Photo by City of Ludington
Ludington is known for many things, including its expansive beaches, lighthouses, and the Ludington State Park. But any visitor to Ludington will tell you that one of the most beautiful sights during the summer is the Petunia Parade. Each spring, hundreds of volunteers gather along Ludington Avenue, the downtown boulevards, and the marina to plant 30,000 red, white and blue petunias, grown by Gustafson’s Greenhouse. The Petunia Parade has become an annual tradition, started by Ellery and Sue Sabin in 1987. Petunias were chosen because they are vibrantly colorful, spread nicely, and grow well in sun or shade.
By the time of the Ludington Area Jaycees July 4th Freedom Festival, the petunias are in full bloom and a wave of color lines the avenue from Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital all the way down to the beach. Each block is assigned a captain who is responsible for making sure the petunias in that block are well maintained throughout the season. From planting the petunias to watering and weeding, it literally “takes a village” to keep this tradition going.
The cost for the planting season is approximately $10,000. The Ludington Petunia Parade is a 501(c) non-profit organization which relies solely on donations for funding.
Ludington Petunia Parade Committee
P.O. Box 5, Ludington, MI 49431
Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
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Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
Putt putt for a purpose by visiting the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Course in Stearns Park, right on Lake Michigan.
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.
Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
Arrive in Ludington by boat and dock at one of three marinas: Ludington Municipal Marina, Harbor View Marina, & Pere Pointe Village Marina.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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