The Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon area offer a vibrant summer experience filled with outdoor adventures, cultural festivities, and small-town charm. Whether you’re a hiker, a music lover, or a family seeking fun, there’s something for everyone. Here are some must-see summer events happening in the area:
1. Ontonagon Lake Trout Classic
- When: May 16-18th
- Where: Ontonagon Marina
- Details: Support a local cancer organization while fishing for Lake Trout on Lake Superior.
2. Log Cabin Day at Old Victoria Restoration
- When: June 29th
- Where: Old Victoria Restoration
- Details: Visitors can explore the restored log cabins of Old Victoria, gaining insight into the lives of copper miners and their families from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Attendees often enjoy homemade cinnamon rolls baked in woodstoves, along with other traditional treats and beverages. Old-fashioned games and activities are available for children, providing a glimpse into past recreational activities.
3. Greenland Fourth of July
- When: July 5th
- Where: Greenland, MI
- Details: There will be a parade at noon, followed by various festivities throughout the day, including vendors, live music, and fireworks at dusk.
4. Miner’s Revenge Bike Race
- When: July 11th-13th
- Where: Adventure Mountain
- Details: The Miner’s Revenge is an annual mountain biking event held at the historic Adventure Mine in Greenland, Michigan, located within Ontonagon County. This unique race offers participants the rare opportunity to navigate courses that traverse both the rugged surface terrain and the underground passages of a former copper mine.
5. CopperFest
- When: July 25th-26th
- Where: Ontonagon, MI
- Details: CopperFest is an annual two-day heritage festival held in Ontonagon, Michigan, celebrating the region’s rich history in mining, logging, and outdoor activities. The festival offers a variety of events and attractions for attendees. There is a car & bike show, live music, local vendors, kids activities, a boat parade with beach bonfires, and fireworks!
6. Ontonagon County Fair
- When: July 25th-27th
- Where: Ontonagon County Fairgrounds
- Details: Enjoy carnival rides, livestock shows, local crafts, and classic fair food. This family-friendly event also features live music, community performances, and more!
7. Old Victoria Craft Fair
- When: August 17th
- Where: Old Victoria Restoration Site
- Details: The Old Victoria Craft Fair is an annual event held on the third Sunday of August at the Old Victoria Restoration site near Rockland, Michigan. The fair features local artisans and crafters showcasing a variety of handcrafted goods, including textiles, woodwork, jewelry, and more.
8. Porcupine Mountains Music Festival
- When: August 22nd-23rd
- Where: Porcupine Mountains Winter Sports Complex
- Details: This award-winning festival features an eclectic mix of folk, bluegrass, rock, and roots music. The natural amphitheater creates an unforgettable concert experience surrounded by forested peaks.
9. Ontonagon Labor Day Festival
- When: August 29th-Sept. 1st
- Where: Ontonagon County, MI
- Details: The Ontonagon Labor Day Parade is a highlight of the annual Ontonagon Labor Day Festival, marking the end of the summer season in Ontonagon, Michigan. This festival, held over an extended weekend, brings together locals and visitors for a variety of activities, with the parade serving as a central attraction.
Pro Tip: Many events are pet-friendly, and outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant. After enjoying the festivities, unwind with a hike in the Porkies or a sunset walk along the beach.
Don’t miss out on these incredible summer experiences in the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon County — plan your visit today!