Get ready for the highlight of your summer – Venetian Fest in Saugatuck! For decades, this fun-filled event has brought people together to make memories, enjoy good times, and celebrate our amazing community. This year’s theme is ‘Christmas in July,’ so get ready for a festive twist on all your favorite traditions! Come for the fun, stay for the memories!
Schedule of Events:
Dinghy Poker Run
Get your engines (and squirt guns) ready for the wild dinghy poker run.
Dinghy’s race from stop to stop along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Kalamazoo. Boaters collect poker cards at each stop and return to Coghlin Park by 3:00 pm. Best poker hand wins..
Dinghy’s only. Motorized only. No pontoons.
Starts and ends at Coghlin Park, 12:00-3:00pm.
Lighted Boat Parade
Get ready to celebrate Christmas in July with a spectacular Lighted Boat Parade on the Kalamazoo River! Watch as boats adorned with festive lights and decorations glide across the water, bringing holiday magic to a warm summer night. It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration that blends Christmas cheer with summertime fun, creating unforgettable moments for family and friends. Don’t miss this sparkling summer tradition!
Fireworks
Venetian Fest will culminate in a breathtaking grand finale—a stunning fireworks display that will light up the Kalamazoo River sky in a burst of color and excitement!
Suggested viewing locations: Coghlin Park, Cook Park, Wicks Park, Mt. Baldhead Park, The BARge, The Butler Patio, Coral Gables, The Old Boat House, the lawn area between the Red Dock parking lot and Blue Star Hwy.
