On Tuesday, July 22, the city launched a lively summer series designed to bring residents closer to nature, boost physical activity, and support local businesses through a range of free and family-friendly events.
One of the standout offerings is the Walk Midland program, a collaboration between Midland Parks and Recreation, MyMichigan Health, Chippewa Nature Center, Greater Midland, Little Forks Conservancy, and Northwood University. Running from June 2 to August 6, Walk Midland features twice-weekly guided strolls at various parks around the city—including Stratford Woods, Averill Preserve, City Forest, and Chippewa Nature Center. These two-mile walks, including an evening stroll at Chippewa Nature Center every Wednesday, encourage residents to stay active while exploring Midland’s green spaces. Participants are also entered into weekly prize drawings featuring local gift certificates and a grand prize Michigan staycation basket.
The Chippewa Nature Center anchors several nature-focused events throughout the season. These include guided nature walks, bird-banding sessions, canoe and kayak trips, and volunteer-driven stewardship projects. One notable program, Nature Connections: Summer Wildflowers, is scheduled for July 24 from 6 to 8 p.m., inviting adults to explore native flora along the center’s trails. Additional nature programming includes forest therapy sessions, firefly-watching nights, and family-oriented story hours.
Downtown Midland buzzes with live music through a number of concert series. The Commons Live Music Series, hosted at the pedestrian plaza on Main and McDonald streets, runs every Friday and Saturday evening through September 27. Free performances by local and tribute bands draw crowds from 7 to 9 p.m. Midweek entertainment comes in the form of Tunes by the Tridge, a Thursday evening concert series held at the city’s iconic Tridge bridge during the summer months. These shows, free to the public, are a popular family outing where visitors bring blankets and lawn chairs to relax and enjoy the music.
Supporting downtown merchants, the city has introduced Weekend Warm-Up, an initiative that links Thursday night concerts with extended shopping hours and dining promotions. Running through August 28, this series also includes Movies on Main—outdoor film screenings that add to the festive atmosphere.
The summer’s cultural lineup is rounded out by events like the Midland Art Crawl, a free evening of open galleries, family-friendly art activities, live music, and open-mic performances spread across downtown venues. This celebration of local creativity invites residents to explore Midland’s artistic community in a relaxed, walkable setting.
Looking ahead, Midland Area River Days, running from July 31 to August 3, promises to be one of the summer’s major highlights. This multi-day festival will fill the downtown corridor and riverfront with hot air balloon launches and glows, river cleanups, food trucks, fireworks, and live entertainment. The event builds on traditions dating back to the 1950s and emphasizes community spirit, environmental stewardship, and shared celebration.
Collectively, these summer events do more than entertain—they nurture wellness, strengthen local bonds, and reflect Midland’s dedication to building a vibrant, inclusive, and active community. From guided walks and river kayaking to downtown concerts and cultural showcases, the city’s seasonal programming turns public spaces into catalysts for health, connection, and enjoyment.
