Lilacs, Lakes & Early‑Summer Fun at Chippewa Lake
Chippewa Lake comes alive in early summer. June is the perfect time to book a getaway at The Bluffs at Chippewa Lake, when northern Michigan’s woodlands are lush and the days stretch long into the evening. This month brings family‑friendly festivals and a chance to enjoy the outdoors before peak season crowds arrive.
Celebrate the Barryton Lilac Festival
Just 15 minutes from The Bluffs, downtown Barryton hosts its Lilac Festival the first weekend of June. Held every year in this small Mecosta County town, the festival offers a wholesome, alcohol‑free atmosphere that’s been voted one of the county’s top events. Over three days you’ll find area‑wide yard sales, a museum open house, a bustling craft marketplace and book sale, a carnival, food trucks and even a pig roast. Saturday adds a farmers market, parade, car and bike show plus performances by Clark the Juggler and a talented canine team. On Sunday, runners and walkers tackle a 5 k, and families gather for a mixed‑doubles pickleball tournament, more crafts and food trucks. The festival’s friendly vibe makes it a great day trip for guests staying at Chippewa Lake.
Enjoy music along the river
Mecosta’s Music on the River concert series runs Friday evenings in June through August. Shows take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Bromley Park in the village of Mecosta, about 20 minutes northwest of the resort. Local news reports that one summer program featured acts like Youngman and Oldmen playing jazz and swing, and organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray and non‑alcoholic beverages; if it rains the concert moves to the Free Methodist Church. These free concerts are a relaxed way to mingle with locals and enjoy live music.
Hit the trail or the courts
When you’re not at a festival, explore the Dragon Trail, a 45‑mile non‑motorized multi‑use path that winds around Hardy Dam. The Mecosta County Visitors Bureau describes it as a world‑class trail that offers mountain biking, hiking, running and even winter sports and invites adventurers to enjoy spectacular scenery and diverse terrain. For a different kind of workout, The Bluffs has its own indoor pickleball court. Guests enjoy complimentary court time, while non‑guests can reserve a slot for $20 per hour with a two‑hour minimum. Courts can be booked through a simple reservation form, and staff will confirm availability and payment
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