Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Each year during the transition from winter to spring, area residents and businesses take pledges and try to raise as much money as possible for the Ludington Lake Jump. In return, that person must run into the icy waters of Lake Michigan at Stearns Park Beach on Lake Jump Day. Many local businesses also help out with hot drinks and food at the event.
The 2024 beneficiary was the Friends of Ludington Police K9 Unit which serves to promote and support programs, services, and community outreach endorsed by the City and Police Department. Over $34,000 was raised for the program.
2021 marked the 22nd year for the Lake Jump, which began when two local disc jockeys made a dare. Since then, over $650,000 has been raised for local charities, such as West Shore Family Support, Sandcastles Children’s Museum, the Rotary’s STRIVE program and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts.
In 2015, the Ludington Lake Jump beneficiary was the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum and over $24,000 was raised. In 2016, the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Renovation benefited to the tune of over $7,800, and in 2017 the Mason County Sports Hall of Fame received the proceeds, totaling $22,100. The Lake Jump raised more than $42,000 in 2018, and with the matching gift, a total of $91,700 was donated to the Lakeshore Food Club. In 2019, over $70,000 was raised for the Ludington Splash Pad and the modified 2020 event benefited Lakeshore Food 4 Kids and netted over $76,000. In 2021, West Shore Family Support was the beneficiary and received over $49,839. The Childhood Cancer Campaign received over $56,000 from the 2022 Jump. Over $60,000 in proceeds from the 2023 event went to the Youth Advisory Council of the Community Foundation for Mason County.
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Ludington Lake Jump Board of Directors
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
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The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.
Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake’s Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
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