Labor Day Weekend Events & Activities

A group of sail boats out on Lake Michigan

Summer isn't over just yet! Celebrate the long Labor Day weekend with lighthouse tours, live music, a yacht race and other memorable experiences. Check out the events and activities below, pick your favorites and make the most of the holiday.

Enjoy Live Music at the Friday Night Concert Series

On Friday, groove to the sounds of local music from 7 to 8 p.m. at the John E.N. Howard Band Shell. This is the final concert in the free weekly concert series. It’s also a premier spot for relaxing and watching the boats on the St. Joseph River.

A view of the north and south piers, with the lighthouse, sailboats, and crowds of people walking along the pier.

Party at the Yacht Club

Watch sailboats complete the first leg of this annual race in St. Joseph on Friday, join the all-day party at the St. Joseph River Yacht Club on Saturday and see the boats off Sunday morning. A walk along the St. Joseph River and Harbor is always extra-special while this event is underway: some boats have bright lights on their masts while others have pirate flags and fun names.

Find Fresh-From-the-Farm Goodness at Farmers Markets

On Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., market-goers will enjoy fresh finds at the weekly St. Joe Farmers Market. This is peak harvesting time and vendors offer various products including baked goods, locally grown produce, perennials and cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee and more! Stop by the booths along Lake Bluff Park, overlooking Lake Michigan — rain or shine. Or for additional farm-to-table deliciousness, visit local farms and other community markets listed in our Southwest Michigan Farms & Markets Guide.

Hunt for Unique Finds at Lake Bluff Park

On Saturday, Sept. 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., explore an eclectic craft fair in picturesque Lake Bluff Park featuring more than 50 local vendors offering a variety of handcrafted goods, including home décor, furniture, jewelry, candles and unique gifts. Then, on Sunday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., discover ancient treasures at Antiques on the Bluff, a premier antique show overlooking Lake Michigan. Held rain or shine, this beloved event features more than 50 vendors.

Tour the St. Joseph Lighthouse

Go inside the iconic North Pier Inner Lighthouse! View the first-floor exhibits for free to learn about the rich nautical history of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor or climb to the top for a panoramic view of Lake Michigan ($5 fee). The last lighthouse tour date of the season is on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ride a Miniature Train at Eden Springs

Eden Springs Park in Benton Harbor features a railway with the original House of David Amusement Park steam and gas-powered engines and passenger cars. These miniature trains, built on a 15-inch gauge track by House of David colony workers, are available for rides on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., July through Labor Day Weekend. Tickets are $3-5 per person and children under three years ride for free. The scenic and nostalgic journey through the park's picturesque landscapes makes the ride enjoyable for all ages.

Ride the Free Shop & Shore Trolley

This is the final weekend to take a ride on the free trolley! The Shop & Shore Trolley runs Thursday-Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with four stops near Silver Beach, Harbor Shores Golf Club, dining, shopping, attractions, lodging and more. Don't miss your last chance to experience this unique way to explore the Twin Cities.

Make Your Labor Day Weekend Plans Now

This weekend is a popular time to be in Southwest Michigan, so book your hotel room now for the location, amenities and rates you want. Let’s send summer off together!