The Fourth of July celebration in Ludington, Michigan moves to the lake in the evening. Fireworks are a great excuse for one big beach party!

Complete darkness doesn’t arrive here until 10:30, so there’s plenty of time for other entertainment. People gather in droves at the city park, and bonfires stud the shore of Lake Michigan. Fireworks start going off up and down the coast long before dark.

Lucky boat owners will anchor off the shore for a unique view. Others will sign on for a special tour by the S. S. Badger, Ludington’s beloved car ferry.

Unique lanterns drift through the air.

As darkness falls, another lantern is prepared for flight.

The Badger, maneuvering into position to give her passengers the best view. Let the show begin!

After the grand finale, Mother Nature lights up the sky over Club Mich with her own brand of pyrotechnics.