Events
There's a reason to come up north every season – not to mention the seasons themselves. Traverse City has become nationally renowned for its festivals and beaches but there are so many events that highlight everything that is special about the Grand Traverse region - from wine tasting to racing the crystal clear waters - there is an event that is sure to excite you. Check out our calendar of events and find the event that fits you.
Festivals
The northern Michigan region is host to a number of festivals throughout the year.
Learn More
Race Events
The region's scenic varied landscape inspires residents and visitors alike to hike, paddle, run and swim for exercise and competition throughout the year...
Learn More
Beer & Wine Events
With an ideal climate for growing hops and grapes, the greater Traverse City region is host to a number of beer and wine festivals.
Learn More
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November 2018
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December 2018
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January 2019
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February 2019
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March 2019
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April 2019
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May 2019
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June 2019
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July 2019
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August 2019
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September 2019
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October 2019
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November 2019
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Farmland 5K & Free for All Bike[{"StartDate":"12/1/2018","EndDate":"12/1/2018"}]FalseThe Farmland 5K Run and Free for All Bike is Traverse City Track Club's "winter weather"running and biking event held on a dedicated cross country course on private farmland; always on the first Saturday in December.
A classic, European style turf grass course awaits you with knee high barriers including straw bales, fallen logs, wood fence and stone fence. Enjoy the natural challenge of running or biking in early December! (event to be held no matter the weather). Traverse over grass or snow and ice, wooded dirt trails, and farmland running terrain.
A Unique Bike Race called the "Free for All!"
The Farmland "Free For All" bike event held immediately following the 5K run, has cyclists taking to the running course for 6 laps of fun competition (approximately 12.0 miles total), on any bike you choose. Fat bikes, cyclocross bikes, mountain bikes, maybe even a unicycle; you’ll see it all. Awards to the top Fat Bike, Cross Bike, Mountain Bike, Single Speed Bike, and deep awards for all bikes for the 12 and under category. -
VIP WINE & SPA WEEKEND WITH BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARD[{"StartDate":"2/1/2019","EndDate":"2/3/2019"},{"StartDate":"6/7/2019","EndDate":"6/9/2019"}]TrueOur "VIP Spa & Wine Weekend" is a great option for couples and friends looking for a truly unique and memorable weekend getaway.
February 1-3, 2019
STARTING AT $347* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $387* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERJune 7-9, 2019
STARTING AT $425* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $473* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERPACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to Bowers Harbor Vineyards (11:00a.m. - 2:00p.m.) includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50 min Relaxation Massage
- 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50 min Mother to Be Massage
- Northern Nature Body Glow
- Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Clarifying Probiotic Facial
- Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
ABOUT BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDS
February 1-3, 2019 tour description:
We will start by celebrating with bubbles! Enjoy samples of Traditional Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine while our wine specialist gives you a brief overview of the Winery, Tasting Room and Vineyard History. Next, we will guide you through a variety of samples of white and red wines, ranging from dry to sweet. Along with your wine tasting, we will have a charcuterie and gourmet cheese board provided by the Boathouse restaurant. During our tasting and food pairings, we will discuss our unique wine-growing conditions, and educate you with interesting viticulture and microclimate trivia. This will be a fun and relaxing time to ask questions and celebrate what our region has to offer. To end your VIP experience, we will take you into our Proprietor’s Cellar for a handmade Chocolate Truffle paired with our most awarded red wine, our 2896 Langley Meritage. Take advantage of seasonal wine discounts and receive a souvenir wine glass to take home with you. Taste, Learn, Enjoy!
June 7-9, 2019 tour description:
Our Vineyard Tour will start with a glass of Traditional Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine. While sipping your bubbly, we will give you a brief overview of the Winery, Tasting Room and Vineyard History. We then will walk you through two or more of our estate vineyards, explaining the grape varietals and the stage of growth at that moment in time. Your wine guide will also tell you a brief history of the BHV vineyard blocks, give explanations about our unique wine-growing conditions, and educate you with fun, and perhaps to some exciting, viticulture and micro climate trivia. Your tour ends at outdoor tables overlooking the Langley Vineyard and Lake Michigan’s Bowers Harbor. We will pour some of our most awarded wines and serve them with several food complements such as: local cheese and crackers, our very own peach salsa and tortilla chips, and end with a sweet treat, local strawberry shortcake. Take advantage of seasonal wine discounts and receive a souvenir wine glass to take home with you. Taste, Learn, Enjoy!This package is not currently available to book online. Please call 231-534-6000 for reservations.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from Bowers Harbor Vineyards. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the Resort by 2:30 p.m. -
2-Night VIP WINE & SPA WEEKEND with L. Mawby Winery May 10-12, 2019[{"StartDate":"5/10/2019","EndDate":"5/12/2019"}]TrueAvailable on select weekends, our VIP Wine & Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and L. Mawby Winery will be teaming up to deliver this package May 10-12, 2019.
STARTING AT $368 PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $408 PER PERSON IN THE TOWERPACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to L. Mawby Winery includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50 min Relaxation Massage
- 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50 min Mother to Be Massage
- Northern Nature Body Glow
- Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Clarifying Probiotic Facial
- Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
ABOUT L. MAWBY WINERY
Celebrate Spring with MAWBY. They'll welcome the return of blossoms and bee with our deliciously fun Bubbles. All of our wines sparkle, naturally, and their winemaker Mike Laing with take you through the process. You'll sample 4 wines including Talismon, a field blend from grapes grown right on their property. Or maybe you prefer something fresh and fruity, like Detroit. They also offer ciders and small lot seasonal wines that are only available in their tasting room.
