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Star Spangled Spectacular Weekend
Starts: 07/02/2026 - Ends: 07/05/2026
Stars, stripes, and sunshine set the stage for an unforgettable weekend! The 4th of July is a celebration like no other, and Bear Lake KOA is bringing the red, white, and blue to life. From playful competitions and colorful decorations to axe throwing, foam parties, and beachside fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It's the perfect way to come together, make lasting memories, and celebrate the holiday with excitement for all ages.
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Labor Day Weekend
Starts: 09/04/2026 - Ends: 09/07/2026
Kick back, relax, and soak up the final days of summer. Enjoy great company, fun activities, and those classic campground vibes as the season begins to wind down.From outdoor games to cozy campfires, it's time to slow down and savor the long weekend. Gather your friends and family and make the most of every moment.
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Wet & Wild Weekend
Starts: 06/26/2026 - Ends: 06/28/2026
Get ready to make a splash! Wet & Wild Weekend is all about cooling off, laughing out loud, and diving into the best of summer fun. From dodging water balloons to racing down slip 'n slides and joining in on poolside games, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Perfect for campers of all ages, this weekend is packed with splashy excitement. So grab your swimsuit, towel, and sense of adventure—the wetter, the better!
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Ghosts & Goblins
Starts: 09/18/2026 - Ends: 09/20/2026
It's time for a spook-tacular weekend full of fun and just the right amount of fright! Halloween Weekend brings costumes, creepy-cute decorations, and festive fun for the whole family.From a haunted trail adventure to trick-or-treating and campsite decorating contests, there's no shortage of thrills, laughs, and magical moments. As the sun sets, the campground comes alive with glowing lights, spooky surprises, and plenty of Halloween spirit.Bring your imagination, your best costume, and your sense of adventure—it's going to be a frightfully fun weekend.
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Sundaes & Fun Days
Starts: 08/21/2026 - Ends: 08/23/2026
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream! Need we say more? Get ready for a weekend full of sweet treats, sticky fun, and plenty of laughs.We won't just be enjoying ice cream and sugary goodies—we might even be wearing some too! From tasty challenges to messy moments, it's all about letting loose and having a deliciously good time.Come ready to indulge, get a little messy, and make some unforgettable (and sweet!) memories!
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Redneck Weekend
Starts: 07/10/2026 - Ends: 07/12/2026
Redneck Weekend is all about kicking back, not taking life too seriously, and having a whole lot of fun together. Celebrate the simple joys of summer with quirky games, silly challenges, and plenty of laughs along the way. Families can team up, get creative, and dive into a weekend packed with lighthearted competition and unforgettable antics. It's all about making memories, sharing laughs, and enjoying good times with great company.
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Grillin' & Chillin': Father's Day Weekend
Starts: 06/19/2026 - Ends: 06/20/2026
Fire up the grills and celebrate Dad with us! Treat him to a weekend filled with cookouts, campground games, and well-deserved relaxation. Whether he's a grill master or a chill master, it's the perfect way to kick back and enjoy Father's Day together. Be sure to ask about our possible cook-off contests for a little extra friendly competition!
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Fruits of Fall
Starts: 09/25/2026 - Ends: 09/27/2026
Take a bite out of fall with our locally sourced apples! This weekend is all about celebrating everyone's favorite fruit—by eating it, decorating with it, playing games, and maybe even wearing it!Get ready for a sweet, silly, and laughter-filled good time as we turn apples into the star of every activity.
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Christmas in July
Starts: 07/17/2026 - Ends: 07/19/2026
Have you been naughty or nice? Join us for a special visit with Santa—fresh in from his Bahama vacation just to spend time with you! Christmas in July brings holiday cheer to the heart of summer, complete with twinkling lights, Santa visits, and festive fun for the whole family. Enjoy storytime, gift-giving, and cheerful activities that capture the magic of the season under sunny skies. It's a playful, heartwarming weekend filled with laughter, lasting memories, and holiday spirit for campers of all ages.
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Wet & Wild Weekend Part II
Starts: 08/07/2026 - Ends: 08/09/2026
Hosted two times each summer because it's such a splashing good time! Wet & Wild Weekend is all about cooling off, laughing out loud, and diving into the best of summer fun. From dodging water balloons to racing down slip 'n slides and joining in on poolside games, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Perfect for campers of all ages, this weekend is packed with splashy excitement. So grab your swimsuit, towel, and sense of adventure—the wetter, the better!
