If you’re craving a summer weekend that feels slower, friendlier, and full of heart, Carriage Days in Ovid, Michigan delivers exactly that. This beloved community festival brings together generations of locals and visitors for a celebration rooted in history, hometown pride, and classic small-town fun.
Held annually in downtown Ovid, Carriage Days transforms Main Street into a lively hub of activity — the kind of place where kids run from booth to booth, neighbors catch up curbside, and visitors quickly realize they’ve stumbled onto something special.
Make it a weekend.
Carriage Days is better when you don’t have to rush home. Stay nearby, enjoy downtown Ovid, and soak up the full festival experience.
Watch our video of the 2024 Carriage Days here: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1ATZqeTFMz/
What Is Carriage Days?
Carriage Days is Ovid’s signature community festival, celebrating the town’s heritage and the people who keep it thriving. The event honors Ovid’s historic roots while creating space for modern-day traditions: parades, food, live entertainment, family activities, and local vendors all come together in one walkable, welcoming setting.
At its core, Carriage Days is about connection — to history, to neighbors, and to the kind of community spirit that’s becoming harder to find.
A Festival Designed for All Ages
One of the reasons Carriage Days continues to draw crowds year after year is its wide appeal. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a weekend trip with friends, or a nostalgic return to your hometown, there’s something here for everyone.
You’ll find:
- A festive parade through downtown
- Live music and entertainment
- Food trucks, classic fair favorites, and local eats
- Craft and vendor booths showcasing regional makers
- Activities for kids and families
- Community organizations and local businesses on display
It’s the kind of event where you don’t need an agenda — you just show up, wander, and enjoy.
Why Visitors Love Carriage Days
For out-of-towners, Carriage Days offers a rare glimpse into authentic small-town Michigan. Ovid isn’t a pass-through destination — it’s a place where people still wave from porches, downtown matters, and events feel personal rather than commercial.
Many visitors plan a full weekend around Carriage Days, pairing the festival with:
- Exploring nearby parks and trails
- Discovering local shops and restaurants
- Meeting friends or family halfway in Michigan’s heartland
- Staying overnight to soak in the full experience
It’s a reminder that some of the best travel memories aren’t flashy — they’re grounded, genuine, and shared.
Supporting Local, Celebrating Community
Carriage Days is also a powerful example of what happens when a town shows up for itself. Local volunteers, businesses, sponsors, and organizations all play a role in bringing the festival to life. Every booth visited, meal purchased, and event attended helps support Ovid’s ongoing revitalization and community pride.
When you attend Carriage Days, you’re not just going to a festival — you’re participating in a tradition that helps keep Main Street alive.
Planning Your Visit
If Carriage Days is on your calendar, consider making a weekend of it. Downtown Ovid is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore events while enjoying nearby lodging, dining, and attractions.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, Carriage Days is a reminder of why small towns still matter — and why Ovid continues to be a place people return to year after year.
👉 Learn more about event details, schedules, and updates at ovidcarriagedays.org
Make it a weekend.
Carriage Days is better when you don’t have to rush home. Stay nearby, enjoy downtown Ovid, and soak up the full festival experience.