Fourth of July Celebrations
It’s officially summer in Southwest Michigan, and there’s no better time to visit than during Fourth of July week! From dazzling fireworks and lively concerts to fun festivals, there are countless ways to celebrate. Whether you come for the day, a long weekend, or the entire week, you’ll find endless opportunities to make memories. Pack your bags and gather your family and friends — we’re excited to celebrate with you!
July 3: Baroda Fireworks at the Public House
Celebrate America’s birthday with great music, cold drinks, classic backyard BBQ food and more at the annual Baroda Fireworks Celebration in the Beer Garden at Round Barn Brewery & Public House. The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display at dusk.
July 3-5: Reds, Whites & Brews at Round Barn Winery
Celebrate summer’s favorite weekend with bold sips, backyard vibes, and plenty of red, white, and brew-filled fun at Reds, Whites & Brews — a festive Fourth of July celebration at the Round Barn Estate.
July 3: A Salute to America Concert on Silver Beach
Join us for the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra’s annual tribute to America at Shadowland Pavilion on Silver Beach — gates open at 7:30 p.m. This inspiring evening features a rousing mix of patriotic favorites, beloved film scores and iconic American works. The best part? Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, perfectly synchronized to a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan! Families will love stopping by the instrument petting zoo station for kids, provided by the Citadel Dance & Music Center. Throughout the night, enjoy bites and drinks from on-site food trucks and a Bar Tent. This year’s delicious lineup includes Ben's Soft Pretzels, Woodstock & Grill, La Chula and Lost Coast Shave Ice. Gather together for an uplifting night of music, food and fireworks.
July 4: Pickle Festival in Berrien Springs
Get ready to pucker up — the Berrien Springs Pickle Festival is back! What began as a “what if” idea in 2020 has grown into one of Southwest Michigan’s quirkiest and most beloved events. This year’s festival is expected to draw over 7,500 attendees for a full day of dill-ightful fun on July 4, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the History Center at Courthouse Square and the Berrien Springs Community Library. Families can enjoy fan favorites like Vendor Alley, the Pickle Fling, Big Wheel races and the Pickled Piper Tasting Room.
July 4 & 5: Miniature Train Rides
All aboard for flag-waving fun at Eden Springs Park in Benton Harbor. These historical House of David engines and passenger cars take you through this former amusement park. Fun for all ages!
Independence Day Fireworks
All across Southwest Michigan, communities light up the skies with pops, bangs and cascades of sparkling color. Many towns offer pre-fireworks activities, delicious food and live music. Arrive early, bring your blankets and chairs and get ready to ooh and ahh as the night sky comes alive at dusk!
June 26 | Dowagiac | Dowagiac Municipal Airport and Russom Park
July 3 | Baroda | One of the best displays in the Midwest!
July 3 | Hartford | Hartford Motor Speedway
July 3 | New Buffalo | New Buffalo Beach
July 3 | Sister Lakes | Magician Lake
July 3 | St. Joseph | Silver Beach County Park
July 4 | Berrien Springs | Berrien County Youth Fairgrounds
More Family Fun Before and After the Fourth
There are so many more reasons to be in Southwest Michigan this week — beach time, scenic trails, pick-your-own fruits and vegetables at nearby farms and markets and tasting our craft wines, beers, ciders and spirits. Intersperse these fun activities with:
July 1 & 8 | Benton Harbor Farmers Market | Dwight P. Mitchell City Center Park | Benton Harbor
July 2 & 9 | Trivia Night | Sister Lakes Brewing Co. | Dowagiac
July 2 & 9 | Silo Market + Social | Journeyman Distillery | Three Oaks
July 2 | Dockside Summer Social | Plank's Tavern on the Water | St. Joseph
July 3 | Journey to the Center of the Earth | Summer Family Film Series At the Library | St. Joseph
July 4 & 11 | Lighthouse Tour | Lighthouse at Tiscornia Park Beach | St. Joseph
July 4 & 11 | St. Joe Farmers Market | Lake Bluff Park | St. Joseph
July 5 | Antiques on the Bluff | Lake Bluff Park | St. Joseph
July 8 | Family Night in the Plaza | Court Place Plaza | St. Joseph
July 11-12 | Krasl Art Fair | Krasl Art Center & Lake Bluff Park | St. Joseph
Plan Now for A Smooth Celebration
You will have no trouble filling your days from sunrise to starry night with relaxation, adventure, picnics and wonderful memories in Southwest Michigan. To make the most of your visit, do a little pre-planning. Book your hotel early: rooms fill up fast in the summer, especially during Fourth of July week.
While you’re here, explore the local dining scene to find the best restaurants for every craving and favorite picnic spots. Add more fun to your trip by participating in the free Southwest Michigan Trails Challenge and Murals Challenge to earn prizes or following the Makers Trail. We look forward to celebrating with you — Happy 4th!
