Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival Returns in 2021

Featured Image: The Canadian Coast Guard Ship Samuel Risley backs down next to the Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw, a 240-foot heavy icebreaker homeported in Cheboygan, Mich., after arriving in Grand Haven, Mich., for the Coast Guard Festival, July 29, 2013. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Levi Read)

By Wes O’Donnell

After taking a year off due to the global Coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Coast Guard Festival is back in 2021. Taking place between July 30 – August 8, the weeklong celebration of the service of the men and women of the USCG is an incredible event.

Hosted by Grand haven, Michigan, also known as “Coast Guard City U.S.A.” the festival started in 1924 as a company picnic for servicemembers. In 1937, the public began to join in on the picnic. Today, the festival brings 350,000 to town for the festivities.

Events include live music, tours of ships, some amazing food and the carnival, among many other activities.

For those with kids, the carnival is one of the main attractions.

According to the event page, “The annual Coast Guard Festival Carnival strives to provide a friendly environment for adults and children alike. Furnishing the midway with over two dozen carnival rides, family-friendly games, professional food concessions in our food court, and guest amenities like an on-site ATM and help desk, there is something to appease the whole family. The friendly staff engages in providing the best experience possible! Respect and courtesy are at the top of the list for guests.”

As always, the timing of events can change depending on weather and other circumstances on the ground. To stay up-to-date, be sure to visit https://www.coastguardfest.org/

Download the parking map PDF HERE

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