day Festival, June 30- July 4, 2010

Honor our ancestors’ independent, self-sufficient lifestyles, and spend time this weekend with friends and family celebrating this country’s independence. Enjoy a patriotic parade and ice cream social on July 4.

Muskegon Summer Celebration, June 24- July 4, 2010

Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon is home to 11 days of concerts, events, fireworks, arts & crafts and carnival rides. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Muskegon Summer Celebration has an event for you. Play in the sand during the Michigan Sand Sculpture contest, or watch in amazement as the Master of the Chainsaw sculpts masterpieces before your eyes. Scheduled performers will be announced as they become available. Check the link frequently.

Soaring Eagle’s Fourth of July Celebration! July 1- July 4, 2010

This Fourth of July, celebrate at Soaring Eagle with a weekend full of fun! July 1-4, enjoy a carnival with a free midway and get a rides wristband for just $15 per day. Get your tickets now for Monster Truck Madness on Saturday, July 3! Then it’s our grand finale on Sunday, July 4 with a free concert from 2:30 to 10:30 pm featuring local bands and The Verve Pipe. Plus, don’t miss our fireworks spectacular later that evening.

Westland Summer Festival, June 30- July 4, 2010

The festival will kick off with a parade. Come enjoy fun entertainment, the Midway by Wade show, the world famous Robinsons racing pigs and so much more. Fireworks are scheduled for the festival’s finale.

Clawson 4th of July Celebration, June 26– July 5, 2010

Festivities include 5K run and a fun run, amusement rides, bingo and food concessions. Watch the parade or the ball games or visit the arts and crafts booths. In the evening, listen to entertainment and view the fireworks display.

Festivals & Fireworks, June 26– September 4, 2010

The St. Ignace waterfront, port to Mackinac Island, will host fireworks shows on June 26, July 4, and then every Saturday through September 4. Ample public viewing space and parking. Free to all visitors.

4th of July Boat Parade on Otsego Lake, July 3, 2010

A parade of boats on Otsego Lake at 4 pm.

Fireworks Display, July 3, 2010

A display of fireworks to celebrate Independence Day at Caseville Harbor Breakwall.

Fireworks-Bay Harbor, July 3, 2010

Join us for a beautiful fireworks display over Bay Harbor Lake on Saturday, July 3. Bring your family and friends down to the Village early and enjoy shopping at our great boutiques and eating at the amazing restaurants! Watch the brilliant fireworks from the lawn panel, it’s a beautiful site to see. Be sure to bring your “oooh’s” and “aaaah’s” with you!

Independence Day Celebration, July 2-3, 2010

Begin your 4th of July holiday festivities with a day at the beach and a stroll through downtown New Buffalo, then cap it off with a concert and fireworks. You can view the fireworks from the beach or all along Whittaker Street, which cuts through the heart of downtown New Buffalo. Independence Day Concert with SMSO at Lions Pavilion Park on July 3.

The Fourth at the Fair, July 2-3, 2010

The annual Fourth of July celebration includes entertainment, food and a motorcycle rally. Celebrate the Fourth, Lenawee County-style.

4th of July Festivities, July 3-4, 2010

Join our celebration of Independence Day. Events include a parade, demolition derby and fireworks.

4th of July Lawn Party, July 4, 2010

Beat the traffic and the crowds and celebrate 4th of July with us! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to join the fun with $1 hot dogs, $1 chips, $1 sodas and $1 bottled water from 6-8pm. Kids activities include Watermelon Eating Contest. Jack’s Deck & Tiki Bar open all day and much more.

4th of July Parade on Main Street, July 4, 2010

Come to the 4th of July Parade in the Village at Bay Harbor. Enjoy the decorative floats, GEM cars, and horses and collect lots of candy to kick off your Independence Day. This is a truly one-of-a-kind parade that you will not want to miss!

An American Picnic, Fort Mackinac, July 4, 2010

Checkered red and white tablecloths spread on the grass on the Fort Mackinac’s parade ground help to create a patchwork quilt welcoming hungry Patriots. Enjoy the Grand Hotel’s all-you-can-eat tangy BBQ baby back ribs, grilled chicken breasts, hamburgers, hot dogs, turkey burgers, corn on the cob, and a slew of salads, fixings and desserts at 6pm. Stay inside the fort for a prime view of the fireworks!

Baraga State Park 4th of July Festivities, July 4, 2010

Celebrate Independence Day at Baraga State Park! Festivities include a Children’s Bike Parade, Bike Decorating Contest, Scavenger Hunt and Games! Local fireworks over the bay at dusk. For further information, call (906) 353-6558. The public is welcome. All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the park entrance and headquarters.

