Midland County, Michigan, is gearing up for an exciting lineup of spring and summer events in 2025, offering residents and visitors an extraordinary mix of cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, music, arts, and local traditions. From antique festivals to music series, farmers markets, and outdoor celebrations, these events are designed to bring the community together, support local businesses, and showcase the rich heritage of Midland County.
This season promises a vibrant and diverse calendar of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, history enthusiast, or simply looking for ways to enjoy the warmer months, Midland County has something special in store. Let’s take a closer look at the events shaping the spring and summer of 2025 and explore how they contribute positively to the local community.
Folk Music Festival: A Celebration of Musical Traditions
Dates: August 21–24, 2025
Location: Midland County Fairgrounds
The Midland Folk Music Festival is a highlight of the county’s cultural calendar, attracting musicians, enthusiasts, and families from across the region. The festival celebrates traditional and contemporary folk music, offering workshops, performances, and interactive sessions.
Key Features:
- Workshops and Masterclasses: Participants can join over 100 workshops, including Celtic Song Circle, Michigan Fiddle Tunes, and Irish Guitar sessions. These workshops provide an opportunity to learn directly from accomplished musicians, fostering skills and appreciation for folk traditions.
- Live Performances: The festival features multiple stages hosting performances by local, regional, and national artists. Each concert showcases a blend of traditional melodies and modern interpretations, appealing to both young audiences and seasoned music lovers.
- Camping and Community Activities: Festival-goers can enjoy on-site camping, starting August 18, creating a sense of community and shared experience. Evening sing-alongs and storytelling sessions further enrich the festival atmosphere.
- Economic and Cultural Impact: Local businesses benefit from increased visitor traffic, and artisans gain a platform to display handmade instruments, crafts, and folk-inspired merchandise.
The Midland Folk Music Festival is more than just a musical event—it is a cultural celebration that strengthens community ties, promotes the arts, and offers educational experiences for all ages.
Midland County Fair: Fun for the Whole Family
Dates: August 10–16, 2025
Location: Midland County Fairgrounds
The Midland County Fair is a cornerstone of local tradition, offering a week-long celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit. Known for its vibrant energy, the fair draws families and visitors for exciting competitions, exhibitions, and performances.
Highlights of the Fair:
- Grandstand Shows: The fair’s grandstand hosts tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and monster truck events, providing thrilling entertainment for all ages.
- Livestock and Equestrian Competitions: Farmers and breeders showcase cattle, horses, and other livestock, while equestrian competitions demonstrate skill, precision, and tradition.
- Carnival Midway: Classic rides, games, and food stalls offer fun for children and adults alike. The midway atmosphere fosters a sense of community celebration and family enjoyment.
- Rodeo Championships: The championship rodeo attracts participants from across the region, highlighting skill, sportsmanship, and rural traditions.
- Local Food and Crafts: Visitors can explore local vendors offering handmade crafts, artisanal products, and culinary delights, supporting small businesses and regional culture.
The Midland County Fair is more than entertainment; it is a living tribute to the county’s agricultural heritage, creativity, and community values.
Spring Midland Antique Festival: A Treasure Hunt for Collectors
Dates: May 31–June 1, 2025
Location: Midland County Fairgrounds
Antique enthusiasts and casual visitors alike flock to the Spring Midland Antique Festival, Michigan’s largest antique and vintage market. With over 1,000 dealers, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore history, discover treasures, and connect with fellow collectors.
What to Expect:
- Wide Range of Antiques: From vintage furniture and collectibles to rare books and decorative items, the festival provides something for every collector and history enthusiast.
- Interactive Exhibits: Some exhibitors offer live demonstrations, workshops, and talks about restoration techniques and historical context, creating an educational experience.
- Support for Local Economy: The festival attracts visitors who frequent nearby restaurants, hotels, and shops, stimulating economic activity in Midland County.
- Admission and Accessibility: Tickets are reasonably priced, and parking is free, making the festival accessible to a wide audience.
The Spring Midland Antique Festival is a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and community spirit, appealing to visitors who appreciate the stories behind the objects and the culture they represent.
Midland Cocktail Week: A Toast to Creativity
Dates: April 27–May 3, 2025
The Midland Cocktail Week is a vibrant event celebrating the county’s dynamic bar scene and culinary creativity. Featuring themed events, tasting sessions, and mixology workshops, the week highlights artisanal cocktails and innovative beverage experiences.
Highlights:
- Themed Brunches and Parties: Events like Saint Blaise’s boozy brunch and Sip Haus’s Noir Masquerade Party offer creative and immersive experiences.
- Art and Mixology Fusion: Cork & Pig’s Faux-to Booth combines art with cocktail culture, promoting local creativity and entertainment.