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 06/16/2026 - Ends: 06/16/2026
Held at First Street Beach in Manistee, the Manistee Shoreline Showcase is a beloved summer concert series featuring live jazz, blues, rock, and R&B from professional touring musicians. Free to the public, the concerts take place Tuesday evenings at the Rotary Pavilion overlooking Lake Michigan, creating a relaxed community gathering with music and sunset views by the water.
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Manistee National Forest Festival
Starts: 07/01/2026 - Ends: 07/05/2026
Held each year over the Fourth of July holiday in downtown Manistee, the Manistee National Forest Festival is a long-running community celebration featuring parades, carnival rides, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and fireworks over Lake Michigan. With roots dating back more than 90 years, the multi-day event brings residents and visitors together for one of the area's biggest summer traditions.
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Free Fishing Weekend
Starts: 06/13/2026 - Ends: 06/14/2026
Two days twice a year, families and friends can enjoy one of Michigan's premier outdoor activities, Michigan fishing, for FREE!All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. A Recreation Passport will NOT be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites during Free Fishing Weekends. Check out a fishing program at a state park!
Want to know when future Free Fishing Weekends will be? The winter weekend is always the Saturday and Sunday of President's Day weekend and the summer weekend is always the Saturday and Sunday following the first full week of June.
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Iron Fish Distillery 9th Annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby
Starts: 05/02/2026 - Ends: 05/02/2026
Iron Fish Distillery 9th Annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby and Fundraiser for Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project.The Two Most Exciting Minutes In Sports and BEST PARTY of the year is the Iron Fish Distillery 9th Annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party! Line up your pals, get your best hat and bow tie ready and come prepared for BIG fun and the chance to support a great cause—Hats and Horses is a fundraiser for T.A.R.P. Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project
Saturday, May 2nd – 3:00-8:00 pm (21+ Only)
Arrival Time 2:45 p.m.Arrive on time, to size up the Parade of Horses and get an up-close look at this year's contenders racing the Iron Fish Dirt Road Derby. Review pedigrees of this year's racing field and make your pick among Benzie and Manistee County racing legends. The track rounds the bend of Dzuibanek Road with the finish line directly in front of the distillery. Following the race, celebrate the crowning of the winning horse and jockey with the Garland of Roses. That's just the beginning! GET TICKETS HERE
Included with your ticket:
- Event Admission
- Two Delicious Derby Drinks (N/A options available)
- Live Dirt Road Horse Race
- Pre-Dinner Hors d'oeuvres
- Southern Pig Roast with all the Fixins'
- Yard Games
- Hat & Bowtie Contest
- Live Music | Little Dipper Band
- and much, much more…
FOR A GOOD CAUSE – Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project (TARP)
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Tight Lines for Troops
Starts: 05/15/2026 - Ends: 05/16/2026
Tight Lines for Troops is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring military veterans by providing a free, memorable fishing experience that fosters camaraderie, appreciation, and community support. Through its annual event and volunteer-driven efforts, it brings together hundreds of veterans and supporters to create a meaningful “welcome home” celebration they may have never received.
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2026 Traverse City Horse Shows
Starts: 06/03/2026 - Ends: 09/20/2026
Traverse City Horse Shows blends international equestrian competition with the relaxed rhythm of Northern Michigan. Set at Flintfields Horse Park just 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, it's a place where Olympic-level sport unfolds alongside waterfront sunsets, local food, and easy summer days.
From June 3 to September 20, Traverse City Horse Shows hosts 13 weeks of FEI and national-level hunter, jumper, and equitation competition at Flintfields Horse Park.Key Events This Season:
- FEI North American Youth Championship
- FEI Nations Cup CSIO3*
- Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier
- American Gold Cup
- USHJA Young Jumper Championship
- USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship
- USHJA International Hunter Derby
- USHJA Central Hunter Spectacular
- $100,000 Dudley & Barb Smith 3'6? Equitation Championship and $50,000 Cherry Capital 3'3? Equitation Championship
- NEW FOR 2026: USHJA 3'3? Adult Jumping Seat Medal
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100th National Cherry Festival
Starts: 07/04/2026 - Ends: 07/11/2026
The National Cherry Festival returns July 4–11 for its milestone 100th celebration, blending eight days of parades, air shows, fireworks, and over 100 family-friendly events along Lake Michigan. Headlining the Pepsi Bayside Music Stage are major acts like The Fray, Daughtry, Justin Moore (with Easton Corbin), KC and The Sunshine Band, and Bow Wow with Soulja Boy.From country and rock to hip-hop and throwback hits, the festival's concert lineup pairs with classic cherry-themed traditions. This lively, all-ages summer experience draws more than 500,000 visitors
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Mysteries at Camp
Starts: 05/05/2026 - Ends: 05/07/2026
Step into the role of a campground detective and join the hunt for missing items while uncovering clues hidden throughout the park! Expect a suspenseful adventure filled with fun for everyone.