To accompany your wine tasting, they offer a selection of locally made spreads with crackers. Sit back, relax and enjoy the MAWBYness.
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from L. Mawby. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the Resort by 2:30 p.m. -
2-Night VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Rove Estate[{"StartDate":"12/7/2018","EndDate":"12/9/2018"},{"StartDate":"3/22/2019","EndDate":"3/24/2019"}]TrueAvailable on select weekends, our VIP Wine and Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends looking to experience Traverse City's award-winning wine scene. Our team from Spa Grand Traverse is partnering with the team from Rove Estate Winery to offer a truly unique wine experience December 7-9, 2018 and March 22-24, 2019.
December 7-9, 2019
STARTING AT $347* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $387* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERMarch 22-24, 2019
STARTING AT $347* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $387* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERPACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to Rove Estate Winery (11:30a.m. - 2:30p.m.) includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50 min Relaxation Massage
- 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50 min Mother to Be Massage
- Northern Nature Body Glow
- Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Clarifying Probiotic Facial
- Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
ABOUT ROVE ESTATE WINERY
It's only from the highest point on the Leelanau Peninsula that one can truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty that is the Traverse Wine Coast. Join them in celebrating our rich Irish heritage through an overview of the story of the "Irish Wine geese". Then, while overlooking the rolling vineyard, you will taste our award-winning wines while they will discuss the art of food and wine pairing, with an emphasis on local food choices. This fun and interactive overview will cover the fundamentals and extend down the culinary road less traveled for their featured “Rogue Pairings.” Come thirsty for knowledge, fun, and leave with wine to share with your nearest and dearest. The spirit of Rove will create a lasting memory. roveestate.com
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from Rove Estate Winery. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the Resort by 2:30 p.m. -
Biggest Little Holiday Party[{"StartDate":"12/7/2018","EndDate":"12/7/2018"}]TruePut your holiday party planning into our hands and come celebrate in "Grand" style. Whether you're a small business, non-profit, group of friends or couple looking to enjoy a holiday party, come join our annual Biggest Little Holiday Party.
Our Biggest Little Party takes all of the planning, organizing and budgeting out of your hands but still delivers that memorable holiday extravaganza for employees, friends and family.
The Biggest Little pre-party reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes an assortment of hors d’oeuvres, snacks & cash bar. The dinner buffet will follow at 7:00 p.m. with dancing and DJ music as well as live music performed by the Levi Britton Trio.
PRICE - $32 PER PERSON
ROOM RATE SPECIAL - Call for detailsFOR PARTY RESERVATIONS, CALL 231-534-6150.
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Bob Swanson Memorial Scholarship Tournament & Fundraiser[{"StartDate":"2/22/2019","EndDate":"2/24/2019"}]TrueThe BOB is an adult tennis tournament held each year to support the Bob Swanson Memorial Scholarship.
Divisions:
This year, as you may know, The Bob will feature new combo divisions in order to create an overall better experience for all players. The Bob will be offering Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles in the following Combo Divisions: 6.0, 7.0, 8.0 and Open.
Format: Main Draw: 2 out of 3 sets w/ 10 point tie breaker in lieu of a third set. Regular scoring will be used.
Consolation Draw: 1 consolation match will be played. 2 out of 3 sets with a 10 point tie breaker in lieu of a third set. All matches will use NO AD Scoring.Entry Fee: $60.00 per player for each division entered (limited to 2 – 1 men/women & 1 mixed)
Entry fee includes a minimum of two matches per event (we’ll do our best!), a great 2017\8 BOB t-shirt, and Saturday night - BOB BASH!
BOB Bash: Saturday night will feature the Bob Bash at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa. The Bob Scholarship award winners will be presented. High School Seniors can apply for The BOB Scholarship at the following link - https://form.jotform.com/73124990622153
Dinner only guest bracelets are available for $10. Enjoy a new style dinner and stay for the dancing and the party!
Tournament registration deadline is Friday, February 16! Register here: Questions? Call George Lowe, 231-534-6776, or Lisa Seymour, 231-534-6787
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Breakfast with Santa[{"StartDate":"12/15/2018","EndDate":"12/15/2018"}]TrueSanta Claus is coming... to breakfast!
Join us Saturday, December 15 for Breakfast with Santa in Governors' Hall. Seating is available at 9 am. We are serving a family friendly buffet and Jolly Ol' Saint Nick will be on hand for photos and to visit with children.
In addition to a family friendly buffet this one-of-a-kind event includes face painting, balloon artists, DJ music, a caricaturist, a Christmas cookie design station, and more Christmas magic than you can shake a candy cane at.Adults - $25.50
Guests 11-14 - 19.00
Guests 5-10 - 13.00
Guests 4 and under - Complimentary (a reservation is still required for these guests)
Prices include tax 20% gratuity and MyNorth Ticketing fee. Tickets are available through MyNorth Tickets. Call 231-534-NOEL with questions. Printed photos with Santa are available for $5.00. Great room rates are also available. Call 231-534-6000 for details. -
Christmas Day Buffet[{"StartDate":"12/25/2018","EndDate":"12/25/2018"}]TrueThis year spend Christmas relaxing and enjoying your time with family and friends while Aerie Restaurant & Lounge takes care of the cooking.
