Sleek powerboats in brilliant colors zoom across Lake Michigan in a blast of spray, while crowds on shore erupt in thundering cheers. It’s fast. It’s fascinating. It’s fun. And it’s FREE! Welcome to the highlight of summer in Northern Indiana — the XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix in Michigan City.
The whole family will love this week-long event, set for July 28–Aug 3, 2025, celebrating its 16th year with new and exciting additions. Along with the thrilling offshore races featuring the world’s fastest boats — reaching speeds near 200 miles per hour — visitors can look forward to kickoff parties, a brand-new Brewfest, breathtaking flyovers, and a record number of race teams competing.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Enjoy an even bigger boat parade and block party, live entertainment every day, festival food and drinks, family activities, a golf outing, and chances to meet the drivers up close.
Set your sights on Michigan City for the best Race Week yet. With great lodging, restaurants, and endless summer fun, it’s the perfect place to plan an unforgettable getaway packed with Grand Prix thrills and more.
New This Year: Race Week Kickoff Parties
Race Week fun starts early with two exciting new events. On Monday, July 28, celebrate at the Community Kickoff Event, launching a week full of energy and excitement. Then on Tuesday, July 29, don’t miss Logan’s Meet & Greet Party, where you can meet the racers, enjoy food and drinks, and even get access to the Washington Park Zoo with your ticket. Tickets are available now at GLGPtickets.com.
Terrific Tee-off
Hit the greens on Wednesday, July 30, with a fun foursome at the Michigan City Municipal Golf Course. The outing includes drinks, lunch, prizes, and an after party at Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity. Proceeds benefit the Michigan City Emergency Management volunteers, who play a crucial role in making the Grand Prix a success.
Go Big, Go VIP: Food, Drinks & Front-Row Fun
Take your Race Week experience to the next level! The public is invited to enjoy special VIP events for a charge, including the VIP Party at Sunset Grille on Thursday, July 31, and Brunch on the Boardwalk both Saturday and Sunday, Aug 2–3. Enjoy delicious food, drinks, and unbeatable views all weekend long. Tickets are available now at GLGPtickets.com.
brewfest, block Party & Big Parade
The Grand Prix weekend kicks off with the brand-new Great Lakes Grand Prix BrewFest on Friday, Aug 1 at Washington Park Boardwalk! Sample craft beers throughout the day, then stick around for the Shoreline Brewery After Party, featuring live music by Aftermath. It’s the perfect way to start a weekend of racing, entertainment, and lakefront energy.
Then on Saturday, Aug 2, the excitement continues downtown with the Block Party and Boat Parade. Enjoy live music, kids’ games, food vendors, and more, leading up to the spectacular Franklin Street Boat Parade at 6pm — a must-see showcase of massive, colorful powerboats that look even more impressive up close. Later that night, Point’n Fingers will take the stage at Washington Park to keep the energy going with classic rock hits.
the races are on!
Head for the shore and grab your spot at Washington Park Beach for the high-octane highlight of Race Week—the offshore powerboat races, happening Saturday and Sunday, Aug 2–3. Both days kick off with breathtaking flyovers to set the tone for the action-packed racing ahead.
This year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest yet, with more race teams expected than ever before. Boats will compete in 12 classes, with a full schedule of racing each day. The excitement is nonstop—and the best part? It’s completely FREE to attend.
