As summer begins to soften into golden afternoons and cooler evenings, Southwest Michigan truly comes into its own. The final weeks of the season bring the best of everything—warm Lake Michigan breezes, bustling local markets, and long, easy days that roll right into starry nights.
From the beaches of Union Pier and New Buffalo to the rolling vineyards around Sawyer and Baroda, all the way down to the tucked-away charm of Michigan City and La Porte, this stretch of the Midwest was made for late-summer wandering. And with Labor Day on the horizon, there’s no shortage of small-town celebrations, lakeside adventures, and ways to toast to the season.
August 7–10: National Blueberry Festival – South Haven
A beloved tradition featuring live music, craft fairs, pie-eating contests, and a family-friendly parade celebrating blueberry season.
August 15–17: Love Local Weekend – St. Joseph Areas
A community-wide celebration of local artisans, food vendors, galleries, and live music throughout towns near the lake.
August 23–24: Harvest Party at Round Barn Winery & Estate – Baroda Area
Celebrate the ripening season with vineyard views, wine tastings, live music, and warm, late-summer vibes.
August 23: Paint & Sip at Local Winery
A creative, relaxed afternoon surrounded by vines—perfect for groups of friends or couples looking to unwind and create.
August 29 – September 1: Michigan City Oktoberfest – Indiana
Four festive days of live music, authentic food, artisan vendors, and family-friendly fun set along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
September 7: Antiques on the Bluff – St. Joseph
A seasonal outdoor antiques market in Lake Bluff Park that pairs perfectly with a slow Sunday stroll and lake views.
Apple Picking & Sunflower Fields
By late August, the orchards and fields around Three Oaks, Buchanan, and Rolling Prairie start to bloom with early apples and bright sunflowers. Bring the family for U-pick experiences, cider donuts, and plenty of farm charm.
Beach Days & Lake Breezes
The lake is still warm, the sand is soft, and the days stretch on with that late-summer laziness we all crave. Union Pier, Harbert, and New Buffalo beaches are perfect for everything from building castles to catching a sunset.
Sip & Savor
This is wine country at its most beautiful. Baroda and Sawyer’s vineyards invite guests to linger longer with tastings, live music, and panoramic vineyard views. Visit a few in a day or settle in at one for the afternoon—it all pairs well with sunshine and conversation.
Paddle, Float, or Cruise
Whether you're launching a kayak on the Galien River, cruising a pontoon on a quiet inland lake, or simply floating in the shallows of Lake Michigan, the water is calling. It's a great time to rent gear or join a guided paddle for something a little extra.
Hit the Trails
Hiking and biking trails across the region are shaded, scenic, and refreshingly quiet this time of year. Explore Galien River County Park’s boardwalks or trek the dunes at Warren Dunes State Park. Indiana’s shoreline also offers beautiful routes near Beverly Shores and Michigan City.
Farmers Markets & Local Bites
Weekend markets in towns like St. Joseph, Three Oaks, and La Porte offer the season’s best produce, homemade treats, and one-of-a-kind artisan goods. Stock up for a picnic or just wander with a coffee in hand.
Campfires & Starry Skies
Evenings this time of year are made for sitting close and staying out late. Gather around the fire pit for s’mores, storytelling, and stargazing. Out here, the skies are big, the air is crisp, and the only background noise is the sound of waves or crickets.
There’s something special about this corner of the Midwest in late summer. Maybe it’s the slow pace of a lake day, the comfort of a warm cider donut in the morning, or the unexpected joy of hearing live music drift across a vineyard lawn.
Whatever calls you here, now is the time to answer. Pack light, stay late, and let Southwest Michigan and Indiana wrap you up in the season’s final, golden days.
Juniper Holiday + Home has the perfect home away from home waiting for you in Southwest Michigan and nearby Northwest Indiana.
