Grand Haven Winterfest 2025 in Michigan

Grand Haven is a picturesque city on the eastern bank of Lake Michigan that is known for its beaches. Every year, during the last week of January, the whole city gathers for a fun weekend to celebrate the cold and frosty Michigan winter!

Winterfest has been the favorite winter tradition for Grand Haven since 1979. The highlights include such fun competitions as Cardboard Sled Build and Race, Sleepwalker Run in Harborfront, Downtown Poker Crawl, and Family Dog Pull.

The signature event of the Winterfest is the Cardboard Sled Race when dozens of fun DIY vehicles go downhill at Mulligan’s Hollow. Sleds also compete for the best design award. Vehicles have to pass an inspection in order to take part in the race.

Snow volleyball tournaments, skiing, and snowboarding competitions take place in Mulligan's Hollow throughout the fun weekend. Grand Haven Winterfest also features beer and wine tasting as well as Bonfire Bash, as the grand finale of the festival.