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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January 2020
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February 2020
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March 2020
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April 2020
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May 2020
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June 2020
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July 2020
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August 2020
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10th Annual Leapin’ Leprechaun 5k[{"StartDate":"3/14/2020","EndDate":"3/14/2020"}]FalseYou won’t need the luck of the Irish to enjoy the National Cherry Festival’s 10th Annual Fifth Third Bank Leapin’ Leprechaun 5K foot race!
Join in on Saturday, March 14 at 9 am in Traverse City’s Warehouse District and put on your GREEN! After your run, stay afterwards for the Post Race Party at the Workshop Brewing Company.
Each racer will receive a commemorative t-shirt, accurate timing and results, medals for top finishers, prizes for best Irish costume, a complimentary beverage (must present photo ID), and free entertainment!
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2-Night VIP WINE AND SPA WEEKEND with Rove Estate - October 18-20, 2019 & March 27-28, 2020[{"StartDate":"3/27/2020","EndDate":"3/28/2020"}]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 October 18-20, 2019 and March 27-28, 2020.
October 18-19, 2020
STARTING AT $407* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $458* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERMarch 27-28, 2020
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* 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
- Insulated wine tumbler
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
50-minute Mother to Be Massage
Breathe Body Buff
Ambre Infused Body Glow
Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
Refreshing Organic Facial
Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
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 and 5th generation farming legacy through an overview of the story of the "Irish Wine geese" and their multi-generational farm. 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. 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.
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. -
44th Annual North American VASA Cross Country Ski Race[{"StartDate":"2/8/2020","EndDate":"2/9/2020"}]FalseThe North American Vasa Festival of Races is a premiere cross-country ski event hosting a 50k, 27k, 12k, and 6k races through the stunning Vasa Pathway.
The 43rd Annual North American VASA will be held on Sunday, February 10th and includes the 12km, 27km and 50km Freestyle, and Classic. There is also a 6km Freestyle for ages 14-19 and Junior VASA for ages 5-12.
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Bob Swanson Memorial Scholarship Tournament & Fundraiser[{"StartDate":"2/21/2020","EndDate":"2/23/2020"}]TrueThe BOB is an adult tennis tournament held each year to support the Bob Swanson Memorial Scholarship.
Thank you for supporting the Bob Swanson Memorial Fundraiser and Tennis Tournament, known as "The BOB". We look forward to welcoming you to Traverse City for this one of a kind, fun, social and competitive event that features doubles teams from around the state of Michigan, the Midwest and around the United States! Please read the entire notes section of this homepage to find out all the details and see what's new for 2020!
REGISTRATION LINK: https://tennislink.usta.com/tournaments/sanctionform/ols.aspx?id=237595
The tournament funds are used for college scholarships for Northern Michigan high school Seniors with a tennis background that are going on to college. Each year the scholarships are presented to the winners at the BOB Bash on Saturday night.
The YMCA will again be used as a facility to host divisions depending on size of the division. The YMCA will again offer a hospitality room with complimentary food and beverage provided by The BOB tournament.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: There are sponsorship opportunities for you and your business that include banners hung on tournament courts at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa as well as tournament and BOB Bash entries. Please contact Lisa Seymour for more info - [email protected]
NEED A PARTNER? post on this page with the division you are looking for.
DIVISIONS: We received your feedback to keep the divisions the same for 2020. We ask that you play with a partner that is not rated more than .5 above or below your level. Example: a 4.5 player will not be allowed to play with a 2.5 player in the 7.0 division.
Men's, Women's and Mixed
6.0 Doubles
7.0 Doubles
8.0 Doubles
Open
FORMAT:
Play will begin as early as 9am on Friday, 8am on Saturday and 8am on Sunday. This is to allow the most matches to finish before 7:30pm on Saturday for the BOB Bash.
Main Draws: Best 2 out of 3 tie break sets, with 10 point super tie breaker in lieu of third set.
Consolation: only 1 match will be played. 2 out of 3, no ad, tie break sets, with 10 point tie breaker in lieu of third set.