Join us Tuesday, December 25 for a Christmas Day Dinner complete with all of your holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, ham, prime rib, pie, and more. View the menu.
Adults - $30.95
Younger Guests 11-13 - $16.95
Younger Guests 5 -10 - $13.95
Younger Guests 4 and under - Complimentary
Call 231-534-6800 for reservations or click here. -
Christmas in the Village[{"StartDate":"12/7/2018","EndDate":"12/9/2018"}]False'Tis the season for joy and celebration, so head to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons.
This weekend long celebration is filled with music, carriage rides, Santa Claus, shopping specials and much more. Merchants are also featuring Stocking Stuffer items $20 and under.
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Cocoa Crawl[{"StartDate":"12/2/2018","EndDate":"12/2/2018"}]FalseHead to Downtown Traverse City for the Cocoa Crawl on Sunday, December 2, from 11 am to 3 pm.
Spend the day in Downtown shopping local for the holidays and sipping on hot cocoa at various locations. Participants will vote for their favorite. Fun for the whole family! A complete list of locations will be posted soon! The Cocoa Crawl is free of charge and hosted by the Downtown Traverse City Association.
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Festival of Trains[{"StartDate":"12/14/2018","EndDate":"12/31/2018"}]FalseAll aboard! It's time for the annual Festival of Trains, a Traverse City holiday tradition.
Come see the massive 0-guage model train layout along with spectacular HO-, S- and G-guage layouts. There's a special kids layout, too, where the young (and young-at-heart) may operate the controls.
Don't miss this annual holiday happening, celebrating its 26th anniversary this year.
Time: Daily: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM; Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM; Christmas Day: Closed
Price: Individuals: $5; Families: $20 -
Holiday in the Village- Suttons Bay[{"StartDate":"12/1/2018","EndDate":"12/2/2018"}]FalseHoliday in the Village of Suttons Bay features a variety of seasonal events on Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2.
Highlights include a family movie day at the Bay Theatre ($1 admission), Santa's arrival by firetruck and caroling -- all on Saturday. On Sunday there's Antlers & Elves and Enerdyne, a cookie extravaganza and a community choral concert.
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Holiday Week Activities[{"StartDate":"12/26/2018","EndDate":"12/31/2018"}]TrueThe week between Christmas and New Year's Eve is full of fun, crafts, games, and holiday cheer.
We hope that you will join us for Christmas dinner, New Year's Eve or one of the many fun filled activities happening in the day's between.
Check out the full list of events here.
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Ironman Traverse City[{"StartDate":"8/25/2019","EndDate":"8/25/2019"}]FalseTraverse City is excited to host the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Traverse City race on August 25, 2019.
The race consists of a 1.2 mile swim in West Grand Traverse Bay, a 56 mile bike through Leelanau County and Benzie County, and a 13.1 mile run along Boardman Lake, finishing on Front Street in the heart of downtown Traverse City. Athletes and spectators will find a host of unique restaurants and a variety of wineries and breweries to enjoy during their time in Traverse City.
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Jingle Bell Run[{"StartDate":"12/16/2018","EndDate":"12/16/2018"}]FalseThe Jingle Bell Run tours favorite neighborhood streets bordering downtown Traverse City that are decked out in holiday lights and decorations.
The event, highlighted by runners of all ages and abilities donned in festive holiday costumes, is a non-timed 3 mile followed by holiday cookies and hot chocolate. The event, free to current TCTC members, is a reunion to welcome family and friends over the holiday season and enjoy the downtown Traverse City running scene in winter.
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Ladies' Night Holiday Shopping in Downtown Traverse City[{"StartDate":"12/6/2018","EndDate":"12/6/2018"}]FalseA tribute to the ladies!
Join the restaurants and merchants of Downtown Traverse City for a night filled with specials, food and refreshments while you conquer some holiday shopping!
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Light Up the Night[{"StartDate":"12/1/2018","EndDate":"12/1/2018"}]FalseCelebrate in Downtown Bellaire with family and friends with a day full of holiday events.
Celebrate with family and friends with a day full of Holiday Events. From a free kids movie and ornament making to the annual “Soup Cook-Off”, a visit with Santa after the “Parade of Lights” and Tree Lighting, Community Caroling and a live Nativity, this is truly a family-friendly event.
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Men's Night Holiday Shopping in Downtown Traverse City[{"StartDate":"12/13/2018","EndDate":"12/13/2018"}]FalseJust in time to finish your holiday shopping!
This night is a salute to the men! Enjoy food, refreshments and specials while you shop the night away finishing up those last minute holiday gifts!
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National Writers Series Evening with John U. Bacon[{"StartDate":"11/29/2018","EndDate":"11/29/2018"}]FalseAuthor of five New York Times best-selling books, John U. Bacon knows how to spin a tale. His newest book is The Great Halifax Explosion—the startling history of the Mont-Blanc, a World War I munitions ship carrying 3,000 tons of explosives. In 1917, it exploded in the waters of Halifax, Nova Scotia, killing and wounding thousands.
