Black Eden Weekend:

Once hailed as the “Summer Apollo of Michigan,” Idlewild thrived as a haven for Black intellectuals, celebrities, and travelers during segregation. Today, we reignite its spirit—a place where freedom is celebrated, roots are rediscovered, and paradise is reclaimed.

This Juneteenth, journey to Idlewild, Michigan—the legendary “Black Eden” that once flourished as a sanctuary of joy and resilience for African Americans. *Black Eden Weekend* invites you to reclaim this sacred legacy with three days of soul-stirring celebration, wellness, and community amidst the lush forests and tranquil lakes of America’s historic Black resort town.

Reclaim Paradise This Juneteenth

This year we are excited to announce new events surrounding the Annual Juneteeth Parade and Festival

Lodging

FAQs

  • Black Eden Weekend offers an authentic off-grid, Woodstock-style camping experience that helps you disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect with nature, community, and yourself.

    What to Expect:

    1. Natural Living

      • No electricity provided

      • Limited modern amenities

      • Stars visible at night without light pollution

      • Natural wake/sleep cycles

      • True nature immersion experience

    2. Basic Amenities Available

      • Shower trailers at each campground

      • Porta potties provided

      • Food vendors at The Showdown

      • Local restaurants nearby in Idlewild

    3. Community Connection

      • Share experiences with fellow campers

      • Evening gatherings around bonfires (at The Showdown)

      • Group activities like hiking and biking

      • Face-to-face conversations instead of screen time

    4. Mindful Living

      • Focus on present moments

      • Reduced digital distractions

      • Natural soundscapes

      • Peaceful environment (especially at Peaceful Palace)

    Tips for Enjoying the Experience:

    1. Prepare Mentally:

      • Embrace the disconnection

      • See it as an adventure

      • Focus on the natural surroundings

      • Be open to new experiences

    2. Plan Ahead:

      • Bring battery-powered essentials

      • Pack solar chargers if needed

      • Consider non-electric entertainment

      • Bring books, journals, or cards

    3. Connect With Others:

      • Meet your camping neighbors

      • Join group activities

      • Share resources and stories

      • Experience the festival community

    Remember: This off-grid experience is designed to help you rediscover inner paradise while connecting with nature and humanity

  • Yes! Black Eden Weekend (June 20-22, 2025) is primarily an outdoor-focused celebration taking place across various scenic locations in Idlewild, Michigan. The event is designed as a Woodstock-style gathering that embraces nature and outdoor experiences, featuring:

    • Outdoor Activities:

    • Guided hiking trails (multiple difficulty levels)

    • Trap Yoga sessions at Lake Idlewild and Lake Paradise

    • Horse trail rides

    • Kayaking opportunities

    • 5k run/walk events

    • Outdoor barn fires

    • Outdoor Venues:

    • Lindsey Park

    • Lake Idlewild

    • Williams Island

    • Various trail locations

    • Accommodation Options:

    • Family and RV camping at Lindsey Park

    • Tent camping

    • Travel trailers

    • Local rental options

    The event celebrates our connection with nature while honoring Juneteenth, making the outdoor setting an integral part of the experience. We recommend bringing appropriate outdoor gear and weather-suitable clothing to fully enjoy all activities.

  • Your packing list will vary depending on your chosen camping area (The Showdown, Lindsey Park, or Peaceful Palace), but here's a comprehensive guide:

    Essential Camping Gear:

    • If bringing your own tent:

    - Tent with stakes and rain fly

    - Sleeping bag and pillow

    - Sleeping pad or air mattress

    - Camping chairs

    - Flashlights or headlamps

    - Extra batteries

    • If using Bell Tent Rental:

    - Sleeping bags/bedding

    - Pillows

    - Personal camping gear

    (Note: Tent is provided and set up for you)

    Personal Items:

    • Clothing:

    - Weather-appropriate clothes (layers recommended)

    - Rain gear

    - Swimming attire

    - Comfortable walking shoes

    - Extra socks

    - Warm clothes for evening

    - Activity-specific attire (yoga, hiking, etc.)

