Summer is in full swing, but there are still plenty of can’t miss family-friendly events happening in Jackson! Jackson is just 40 miles away from Lansing, which means that Jackson makes the perfect morning trip, afternoon trip, or day trip! As a newcomer here at Lansing Mom, I am excited to bring a bit of Jackson to you. Jackson stays hopping with events all summer long. Keep reading to discover some of the best!
Up, Up and Away
Jackson’s Hot Air Jubilee takes place July 22-23, 2023. Held at Ella Sharp Park, this festival features hot air balloon launches, live music, a car show, food trucks, and a children’s activity area. Ballooning involves quite a bit of science and perfect weather conditions. Therefore, it is best to check the event’s Facebook page for live flight updates during the festival. Often, if the pilots can’t fly, they can still inflate their balloons for the crowd to see. Why not make a day of it, and stay for the Night Glow? It is a beautiful sight that you won’t soon forget!
Crazy Good Eats
Twice a month, Downtown Jackson hosts Food Truck Tuesday. Held at Horace Blackman Park from 11am-1pm, you will find 10+ food trucks, live music, and a fun ambiance. The food truck selection changes each time, and you will find everything from BBQ to desserts.
Pro-tip: No one wants to spend money only to have your kid refuse to eat! I always pack a tried and true favorite for my toddler in a lunch box. Then I can treat myself to a delicious lunch from one of the food trucks, and everyone gets to enjoy the music and environment! It is a win-win situation for everyone.
The upcoming Food Truck Tuesdays are as follows:
- June 2, 2023
- June 20, 2023
- July 11, 2023
- July 25, 2023
- August 8, 2023
- August 22, 2023
Shine So Bright
The Bright Walls Festival is returning this fall for the Grand Finale! Bright Walls is a mural festival that kicked off in 2018 and has since left 41 colorful works of art on walls across Jackson.
During the festival, you can watch artists take their walls from blank and mundane to full works of custom art. There are also a variety of events scheduled throughout the festival including:
- A dog parade and pageant
- A concert from Your Generation
- A mini murals competition
- Kids activities and family-friend fun
While you are in Jackson for the festival, you can also partake in the food truck offerings, visit local businesses, and take a walking tour of all 41 murals (hello photo-ops!).
So Many Events, Such Little Time
These events are just a few of the family-friendly events happening in Jackson this summer! If you are looking for more family-friendly events and places in this neck of the woods, or have any questions about Jackson, you can reach out to me over at Wonder and Wander – Jackson.