Event Details
Thursday November 29, 2018
Traverse City Opera House
7PM // Doors open at 6PM
Live Music, Cash Bar, and Morsels Sweet Treats
Stage conversation and Q&A with author
Post-event book signingTickets:
$15.00 Reserved
$25.00 Premium ReservedNational Writers Series has hosted more than 120 conversations with nationally recognized authors and guest hosts. Called one of America’s “premier literary events,” (Poets & Writers magazine), a “national treasure” by Harvard professor and philosopher Michael Sandel, and hailed by authors and publishers across the country as a must-see evening of conversation with today’s best storytellers, the National Writers Series has hosted events with Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Award winners, winners of Oscars and Emmys and Tonys, living legends and, according to People Magazine, two of the “most influential people in the world.”
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New Year's Eve at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa[{"StartDate":"12/31/2018","EndDate":"12/31/2018"}]TrueThere is more than one way to ring in the new year at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa!
This year guests at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa have three wonderful ways to welcome 2019.
Our New Year's parties include dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, a New Year's Eve Guest Celebration that is only open to our guests, and a kids only New Years Eve Party!
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New Year's Eve Dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge[{"StartDate":"12/31/2018","EndDate":"12/31/2018"}]TrueJoin us from 5:00-11:00pm on the scenic 16th Floor of our Tower for a romantic New Year's Eve dinner celebration, featuring a special one-night-only New Year's Eve menu with wine pairings from our award winning wine list.
Local musician John Pomeroy and the Johnny P Band will perform live music throughout the night. Seating in Aerie Restaurant for this special night is limited so please book early, either online via OpenTable or by calling 231-534-6800.
CLICK FOR MENU -
Santa Visits Grand Traverse Resort and Spa[{"StartDate":"11/24/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/1/2018","EndDate":"12/1/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/8/2018","EndDate":"12/8/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/15/2018","EndDate":"12/15/2018"}]TrueSaint Nicholas himself will be joining us in the Grand Lobby on special Saturdays from 6-8pm.
Bring your camera, Santa is happy to pose for photos.
Santa will be visiting on:
Saturday, November 24
Saturday, December 1
Saturday, December 8
Saturday, December 15
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Spa Grand Traverse Week of Giving with Cherryland Humane Society[{"StartDate":"11/18/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"}]TrueThis November 18-24 Spa Grand Traverse will donate $5 from every treatment valued at $110 and above to the Cherryland Humane Society.
Cherryland Humane Society’s mission is to provide a safe harbor for the animals entrusted to us as we strive to find them responsible, loving and permanent homes while educating the public about humane values. Over 400 cats and dogs have found new homes through Cherryland Humane Society (CHS) so far this year. CHS is a no-kill nonprofit animal shelter, and is entirely dependent on donations and grant funding to fulfill its mission.
To make a spa reservation, call Spa Grand Traverse: 231-534-6750.
Valid November 18-24, 2018. Not valid with other offers. Based on availability. Certain other restrictions may apply. 20% gratuity is based off of original price of services. Call for details. -
Suds & Snow[{"StartDate":"11/2/2019","EndDate":"11/2/2019"}]FalseThe 13th Annual Suds & Snow is back for an afternoon filled with beer, wine & cider. There will also be a wide selection of eats from local restaurants & food trucks, and tons of winter fun. The perfect winter combination! The event is for guests 21+. There will be non-alcoholic beverage options available.
The annual Suds & Snow event includes a 1/2 mile hike through the back woods of Timber Ridge Resort where we host two live-music stages featuring local musicians, 20+ craft breweries serving beer, wine, & cider, and local food vendors. The original Traverse City winter microbrew event is sure to be Northern Michigan’s ultimate “Party in the Woods”! The 13th anniversary event is Saturday, March 2, 2019, from 1:00-6:00 pm.
We are pleased to offer Grand Traverse Resort and Spa complimentary shuttle service to Suds & Snow.
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Sunday Brunch at Aerie Restaurant[{"StartDate":"12/16/2018","EndDate":"12/16/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/23/2018","EndDate":"12/23/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/30/2018","EndDate":"12/30/2018"},{"StartDate":"11/18/2018","EndDate":"11/18/2018"},{"StartDate":"11/25/2018","EndDate":"11/25/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/2/2018","EndDate":"12/2/2018"},{"StartDate":"12/9/2018","EndDate":"12/9/2018"}]TrueEvery Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Resort guests and locals can also visit Aerie for an incredible Sunday Brunch experience.
Enjoy a variety of traditional and assorted buffet items such as an omelet station, variety of fresh salads, pastries, desserts, and more. Aerie Sunday Brunch includes a glass of champagne per adult.
Adults: $22.95
Ages 5-12: $7.95
Under 5: No ChargeCall 231-534-6800 for Aerie Restaurant reservations.
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Swim Like a Mermaid Event[{"StartDate":"11/23/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"}]TrueParty like a mermaid! TC Mermaid brings special mermaid tails and guides participants through using them. Once you have fully transformed into mermaids, its game time!
This is your chance to swim like a mermaid in this specially offered instructional experience! Participants must be at least 6 years old, be able to swim 15 yards in deep water without assistance or flotation, must be able to float on back for 10 seconds without assistance, and be able to tred water for at least 20 seconds. 3 youth classes are available.