    • Toiletries:

    - Biodegradable soap/shampoo

    - Toothbrush and toothpaste

    - Hand sanitizer

    - Sunscreen

    - Insect repellent

    - Personal medications

    - First aid kit

    Activity-Specific Gear:

    • For Wellness Activities:

    - Yoga mat

    - Meditation cushion

    - Water bottle

    - Small towel

    • For Water Activities:

    - Swimming suits

    - Beach towels

    - Water shoes

    - Kayaking gear (if bringing your own)

    • For Horse Activities (Peaceful Palace):

    - Appropriate riding attire

    - Closed-toe shoes

    Practical Items:

    • Documentation:

    - Valid ID

    - Tickets/reservation confirmations

    - Cash for vendors

    - Emergency contact information

    • Campsite Extras:

    - Cooler for drinks/snacks

    - Reusable water bottles

    - Portable phone charger

    - Camera

    - Camp lighting

    - Trash bags

    Location-Specific Considerations:

    • The Showdown Campground:

    - Earplugs (for late-night festivities)

    - Party/festival attire

    - Social games

    • Peaceful Palace:

    - Meditation supplies

    - Quiet activities

    - Journal/books

    • Lindsey Park:

    - RV supplies (if applicable)

    - Family games/activities

    - Lake activity gear

    Remember:

    - Check weather forecast before packing

    - Bring only what you can carry

    - Consider your specific campground's atmosphere when packing

  • Lodging rates are charged per day and include access to your selected campground, use of shared amenities (such as restrooms and showers), and entry to communal areas within the campground.

    For the 8-person bell tent rental, the rate covers the entire weekend (June 20–22, 2025) and includes the tent only, fully set up and ready upon arrival. Campers must bring their own sleeping bags, pillows, and any other personal gear. The tent comfortably fits up to 8 people, but there is no limit to the number of guests—each guest must have valid festival registration to enter and stay on site.

  • Yes, you can bring an RV or camper! However, RVs and campers are specifically accommodated at Lindsey Park only. Here are the important details:

    • Location: Lindsey Park

    • Dedicated RV hookup areas available

    • Spacious campsites designed for RVs

    • Clean amenities on-site

    • Bonus: Direct access to Lake Paradise for swimming and kayaking

    • Check-in Information:

    • Early check-in available starting Monday, June 16th, 2025

    • Flexible stay duration to fit your schedule

    • Important Notes:

    • This is the designated family-friendly area

    • Located just minutes from the main festival activities

    • Peaceful atmosphere, perfect for RV travelers

    • Advance booking recommended to secure your spot

    The Showdown Campground and Peaceful Palace are not equipped for RV camping, so Lindsey Park is your designated location if you're bringing an RV or camper.

  • Yes! Each campground will be equipped with facilities:

    Facilities Available at All Camping Areas: • The Showdown • Lindsey Park • Peaceful Palace

    What's Available:

    1. Shower Facilities:

      • Shower trailers at each campground

      • Bring your own: • Towels • Shower shoes • Toiletries • Biodegradable soap/shampoo

    2. Restroom Facilities:

      • Porta potties located throughout each campground

      • Bring your own: • Hand sanitizer • Personal toilet paper (just in case)

    Tips:

    • Plan shower times during off-peak hours

    • Bring a small caddy for shower items

    • Pack flip-flops/shower shoes

    • Consider bringing personal hand sanitizer

  • No, electricity will NOT be provided at any of the camping areas. This is a Woodstock-style camping experience, meaning you'll need to be prepared for off-grid camping.

