Pure Ludington

06/13/2024

06/12/2024

The nonprofit, Friends of Ludington State Park, has purchased new beach chairs that make going to the beach easier for those with a mobility challenge. Visitors to the park can use the "beach cruisers" free of charge.
Learn more about accessibility at the park on our website https://pureludington.com/accessible/

06/10/2024

💙 WE LOVE LUDINGTON! 💙

What a memorable weekend in ! 🎉 Following a downtown street party, car show, Blessing of the Boats, historical presentations, a half-marathon, laser light show, and beach cleanup, we could not be prouder of our town. Thousands enjoyed the festivities all weekend long!

Love Ludington Weekend is held annually during the second weekend in June. Be sure to mark your calendars for all the fun coming in 2025.


📷 Laser light photo: American Coot Photography

06/09/2024

😍Wowww! Way to go, American Coot Photography!

Storm clouds roll in overtaking the Ludington North Breakwater heading to shore as the SS Badger heads out of harbor Saturday night, 6-8-2024, on its evening sail to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

06/07/2024

💙 A celebration is in store for a lighthouse anniversary, and we're here for it! 🎉

• A ceremony honoring the North Breakwater Light will occur at 4 p.m. Saturday 6/8 with state and local dignitaries under the Blessing of the Boats - Ludington MI tent. (950 W. Ludington Ave.)

• Then, a laser light show will happen at dusk on Saturday. This is the first to occur in Ludington and will project lasers onto the lighthouse and shoreline, including laser “mapping” of the lighthouse. Viewing is recommended from Maritime Heritage Park to the north end of Stearns Beach.

Learn more about Love Ludington Weekend events ➡️ https://pureludington.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-love-ludington-weekend/

06/06/2024

From the Huron Manistee National Forest press release issued today: “In an era of social media mania, forests around the country are opening their doors to reacquaint kids and parents with good old fashion family fun—without the aid of modern technology. On Saturday, June 8, the U.S. Forest Service invites families to join thousands of forest explorers for a free, fun-packed day of outdoor adventures in celebration of National Get Outdoors Day.” https://www.fs.usda.gov/hmnf

06/06/2024

EVENT NOTICE....As the light show on June 8 draws near, we would like to share a few items to keep our guests and community safe.

First, guests viewing the light show from land should stay off the Ludington pier. The Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association, with assistance from LPD, will clear the pier starting at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 8. The gates will close at this time, and guests should not walk the pier until it reopens at approximately 11:59 p.m. Signs will be posted on the pier gates to notify anyone who does not see this post.

Second, guests viewing the light show by boat should be aware of the no-vessel zone location. From the north interior channel out to the Ludington North Breakwater Light (to the north) will be designated as a no-vessel zone starting at 9:00 pm on the evening of June 8. USCG Manistee and Harbor One will be on the water to maintain this zone, which will be in effect until 11:00 p.m.

We hope that this show is enjoyed by all, and we are grateful for the support of so many individuals and groups that have made it possible to host this anniversary event! So, please bring down your beach chairs and tune into 102.7 FM from 10:00 to 10:30 p.m. for this never before seen show to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Ludington North Breakwater Light!!

06/06/2024

Grab a fishing rod, ride Michigan’s off-road trails and check out our state parks during the annual "Three Free" Weekend, June 8-9. Everyone (residents and out-of-state visitors) is invited to enjoy it all for two full days. Hope to see you out there! 🌱🎣

Learn more:
Michigan.gov/FreeFishing
Michigan.gov/ORVInfo
Ludington State Park

06/05/2024

There's still time to sign up for the 100-mile Coast Loop in the Coast to Coast Gravel Grinder on 6/22. This annual bicycle loop begins and ends at Stearns Park Ludington Michigan and takes participants on a path that is 85% dirt/gravel/sand. Registration closes 6/16. Learn more at micoasttocoast.com.

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📷: Rob Meendering Photography

06/04/2024

Mark your calendars for the popular West Shore Art Fair at Rotary Park in Ludington on July 6-7! This year’s WSAF will feature 90 jury-selected fine artists across various media, including clay, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, wood and more. This enchanting event will cap off your July 4 holiday weekend in Pure Ludington!
https://www.ludingtonartscenter.org/west-shore-art-fair

06/04/2024

Here's the latest information on how to get VIP tickets for Saturday's laser light show at North Breakwater Light! If you wish to watch for free, gather at West End, 950 W. Ludington Ave. or the south end of Stearns Park Beach.