Classes are limited to 6 participants.
Friday, November 23:Swim test at 10:45am (and parent paperwork), Mermaid Experience 11:00am-12:00pm
Saturday, November 24:Swim test at 11:45am (and parent paperwork), Mermaid Experience 12:00pm-1:00pm
Swim test at 1:45pm (and parent paperwork), Mermaid Experience 2:00pm-3:00pm$25/Club Member and $30/Hotel Guest/Public.
Sign up by calling the Health Club desk at 231-534-6770.
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Taste of India Dinner[{"StartDate":"1/19/2019","EndDate":"1/19/2019"}]TrueBring your appetites on Saturday, January 19, for the Taste of India Dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge.
Chefs Mangesh Hegde and Yeshwant Reddy will present a special, one night only menu featuring dishes like chicken tikka, dal fry, tandoori salmon, and plenty of naan.
The Taste of India Dinner follows the tradition of the Jamaican Dinner (celebrating its third iteration on October 13) and the Filipino Dinner, which took place this past April. Chefs Mangesh and Yeshwant created a menu inspired by their favorite dishes and will also organize ordering ingredients and lead the kitchen the night of the event. Both chefs come to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa from Mumbai through a culinary exchange program and are excited to present the cuisine of India to Traverse City.
Call Aerie Restaurant & Lounge at 231-534-6800 for reservations or click here. -
Thanksgiving Activities[{"StartDate":"11/22/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"}]TrueThanksgiving Weekend is full of fun and surprises here at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. We are kicking off the holiday with our traditional Thanksgiving Buffet at Aerie Restaurant and continuing the good times with crafts, games and activities all weekend long.
Thursday, November 22 Thanksgiving Buffet at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge
Friday, November 23 Build Your Christmas Ornament 12:00am | Complimentary | Health Club
Friday, November 23 Color Your Own Stocking 1:00pm | Complimentary | Health Club
Friday, November 23 Dear Santa Letters 2:00pm | Complimentary / Grand Lobby
Friday, November 23 Cookie Decorating 2:00pm | Complimentary | Grand Lobby
Friday, November 23 Movie with milk and cookies 7:30pm | Complimentary | Council Room
Saturday, November 24 Color Your Own Stockingt 11:00am | Complimentary | Health Club
Saturday, November 24 Candy Cane Hunt 1:00pm | Complimentary | Health Club
Saturday, November 24 Cookie Decorating 3:00pm |Complimentary | Health Club
Saturday, November 24 Pajama Party with cocoa bar, movie(Polar Express) and popcorn 7:00pm | Complimentary | Located in Council Room
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Thanksgiving Day Buffet[{"StartDate":"11/22/2018","EndDate":"11/22/2018"}]TrueIf you're looking for someone else to prepare Thanksgiving dinner and entertain the family this year, join us in Aerie Restaurant & Lounge for our popular Thanksgiving buffet. View the menu.
TIME: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
PRICING:
Adults - 30.95
Younger Guests 11-13 - 16.95
Younger Guests 5 -10 - 13.95
Younger Guests - and under - Complimentary
For reservations, call 231-534-6800 or click here. -
The Great Macaroni & Cheese Bake-off[{"StartDate":"11/24/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"}]FalseTIME: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Simply put, the Mac & Cheese Bake-Off is a comfort food extravaganza!
America’s favorite comfort food gets an upgrade with help from celebrated Northern Michigan chefs. Area restaurants partner with one winery each to create a perfect mac & cheese and wine pairing. Participants get to vote for the best pairing, cheesiest, and people's choice. This annual event boasts friendly rivalries and has created its own loyal following. Don’t hesitate to purchase tickets, this event sells out every year!
Tickets go on sale September 26, 2018 at 9AM. Tickets include a souvenir glass and plate. Designated Driver tickets are also available for purchase. (DD ticket holders do not receive a souvenir glass, but tickets do include food and non-alcoholic beverages.)
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Traverse City Restaurant Week[{"StartDate":"2/24/2019","EndDate":"3/2/2019"}]FalseTraverse City Restaurant Week (TCRW) is your chance to experience the culinary delights of Traverse City at an affordable price.
Take a culinary excusrion during Traverse City Restaurant Week, February 24 - March 2. Traverse City's finest restaurants will offer a three course dinner menu for $25 or $35 per person.
Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Can't get enough of Traverse City's tastiest week? Stay the night with us! Call 231-534-6000 and mention TC Restaurant Week to find out about our Restaurant Week rate.
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Traverse City Shop & Sip[{"StartDate":"11/24/2018","EndDate":"11/24/2018"}]TrueThe Traverse City Shop & Sip is northern Michigan's favorite handmade holiday craft market!
This year's Shop & Sip event will offer over 75 vendors, a new ticketed VIP Preview Experience, cash bars, specials at Spa Grand Traverse and our Gallery of Shops. Finding parking is a breeze with free parking in our main lot or valet service at our Port Corchere.
We are pleased to offer a special TC Shop & Sip room rate. Call 231-534-6000 for overnight room rates and availability.
For official event details or to buy tickets, visit the TC Shop & Sip website.
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Traverse City Turkey Trot[{"StartDate":"11/22/2018","EndDate":"11/22/2018"}]FalseThe 11th Annual Up North Media Turkey Trot presented by 4Front Credit Union is a great way to spend time with friends and family before your Thanksgiving celebration.
