Mancelona's Bass Festival has lasted seven decades
The northern Michigan town marked its 70th annual Bass Festival in 2026, with a parade, carnival, car show, market, and a long weekend of community events.
antrim county mancelona festivals community traditions
Every spring, Mancelona throws a town party. It has a fish in the name and much of the community in the schedule. The Bass Festival marked its 70th year in 2026. Seven decades make it a tradition that several generations can share.
The modern festival stretches well beyond fishing. A parade, carnival, car show, craft market, kids’ events, music, and contests fill the long weekend. Mancelona is usually a gateway to Antrim County’s forest interior. During the festival, the community itself becomes the destination.
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Last reviewed against the listed sources: July 12, 2026.