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Merchant and Miller. Submitted photo, FLSP
HAMLIN TOWNSHIP — The Friends of the Ludington State Park 2025 Summer Series begins on the night of the park’s scheduled reopening and continues through August. The free Tuesday and Saturday programs are funded by the Friends of the Ludington State Park (FLSP) and Safe Harbor Credit Union, along with donation. It is held in partnership with the park’s interpretive program. All programs begin at 7 p.m.
The opening concert, Tuesday, July 1, features a group new to the long-running series, the Smokin’ Dobroleles, an Americana group from Hart with a sound described as a mash up of bluegrass, country, hip-hop, reggae, blues, funk, jazz, rock and roll, and Americana. The evening celebrates the park reopening after completion of construction projects. The concert will take place at the Lake Michigan Beach House
The remainder of the series takes place at the park amphitheater south of the Big Sable River. Access the amphitheater either by the amphitheater road off M-116 just south the bridge over the river or by foot across the walking bridge near the park store at Cedar Campground.
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The Smokin’ Dobroleles. Contributed photo.
We are looking forward to kicking off our Summer 2025 Concerts and performance Series at Ludington State Park beginning on the reopening of the park on Tuesday, July 1,” said Gary Hearing, chair of the FLSP Summer Series. “This year’s performances will include some popular musical groups, the birds of prey, reptiles and amphibians, a magic show,”“This year we are excited to have dancers and drummers from the Little River Band of the Ottawa Indians join us to share elements of their story, their culture and the meaning expressed in their dress and drumming presentations.”
“I’m really excited about this year’s Summer Series,” Brandon Griffith, Ludington State Park interpreter said. “We’ve got a great mix of fan favorites coming back and some exciting new additions.”
“The summer series is all about sharing the richness of Michigan’s both cultural and natural resources,” Griffith said. “You can come watch a performance from groups across the state or come learn about Ludington State Park’s wildlife. What makes this series so unique and impactful is the diversity of our lineup. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the park re-opening.”
“We’re thrilled to kick off the 2025 FLSP Summer Series and welcome everyone back to the stunning Ludington State Park,” Patrick O’Hare, FLSP president said. “With the park fully reopened this summer, it’s the perfect backdrop for another season of music, memories, and magic. Whether you’re coming to see a favorite performer or discover a new act, there’s truly something for everyone. So, grab your friends and get ready for a summer of unforgettable (and free!) fun. A huge thanks to Safe Harbor Credit Union for once again sponsoring the series.”
The 2025 FLSP Summer Series schedule:
- Tuesday, July 1 The Smokin’ Dobroleles, Americana mash-up, Lake Michigan Beach House
- Saturday, July 5, Michigan Reptiles: live frogs, turtles and snakes Nature Discovery
- Afternoon at Lake Michigan Beach House, evening program at the Amphitheater
- Tuesday, July 8, Canopy Space, Americana and spirited covers
- Saturday, July 12, Nimkee-Mukwa, dancers, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians
- Tuesday, July 15, Celtic music, The Langford Lads
- Saturday, July 19, Nick Veine, folk, blues and soul
- Tuesday, July 22, 80 Cows, acoustic Americana
- Saturday, July 26, Blue Water Ramblers
- Tuesday, July 29, Live Birds of Prey from Outdoor Discover Center – eagles, owls, falcons, hawks,
- Saturday, August 2, Uneven Ground, traditional Celtic music
- Tuesday, August 5, Ruth and Max Bloomquist, rootsy acoustic Americana folk
- Saturday, August 9, Plain Jane Glory, Americana
- Tuesday, August 12, Miller and Merchant: The Guitars of Dutch Henry
- Saturday, August 16, The Magic of Kevin, a family favorite
- Tuesday, August 19, Rin Tarsy, folk-pop vocalist-songwriter
- Saturday, August 23, Eric Engblade, “folk rock with teeth”
- Saturday, August 30, Salt City Dixie Jazz Band, a crowd pleaser
All programs at 7 p.m. in the Amphitheater unless otherwise noted.
In case of bad weather, programs move to the Lake Michigan Beach House.
Follow Friends of Ludington State Park on Facebook at Friends of Ludington State Park or visit friendsofludingtonstatepark.org for more information about the Summer Series, FLSP happenings, volunteer opportunities, membership or to make a donation.
A State of Michigan Recreation Passport is required on vehicles entering the park.
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