If you’re planning a Northern Michigan getaway at The Dragonfly Cottage, you’ll find that the surrounding small towns come alive year-round with local festivals, music, and hometown charm. From lakeside fireworks to cozy winter celebrations, these annual events capture everything we love about life “up north.”

Here’s a guide to the best seasonal and annual events near Central Lake, Bellaire, Alden, Mancelona, and Charlevoix — all within an easy drive from The Dragonfly.

Central Lake Annual Events

Fourth of July Celebration
July 3–5, Central Lake
Central Lake’s Independence Day is one of the best small-town celebrations in Northern Michigan. Expect a patriotic boat parade on Intermediate Lake, the Victory4Veterans 5K, strawberry shortcake at the town square, live music, and a grand fireworks show lighting up the lake.

Eats & Beats Tuesdays (June–August)
Every Tuesday in summer, downtown Central Lake fills with local food trucks, live music, and neighbors gathering for good vibes and great eats. It’s a fun, relaxed way to spend an evening during your stay.

Car & Truck Show (June)
A summer favorite hosted by the Central Lake Chamber of Commerce. Classic cars line Main Street, with prizes, local vendors, and plenty of nostalgia.

Annual Chamber Dinner & Auction (Spring)
This community-minded event raises funds for local initiatives and kicks off the summer season with great food and small-town spirit.

Window Night & Holiday Lighting (December)
When the snow starts to fall, Central Lake transforms into a Christmas postcard. Window Night brings out festive storefront displays, cookies, cocoa, and a tree-lighting ceremony downtown.

Bellaire Annual Events

Just 10 minutes from The Dragonfly, Bellaire is the region’s hub for local festivals and craft-beer culture.

Short’s Brewing Company Anniversary Party (April)
One of the biggest spring parties in Northern Michigan! Short’s Brewing shuts down downtown Bellaire for live music, limited-release beers, and a block-party atmosphere that draws people from all over the state.

Antrim County Fair (August, Craven Park)
A classic Michigan county fair — complete with animals, carnival rides, food, and family fun. It’s a must-do for kids (and kids at heart).

Rubber Ducky Festival (August)
Thousands of rubber duckies race down the Bellaire River in this beloved annual tradition. The event also includes a parade, kids’ games, live music, and local shopping.

Paddle Antrim Festival (September)
This two-day paddling event explores the Chain of Lakes Water Trail and includes food trucks, music, and community gatherings in Bellaire and surrounding towns. Great for kayakers and outdoor lovers.

Bellaire Harvest & Flannel Festival (October)
Grab your favorite flannel and celebrate fall with pumpkin carving, apple treats, and live entertainment in downtown Bellaire. It’s small-town Michigan at its coziest.

Light Up the Night & Soup Cook-Off (December)
Kick off the holidays with twinkling lights, a warm bowl of homemade soup, and a visit from Santa. The parade and downtown celebration make it one of the area’s most heartwarming winter traditions.

Bellaire Farmers Market (Summer–Fall)
Held weekly in warmer months, the farmers market features local produce, handmade goods, and a friendly atmosphere perfect for a morning stroll.

Charlevoix & Surrounding Events

If you’re exploring a bit farther from The Dragonfly, Charlevoix offers a busy lineup of waterfront festivals and art shows worth the drive:

• Charlevoix Venetian Festival (July) – week-long lakefront celebration with concerts, a boat parade, and fireworks.
• Waterfront Art Fair (July) – one of Michigan’s longest-running art fairs, featuring artists from around the country.
• Apple Fest (October) – celebrate Northern Michigan’s apple harvest with cider, donuts, and local crafts downtown.
• Candlelight Hikes & Holiday Parade (Winter) – seasonal lights, snowshoeing, and downtown cheer during the holiday season.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

• Book early during summer weekends and major events — especially for July 4th, the Rubber Ducky Festival, or Venetian Week.
• Bring layers — Northern Michigan weather can shift quickly, even in summer evenings.
• Follow local chambers of commerce (Central Lake, Bellaire, Charlevoix) for updated schedules and details.

❤️ Experience Local Life at The Dragonfly Cottage

The Dragonfly Cottage is perfectly located for enjoying all of these seasonal traditions — just minutes from Bellaire and Central Lake, and an easy drive to Charlevoix or Torch Lake. Whether you visit for fireworks, fall flannels, or snowy holiday lights, these events capture the magic that makes Northern Michigan so special.

Ready to plan your stay?
Explore available dates here and experience small-town festivals, lakeside beauty, and pure Michigan charm.

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