Wondering where to celebrate the Fourth of July in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor, or Walloon Lake?
If you're anything like me, the best Fourth of July weekends aren't about trying to do everything—they're about slowing down long enough to enjoy where you are.
One of my favorite things about living in Northern Michigan is how every community celebrates in its own way. Whether it's an evening spent watching fireworks over the water, an afternoon on the lake, or discovering a new tradition with family and friends, Independence Day always seems to remind us why this corner of Michigan is such a special place to call home.
If you're visiting, welcome. And if you're lucky enough to live here, here's where I'd spend the holiday weekend.
🎆 Watch Fireworks From the Water
If there's one experience I'd recommend putting on your Northern Michigan summer bucket list, it's watching fireworks from Little Traverse Bay.
The Little Traverse Bay Ferry is once again offering special Fireworks Cruises on July 3 and July 4, departing from both Petoskey and Bay Harbor. There are several cruise options, including evening ferry rides and the Harbor Princess cruise with dinner, live music, and spectacular waterfront views.
Seeing fireworks reflected across the bay while surrounded by sailboats and calm water feels quintessentially Northern Michigan.
Reserve tickets here:
🇺🇸 Don't Miss the Local Parades
One of the most charming traditions of the Fourth of July in Northern Michigan is the hometown parade—and both Petoskey and Harbor Springs truly shine.
Petoskey’s parade brings the community together with festive floats, music, and plenty of red, white, and blue lining the streets downtown. It’s the kind of event where you’ll see familiar faces, kids waving flags, and families gathering early to claim their favorite viewing spots.
Just across the bay, Harbor Springs hosts its own beloved parade, offering that classic small-town feel with a beautiful waterfront backdrop. It’s simple, joyful, and full of local pride—everything you’d hope for on the Fourth.
If you’re in the area, I highly recommend making time for at least one (or both). It’s one of the best ways to experience the heart of these communities.
🌊 Spend the Day on Little Traverse Bay
Before the fireworks begin, spend the day doing what Northern Michigan does best.
Walk Bayfront Park in Petoskey.
Grab coffee downtown.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard.
Take a swim.
Watch sailboats drift through the harbor.
Sometimes the best holiday memories aren't planned—they simply happen somewhere between lunch and sunset.
⛵ Explore Harbor Springs
Harbor Springs somehow feels even more magical during holiday weekends.
The marina fills with boats.
Families stroll downtown with ice cream.
Restaurants spill onto patios.
The harbor quietly becomes the center of everything.
If you've never watched the sun set over Little Traverse Bay, Fourth of July weekend is a pretty wonderful excuse.
🍒 Make a Day Trip to Traverse City
If you're looking for a bigger celebration, Traverse City kicks off the 100th National Cherry Festival beginning July 4.
Expect live music, air shows, carnival rides, parades, local food, family activities, and one of Northern Michigan's signature summer traditions.
Learn more here:
🚤 Don't Forget Walloon Lake
Some of my favorite Fourth of July moments aren't scheduled at all.
Early morning boat rides.
Kids jumping off the dock.
Picnics by the water.
Watching the lake slowly fill with boats as the day unfolds.
Walloon Lake has a way of making ordinary summer weekends feel unforgettable.
🇺🇸 It's More Than Fireworks
One thing I've learned after living and working throughout Northern Michigan is that holidays here aren't really about the events.
They're about the traditions.
Returning to the same dock every summer.
Running into neighbors downtown.
Watching children experience fireworks for the first time.
Finding your favorite spot along the water year after year.
Those are the memories that last.
Happy Fourth of July!
Whether you're celebrating in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor, Walloon Lake, or somewhere in between, I hope your weekend is filled with sunshine, safe travels, great company, and plenty of moments that remind you why Northern Michigan is such a wonderful place to be.
And if you happen to see me around town, don't hesitate to stop and say hello. I always enjoy meeting neighbors, visitors, and future Northern Michigan locals alike.
Have a safe and happy Fourth!
