May is one of those months in Northern Michigan that feels like a fresh start. Trails are opening up, towns are coming back to life, and festivals begin to fill the calendar again. It is a great time to visit if you enjoy smaller crowds, spring colors, and a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences.
From mushroom festivals and scenic bike rides to cultural celebrations and local craft events, May offers a little bit of everything. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or just looking for something new to explore, these events are a great place to start.
🍄 Northern Lower Peninsula
April 22 – 26, 2026
Kalkaska National Trout Festival, Kalkaska
This classic Northern Michigan festival brings together parades, community events, and family friendly activities in downtown Kalkaska and at the fairgrounds. It is a great way to welcome spring with a mix of small town charm and outdoor fun.
April 30 – May 3, 2026
Fresh Coast Film Festival, Traverse City
This outdoor focused documentary film festival highlights adventure, environmental stories, and Great Lakes culture. With multiple venues, filmmaker discussions, and local brewery events, it is a unique way to experience storytelling in Traverse City.
May 2, 2026
The Original Jeep Blessing, Mesick
One of Northern Michigan’s most unique traditions, this event welcomes Jeep owners for a blessing ceremony before heading out on the trails. Even if you are not participating, it is a fun and lively gathering to experience.
May 8 – 10, 2026
Mushroom Festival, Mesick
Known as the mushroom capital of the United States, Mesick celebrates morel season with a weekend full of activities. From mushroom hunting to live music and family events, it is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with the community.
May 9, 2026
Lewiston Morel Mushroom Festival and Art Show, Lewiston
Celebrate the arrival of morel season with a relaxed mix of local crafts, a farmers market, and mushroom themed activities. It is a smaller event that offers a welcoming, local feel.
May 14 – 17, 2026
National Morel Mushroom Festival, Boyne City
Morel lovers from across the country gather in Boyne City for tastings, guided hunts, and a competitive mushroom hunt. The weekend also includes live music, arts and crafts, and plenty of ways to enjoy this Northern Michigan favorite.
May 15 – 17, 2026
Zoo de Mack Bike Ride
This long standing Northern Michigan tradition is a relaxed ride through some of the most scenic areas in the region. Cyclists travel from Boyne Highlands through Harbor Springs and along the Tunnel of Trees before reaching Mackinaw City.
May 15 – 16, 2026
Tawas Point Birding Festival, Tawas
Tawas Point is one of the best birding locations in Michigan, especially during migration season. This festival brings together birders from near and far for guided walks, education stations, and the chance to see a wide variety of species.
May 16, 2026
Petoskey Stone Festival, Eastport
Celebrate Michigan’s state stone with a day of activities, demonstrations, and local vendors. Whether you are an experienced rock hunter or just curious, this event is a fun way to learn and explore.
May 21 – 24, 2026
Mancelona Bass Festival, Mancelona
This lively community festival offers something for everyone, including a parade, car show, carnival rides, and live entertainment. It is a classic small town celebration that feels welcoming and easy to enjoy.
May 22 – 23, 2026
Top of Michigan Festival of Races, Petoskey
Runners of all levels can take part in races along the Little Traverse Wheelway, with beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay. The course is mostly flat, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced runners.
May 23, 2026
Michigan Beer and Brat Festival, Thompsonville
Enjoy a relaxed day of sampling Michigan craft beverages alongside gourmet brats and local flavors. Live music and a scenic setting at Crystal Mountain make this a great early summer outing.
May 23 – 24, 2026
Memorial Day Arts and Craft Show, Tawas City
Browse a wide selection of handmade goods and artwork while enjoying a festive holiday weekend atmosphere along the Lake Huron shoreline.
May 23 – 25, 2026
Fort Michilimackinac Historical Reenactment Pageant, Mackinaw City
Step back into the 1700s with one of the longest running historical reenactments in the country. With hundreds of participants, this event brings history to life in an engaging and memorable way.
🌷 Upper Peninsula
May 1 – 2, 2026
Bay Con, Escanaba
A fun and nostalgic event for all ages, Bay Con brings together pop culture, gaming, and collectibles. You will find everything from vintage video games to celebrity guests, along with food trucks and family friendly entertainment.
May 8, 2026
Jeep the Mac to Drummond Island
Jeep enthusiasts make their way to Drummond Island for a weekend of trail riding and exploring rugged terrain. There is no formal registration, which makes this an easy and flexible adventure to join.
May 8 – 9, 2026
Jeep the Mac, St. Ignace
This popular spring event brings Jeep owners together for a Mackinac Bridge crossing, scenic rides, and social gatherings. The views of the Straits of Mackinac alone make this one worth experiencing.
May 23, 2026
Native American Festival, St. Ignace
This meaningful celebration honors the culture and traditions of the Anishinaabe people. Visitors can experience drumming, dancing, and cultural presentations in a beautiful lakeside setting.
May 27 t- 31, 2026
Aldo Leopold Festival, Hessel
This nature focused festival invites visitors to explore the outdoors through guided hikes, paddling trips, and educational programs. It is a peaceful and thoughtful way to connect with Northern Michigan landscapes.
May 29 – 30, 2026
Ludington Street Cruise, Escanaba
Downtown Escanaba comes alive with classic cars, cruising events, and community gatherings. It is a relaxed and fun way to spend a late spring evening.
🌼 Late April and May Festivals and Events
No matter when you visit in May, you will find something happening somewhere across Northern Michigan. It is a month that blends quiet spring moments with the first signs of summer energy.
If you are planning a trip, consider building your weekend around one of these events. It is one of the easiest ways to experience the local culture, meet people, and discover places you might not have found otherwise.
Discover What’s Happening Throughout the Year
If you enjoy discovering what’s happening around Northern Michigan, we update and share new event guides like this throughout the year as each season unfolds. You can check back each month for the latest, or follow along on social media to see what’s coming up next.
Looking for other months? View our full Northern Michigan events guide or jump to another month:
May • June • July • August • September • October • November • December
Events are added and updated as new information becomes available, check back.