Beaver Island’s Fourth of July Celebration, July 4, 2010

Events start with live music downtown starting at noon followed by the 4th of July Parade down Main Street. Then the kids can have a ball at the annual carnival. The Clyde Fogg Memorial Boat Parade begins at dusk on the harbor. Fireworks over the harbor will follow the boat parade.

Corunna 4th of July Celebration, July 4, 2010

The Corunna Fourth of July Celebration is an annual fun-filled community/family celebration in appreciation and remembrance of our heritage and patriotism. Enjoy a bike decorating contest, the Firecracker parade, car cruise, craft show, entertainment and much more. This year’s theme is “4th of July Fantasy.”

Thanks to Jennifer Rees for sharing the story of her U.P adventure!

Every year, my husband rides his bike from Cedar Springs to Mackinaw City. Every year my sister, kids, and I take a trip ‘Up North’ to pick him up. This year, the group my husband rides with decided that 285 miles just wasn’t quite enough. They got to Mackinaw and kept right on going.  In fact, they went all the way to Grand Marais.

Meanwhile, we had an adventure of our own.

We headed up to Leland, where the first order of business was a stop at Carlson’s for A.P.’s favorite food – smoked fish. When we asked him how it was, he couldn’t even stop eating long enough to use words. 

We hung out on the waterfront for a while then strolled around town. After a fun afternoon, we headed to Petoskey for the night, where my husband was.  In the morning we went to the Oden fish hatchery.  We couldn’t believe there was no charge! There was, however, a gift shop. The kids came away with patches, a book about animal ‘scat and tracks’, and “I’m A Michigan Kid Passports” which, really, should be issued to every child born in our state.

There hatchery has walking trails, an interpretive museum in an old box car, and an underground stream viewing area. The highlight was the trout feeding. For a dime, we got a handful of Trout Chow and I don’t mean to bruise any fish egos but it’s time for these guys to be finding their own dinner. They were fat. Still, my kids scrounged up about $2.00 in dimes and contributed to the Trout Obesity problem.

Back in the car, we headed up to the Soo.  I have to say that although I completely appreciate having a bridge to the Upper Peninsula; I hate actually driving across it. But, the U.P. is worth the white knuckles. We headed straight for the Locks and hopped on a boat tour. It was fun to watch the kids try and grasp where the water went, where it came from, and how it all came worked.

The next morning we headed to Munising for the Pictured Rocks boat tour. It was stunning. And windy, but mostly stunning.

From there we drove back to Grand Marais, where we met up with my husband and his biker buddies. We’d all had an incredible journey were happy to be reunited in such a special place. We ate dinner with friends, then went to Lake Superior Brewing Company for a beer. We went to the beach and watched the sun set over Lake Superior. The next morning, we checked out the Gitchee Gumee Agate and History Museum, and headed to Taqhamenon Falls.

We ate lunch at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery where, naturally, we had pasties.

We cannot wait to get back and re-visit these places, and also to discover new ones. We’re proud to be raising Michigan Kids, and thankful that a vacation like this is so close to home.

Jennifer Rees is a stay at home mom of two young children in Grand Rapids.  Jennifer writes at  TheBigBinder.com, a blog about raising kids in Grand Rapids who are active, involved, and culturally aware.

Summer is here!  So to help you plan how you will spend your time, we wanted to give you all the events we have through Labor Day! 

If you’re the organizer of an event that you don’t see listed, please use our submission form to let us know.

 4^th of July Bessemer Blast, June 30- July 4, 2010

This huge celebration of freedom includes a huge parade, music and games, helicopter rides, street bowling, Simon Says competition and bed and bar stool races capped by fireworks.

Summer Celebration, Muskegon, June 24- July 4, 2010

Continue the fun that began June 24, with music, midway thrills and much more fun for all ages.

Greatest Fourth in the North, Lake City, June 30- July 4, 2010

All-American fun including free entertainment, arts & crafts, ox roast and Strawberry Festival, fun contests, Saturday parade and July 4^th fireworks.

27^th Ann Arbor Summer Festival, June 18-July 11, 2010

Part of the three-week schedule that kicked off June 18 featuring live entertainment, films, and visual arts at four downtown venues.

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival, July 1-4, 2010

The sky fills with colorful hot air balloons with both morning and evening launches.   Balloon Illume & Night Air Show, aerial feats in the Air Show Saturday and Sunday, plus monster truck rides, carnival, entertainment and July 4^th fireworks at the W.K. Kellogg Airport.