06/03/2024

🎉Pure Ludington is the place to be this weekend! 🎊 A giant street party kicks off festivities during Love Ludington Weekend, which will include fun for the whole family.
You won't want to miss live music, food trucks, a car show, lighthouse tours, a laser-light show and more. Find all the details by clicking the link below:
https://pureludington.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-love-ludington-weekend/

06/02/2024

We can't wait for these summer concerts! 🎶 Mark your calendars for July 27 and August 3.
https://www.westshorebank.com/rhythm-and-dunes

The proceeds from food vendor fees at our July 27th and August 3rd concerts directly contribute to the Rhythm and Dunes Concert Fund, supporting local band programs. We extend our gratitude to our vendors for choosing to spend their weekends with us! 🥨🍧🥧

TC Taco
Cluck Bucket - Food Truck
KRAVE Frozen Yogurt & Candy Shoppe
Aloha Hawaiian Shave Ice
Rotary Club of Ludington
Grand Traverse Pie Company
Lela's Original Kettle Corn
R&T Colossal Kitchen
Little Red Barn

05/31/2024

05/30/2024

Call it our competitive streak - we like to be #1 in Ludington. But we'll also settle for #2 for Stearns Park Beach on the USA TODAY 10Best list of top beaches in Michigan! And we're happy to see our neighbor, First Street Beach in Manistee, get recognized. We're also excited that eight of the 10 Michigan beaches are on Lake Michigan! 💙⛱
Here's what USA Today 10Best says about Stearns Park Beach:
"Nature lovers adore Stearns Park Beach in Ludington, with its sandy shores, calm waves, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan. This beach offers accessible walkways and facilities, picnic tables, grills, concession stands, and a playground by the water. Whether you're swimming in the refreshing lake or building sandcastles with the kids, Stearns Park Beach offers a laid-back beach experience with a charming ambience."
How about a visit to Stearns Park Beach to see for yourself?

10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-beach-in-michigan-2024/


📷Todd and Brad Reed Photography

05/30/2024

We've worked hard to make this year a huge success for the Ludington Gus Macker and we're happy to let you know that registration will close tonight at midnight at macker.com/local/ludington-mi. Then, the final weeks of preparation are upon us. From increasing the port a jons, to expanding parking areas, to increasing the number of silver commemorative coins that early registrants will receive, increasing the number of baskets, even working on additional volunteer groups to make it even a better experience than what we had planned. It is our goal to welcome you to an event that you'll be glad you signed up for, that you'll want to continue to take part in and enjoy for years to come. You have our commitment to work as hard as we can all the way through the final moments of this year's Ludington Gus Macker and beyond. If you have not signed up, please do so and head over to this link before midnight tonight macker.com/local/ludington-mi

05/29/2024

Love Ludington Weekend (June 7-9) is a time to celebrate all of the amazing qualities of , and you’re invited to take part in all of the festivities, from a street party and running race to a boat blessing and laser-light show! Here’s what you need to know about the weekend’s events.

https://pureludington.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-love-ludington-weekend/

05/28/2024

This weekend at Stix Bar! Do you have your tickets yet?🎵

🤠NEXT SATURDAY🤠
Tributes to Chris Stapleton and Eric Church come to STIX‼️
Enjoy hearing all of your favorite hits from Chris Stapleton and Eric Church performed live by Tennesee Whiskey and Ultimate Eric Church Tribute respectively. Dont wait order your tickets today!🎉

05/24/2024

🚗 It's National Road Trip Day! Where are you headed? We suggest a trip to the lakeshore in Pure Ludington! Your journey starts at pureludington.com.

Share your road trip photos with us using .

📷: .j

05/23/2024

Jamesport Brewing Company is brewing up something special for the 100th anniversary of the Ludington North Breakwater Light! Join us on June 1st for the release of the Blood Orange Breakwater Hefeweizen.
Live music by John Merchant, yard games, food, and fun!
WHERE: Jamesport Brewing Company's Portside Garden
WHEN: Saturday, June 1st from 4-7pm

Here's a sneak peek at some of the auction items that will be available!
https://splka.winningbidder.com/event/3109

05/22/2024

On National Maritime Day, come and discover Ludington's rich maritime history at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum. Step back in time and explore the captivating past of this vibrant industry. ⚓️🛟

The maritime museum offers digital storytelling, authentic images and artifacts, and engaging interactive exhibits that entertain all ages.

The museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

05/21/2024

The historic North Breakwater Light at Stearns Park is now open for the season and offers daily tours. Join us in celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! 🎉
A free laser-light show on June 8 (10 p.m.) will be an anniversary celebration like no other on the Great Lake, including audio from 102.7 WMOM, four lasers facing Stearns Beach, and two lasers mapping the northeast and southeast lighthouse walls.
Learn more at splka.org.

05/20/2024

Registration deadline fast approaching for this year's Ludington Gus Macker. There is a limit this year on the number of teams so don't be left on the sidelines. If you haven't registered, do so before May 27th at ludingtonmacker.com.

05/20/2024

It's National Travel & Tourism Week, and we invite you to start making plans for your Pure Ludington vacation this summer! 🛳⛳️🎣 Visit pureludington.com to learn how you can enjoy a myriad of recreational activities and events – or just relax at a sugar-sand beach. 🏖🥤

05/17/2024

Show your love for Ludington by voting Stearns Park Beach as the "Best Beach in Michigan!"

Those over 18 can vote daily in this USA TODAY 10Best contest. Click on the link to vote: https://tinyurl.com/5bm9hy6h Voting ends 5/20.

05/17/2024

A true sign of the Ludington summer season is when the S.S. Badger, the last coal-fired steamship in operation in the United States, crosses Lake Michigan daily to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It made its seasonal maiden voyage this morning to the delight of many onlookers and photographers.

Not only is the Badger resuming sails in 2024, but it is starting the season a month earlier than expected. Its 70th season in 2023 was cut short due to unexpected damage to its ramp system that involved extensive repairs that precluded the company from resuming sailing last summer.

“We are thrilled to welcome our passengers back more than a month earlier than originally anticipated,” said Sara Spore, general manager of Lake Michigan Carferry. “It’s a testament to the dedication of our staff and the hard work of local vendors to make sure we are ready to go. We know the important role our Badger plays in tourism, travel and adventure for our port communities of Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. We can’t wait to get back to doing what we do best on the shores of our Great Lake.”

The Badger also will feature its popular two-hour shoreline cruises June 15, July 20 and Aug. 17 at $58 per person, and it will resume twice daily crossings to Manitowoc starting in June.
https://www.ssbadger.com

05/16/2024

Celebrate National Wine Month with us! Join us for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience at North Branch Winery and Pere Marquette Winery. 🍷🍇
North Branch Winery is open from 12-6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and Pere Marquette Winery is open from 12-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 12-5 p.m. Sunday. Don't miss out on this opportunity to sample locally made wines and create lasting memories with friends and family!

12/18/2023

It's the largest New Year's Eve Ball Drop and street party in West Michigan! 🎉💥 Make plans to attend the free, high-energy NYE Ball Drop - packed with fun for everyone!
Beginning at 9 p.m. on 12/31, enjoy music, beverages with commemorative light-up glasses, and local warmup events - all culminating with the ball drop at the stroke of midnight, followed by an amazing fireworks display over the town's square.
Learn more at pureludington.com/nye.

12/16/2023

At some, 5,400 acres, Ludington State Park offers dunes, a Great Lake and inland lake access and beaches, the Big Sable River which is popular for fishing and, on warm summer days, floating along, forests, the Big Sable Lighthouse and much more. 🌳🐾🌱🌊

Have you made your 2024 reservation?

If there was a college championship bowl for the most popular campground in the 100+ Michigan State Park system, Ludington State Park again would be the runaway winner.

12/14/2023

Can’t make it to Times Square for New Year’s Eve? Hop in your car and enjoy one of West Michigan’s biggest ball drops only 90 minutes from Grand Rapids instead – the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. 🎉✨💥
This is your quintessential New Year's Eve celebration – complete with outdoor beer garden, music, fireworks, and the ball drop with 6,000 LED lights – all set against the charming backdrop of downtown Ludington. Think of it as one giant street party, as Ludington’s main intersection of James Street and Ludington Avenue is open only to pedestrians that night after 9 p.m. Learn more at pureludington.com/nye