    What this means for campers: • No electrical hookups available • No RV power connections • No charging stations

    Recommendations:

    1. Bring:

      • Portable power banks for phones

      • Battery-powered lanterns

      • Extra batteries

      • Solar-powered chargers

      • Battery-operated fans if needed

    2. Plan ahead:

      • Charge all devices before arrival

      • Consider battery life of essential items

      • Pack non-electric alternatives

      • Minimize electronic usage

    3. Remember:

      • This is an intentional part of the outdoor experience

      • Focus on connecting with nature and community

      • Plan activities that don't require power

  • As this is a Woodstock-style camping event, you have several dining options:

    Food Vendors: • The Showdown (Main Camping Area)

    • Food vendors will be available

    • Located in the main festival area

    • Easy access from lounge zones

    Local Restaurants: • Several local restaurants available in proximity to Idlewild • Support local businesses while experiencing the community • Great option for those wanting a break from camp food

    Self-Catering Options:

    1. What to Bring:

      • Cooler for food storage

      • Non-perishable snacks

      • Camping stove (if planning to cook)

      • Basic cooking supplies

      • Reusable water bottles

      • Paper plates/utensils

    2. Remember:

      • No electricity provided

      • Plan for food that doesn't require refrigeration

      • Bring enough ice for your cooler

      • Consider shelf-stable meal options

    Tips:

    • Stock up on supplies before arrival

    • Plan your meals ahead

    • Bring cash for food vendors and local restaurants

    • Pack a variety of snacks

    • Consider sharing meals with campsite neighbors

    • Support local eateries when possible

  • Yes! Black Eden Weekend offers numerous family-friendly activities and spaces. Here's what families can enjoy:

    Family-Friendly Camping: • Lindsey Park

    • Specifically designed for families

    • Quiet, peaceful atmosphere

    • Clean amenities

    • Spacious campsites

    • RV and camper-friendly

    • Early check-in from June 16th, 2025

    Family Activities:

    1. Water Activities:

      • Swimming at Lake Idlewild Beach

      • Kayaking opportunities (Baldwin Canoe Rental partnership)

      • Fishing at local lakes

      • Lake Paradise access

    2. Biking Adventures:

      • Family rides with Pedal Up Riderz Idlewild

      • Scenic routes through historic Idlewild

    3. Main Events:

      • Juneteenth Parade (family highlight!)

      • Festival activities

      • Historical and cultural experiences at Idlewild Historical and Culture Center

    4. Outdoor Recreation:

      • Family-friendly hiking trails (multiple difficulty levels) • Morning and afternoon sessions on June 20 • Morning session on June 21 • Led by professional guides from:

        • Catch The Vibe Detroit

        • Suburban Chicago Hiking

        • Hike & Dine Events

      • Yoga sessions at Lake Idlewild Beach

    Areas to Consider Avoiding with Children: • The Showdown Campground

    • Late-night activities and music

    • Party atmosphere

    • Peaceful Palace

    • Strict quiet hours

    • Meditation-focused environment

    Tips for Families:

    1. Book Lindsey Park early for the best family experience

    2. Plan around the parade and organized activities

    3. Pack appropriate gear for water activities (including fishing equipment)

    4. Bring bikes or inquire about rentals

    5. Consider early check-in for a relaxed setup

    The event combines cultural celebration with outdoor activities, making it an excellent opportunity for families to experience both entertainment and education in a historic setting.

  • Black Eden Weekend 2025 officially runs from June 20-22, 2025, but there's flexibility in arrival and departure dates depending on your chosen camping area:

    Main Event Dates: • Official Festival: Friday, June 20 - Sunday, June 22, 2025

    Check-in Times by Location:

    1. The Showdown (Main Camping Area)

      • Check-in begins: Friday, June 20th at 10 AM

      • Flexible duration available

    2. Peaceful Palace

      • Check-in begins: Friday, June 20th at 10 AM

      • Flexible duration available

    3. Lindsey Park

      • Early check-in available: Starting Monday, June 16th

      • Perfect for extended stays

      • Flexible duration available

  • No, dogs are not allowed at Black Eden Weekend. This policy applies to all camping areas:

    • The Showdown (Main Camping Area)

    • Lindsey Park

    • Peaceful Palace

    Exception: • Service animals as defined by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) are permitted with proper documentation.

    Note: This policy is in place to ensure:

    • The safety and comfort of all attendees

    • A peaceful environment for meditation areas

    • Respect for the horses at Peaceful Palace

    • Cleanliness of the camping grounds