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Care Camps Weekend
Starts: 05/08/2026 - Ends: 05/09/2026
Join us for Care Camps Weekend, May 8-9, 2026
Stay at Bear Lake / Manistee KOA on Friday, May 8 and receive 50%* off your Saturday, May 9 stay. KOA will then donate 50% of the funds raised from Saturday night's stays to the Care Camps Foundation.Care Camps Foundation is a national non-profit organization that funds 100+ medically supervised pediatric oncology camps across the US and Canada. Their mission is to give joy, hope, and the healing power of the outdoors to children with cancer and their families. KOA has been a foundational partner to Care Camps since 1984. You can learn more at carecamps.org.
And don't forget to celebrate Mom with a family weekend away!
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80s & 90s Boombox Bash
Starts: 05/29/2026 - Ends: 05/31/2026
Bust out the neon, flannel, and scrunchies...it's time to rewind to the raddest decades ever! 80s & 90s Weekend is all about big energy, throwback vibes, and reliving the days of mixtapes, arcade games, and carefree summer nights. Whether you grew up in these iconic eras or just love a good dose of retro fun, this weekend is packed with nostalgia and nonstop good times. So grab your friends, rock your favorite throwback look, and let's party like it's 1999!
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Memorial Day Weekend Celebration
Starts: 05/22/2026 - Ends: 05/25/2026
Splash into a weekend full of red, white, and blue with cheerful energy, festive fun, and the spirit of summer at every corner. Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer and the perfect time to gather with friends and family.
Take part in all the fun all weekend long including:
- Outdoor Movies
- Kids Crafts
- Foam Party
- Bike & Cart Parade (don't forget your patriotic decorations!)
- Barrel Train Rides
- Teen Volleyball
- Dancy Party
- Axe Throwing (for 16 years of age and older)
- More Fun!
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B-I-N-G-O
Starts: 07/24/2026 - Ends: 07/26/2026
Get ready for a weekend that's more than just “B-I-N-G-O” — it's “B-I-N-G-Oh my gosh, this is fun!” Whether you're crossing numbers, chasing patterns, or shouting “Bingo!” like a champ, this weekend is all about laughs, lucky charms, and a little friendly rivalry.Bring your game face, your lucky socks, and maybe even your grandma's secret strategy — because here, everyone can be a winner in the game of chance, laughter, and community fun!
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PJ's & Popcorn: Let's Get Cozy!
Starts: 08/14/2026 - Ends: 08/16/2026
Grab your fluffiest pajamas and favorite stuffed animals—it's time for a weekend full of cozy sleepover fun! Lazy PJ Weekend transforms the campground into a snuggly retreat where mornings start slow, afternoons are filled with playful crafts, and evenings glow with campfire stories and twinkling lights.From pajama parades and popcorn & movie nights to bedtime snacks and laughter under the stars, this weekend is all about comfort, connection, and making warm, lasting family memories.
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Sweets & Treats
Starts: 07/31/2026 - Ends: 08/02/2026
Indulge in a weekend full of sugary fun and tasty adventures! Sweet Treat Weekend celebrates all things candy, chocolate, and dessert-inspired fun.Families can dive into delicious challenges, decorate sweet creations, and enjoy playful, dessert-themed games together. From first bite to final laugh, it's a weekend packed with flavor, fun, and unforgettable memories made side by side.
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Sports Weekend
Starts: 06/12/2026 - Ends: 06/14/2026
Game On! Sports Weekend is coming to Bear Lake / Manistee KOA. Bring your energy, your team spirit, and your sense of fun! Whether you're diving into the action or cheering from the sidelines, there's something for everyone to enjoy.From classic tailgate games to friendly field competitions, it's your chance to show off your skills… or just have a good laugh trying. Expect a little rivalry, a lot of laughs, and plenty of unforgettable moments.Be sure to wear your favorite team's gear and represent your colors with pride. Let the games begin!