This year will mark the 11th Anniversary for the “U.S. Postal Service” of family fun runs. In the history of Traverse City’s Turkey Trot they’ve seen nearly 200,000 people cross the finish line and can’t wait to welcome another group of old and new friends to join them once more on Thanksgiving morning for this zany 5k and 5 mile run.
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Unsilent Night at Left Foot Charley[{"StartDate":"12/7/2018","EndDate":"12/7/2018"}]FalseIn celebration of the coming holidays and for their love of music Left Foot Charley Winery urges all ages to participate in and experience Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night.
Unsilent Night is a free, outdoor participatory sound sculpture of many individual parts played through a roving swarm of boomboxes, mp3 players, iPhones, iPads (Unsilent night app is available at iTunes store) and laptop computers; all carried through a cloud of sound which is different from every listener’s perspective. Each person is asked to bring their own boombox, laptop, iPhone/iPad or other portable musical device to carry along the walk through The Village at Grand Traverse Commons property. Reservations are required. Upon reserving your spot you will receive the link information for downloading to your mp3 or a cassette/CD will be held on reserve for you at Left Foot Charley to be picked up at the event. Dress for the weather.
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Walking In A Window Wonderland[{"StartDate":"11/30/2018","EndDate":"12/2/2018"}]FalseJoin the merchants of Traverse City for Walking In A Window Wonderland! It’s a little bit window decorating contest, a little bit scavenger hunt, and a whole lot of fun!
Participants get to vote for their favorite store’s window display. Find all of the woodland creatures hidden in the store windows and you can win a $250 Downtown Gift Certificate! Walking In A Window Wonderland is offered free of charge and hosted by the Downtown Traverse City Association.
Upcoming Events
Barefoot Magazine
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The Science of Golf
“One of the biggest advantages we have in the time we spend with our students is working on the game the way they’re supposed to work on it.”
—Stefan Carlsmith, lead instructorBy Vartan Kupelian // Photography by Tony DeminDave Pelz takes a cue from fishing when he talks about his short-game philosophy.
“I’ve always said part of success is ‘fishing where the fish are,’ ” Pelz says. “You have to set yourself up for success.
“When you’re practicing golf, it’s important to note that 80 percent of the shots golfers lose to par occur inside of 100 yards.”
Be assured, Pelz knows the stats. A former senior scientst at NASA with a physics degree from Indiana University who aspired to a career as a professional golfer, he transitioned to golf instruction instead.
His focus on the short game produced the national best-seller, The Short Game Bible, in 1999, and he is widely recognized as a leading expert on the subject. Over the years, Pelz, a contributing writer for major golf publications, has worked with leading tour professionals including Phil Mickelson, who is renowned for his short game.The Dave Pelz Short Game and Scoring Schools are pivotal parts of his short-game efforts. In 2017, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa was one of 14 golfing hotbeds in the U.S. to offer the learning experience. In addition, there are seven European destinations — among them England, Ireland, Spain, France, and Germany — and another in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The reach of Pelz’s approach reflects its popularity and success.
SIMPLE AND PROVEN
Pelz’s method and teaching schools share simple but proven approaches to success. Some are no more complicated than this advice: Always attempt to hit putts 17 inches beyond the hole. That optimizes the chances of making the putt; if it doesn’t go in, 17 inches certainly is in the circle of friendship — a euphemism for conceded putts.
“Two-thirds of the shots you’ll hit in a given round will be (inside 100 yards),” Pelz says. “Once you realize how critical the short game and putting are to your scores, it changes the way you practice. You want to learn those nifty pitch shots around the green; you want to be the best sand player or lofted-wedge player in your foursome.
“And everyone who’s played the game long enough wants to be the best putter. That explains our focus on short-game shots and putting. Our students leave our schools with a working plan and very useful skills and practice regimens for playing every key shot on and around the greens. It’s amazing what it does for your confidence to be a good wedge player and putter.”
At Grand Traverse Resort, the Pelz Scoring Game School is a very good fit.
“For golfers, the Traverse City area is heaven,” Pelz says. “We knew we had to be a part of it. People think you’re overselling this area when you say ‘paradise,’ but if you’ve been here, you know it’s the real thing. It’s breathtaking.”
It’s the best of Pure Michigan.
LEARN LIKE THE PROS
The schools teach amateur and recreational golfers of all levels the same way Pelz and his staff teach top professionals.
“The fundamentals are the same,” Pelz says. “The pros have just been working on those fundamentals for many, many years, and their refinements to their techniques are smaller. They’re more detailed. But they’re still working on the same fundamentals.
“We always focus on helping to improve the golfer’s techniques to provide better impact.”
The Pelz school offers three variations. The premier is a three-day Scoring Game School that includes putting, chipping, pitching, and wedge and sand play instruction, with video analysis.
The two-day program focuses on the wedge; there is no putting instruction. The goal is to teach solid mechanics in the short game plus essential skills from 100 yards and in. Video analysis and practice with continuous feedback are included. Both the three- and two-day schools offer 4-to-1 student-teacher ratios.
The one-day Scoring Game Clinic revolves around six hours on the basics of the short game and putting. Students take away a renewed understanding of the key shots necessary to begin on the path to better scoring. Student-to-teacher ratio is 6-to-1.
