Here’s a look at a few of the festivals that are on our radar for 2026:
(Be sure to check our calendar for the full list of spring festivals in Michigan!)
While Michigan’s summer festival season is huge, it really kicks off in the spring.
We like to whet our whistles with lanterns in April and tulips in May.
Even with these early season festivals, locals stake out their favorite spots early and visitors book places to stay months in advance.
Get ready to add some truly amazing spring festivals to your Must Do lists!
Here’s a look at a few of the festivals that are on our radar for 2026:
(Be sure to check our calendar for the full list of spring festivals in Michigan!)
John Ball Zoo, 1300 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
April 8 – June 14, 2026
John Ball Zoo was the first to bring these incredible works of art in Michigan. The lantern festival features handcrafted Asian lantern displays that illuminate the Zoo and tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture. It’s truly a breathtaking experience for all ages.
Downtown Holland, MI 49423
May 1 – 10, 2026
One of the earliest flower-themed festivals in Michigan. Millions of tulips, walking tours, tall ship tours, concerts, carnivals, arts and food take over downtown Holland every May. Come for the riot of colors, local attractions, and wooden shoes as Holland, MI, celebrates its Dutch heritage.
Kalamazoo Nature Center, 7000 N Westnedge Ave, MI 49009
March 7, 2026
Maple syrup festivals kick off in Kalamazoo in early March.
Enjoy the sights, smells, and flavors of fresh pancakes topped with real Michigan maple syrup, along with nature-based activities, community experiences, and seasonal celebrations.
Plus watch the process, ask questions, and learn how maple sugar was made long before modern equipment existed.
Downtown East Lansing, MI, 48823
May 16 – 17, 2026
Michigan’s art festivals begin in East Lansing in mid-May. Along with nearly 200 juried artists, live entertainment and food trucks also line the streets of East Lansing.
Stop by Michigan State University while you’re there for more fun things to do.
Fisher Theater, 3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202
March 21, 2026
Enjoy Southern soul and modern blues at “The Blues is Alright Tour” in Detroit. Performers include King George, Pokey Bear, Lenny Williams and West Love.
Grand Haven State Park, 1001 Harbor Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417
May 16 – 17, 2026
The sky over Grand Haven State Park will be filled with kites galore during the Grand Haven Kite Festival. Head to the kite arena to catch kite teams performing choreographed routines flown to music. Bring your own kite to fly on the open flying field.
Whether you’re sniffing tulips, admiring glowing lanterns or watching giant kites soar through the air, you’re sure to have a great time at spring festivals in Michigan.
Editor. Elizabeth Rudd is a former elementary school teacher, now stay-at-home mom to three. Elizabeth spends her time taking kids to school activities, hunting for great deals, spending way too much time on Facebook and finally reading all the books she’s bought.