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Sponsored by the Ludington Area Jaycees, the festival has been held every year since 1874! In addition to fireworks, there will be a Children’s and Pet Parade on July 3rd at 6pm, and the Grand Parade (down Ludington Ave) will be at 2pm on the 4th. Best viewing for fireworks is pretty much anywhere along the beach. Base of the fireworks display is Stearns Park.
The fun begins July 3rd around 6pm with the Children’s and Pet Parade at the south end of Ferry Street in downtown Ludington. Local children decorate their wagons or bikes, and even try to dress the family pet in red, white, and blue. Categories are Best Group Entry, Most Original, Most Patriotic, and Best Use of Pet, with prizes awarded to the winner of each. All participants receive a goody bag. It’s a great kick-off to the holiday, and so much fun to watch. Line-up is at 6pm at the corner of Ferry and Loomis Streets with the parade heading east to Waterfront Park.
Freedom Festival Grand Parade
The Freedom Festival Grand Parade gets underway July 4th and features floats, bands, politicians, local residents, and of course, the Scottville Clown Band. Thousands line Ludington Avenue to watch this hometown parade.
The route travels downtown from MadisonStreet to Lakeshore Drive and is a great way to celebrate the warmth and excitement of our nation’s birthday. If you would like to enter a float into the parade, please go to jciludington.org for more information.
What would July 4th be without fireworks, and Ludington doesn’t disappoint its residents or visitors. On the evening of July 4th starting around dusk (approximately 10:30pm), pick your favorite “viewing” site, such as Stearns Beach or Waterfront Park, and enjoy the show. Basically, anywhere you see water, you’ll see the fireworks. Most people make an evening of it, arriving early to picnic or let the kids enjoy their sparklers. The colorful 20-minute display delights the crowd watching on land and from boats. It’s the perfect ending to this annual celebration. Click here for more information on other firework displays in the area.
Fireworks go off over Lake Michigan at Dusk (approximately 10:15pm)
900 West Ludington Avenue
Ludington, MI,
(231) 843-4663
info@ludingtonareajaycees.org
jciludington.org