BETTER SCORING
Stefan Carlsmith is the lead instructor of the Pelz Scoring Game School at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
“Through Dave’s extensive research, we have found that most of our shots are going to be lost in that part of the game,” Carlsmith says. “That’s what’s going to make you score better.
“One of the biggest advantages we have in the time we spend with our students is working on the game the way they’re supposed to work on it. It’s challenging to get the instruction you need in 30 minutes’ worth of work with your pro even if they’re the best pros around. If people can leave our school practicing the way they’re supposed to practice, the sky is the limit on what they can really achieve.”
The Pelz method focuses on turning three shots into two with more consistency. When that happens, scores and handicaps go down.
“There’s nothing more fun than playing your best,” Pelz says.
That was the goal for Bruce and Barbara Browne. New to golf, the Saline, Mich., retirees who play between two and five times a week wanted to begin their education with a solid foundation to the short game. What they experienced at a three-day Pelz Scoring Game School in July was a treat.
“It was very helpful, the hands-on experience,” Barbara says. “Our class was small and we got a lot of individual attention. Really very rewarding and we’re very motivated.
“In our class, we had one professional golfer, a golf instructor from China, and another person who lived in Oklahoma City. The instructors made it right for all of us. We never felt out of place. We just had a grand time.”
Barbara was familiar with the Pelz method, having read his book. Bruce was not, but after attending the school, he started to read it. Bruce would like to attend the school again to fill in some blanks in his short game.
The Brownes were sent home with plenty of information — including what Bruce described as “before and after” video to study.
You can bet the “after” images from the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School are always better. -
A Family Favorite
Mom, dad, and the kids head due north to escape Texas summer
By Becky Kalajian // Photography by Tony DeminCooking up the perfect family getaway is a simple recipe. Mix equal parts kids with water, sit back, and enjoy the show.
The Hidalgos — Kristin, Ben, and sons Henry, 4, and Teddy, 18 months — make an annual six-week trek from dusty Dallas to the cool climate of Northern Michigan.
Leaving Dallas for several weeks is never a problem, says Kristin, a patent attorney. “It’s so hot the kids are mostly inside because of the intense heat,” says the native Michigander, who has been coming north since she was 5 years old. “We love being where the water is clear and cool, exploring the woods, getting dirty, and being where there’s no venomous snakes.”
A Game-Changer
The convenient direct flight from Dallas to Traverse City makes it a “no-brainer” for the family, Kristin says.
“That direct flight was a total game-changer for us,” says Kristin, who flew to Dallas twice during her vacation for client meetings. “Now all our Texas friends want to come up.”
A few did just that, visiting the Hidalgos at The Shores, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s cluster of family-friendly condos located directly on the sandy shores of East Grand Traverse Bay waterfront. They chose The Shores because of its access to beach and outdoor pool fun.
"It’s nice to walk to the beach and to the creek, to walk on the bridge, or go to the pool,” Kristin says.
Since golf is big in Texas, Kristin and Ben treated their friends to a round at The Bear, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course ranked as the 18th toughest in America, according to Golf Digest.
“In Texas, our golf courses are just scrub grass, so our friends were blown away with how cool, beautiful, and green everything was,” she says. “And the restaurant there was great because you get to sit right next to the golf course while the kids play.”It’s Great Outdoors
Kristin and Ben, who met on a Dallas street in 2009 while both were walking their golden retrievers, squeeze as much outdoor time in as their schedule allows.
Their oldest child is cut from the same cloth. Born naturalist Henry spent hours collecting frogs and grasshoppers near Acme Creek, which spills into East Bay on The Shores’ beach.
“Acme Creek, right next to our condo, was an incredible find this trip,” Kristin says. “We spent hours playing there.”
After water, there was fire. On Saturday nights, the boys roasted marshmallows at the Beach Club bonfire.
When the family did eventually make it back inside, the boys’ sweet teeth led them straight to Dylan’s Candy Bar at the Resort’s Tower Gallery of Shops. What they chose was beyond even their mother’s wildest imagination: one giant milkshake stuffed with key lime pie and the other loaded with s’mores fixings.
Day Trips
When the family needed to shake the sand off their feet, they took advantage of kid-friendly day adventures available out the Resort’s back door. They hunted for fairy houses and tepees behind the Grand Traverse Commons. They fished at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and at the DeYoung Natural Area in Leelanau County. A family favorite was a day trip to Mackinac Island, where Henry biked 11 miles.
Time Out for Parents
Since Ben, a commercial real estate developer, and Kristin each own their own firms, the Resort’s 2,000-square-foot Cub House and other area camps gave them a welcome break now and then.
“Since we are here so long, I really needed child care, so the Cub House was a pretty great thing,” Kristin says. “We also utilized a lot of the local day camps so Henry could go on field trips, hunt for fossils, and hike in the woods with other kids.”
When Ben and Kristin were finally able to sneak away for date night, they chose to play The Wolverine again after enjoying drinks and appetizers at the Clubhouse. Says Kristin, “Getting away together like that was great for Ben and me.”
As the family prepared to head back to Texas, they were leaving with no Petoskey stone unturned up north.