Cedar Polka Fest, July 1-4, 2010

Just try to not join in the dancing at this lively, music-filled weekend with top polka bands under the big tent, plus a parade and polka mass.

Algonac Lions Pickerel Tournament, July 1-5, 2010

It’s a fishing contest and a whole lot more, with fun-filled family activities along the St. Clair River featuring a big midway, fireworks display, parade and more.

84^th National Cherry Festival, Traverse City, July 3-10, 2010

150 events on land, air and water offer something for everyone at this festive salute to the region’s important fruit. Cherry pies are just a piece of the fun, with parades, games, and entertainment at numerous sites around Traverse City and along Grand Traverse Bay. 

Elsie Dairy Festival, July 8-10, 2010

The Dairy Capital of Michigan is filled with music, family fun and, of course, an ice cream booth.

National Bluegill Festival, St. Helen, July 8-11, 2010

Annual summertime celebration since 1949 features a Bluegill fishing contest, horseshoe tournament, arts and crafts, talent show and Grand Parade.

20^th Welcome to My Garden Tour, Marshall, July 10-11, 2010

Admire six of the historic community’s very special gardens, and browse the native plants, art, and accessories at the garden market.

Alpenfest, Gaylord, July 14-18, 2010

The 46^th annual family-friendly festival features entertainment, crafts, carnival, parade, the “Burning of The Boogg,” and World’s Largest Coffee Break, all with a Swiss theme rooted in the city’s past.

Indian River SummerFest, July 13-18, 2010

This year marks the 30^th annual celebration of the season on the Inland Waterway, with LobsterFest and Pig Roast, Family Night Beach Bash, teen dance, carnival, entertainment, arts and crafts and boat tours of the Indian River.

Founders Festival, Farmington, July 17-19, 2010

Go Play in the Streets at this weekend of entertainment, art show, carnival, ice cream and pie social, and big parade.

Tall Ship Celebration, Bay City, July 15-18, 2010

Get your sea legs and enjoy the beauty of the billowing sails of Tall Ships docked on the Saginaw River or go for a sail aboard one of Bay City’s own Appledore vessels. Hear sea chanteys at the International Maritime Music Festival and learn the tricks of the pirates’ trade at performances of “The Pirate School.”

Bronson Polish Festival, July 15-18, 2010

The Sister City of Moryn, Poland opens its annual celebration with a bang—fireworks—followed by a weekend of Polish food, music, and one of the longest parades in the state.

Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Jackson, July 15-August 8, 2010

This Festival has been producing high-quality theatrical performances since 1995, on the campus of Jackson Community College.

U.P. Hog Wild, Kingsford, July 17-18, 2010

The BBQ competition is one of just 25 stops on the Kansas City Great American BBQ Tour. Good food, music and car show in Lodal Park.

Roscommon River Festival, July 18-19, 2010

Plan a paddling trip on the AuSable River, then enjoy the river-related demonstrations including fly tying and casting and paddling, wooden canoe show, and Dock Dog competition.

36^th Michigan Brown Trout Festival, Alpena, July 17-26, 2010

The longest continuous fishing tournament on the Great Lakes focuses on Big Brownie, the elusive trout of Lake Huron.

Ann Arbor Art Fairs, July 21-24, 2010

The original Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is celebrating “51 Years of Originality.” Three additional, simultaneous art fairs create a massive display of fine arts and crafts that attract a half million fans.

Festival of the Horse, Mackinac Island, July 22-24, 2010

The 2^nd annual celebration of the horse. Tour Victorian era stables, enjoy the antique carriage and equestrian art shows, and kick up your heels at the Barn Raisin’ Dance.

54^th Baldwin Troutarama Festival, July 21-25, 2010

A tradition since 1957, the annual celebration near the Blue Ribbon fishing on the Pere Marquette River features a youth fishing derby, entertainment, ice cream social, carnival, car show and parade.

Ionia Free Fair, July 22-31, 2010

The “World’s Largest Free Fair” since 1915 entertains midway rides and games, food, grandstand events, a circus and a wide range of performers.

AuSable River Festival, Grayling, July 19-25, 2010

Celebrate the storied waterway and start of the famous AuSable River Canoe Marathon with music, arts & crafts, kiddie festivities, parade, and the Avita Water Black Bear Bicycle Tour.

Yale Bologna Festival, July 23-25, 2010

The King and Queen of Bologna reign over the Big Bologna Parade, bologna ring toss, outhouse races, fireworks, craft show, carnival, and tasty bologna galore. And yes, there is a local bologna maker.

6^th Traverse City Film Festival, July 27-August 1, 2010

Over 123 screenings of independent, classic and foreign films at multiple locations, including free outdoor screenings on an inflatable screen at the Open Space Park on Grand Traverse Bay.

