Events in Manistee County

Welcome to the Manistee County event calendar. We’re glad you’re here!

Select the event below to learn more about events happening in Manistee County.
Have events to add? Email sherri@visitmanisteecounty.com with more details!

Manistee National Forest Festival

July 2 – July 6, 2025

Each year, the Forest Festival boasts events such as the Festival Marketplace, Manistee Arts & Crafts, Carnival, Fireworks over Lake Michigan presented by Little River Casino Resort, and much more!

More info here

Big Bear Butt Cruise

August 23, 2025

This annual cruise is composed of four different rides: 60k, 130k, 170k and a 210k ride. All will take you across Tippy Dam and on some of Manistee County’s best roads across our beautiful rivers, through our scenic forests and out to the majestic bluff views of Lake Michigan.

More info here

Bear Lake Days

July 11 – 13, 2025

Bear Lake Days is an annual community event filled with over 30 family fun events, including fireworks, parade and horse pull!

More info here

Rusty Fish

October 4, 2025

The Rusty Fish was designed to show Manistee County that off the beaten path gravel and trail-ways can interconnect to a much broader Northern Michigan Trail system. The Rusty Fish routes showcase our beautifully wooded forest areas and scenic rivers.

More info here

Arcadia Daze

July 25 – 27, 2025

This festival is a great local event that celebrates the heritage of Arcadia Michigan and includes live music, fireworks, kids activities and the Scottville Clown Band.

More info here

Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend

December 5-7, 2023

Step back in time as you take part in one of Michigan’s most unique holiday celebrations.  An entire weekend of excitement including the Victorian Sleighbell Parade with horse drawn entries, bagpipers, reindeer meet and greet and carolers elegantly dressed in Victorian style attire. The highlights of the parade are the draft horses pulling a 30 foot Christmas tree down River Street followed by a beautiful display of luminaries, caroling, and the lighting of the tree.

More info here

Onekama Days

August 1 – 4, 2025

Live music, car show, arts & crafts fair, parade and more! 

More info here

Run the Pier 5k

July 26, 2025

Not only are you and your friends/family outside getting exercise and fresh air during the nicest time of the year in Michigan, but you are contributing to a charitable event that focuses on raising funds for local causes. 

More info here