As summer reaches its peak, Michigan's Upper Peninsula is set to host a variety of entertaining events from Thursday, July 24, to Monday, July 28, 2025. Residents and visitors can enjoy everything from vibrant art fairs and lively music festivals to community picnics and a renowned cycling tour making its way through the scenic landscape. Major events are scheduled in and around Marquette, Escanaba, Ishpeming, and several other cities, offering a diverse slate of activities for all interests.
Here is a guide to the most entertaining happenings, sorted by date and location:
Thursday, July 24
Gladstone
Gladstone Summer Concert Series: Enjoy an evening of live music at the Gladstone Beach House from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This week's featured performer is the classic rock and blues band, 2nd Edition.
Houghton
Daniell Park Summer Concert Series: Take in a free outdoor concert as part of this ongoing summer series.
Iron Mountain
Out to Lunch Concert: Grab a bite and enjoy some midday music at this popular lunchtime concert series.
Ishpeming
Summer Concert Series at Old Ish Park: The city of Ishpeming hosts its weekly summer concert from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the iconic Old Ish Park.
Friday, July 25
Marquette
Blueberry Festival: Downtown Marquette will be bustling from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM with the annual Blueberry Festival. The event features a wide array of blueberry-themed treats, sidewalk sales, and live entertainment.
Iron Mountain
Live Music at Pine Mountain Resort: Enjoy an evening of live music at the resort.
Sault Ste. Marie
Comedy Show: Prepare for a night of laughs with a stand-up comedy performance.
Escanaba to Iron Mountain
Tour Da Yoop, Eh: This 1,200-mile cycling tour around the Upper Peninsula will have its first two stages during this weekend. On Friday, riders will journey from Manistique to Escanaba.
Saturday, July 26
Marquette
Art on the Rocks: This prestigious, juried fine art show returns to Mattson Lower Harbor Park from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The event showcases high-quality art from a variety of talented artists.
OutBack Art Fair: Held in conjunction with Art on the Rocks, this art fair at Shiras Park (Picnic Rocks) offers another opportunity to browse and purchase unique artwork from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ishpeming
Annual Ishpeming Italian Fest Community Picnic: Head to Al Quaal Recreation Area for a day of Italian food, music, and family-friendly activities, including a cannoli-eating contest and a greased pole climb. The festival runs from noon to 10:00 PM.
Escanaba
Marinafest: This all-day event at the Escanaba Marina features live music, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere along the waterfront.
Jesus Festival: Taking place in Ludington Park, this two-day event (continuing on Sunday) offers live music, food, and family activities.
Menominee
Brown Trout Derby: This popular fishing tournament kicks off today and continues through Sunday. While the focus is on the angling competition, the event brings a lively atmosphere to the Menominee Marina.
Iron Mountain
Live Music at Pine Mountain Resort: The resort will host another evening of live musical entertainment.
Iron Mountain to Ironwood
Tour Da Yoop, Eh: The cycling tour continues with riders making their way from Iron Mountain to Ironwood.
Sunday, July 27
Marquette
Art on the Rocks: The final day of this art show runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Mattson Lower Harbor Park.
OutBack Art Fair: The art fair at Shiras Park also concludes today, running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Escanaba
Jesus Festival: The second day of this festival continues in Ludington Park with more music and community activities.
Menominee
Brown Trout Derby: The fishing competition concludes today, with weigh-ins and awards at the Menominee Marina.
Ironwood to Houghton
Tour Da Yoop, Eh: Cyclists will embark on the leg of their journey from Ironwood to Houghton.
Monday, July 28
Houghton to Copper Harbor
Tour Da Yoop, Eh: The epic cycling tour continues its journey as riders head from Houghton towards the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula and Copper Harbor.
This jam-packed weekend offers a multitude of ways to experience the vibrant culture and summer beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Whether you're an art aficionado, a music lover, a foodie, or a sports enthusiast, there is an event to make your weekend memorable.
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