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It's All Fun & Games
Starts: 08/28/2026 - Ends: 08/30/2026
Get your game faces on! If it's a game, we're playing it—because this is a non-stop, all-ages play-athon weekend.From classic favorites to campground challenges, the fun never slows down. Jump in, join the action, and get ready for a weekend packed with laughter, friendly competition, and games galore!
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PJ's & Popcorn: Let's Get Cozy!
Starts: 10/02/2026 - Ends: 10/04/2026
Grab your fluffiest pajamas and favorite stuffed animals—it's time for a weekend full of cozy sleepover fun! Lazy PJ Weekend transforms the campground into a snuggly retreat where mornings start slow, afternoons are filled with playful crafts, and evenings glow with campfire stories and twinkling lights.From pajama parades and popcorn & movie nights to bedtime snacks and laughter under the stars, this weekend is all about comfort, connection, and making warm, lasting family memories.
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KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend
Starts: 09/11/2026 - Ends: 09/12/2026
As a thank you for your loyalty, KOA Rewards holders who stay as a paying guest on Friday, September 11th at participating KOA campgrounds will receive Saturday, September 12th FREE*!This special weekend is our way of showing appreciation for trusting us with your camping memories. Come celebrate with us and enjoy a getaway filled with friends, family, and outdoor fun in the places you love most.
Book Now!Valid for KOA Rewards holders. Terms apply.
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Northwest Michigan Fair
Starts: 08/09/2026 - Ends: 08/15/2026
The Northwestern Michigan Fair is a long-running, family-friendly event in Traverse City, Michigan, celebrating local agriculture, youth programs, and community traditions since 1908. Held August 9–15, 2026, it features livestock shows, exhibits, carnival rides, and nightly grandstand entertainment for all ages.
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50th Annual Frankfort Art Fair
Starts: 08/14/2026 - Ends: 08/15/2026
Celebrate 50 years of artistic excellence with the annual, juried Frankfort Art Fair on August 14–15, 2026. Offering an open-air gallery atmosphere, discover the perfect atmosphere for showcasing fine arts.
Friday, August 14 | 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Saturday, August 15 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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Let's Go Fly a Kite
Starts: 06/27/2026 - Ends: 06/27/2026
A free, family-friendly summer event at Frankfort Beach where attendees can enjoy kite flying with provided kites on the last Saturday of June, July, and August (or Sunday if it rains).
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Arcadia Daze
Starts: 07/24/2026 - Ends: 07/26/2026
Arcadia Daze 2026, happening July 24–26 in Arcadia, is a lively small-town summer festival featuring a parade, live music, fireworks, local crafts, and family-friendly events along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline.
All events are hosted at Finch Park unless otherwise noted.
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Frankfort Craft Fair
Starts: 06/20/2026 - Ends: 06/20/2026
A free, family-friendly lakeside craft fair in Frankfort featuring 70+ regional vendors offering unique handmade goods, art, style items, home décor, and self-care products.
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Frankfort Fall Festival Craft Fair
Starts: 10/10/2026 - Ends: 10/10/2026
Details coming soon.
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Bear Lake Days
Starts: 07/10/2026 - Ends: 07/12/2026
Bear Lake Days is a lively mid-July festival in Bear Lake, Michigan, featuring a full weekend of family-friendly events like parades, fireworks, live entertainment, car shows, and arts and crafts vendors. The three-day celebration blends small-town charm with a packed schedule of activities from fishing contests and pig roasts to bike rides and boat parades drawing visitors from across the region.
Check the website for event locations.
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 06/23/2026 - Ends: 06/23/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 06/30/2026 - Ends: 06/30/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 07/07/2026 - Ends: 07/07/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 07/14/2026 - Ends: 07/14/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 07/21/2026 - Ends: 07/21/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 07/28/2026 - Ends: 07/28/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 08/04/2026 - Ends: 08/04/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 08/11/2026 - Ends: 08/11/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 08/18/2026 - Ends: 08/18/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 08/25/2026 - Ends: 08/25/2026
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2026 Manistee ShoreLine ShowCase
Starts: 09/01/2026 - Ends: 09/01/2026
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Let's Go Fly a Kite
Starts: 07/25/2026 - Ends: 07/25/2026
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Let's Go Fly a Kite
Starts: 08/29/2026 - Ends: 08/29/2026
