Summer Is For Adventures

Since COVID-19 is still a big concern, traveling across the country you currently live in is a great option for summer travel. And, a wonderful way to explore a place is by traveling to the region’s fun-filled family-friendly festivals. All over the United States, people gather during the summer months to experience and taste what their community has to offer.

You may have grown up going to state fairs or attending music festivals in your adult years, but have you experienced a festival with your family and grandchildren? I definitely recommend going to one as a way to show your young ones (and yourself) a new place and experience. It will definitely be an adventure, my darling!

Here are five family-friendly festivals for you to attend during the summer:

National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI

July 2 – July 10

Though you may never have heard of Traverse City in Michigan, you will want to go there once I share it with you. Nestled up in Northern Michigan, Traverse is home to activities for every season. Not only can you play with your family on their beautiful lakeshores, but you can also have fun exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes or drinking local wine.

Every year, over 500,000 people descend on the Traverse City for the National Cherry Festival. Held every year since 1926, this festival encompasses over 150 events and activities, 80% of which are free! Have fun eating lots of cherries, treats, watching parades, and listening to great music. Sounds like a sweet time to me.

Find out more about the National Cherry Festival and all of its offerings HERE.

Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI

September 2-5, 9-11 & 16-18

If you’re a fan of music and sunshine, you might have heard of Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s annual Summerfest. Near the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a large city that’s home to beautiful art museums, amazing local fare, plenty of culture, and many local breweries.

Now, you might be wondering if this festival is kid-friendly and I’m here to tell you that it is, my darlings! While adults listen to the biggest music stars from around the world, kids can enjoy play zones and activity tents with arts and crafts. They can even ride the Skyglider or splash around in the Family Fountain Splash Pad. Just make sure to bring towels and a change of clothes. Finally, at the end of the day, enjoy a spectacular fireworks show!

Learn everything about Summerfest HERE.

Chincoteague Pony Swim Day in Chincoteague Island, VA

July 28, 2021

If you read Misty of Chincoteague as a child, then you might know about this next summer event. The Chincoteague Pony Swim across the Assateague Channel is a yearly favorite for many on the east coast. Every year at “slack tide” the “Saltwater Cowboys” heard the wild Chincoteague ponies from Assateague Island, across the channel to the neighboring Chincoteague Island. It’s a large event that is definitely a beautiful site to see. It’s not every day you get to see a herd of ponies swimming!

After the event, see the ponies on parade followed by a carnival with plenty of attractions. If you want, you can even buy one of the baby foals. Remember when you wanted a pony as a child? Now you can have your very own. Just remember to buy a shovel. 😉

Read all about this unique event HERE. And please be sure to check COVID-19 restrictions. They may cancel this event on a whim.

Taste of Chicago To-Go in Chicago, IL

July 7 – 11

This is one of my favorite events on my list because it’s in my beloved Chicago!

Every year restaurants from all around Chicago participate in the world’s largest free-admission food festival. This year, however, because of COVID-19, all the restaurants participating will offer their delicious food-to-go via pop-ups around Chicago. But, you can still visit our city, get your food, and eat it in Grant Park and beyond.

Darling, taste delicious treats from every corner of the world or sample some of Chicago’s finest foods. After you have your fill, check out local museums, Lake Michigan, and much more.

This event is great for all ages and nobody will go home hungry. Remember to pack sunscreen and water when you go to your designated pop-up. Don’t get beat by the Chicago heat!

See more about the Taste of Chicago To-Go, HERE.

Solvang Danish Days – Solvang, CA

September 17-18

Last but not least, we have to mention Danish Days in Solvang, California! Solvang is the Danish Capital of America and is such a sweet and cute town settled in Southern California’s wine country.

Admission is free to Solvang Danish Days and includes three parades, Danish folk dancers, musicians, plus other events like the Aebleskiver Breakfasts, Viking Encampment, free Saturday evening rock concerts, and more!

Stay awhile during your trip and visit all of the wineries in the area, and even the Hans Christian Anderson museum!

Learn all about the Solvang Danish Days, HERE!

There is Always Next Year

Now darling, don’t worry if you can’t make any of these festivals this year. I made sure to pick ones that happen every single season. These fun adventures aren’t going anywhere! Jot them down and make plans for years to come.

What festivals do you attend in your home state or around the country? Join the conversation in the comments below or on Facebook and Instagram.

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