“My favorite childhood memories were playing on the beach, Petoskey stone hunting, getting dirty in the rivers, and canoeing the Crystal River,” she says. “I’m so happy that Ben and my boys are experiencing all of that, too.” -
As Natural As The Surroundings
New spa menu offers up the best of Northern Michigan
By Cymbre Foster // Photography by Tony DeminIt took months of planning and practice, but Spa Grand Traverse has created an updated menu guaranteed to relax, renew, and rejuvenate.
“We worked on it for four straight months, tweaking it, trying different things,” says Dawn Olsen, spa director. “The staff has poured everything into this.”
The result is a comprehensive menu that not only mirrors the beauty of the Northern Michigan landscape, but incorporates organic and all-natural products into the spa’s head-to-toe offerings.
“I’m very pleased,” says Sandra Umstead, a spa employee for nearly 18 years who was instrumental in the facial and nail care portion of the new offerings. “This is our best menu yet.” Their goal was to create services that best accommodate guests’ wishesand ensure that the products all work well together, says Becki Thomas, a licensed cosmetologist and massage therapist who helped design the new body care services. The menu also accounts for differences in client schedules.
“The new menu has several different options, whether you are on the go or want to spend some time here,” Umstead says. “Our products are so wonderful and individualized to each person.”
When reconfiguring the menu, the staff agreed that sticking with a holistic approach, using all-natural and organic products, was a priority.
“We are combining the finest botanicals with locally harvested ingredients that will invoke your senses and deeply relax your body while offering you unparalleled healing benefits," Thomas says.
The new menu incorporates the highest-quality products, including a line of organics.“We use facial-grade masks on the entire body, including hands and feet,” Thomas explains.
The Spa’s go-to products include Eminence Organics — both in treatments and for sale. The company uses sustainable farming and green practices, planting a tree for every product sold. To date, Eminence has planted more than 8 million trees around the world.
“We’re very passionate about giving back to the community and this is the way for us to do it,” Umstead says. “Not only are we maximizing luxury in each skin care service, but when we use these products, it’s a way to give back to the community.”
The Spa also uses Body Bliss, an aromatherapy line made with all-natural materials, Thomas says.
The products are free of parabens, animal by-products, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, harmful colorants and fragrances, mineral oils, petroleum, and other harsh chemicals.
The latest menu also effortlessly combines new natural and organic products with locally sourced items so guests can experience the full gamut of what it means to be “Up North.”
“I thought about those transient clients and that this might be their first taste of Northern Michigan,” Umstead says. “We love cherries here, but we are so much more than that. There are a lot of fantastic elements here and it comes down to aromatherapy and finding those individual notes that enhance certain sensations and feelings like when you are out walking in the woods and seeing all those textures and colors.
“It becomes so much more than just another spa treatment. We want to give you that feeling of being away and disconnected from everything.”
Some of the scents guests might experience include clary sage, cedar, lavender, and arborvitae — known as “The Tree of Life.”
The Spa also expanded services. Its body care options are more plentiful than before, for example, New Northern Nature treatments include organic wild sage and lavender. The light herbal bouquet recalls the purity of Northern Michigan air and promotes healing and relaxation.
In under an hour, guests can indulge all of the senses with the Northern Nature Body Glow, an immersion in the purifying herbal scents of turquoise sage that concludes with a luxurious application of turquoise sage body butter.
The Northern Nature Body Masque is a wrap in purely moisturizing and soothing locally harvested raw organic honey. As the honey opens the pores, guests receive a refreshing facial and scalp and foot massage. That’s followed by a scrub with turquoise sage fossilized salt. Once the scrub is washed away, turquoise sage body butter is massaged for the ultimate rehydration, leaving skin feeling soft and luminous.
The Organic Body Indulgence employs stonecrop, an exotic succulent that dramatically increases skin’s moisture content, soothes irritations, and delivers antioxidant benefits, Thomas says. A gel wash is massaged into the back, followed by a warm body masque. A face wash and masque are applied, followed by a cooling face massage. Guests then relax with a scalp and neck massage as the body wrap melts away muscle tension with the rhythmic torrent of a Vichy shower. Both sides of the body are then thoroughly exfoliated using a pear and poppy seed polish, and hydrating moisturizer is applied during a light Swedish massage.
Benefits and treatments featured in a new Woodland Wellness menu include a “mélange of forest woods and resins” wrapped around uplifting citrus notes of the Tree of Life scent, specifically designed to recreate the tradition of “taking in the forest air for health.”
The 100-minute service includes a clay masque applied to the body, a scalp and face massage, a body scrub, and full body massage.
The Tree of Life scent is also incorporated into Northern Serenity Nail Care. This customized manicure and pedicure include soaking fingers and toes and a stress-relieving scrub followed by a hand and arm massage or foot and leg massage and nail color.
Both Umstead and Thomas love working with and using the natural and organic products.
“The Citrus & Kale Potent C+E serum is my absolute favorite product,” Umstead says. “It’s basically a salad for your skin. Concentrated vitamins and antioxidants protect against free radicals, reduce redness, and increases hydration and elasticity.
“Healthy skin should be a top priority in any home routine and this product makes it easy to accomplish.”
Client response has been enthusiastic. The fact that some treatments have been expanded from 80 to 100 minutes has been especially well received.
“We’ve really been able to put our hearts into this,” Umstead says. “The result is exactly what we wanted.”