schedule details
Monday, July 28
- 6-8pm – Community Appreciation Kick-Off Event at Burn ‘Em Brewing
Tuesday, July 29
- Noon-4pm – Logan’s Meet & Greet Party at Pavilion across from Zoo & After Party at Washington Park Zoo
Wednesday, July 30
- 11am – Golf Outing Registration at Michigan City Municipal Golf Course
- Noon – Shotgun start
- 5-8pm – Golf Awards & After Party at Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity
Thursday, July 31
- 5:30pm – Ribbon Cutting at Sunset Grille
- 6-8pm – VIP Party at Sunset Grille
- 6-8pm – Live Band: Skirt playing at Sunset Grille
- 7-11pm – Live Band: Nawty playing at Washington Park Boardwalk
Friday, Aug 1
- 11am-10pm – Food Court & Entertainment Alley Open
- 3-7pm – Great Lakes Grand Prix BrewFest at Washington Park Boardwalk
- 5-8pm – First Friday on Franklin – Downtown Michigan City
- 7-11pm – The Shoreline Brewery After Party featuring live band Aftermath
Saturday, Aug 2
- 8:30am-3pm – Four A’s Car Show
- 9am-10:30pm – Free Parking/Shuttle Service at Blue Chip Hotel; Semi Lot along Highway 12
- 9am-4pm – VIP Tent Open on Washington Park Boardwalk; 10am-2pm Brunch Served
- 9am-7pm – Food Court & Entertainment Alley Open
- 10-11am – Offshore Testing
- Noon-10pm – Block Party – Downtown Michigan City
- 12:30pm – National Anthem & Flyover
- 1-1:45pm – Race 1 – Start 1 | Bracket 7, 3x & 3c; Race 1 – Start 2 | Brackets 5 & 6
- 1:45-2:30pm – Race 2 | Brackets 2, 3 & 4
- 3-4pm – Race 3 | Pro Class One
- 6-8pm – Boat Parade & Flyover – Franklin Street from 9th to 4th streets
- 7-10pm – Live Band: Head Honchos playing at 7th & Franklin St
- 7-11pm – Live Band: Point’n Fingers playing at Washington Park Boardwalk
Sunday, Aug 3
- 9am-4pm – VIP Tent Open on Washington Park Boardwalk; 10am-2pm Brunch Served
- 9am-4:30pm – Free Parking/Shuttle Service at Blue Chip Hotel; Semi Lot along Highway12
- 9am-5pm – Food Court & Entertainment Alley Open
- 10:30am – National Anthem & Flyover
- 11-11:45am – Race 1 | Mod V
- 11:45am-12:30pm – Race 2 – Start 1 | Super V; Race 2 – Start 2 | Factory Stock
- 1-2pm – Race 3 | Super Cat
- 2-3pm – Race 4 | Super Stock
- 3:30-4:30pm – Race 5 | Pro Class One
- 4pm – Live Band: Kasim at Sunset Grille Rooftop
For more information on Race Week, go to: GreatLakesGrandPrix.com
getting around is a breeze
On both Saturday and Sunday, free parking and shuttle service are available at the Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa; Semi Lot along Highway 12. Free shuttle drops off and picks up at Washington Park and includes a 7th/Washington Street stop during the Block Party/Parade. There is a parking fee and very limited spots if festivalgoers park at Washington Park. See emichigancity.com for info.
Don't-miss Vacation tips
Plan a vacation around the Big Race Week in Michigan City, where sandy beaches and Lake Michigan waters invite summer adventures.
Washington Park – This outstanding park and beach might be packed on race days, but come early or stay an extra day or two to enjoy its many pleasures when the crowds diminish. A two-mile stretch of primo sand invites swimming, sunning, and beachcombing – an ideal place to while away a few hours or a full day. The beach is backed by a shady 99-acre park with picnic tables, grills, shelters, and concessions. While you’re there:
Walk the pier – Get a closeup look at the 1904 East Light, Indiana’s only working lighthouse.
Stroll and work out – Benches dot wooden walkways and sandy paths near the beach. Try out the fitness trail in the park.
Let the Kids Splash – Children frolic in the sprays and fountains at Oasis Splash Pad.
Visit the Washington Park Zoo – Adjacent to the park, some 90 creatures make their homes here in natural habitats.
See the Old Lighthouse Museum – Learn about lake history in this beautifully restored 1858 lighthouse and climb to the lantern room.
Lubeznik Center for the Arts – Right next to Washington Park, this art center features a high-quality, changing exhibition schedule in four galleries plus a collection of outdoor artworks.
Settle In
Vacations find plenty of options for overnight and longer stays in Michigan City and nearby LaPorte, including boutique hotels, name-brand lodgings, and private rentals. Here are some options:
Private rentals – Connect with private cottage and vacation home owners through rental agencies such as Beachwalk Vacation Rentals in Michigan City, VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) and Airbnb (Air Bed and Breakfast).
Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa – Posh hotel rooms and suites in this well-known casino with several restaurants and 24/7 gaming.
Brewery Lodge & Supper Club – A 12-suite boutique hotel secluded on a 40-acre wooded tract with a restaurant, craft beer, and wine bar.
4411 Inn & Suites – Comfortable suites with a fresh, modern look, ranging from king to three-bedroom.
Bridge Inn – Contemporary lodgings with private sitting rooms, within walking distance of Michigan City’s Uptown Arts District.
Name-Brand Hotels – Of course, your favorite name-brand hotels are available too. See Listing Here.
Whatever you prefer, there’s an amazing array of special places to lay your head each night.
