Annual Events & Festivals in Calhoun County, MI

Calhoun County is a vibrant destination for families and event lovers year-round, with an array of festivals celebrating the region’s rich heritage and history. Take a seat at the world’s longest breakfast table in Battle Creek while discovering the unique traditions of Marshall and Albion.

Whether you’re here to partake in Battle Creek’s legacy as the birthplace of the cereal industry or try your hand at carnival games in Marshall, we’ve assembled the top events in Calhoun County for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.

Festivals & Events for Every Interest

As one of the most beloved free annual events in Battle Creek, the National Cereal Festival pays tribute to the city’s storied past as the “Cereal Capital of the World.” Held on the second Saturday of June, the colorful festival features a complimentary breakfast, music, and bounce houses.

More annual events in Battle Creek include the Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival, a free, family-friendly favorite featuring hot air balloons, jet planes, and fireworks around the Fourth of July. There’s also Leilapalooza, an all-day music festival in July held at the scenic Leila Arboretum.

As the last summer blast in August, before school begins, the Calhoun County Fair in Marshall has featured fair food, carnival games, and fun activities for kids and adults alike since 1848. Another Marshall festival perfect for history buffs is the Marshall Home Tour, a seasonal event in October where locals and visitors alike can learn the stories behind the city’s most historic homes.

For 47 years, the Festival of the Forks has taken over the streets of downtown Albion with a celebration of food, music, cars, and people. Fast-forward to the holiday season, and Battle Creek is aglow with Christmas magic during the Festival of Lights, a free community gathering.

From lively street fairs in Battle Creek to heritage festivals in Marshall and creative arts events in Albion, there’s always something worth discovering in Calhoun County. Explore what’s in store below and consult the visitor guide to plan the perfect event-filled getaway.

June

June and July

August

September

December