6 Best Spring Festivals and Events in Southwest Michigan

We love spring festivals in Southwest Michigan. There's something magical about the season — full of romance, renewal, and unforgettable events that pair perfectly with a romantic getaway. Think tulip-lined streets, classic car parades, artsy strolls, and live music under open skies.

And the best part? All are a short drive from our enchanting 65-acre estate in Allegan.

The following festivals are some of our favorite ways to celebrate spring.

📅 May 2-11 | Times Vary

The Tulip Time Festival is our biggest annual springtime festival. Downtown Holland transforms into a sea of vibrant blooms — over six million blooms, to be exact, but who's counting?

Do you love culture, history, or spring? If you're nodding, then this festival is for you.

The festival is the epitome of Dutch heritage and culture, with deep roots in history. It began in 1929 when Holland experienced 100,000 gorgeous tulip blooms. Since then, the blooms have increased to the millions, making this festival something spectacular to see and experience. So bring a camera or smartphone. You won't want to miss the stunning photo ops.

📅 May 10-11 | 11am - 5pm

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the "Art Coast of Michigan," and the annual Art Coast Spring Gallery Stroll makes it even better. Wander through the charming towns of Saugatuck and Douglas, pop into local galleries, and chat with the artists behind the work.

There's no rush — just take your time, explore, and maybe even find the perfect piece to take home. Then, grab a bite at one of Saugatuck's best restaurants before heading back to the Castle for a quiet evening and a little extra time to unwind.

📅 May 23 | 5-7:30pm

Kick off the boating season with a local favorite: South Haven's annual Blessing the Fleet and Fish Fry. Boats big and small line up for a ceremonial send-off as they're blessed for safe travels, followed by a casual, community-style fish fry right by the harbor.

This nautical event is fun and easygoing with small-town charm — just right for couples looking to soak up spring sunshine and local flavor. It also pairs perfectly with an afternoon of antique shopping or a lakeside stroll before returning to your romantic suite at the Castle.

📅 June 7 | 7:30-11:30am

Need an adrenaline rush? Then, rev up for the South Haven Festival of Cars. This one-day event delivers an eyeful of vintage rides, muscle cars that'll melt your core, and even custom builds to the heart of downtown.

You can stroll the streets, chat with proud owners, snap photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It's a great way to spend a spring afternoon — and even better when it's part of a laid-back couple's escape filled with spring break ideas and plenty of time to relax back at the Castle.

📅 June 6 | 3-8pm

📅 June 7 | 9am - 5pm

The KIA Arts Fair in Kalamazoo is one of the longest-running art fairs in the region — and it's a pleasant way to spend a spring day. Here's what you might expect at this fair:

• 100+ Midwestern artists

• Ceramics, jewelry, and more

• A browse-at-your-own-pace, festive atmosphere

This art fair is a must for couples who love art, creativity, and craftsmanship. You’ll leave with a unique find and maybe even a boost of inspiration to create your own masterpiece later.

📅 June 6-8 | Times Vary by Event

Got a need for speed and want something a little (or a lot) more high-energy? The Gridlife Midwest Festival is at Gingerman Raceway in South Haven. It blends fast cars, live music, and festival fun for an all-in-one adrenaline rush. Think of Gridlife Midwest as part car show, part race weekend, and part outdoor concert — perfect for a thrilling spring getaway.

Spend a few hours taking it all in, then retreat to the calm and comfort of springtime at the Castle.

Of course, spring festivals aren't the only reason to plan a romantic escape to Southwest Michigan. Some of Michigan's best spring activities can be found right here at the Castle.

Spend your mornings sipping coffee or sharing a quiet picnic lunch in the gazebo or by the pond. Better yet, make it a spa getaway. A couples massage in our on-site spa room is always a great idea that’ll leave you refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on the world.

We also have plenty of fun spring break and unique date ideas if you want to explore. Our innkeepers are happy to help plan a customized itinerary with dining recommendations, activity reservations, and text reminders to keep things as easy and stress-free as possible.

And when the day winds down, you'll understand why so many couples say staying at the Castle isn't just a place to sleep — it's the whole reason for the trip. That's the magic of choosing the best Southwest Michigan bed and breakfast for your stay.

Yes, southwest Michigan has many unforgettable spring festivals and events waiting for you just beyond our Castle gate. And between each, you'll also find plenty of other things to do in spring to enjoy the season all the more. So, whether you come for the tulips, art, music, or cars, we hope you'll stay for the enchanting Castle in the Country experience.

Book your stay today and make this spring season one to remember.

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