The Earl Young Home Tour, Charlevoix, July 28, 2010

A one-day opportunity to see the inside eight of the fairy tale-like  “Mushroom” or Stone Homes built by Earl Young.

Munger Potato Festival, July 29-August 1, 2010

A 55-year “Spud-tacular” tradition features carnival, Figure 8 Derby, live entertainment, a parade, and food (including tons of free potatoes!).

86^th US Coast Guard Festival, Grand Haven, July 30-August 8, 2010

A 10-day tribute to the Coast Guard includes public tours of a Coast Guard cutter, parade, waterfront entertainment, carnival, and dancing in the streets.

Pig Gig, Bay City, August 5-8, 2010

Go whole hog at the rib festival cook-off and enjoy live entertainment, kiddie activities, cooking demos, fun contests and pig racing.

36^th Boyne Falls Polish Festival, August 6-9, 2010

Event includes a Polka tent with great music and Polish food all weekend in salute to the heritage of the area. Grand parade, horse pull, plus Oldies Night and car cruise and Sunday Mass.

33rd Fish Sandwich Festival, Bay Port, August 6-7, 2010

“It takes two hands to hold one” of the original fish sandwiches at this bayside event. Thousands of them are served with a side of entertainment, arts & crafts, Bingo, and fireworks.

43^rd Coloma Glad-Peach Festival, August 6-8, 2010

Fruitbelt fun celebrating two local crops includes tasty peach treats, bake fest, entertainment, carnival, Peach Pit Spit and parade.

The Wine Days of Summer, Southeast Michigan, August 7-8, 2010

Enjoy this self-driving tour along the Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail featuring picnic foods and compatible wines.

Summerfest Coopersville, August 9-15, 2010

The hometown of “Runaway” Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Del Shannon hosts a 5K “Runaway,” a car cruise and show in his honor plus a quilt show, rides on the vintage C&M Railway, fun for kids and more.

Au Gres Pirate Festival, August 7, 2010

Enjoy a day of fun with a pirate theme including a homemade raft race on the Au Gres River, games, costume contests and music.

Great Lakes Folk Festival, East Lansing, August 13-15, 2010

It’s a small world after all at this blend of multi-cultural music and dance performances, Folk Arts Marketplace, kiddie programs and Taste of Traditions food court.

International Ironworkers Festival, Mackinaw City, August 13-15, 2010

See ironworkers from across North America compete in skilled events and the World Championship Column Climb.

Ship & Shore, New Buffalo, August 13-15, 2010

See “the past in motion” with hundreds of antique gas, steam and oil engines on display, plus working blacksmiths and foundry, old time crafts demos, and flea markets.

St. Johns Mint Festival, August 13-15, 2010

Meet Minty, mascot of the festival that celebrates Michigan’s mint-growing history with a parade, games, car show, music and food at the downtown train depot. Don’t miss the mint chocolate chip ice cream.

12^th Cheeseburger in Caseville, August 13-22, 2010

Huge crowds of Parrotheads turn out for Jimmy Buffett tribute bands, Parade of Tropical Fools, nautical parade, street dance, and a world of food including, of course, cheeseburgers.

 Antique Wooden Boat Show, Hessel, August 7-8, 2010

Classic wooden boats typical of the Les Cheneaux Islands are on display in the water, accompanied by the fine Festival of Arts, live entertainment and local food favorites.

9^th River Raisin Jazz Festival, Monroe, August 14-15, 2010

Big names in jazz perform in two days of free music outdoors, preceded by Thursday’s River Raisin Jazz Series and Jazz in the Square on Friday.

Buckley Old Engine Show, Cadillac, August 19-22, 2010

“Come see the past in motion” with hundreds of antique gas, steam and oil engines on display, plus working blacksmiths and foundry, old time crafts demos, flea market, and arts and crafts.

46^th Annual Danish Festival, Greenville, August 19-22, 2010

This Scandinavian heritage celebration features hot aebleskivers and Danish cookies, Viking sword fights, music, hot air balloon flights and Grand Dansk Parade.

Mackinac Island Fudge Festival, August 21-22, 2010

A good reason to sample the sweet treat made fresh daily at 17 shops on the island. Highlights include performances by the Children’s Ballet Theatre of Michigan and a “golden ticket” vacation contest.

16^th Woodward Dream Cruise, North Detroit Metro, August 21, 2010

The official cruise day is Saturday but more than 40,000 vintage vehicles and a million-plus car lovers arrive early in the week for informal events leading up to the world’s largest one-day gathering of classic cars and enthusiasts.

