After a 10-month renovation costing over $2.6 million, Ludington State Park is set to open its gates earlier than expected on June 25, kicking off a vibrant summer entertainment schedule that promises cultural experiences, musical performances, and educational programs. From July through August, the park will host a variety of events every Tuesday and Saturday evening, including live music, wildlife demonstrations, Indigenous cultural showcases, and even magic shows. Most events will take place at the park’s serene amphitheater nestled in wooded surroundings or at the Lake Michigan Beach House. All programs are free to the public, though visitors must have a Recreation Passport for vehicle access. Located along the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan, the 5,300-acre park offers diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to forest trails, making it an ideal setting for this immersive summer series.

The summer lineup, organized by the Friends of Ludington State Park, begins on July 1 with a special concert celebrating the park’s reopening. The Smokin’ Dobroleles, a genre-blending Americana band from Hart, Michigan, will perform at the Lake Michigan Beach House. Known for their eclectic mix of bluegrass, country, hip-hop, reggae, blues, funk, jazz, rock and roll, and Americana, the group will bring a fresh energy to the event. This opening night symbolizes not only the return of public programming but also the revitalization of the park following extensive upgrades designed to enhance visitor experience and preserve natural resources.

In addition to musical performances, the entertainment series highlights educational and cultural presentations. One of the new additions this year is a performance by the Little River Band of the Ottawa Indians, who will showcase traditional dances and drumming while explaining the significance of their attire and rhythms. Brandon Griffith, the park interpreter, emphasized that the series aims to celebrate both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Michigan. Events like these encourage attendees to connect with the land and its heritage, transforming the park into a living classroom where nature and history come alive under the summer sky.

Throughout the season, audiences can enjoy a wide array of offerings—from folk musicians and acoustic duos to reptile exhibitions and birds of prey demonstrations. On July 5, Michigan Reptiles will present an afternoon session featuring frogs, turtles, and snakes at the beach house, followed by an evening show at the amphitheater. Later in August, families can catch a magical performance by Kevin The Magic Man and be serenaded by folk-pop artist Rin Tarsy. Each event has been carefully curated to ensure there’s something for every age and interest, reinforcing the park’s role as a community hub for learning and leisure. In case of inclement weather, all programs will relocate to the Lake Michigan Beach House to ensure continuity.

Patrick O’Hare, president of the Friends of Ludington State Park, expressed excitement about the upcoming season, noting that the fully reopened park provides a breathtaking stage for music, storytelling, and discovery. With its miles of sandy shores, scenic trails, and iconic lighthouse, Ludington State Park offers more than just a venue—it creates an atmosphere where memories are made and connections to nature are deepened. As visitors gather under the stars for these performances, they’ll also witness firsthand the results of recent improvements that have transformed the park into a modern yet timeless destination for recreation and reflection.