The state of Michigan is known for its outdoor activities, with a freshwater coastline that’s the longest in the world, more than 100 beaches, endless waterfalls and one of the greatest lakes of all. Michigan is also famous for its apples, cherries, and-in recent years-beer and wine. The fall is the highlight for the ripening of state’s products and the cool down from the hot summer. Michigan has many festivals during that time.
Michigan Renaissance Festival
The Michigan Renaissance Festival begins in August and runs into the fall, ending the first week of October. There are different themes each week so the exhibits and offerings change to focus. In 2009, two examples were Buccaneer Beer Fest and Sweet Endings, a chocolate festival. The festival offers food, drinks, musical and theater performances, and special daily events like authentic English High Tea, with finger sandwiches.
Michigan Renaissance Festival
12500 Dixie Highway
Holly, MI 48442
800-601-4848
Detroit International Jazz Festival
The Detroit International Jazz Festival, which celebrated its 30th year in 2009, is an event for the whole family. The various events are spread over several blocks of downtown Detroit. There are activities intertwined with the musical acts-there are 100 of them on five stages-for four days at the beginning of September. Though artists come from all over the world, Detroit natives are encouraged to perform.
Detroit International Jazz Festival
660 Woodward Avenue
Suite 13
Detroit, MI 48226
313-447-1248
Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival
The Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival is held each September. The event’s three stages provide an array of entertainment while races are held for those on bike and foot. Wine tasting tents and food vendors join in the festivities, where you can also find a car show, arts and crafts and even a turtle derby. The Paw Paw Festival also has carnival rides for kids of all ages.
Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival
P.O. Box 376
Paw Paw, MI 49079
269-655-1111
Four Flags Apple Festival
There’s more than fruit at the Four Flags Apple Festival. This yearly event, held the last weekend in September, is full of fairs, shows and contests. From the Miss Apple Festival-which awards a scholarship-to the Home-baked Apple Pie and Pastry Contest, there’s plenty to compete for at this fall event. Best of all, the Four Flags Apple Festival gives back profits to many local charities.
Four Flags Apple Festival
Lake and 17th Str.
Niles, MI 49120
Clinton Fall Festival
At the end of September, the Clinton Fall Festival presents arts and crafts, a car show, stage performances, a 5K run and a softball tournament on the downtown event grounds. There’s an adventure center for the kids, as well as a rock-climbing wall, animal show and mini-tractor pull. Over 30 food booths allow for a sampling of various ethnic foods and an alumni banquet highlights the event.
Clinton Fall Festival
P.O. Box 205
Clinton, MI 49236
517-456-7396