Michigan Fiber Festival, Allegan, August 21-22, 2010

Fun with fiber! Take classes, browse the marketplace featuring natural fiber products, books, dyes, spinning wheels and looms at the Allegan County Fairgrounds.

Corvette Crossroads Auto Show, Mackinaw City, August 28-29, 2010

Cool cars on display all day - and roll across the Mackinac Bridge in the Corvette Parade at 7 p.m. Saturday!

6^th Porcupine Mountains Music Festival, Ontonagon, August 27-29, 2010

The sounds of folk, jazz and bluegrass music fill the wild and wonderful old-growth forest of the western Upper Peninsula in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on the Lake Superior shoreline.

Riverdays Festival, Big Rapids, September 2-6, 2010

Fun along the Muskegon River includes the car show, music, and annual Labor Day car show and arts, crafts & antiques Show.

Elkton Autumn Fest, September 3-5, 2010

Lawnmower races, tractor pulls, demolition derby, Bingo, parade, entertainment tent and midway games make this a family-friendly event.

79^th Michigan Peach Festival, Romeo, September 2-6, 2010

Celebration of the local fruit includes a packed schedule of events, from fun run to talent competition, bed race, car show, night parade and floral parade, plus peach pie.

31^st Detroit International Jazz Festival, September 3-6, 2010

This year’s premiere free musical celebration pays tribute to 7 modern jazz geniuses, and features more than 100 acts on 6 stages at the Detroit Riverfront.

Thumbfest, Lexington, September 4, 2010

The Bluewater Folk Society hosts this traditional music festival with multiple stages, workshops, dance hall, and crafts along Lake Huron.

Mackinac Bridge Walk, September 6, 2010

Join tens of thousands of folks in the unofficial end of summer walk across “Mighty Mac” Bridge. The five-mile-long engineering marvel links Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas high above the waters of the Straits of Mackinac, where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet.

Last summer, contributing writer Tina Lassen scouted lesser-known state and federal preserves for the 2010 Michigan Travel Ideas feature, Wild Discoveries. Tina shares a handful of her favorites from the state’s southwest region. What’s your favorite Michigan park?

Towering Dunes
It’s impossible to miss the centerpiece of Duck Lake State Park north of Muskegon: an immense dune of golden sand that sweeps from the shores of Lake Michigan. The 728-acre park extends from the soft sand beach at the base of the dune inland to its namesake lake, plentiful with panfish. A day-use area includes a swimming beach, picnic tables, grills, and a shelter. A channel links the two lakes, paralleled by a boardwalk frequented by scurrying sandy feet.

Lazy Days
A simple inner tube is the best way to explore Pines Point Recreation Area, five miles northeast of Montague. Plop into the South Branch of the White River at one end of the campground and float lazily downstream through pines and oak savannah. The river’s horseshoe of a route returns almost back to the start, just beyond the grassy point at the other end of the campground. The river’s mellow current, sandy bottom and warm waters makes it a great family destination.

Quiet Beach
While beach lovers flock like seagulls to the many popular state parks that dot Lake Michigan’s sandy eastern shore, far fewer make their way to the surf line at Saugatuck Dunes State Park, a 900-acre park three miles north of Saugatuck. Nearly 14 miles of peaceful trails knit through the forested peaks and valleys of sand. The paths eventually emerge onto barren dunes—and miles of sand beach I shared with only the shorebirds.

Undeveloped Forests
Just a few miles south of St. Joseph and a few miles north of popular Warren Dunes State Park, Grand Mere State Park fronts Lake Michigan with an entirely different feel. This 1,000-acre park preserves an increasingly rare habitat of three interdunal lakes, unique enough to earn it status as a National Natural Landmark. It’s another half-mile hike across the open dunes to two miles of beach, and a distant view of the Lake Michigan shore as it curves west toward the state line.

Pedal Through the Park
The Kal-Haven Trail ranks as one of Michigan’s narrowest state parks, a 10-foot-wide path that follows a former railroad corridor from South Haven 43 miles east to Kalamazoo. Wide-tire hybrid or mountain bikes work best on the crushed gravel trail, which meanders across a patchwork of farm and field, and through towns like Gobles and Bloomingdale. Stop for photos at wooden trestle bridges—and wherever local businesses tempt riders with signs for ice cream and fresh apple cider.

Freelance writer Tina Lassen has spent more than 25 years exploring and writing about Michigan’s outdoor adventures. She is a frequent contributor to Midwest Living Magazine, and has written extensively about Michigan in guidebooks like National Geographic’s Guide to America’s Outdoors: Great Lakes.