- Community Engagement: Cocktail Week encourages residents and visitors to explore downtown Midland’s hospitality scene, supporting local businesses.
Beyond the drinks, the festival emphasizes artistic collaboration, social engagement, and the county’s growing culinary reputation.
Midland Area Farmers Market: Freshness and Community
Opening Date: May 3, 2025
The Midland Area Farmers Market is a cornerstone of local agriculture and community engagement. Celebrating its 79th season, the market continues to provide fresh produce, artisan goods, and educational activities for residents and visitors.
Features:
- Local Produce: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and specialty foods connect consumers with local farmers and sustainable agriculture.
- Artisan Offerings: Handcrafted goods, pottery, and home décor items showcase local craftsmanship and creativity.
- Community Programs: Initiatives like the Community Cupboard and Artisan Days foster inclusion and education, encouraging residents to participate in healthy and creative activities.
- Interactive Experiences: Cooking demonstrations, tastings, and workshops help visitors learn about nutrition, sustainability, and culinary arts.
The farmers market not only provides high-quality products but also strengthens social connections, supports local business, and promotes healthy living.
Commons Live Music Series: Free Entertainment for All
Dates: Fridays and Saturdays through September 27, 2025
Location: Downtown Midland
The Commons Live Music Series brings free, high-quality musical performances to the heart of Midland. Showcasing local talent and regional bands, the series is designed to enhance community engagement and cultural enrichment.
Highlights:
- Diverse Musical Acts: From jazz and blues to rock and folk, the series offers something for every taste.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Open-air concerts allow families to enjoy music in a relaxed and safe setting.
- Community Gathering: Residents and visitors meet, socialize, and celebrate the arts, strengthening community bonds.
- Local Economic Boost: Nearby restaurants and shops benefit from increased foot traffic during performances.
The Commons Live Music Series exemplifies how public arts initiatives can foster community pride, cultural appreciation, and local economic growth.
Great Lakes Beer Festival: A Toast to Michigan’s Craft Breweries
Date: August 16, 2025
Location: Dow Diamond
Celebrating Michigan’s rich brewing heritage, the Great Lakes Beer Festival is a must-visit event for craft beer enthusiasts. Featuring over 70 breweries, the festival combines tasting experiences with educational sessions, food pairings, and entertainment.
Key Features:
- Diverse Brews: Sampling a wide range of beer styles from local and regional breweries highlights Michigan’s craft beer innovation.
- Culinary Pairings: Food vendors provide dishes that complement the beer selection, enhancing the gastronomic experience.
- Educational Opportunities: Attendees can participate in workshops and seminars to learn about brewing techniques and beer history.
- Community Support: The festival promotes local breweries, encouraging economic growth and community engagement.
The Great Lakes Beer Festival demonstrates the vital connection between culture, community, and local business, fostering a celebratory and educational environment.
Creative 360 End of Summer Camp: Inspiring Young Minds
Dates: August 2025
Location: Creative 360
Creative 360’s End of Summer Camp offers children a chance to explore the arts, develop skills, and engage in collaborative projects. The program emphasizes creativity, learning, and fun, making it a valuable educational and recreational experience.
Features:
- Workshops in Various Art Forms: Painting, sculpture, music, and performance activities encourage self-expression and artistic growth.
- Skill Development: Children learn teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity, building confidence and personal growth.
- Community Engagement: The camp fosters connections among families, artists, and educators, strengthening community cohesion.
By combining education with recreation, Creative 360 nurtures creativity and prepares children for lifelong learning and artistic appreciation.
Conclusion: Midland County’s Spring and Summer Offerings
The spring and summer of 2025 in Midland County promises a dynamic and enriching calendar of events that celebrates music, arts, culture, food, and community. From the thrill of the county fair to the cultural richness of folk music festivals, antique markets, and live music series, there is something for every resident and visitor to enjoy.
These events not only entertain but also strengthen community ties, support local businesses, and promote education and creativity. They provide opportunities for cultural exchange, social engagement, and personal growth, reflecting Midland County’s vibrant spirit and commitment to fostering positive experiences for all.
As residents and visitors participate in these events, they contribute to a thriving, inclusive, and culturally rich community, making Midland County a destination for celebration, learning, and fun throughout spring and summer 2025.
Whether you’re exploring the Midland Area Farmers Market, enjoying a concert downtown, attending an educational workshop, or savoring local craft beer, the county’s events showcase the diverse, positive, and community-oriented experiences that define Midland life.
In short, Midland County’s spring and summer events are a celebration of connection, creativity, and culture, providing memories, inspiration, and joy for everyone involved.