Charlevoix's Venetian Festival: The City on Water 

 

Charlevoix, Michigan is a community deeply rooted in its connection to the water, a bond it takes great pride in. What started in 1930 as a small-town boat race has evolved into an eight-day long festival that now features fireworks, concerts, athletic competitions, beach parties, pageants, and a carnival. 

 

Water remains at the core of the Charlevoix Venetian Festival, continuing to serve as the heart of the celebration nearly a century after it first began. As part of the annual tradition, extravagantly decorated boats cruise around Round Lake, showcasing creative flair that aligns with each year's theme. 

 

Today, Venetian continues to bring generations together. Celebrating Charlevoix’s history, spirit, and summer beauty. 

 

 

Family-Friendly Fun

 

Venetian Festival offers many events for the whole family. Activities throughout the week include concerts, carnival rides, games, treats, and Kids Day. 

 

Kids Day will be held Thursday, 7/23 on Bridge Street 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. This event brings extra kid-centered activities into the heart of town, making it a great option for families looking for daytime fun before the evening concerts and fireworks. On Friday 7/24 there will be a Bridge Street Block Party Noon - 4:00 PM. 

Venetian Queen 

Another beloved part of the festival is the Miss Charlevoix Venetian Queen competition. This tradition dates back to 1935, when Marge Carey became the first Venetian Queen. Since then, the Venetian Queen has remained an important part of the festival’s pageantry and community pride.

Today, the competition highlights young women who represent intelligence, integrity, and a love for the Charlevoix community. The coronation will be held at East Park’s band shell at 7:00 PM on 7/22. 

 

Entertainment

 

While Venetian is known for being a family-oriented festival, there are also plenty of ways for adults to enjoy the week. There are free concerts and performances throughout the festival. Additionally, those seeking a night out can purchase tickets for the rooftop parties hosted by Hotel Earl on Friday and Saturday during Venetian.

Live Music Lineup

Saturday, July 18

  • Aquapalooza featuring Air Margaritaville — 2:00 p.m. at Ferry Beach

Sunday, July 19

  • Worship on the Water featuring Micah Tyler — 7:00 p.m. at East Park’s Odmark Pavilion

Tuesday, July 21

  • Charlevoix City Band — 7:00 p.m. at East Park’s Odmark Pavilion

Wednesday, July 22

  • Pinter Whitnick — 7:00 p.m. at East Park’s Odmark Pavilion

Thursday, July 23

  • WAR — 7:00 p.m. at East Park’s Odmark Pavilion
  • Levitator — 6:00 p.m.–midnight on the north side of East Park

Friday, July 24

  • Chris Canas — East Park’s Odmark Pavilion
  • Union Guns — 7:00 p.m. at Depot Beach
  • Pinter Whitnick — 7:00 p.m. at Ferry Beach
  • Pine River Jazz Big Band
  • Ed’s DJ Service — 6:00 p.m.–midnight on the north side of East Park

Saturday, July 25

  • John Stone — 3:30–6:30 p.m. in front of the Town House Bar
  • Jill Jack — 7:00 p.m. at East Park’s Odmark Pavilion
  • The Kenny Rogers Band — East Park’s Odmark Pavilion
  • Anamaria & Roscoe — 6:00 p.m.–midnight on the north side of East Park

 

 

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, the festival provides the perfect backdrop for a sophisticated evening. Enjoy a meal at one of our downtown restaurants, share cocktails with friends, or witness a breathtaking sunset. For the iconic fireworks display, secure a seat on Friday at Ferry or Depot Beach and Saturday at East Park, along the shores of Round Lake.

 

From vibrant nightlife and live performances to a peaceful vacation under the stars, Venetian captures the essence of a classic Northern Michigan summer night.