July in Full Swing: Celebrate with Silver Lake and Hart’s Local Events
As the summer heat peaks, the Silver Lake and Hart region in Michigan brims with a variety of lively local happenings.
July Is Off With A Bang
We kick off July with the Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run, starting at 8:00am on July 2nd, at the Stony Lake Inn. This event is a celebration of fitness and community spirit, featuring awards, medals, and commemorative t-shirts. Don’t miss the post-race party, complete with delicious food and lively music.
The excitement continues July 2nd with the Hart Sparks Fireworks Celebration. The evening starts with local businesses hosting street-side stations selling popcorn, glow sticks, and more. The highlight of the night is the fireworks display that begins at 10:15 PM, filling the downtown Hart sky with a burst of colors.
Mark your calendar for July 3rd as Pentwater gears up to light up the night sky over Lake Michigan with its annual fireworks display. Shot off the Pentwater pier, these spectacular bursts of color can be enjoyed from various vantage points—Charles Mears State Park, the pier itself, or even from a boat on the lake. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and beach blankets, gather your friends and family, and settle in for a fantastic show!
On July 4th, one of the most anticipated local events of the summer takes place, the Thunder over the Dunes. This fantastic firework display is set against the unique landscape of Silver Lake’s sand dunes. As the clock reaches 10:00 PM, the night sky bursts into an explosion of color, illuminating the sand below. Bring your family and friends and join us on July 4th for this annual celebration – an awe-inspiring sight that encapsulates the spirit of summer.
Fun on the Dunes
Later in July, we have two special events that truly capture the heart of the Silver Lake community. On July 14th and 15th, we hold the Heroes on the Dunes event, a day designed to honor and appreciate our injured soldiers and their families. Guests of honor will have the opportunity to experience the very best that Silver Lake has to offer, including thrilling dune rides and an exclusive “Heroes Dinner.” A parade down the Lake Michigan beach and fun activities for kids make it a day of appreciation and community spirit.
Alongside Heroes on the Dunes, we also host the Blessing of the Duners on July 15th. This annual event provides a moment of reflection and goodwill, held amidst the festivities in the Silver Lake State Park ORV area. The event is a beautiful tradition that adds a touch of gratitude and camaraderie to our summer celebrations, reminding us all of the wonderful community we share here at Silver Lake and Hart.
Shop Local, Support Artists
Throughout the summer, our communities offer an array of events that bring together locals and visitors alike.
Be sure to make room in your schedule for the Hart Makers Market, a vibrant gathering of local vendors showcasing their handmade goods. Taking place every Thursday evening from 6-9pm throughout the summer, this market is located in the heart of Downtown Hart. With a max of ten booths available each week, you’re guaranteed an intimate shopping experience that supports local small businesses. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to purchase unique, locally-crafted items while supporting the creative community in Hart. Also, don’t forget to visit one of the many Farm Markets in the area, many of which have weekly events!
For art and craft lovers, the annual Mears Arts and Crafts Fair, a beloved tradition celebrated on the third Saturday of July. This year, on July 15th, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, head down to Johnson Square in downtown Mears. Here, you can explore a myriad of arts and crafts, handcrafted with care by local artisans. Don’t miss out on this inspiring event that truly encapsulates the local creative spirit!
Live Music, Family Fun
And let’s not forget about our fantastic outdoor concerts held in Silver Lake and Hart.
Get ready to experience a melodic treat every Tuesday evening from July 11th to August 8th, 2023. The Silver Lake Community Concert Series at Golden Township Park, generously sponsored by Mac Wood’s Dune Rides, offers a splendid array of live music. From 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, sit back on your lawn chair and immerse yourself in diverse musical genres, all while enjoying the warm summer breeze.
But don’t stop there. Hart offers more live performances with the Hart Historic District Concert Series set in the charming historic district and Music On the Commons in downtown Hart. These events fill our summer evenings with melodic symphonies, making July and August the perfect time to soak up the local culture and revel in the tunes of the season.
Visit Silver Lake and Surrounding Areas
So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, make the most of this vibrant month in the Silver Lake and Hart area. From our Thunder over the Dunes Fireworks spectacle to the variety of community-led events throughout July, there’s something to inspire everyone. We hope to see you here, celebrating summer with us!