12 things to do in Michigan in April

Spring is finally here, as illustrated by our 12 things to do in Michigan in April 2024. Let’s get outside and have some fun.

April 7 All Things Detroit Day – Detroit

Whether your an entrepreneur looking to sell your wares, someone who loves to shop, or just looking for some family fun, head to Eastern Market on April 7. This special event seeks to connect you with small business owners, artisans, food lovers, entertainers and a host of very interesting people for a great and memorable experience.

April 11-13 Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival – Copper Harbor

The Keweenaw Peninsula is home to the state’s newest Dark Sky Park. The fact that its star-filled skies weren’t first is almost shocking. Any time is a wonderful time to visit. This month’s festival runs in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week. Events. Special workshops will be hosted at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, headquarters for the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park. Intended for all ages of dark sky enthusiasts, guests can participate in workshops, stargaze on snowshoes, and even chase the Northern Lights, which have had some spectacular shows as of late. Here is a schedule of this year’s featured events.

April 13 Greenfield Village Opening Day – Dearborn

Fresh air, gravel beneath your feet, the honk of an old horn, you know spring has officially sprung when Greenfield Village reopens its doors. There is an exclusive member preview on April 12, and then the general public is invited to come on in on April 13.  This map of the Village will help in planning your visit. Hop aboard the train. Get the kids on the carousel. Go back in time in a Model T. The farm animals will be out, artisans will be making magic in Liberty Square, and of course frosty goodness awaits at the Frozen Custard Hut. Weather permitting, it might just feel like summer.

April 13-14 Celebrating All Walks of Life Pow Wow – Allendale

For a truly unique experience, head to Grand Valley State University and attend a genuine Pow Wow. For those not familiar with these Native American events, a Pow Wow is a community gathering and celebration of culture through ceremony, song, dance, feasting and socializing. At a Pow Wow, you can expect a series of activities including dancers, drummers, singers, vendors, and food, all while maintaining the central core in a traditional ceremony. The public is welcome to attend this cultural experience at no cost.

April 19-20 Bringin’ Back the 80s Festival – Frankenmuth

This might just be Frankenmuth’s best party of the year. The annual event takes attendees back to a gnarly time, when gnarly meant good and so did bad. Whether you prefer to dance to a Jackson or a Prince, Madonna or The Police, grab some stonewashed jeans and totally awesome friends and hit the floor. Groove to outrageous live cover bands. Enter the best dressed contest. Check out the huge display of 80s memorabilia. Play retro video games, and marvel at the breakdancing show. Tickets are $18 and proceeds support cancer-related causes. The fun runs 6pm-Midnight on Friday or 5pm-Midnight on Sat.

April 21 Shepler’s Ferry Opening Day – Mackinaw City

Have you been craving creamy fudge, the clippity clop of horses hooves, and sunsets over Mighty Mac? The wait is over! Beginning April 21, ferries will begin running several times daily from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace to our beloved Mackinac Island. If you’ve never experienced this scenic gem in the off season, then set a course and you’re in for a treat. Smaller crowds provide a more timeless feel, making it easy to truly disconnect from a hectic life. Plus, the lilacs will be blooming soon!

April 25-27 NFL Draft – Detroit

Thousands of visitors will flock to our state this month for the highly anticipated NFL Draft. After the season the Lions had, football fever is already in the air, and this event certainly fuels it. You can get in on the action, by heading downtown to soak in the electric atmosphere, or even volunteer to help out. If you just want to mix and mingle with fellow fans, then download NFL OnePass to access all the event information. (It is the go-to guide for all NFL events.) You don’t need a ticket. Just be sure to register on the NFL OnePass to enjoy the Fan Experience, and to participate in any interactive games on-site.

April 24 Making It in Michigan – Lansing

For those who already have, or are contemplating opening, a food or beverage manufacturing business, Lansing is the place to be this month. The popular conference and trade show is organized by the MSU Product Center, and features morning educational sessions that concentrate on different business strategies. This year’s educational program will feature five panels on the following topics: co-Packers, financing, distribution, retail experts, and entrepreneurial best practices. Foodies, the trade show is open to the public at no cost. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet the makers and try some incredible new products.

April 24-28 National Trout Festival – Kalkaska

As they like to say in Kalkaska, “Rise and shine, it’s fishing time.” Anglers will be coming from near and far to the National Trout Festival, which consists of events, activities, and parades that take place mainly at the Kalkaska County Fairgrounds and downtown at Railroad Square. Festivities begin at the town’s Trout Fountain for an introduction of this year’s Grand Marshall, and crowning of the King and Queen, followed by live jazz. Highlights the rest of the weekend include fishing contests, golf outing, classic car show, flea market, Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo, dodge ball, pig roast, Princess  & Me Tea, a carnival and fireworks. What a great way to welcome trout season.

April 26-27 Earth Fair – Wales Township

Let’s face it, saving this planet of ours is everyone’s responsibility, so isn’t it a good time to learn more? Stopping by this event is an excellent way to get started. By blending together demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, artisans, and activities, Earth Fair focuses on inspiring and educating the thousands of visitors who take part in Michigan’s largest Earth Day event. The more you know, the better environmental steward you can be. Your adventure into a celebration of Earth Day begins at the gate where you will be assisted with parking and given a guide to the exhibits and activities. Don’t forget spending money because Earth Fair can be a significant source of funding for grassroots nonprofits and local businesses.

April 26-28 Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival – Vermontville

If you love maple products and Michigan history, then this is the place to be. The state’s original maple syrup festival, this event dates back to about 1940, when local syrup producers gathered in a barber shop to discuss a way to sell their product. Suffice it to say, the idea took off, and the festivities now include carnival rides, a talent show, arts and crafts, a flea market, two parades, a petting zoo, a princess pageant, antique tractor show, and mini horse pulls. Best of all, you can enjoy maple in all it’s best forms from syrup to cotton candy!

April 30 Beerfest at the Ballpark – Lansing

There are so many fantastic reasons to head to a Michigan ballpark this month. At Jackson Field, home of the Lugnuts, there is a reason that involves no balls, nor bats. Instead, you’ll find beverages a plenty. This outdoor event gives attendees the opportunity to taste their choice of brews, ciders, hard seltzers, meads, spirits, and wine, from over 50 local producers. Every ticket includes entry to the festival, a souvenir glass, and tasting tickets. Each tasting ticket is redeemable for a 3-oz pour of one of the 300+ beverage options. More expensive beers, cider, meads and spirits will require two tickets. Additional tickets will be available for purchase at the festival for $1 per drink ticket. General admission is $35 in advance or $40 at the door.

Join us on social media for ongoing discussions about Michigan travel destinations. Tweet @BuyMichiganNow or tag us in a picture on Instagram when you make it to one of our 12 things to do in Michigan in April 2024. For next month’s event highlights, or to get ideas for your local bucket list, be sure to visit our Michigan Tourism page regularly.