BOB Bash: Details coming soon -
Great Lakes Equestrian Festival[{"StartDate":"6/9/2020","EndDate":"6/21/2020"},{"StartDate":"7/1/2020","EndDate":"8/9/2020"}]FalseThe Great Lakes Equestrian Festival will take place from June 9 - 21, 2020 and July 1 through August 9, 2020.
The Festival will feature six weeks of exciting equestrian competition located in a fantastic tourist destination that caters to equestrian athletes and equine enthusiasts alike. Competitors and spectators will be able to enjoy all the Traverse City has to offer while attending this elite equestrian competition. Each week will also feature family friendly events with concerts and activities for children of all ages.
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High School Girl’s Mini Camp[{"StartDate":"2/7/2020","EndDate":"2/9/2020"}]TrueAll high school girls tennis players or those trying out for their high school tennis team are welcome!
Special rates for multiple players attending from the same high school team. Includes special room rates, Friday night tennis mixer, on court drills and strategy sessions, classroom presentations and the very exciting HS Team Cup Competition on Sunday morning.
Special Guest Speaker Adam Ford, Hope College PTM Director and Teaching Pro at Hope College Tennis Center, will be back this year!
Register your team with Lisa Seymour for this awesome event, [email protected], 231-534-6786. -
Into the Wild - Northern Michigan Regional Chapter of Safari Club International Auction and Dinner[{"StartDate":"2/27/2020","EndDate":"2/29/2020"}]TrueJoin the Northern Michigan Regional Chapter of Safari Club International for a big game hunting exposition, auction and banquet.
Join over 60 outfitters and exhibitors from around the world. Bring the kids, come in and look around at many species of animals on display, bid on silent auction items and maybe book a hunt of a lifetime.
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Michigan VEX IQ State Championships[{"StartDate":"2/29/2020","EndDate":"2/29/2020"}]TrueHead to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa February 29 for the VEX IQ State Championships
Currently, there are 442 VEX IQ teams competing throughout Michigan, trying to earn a spot at the Michigan VEX IQ State Championship. Only 120 teams qualifed to attend the championship here at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. 25 teams will qualify to attend the VEX World Championship in April in Louisville, KY!
More than 1,000+ spectators are expected to attend the weekend events at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation exists to connect students, mentors, and schools in every community to a variety of successful and engaging technology-based programs. Our goal is to provide these programs with services, solutions, and a community that allows them to flourish in a way that fosters the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for students to succeed in the 21st Century. Whether it's a competitive event, workshop, camp, or conference we understand the unprecedented level of passion and commitment it takes to create, maintain, and execute such programs. The Robotics Education and Competition Foundation is committed to promoting technology and related student and professional advancement so that one day these programs become accessible to all students and all schools in all communities. -
Northern Michigan Men’s Winter Open Singles Championships[{"StartDate":"1/31/2020","EndDate":"2/2/2020"}]TrueCalling all Men’s Open Singles players (NTRP 4.5 and up, must be 18 or older to compete).
Calling all Men’s Open Singles players (NTRP 4.5 and up, must be 18 or older to compete). To complement our outdoor championships during the Summer we will be offering our indoor Winter championships Friday – Sunday. This level tournament draws from all over the state of Michigan and further!
Come test your skills in a fun, fast paced singles tournament. Match format will be 2 out of 3 sets with a 10 point tiebreak for the third, regular scoring. Matches will be played at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Indoor tennis courts. Tournament will offer a minimum of two matches (First Match Loss Consolation), Pizza Friday and Saturday night in the Health Club Lounge for players and awards for Champion and Runner Up.
Register and special Hotel rates at the Resort online at - https://tennislink.usta.com/Tournaments/TournamentHome/Tournament.aspx?T=251023 by January 26.
Questions? Contact George Lowe – 231-534-6776, [email protected] -
Old Mission Snowshoe, Wine, & Brew[{"StartDate":"3/1/2020","EndDate":"3/1/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/8/2020","EndDate":"3/8/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/2/2020","EndDate":"2/2/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/9/2020","EndDate":"2/9/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/16/2020","EndDate":"2/16/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/23/2020","EndDate":"2/23/2020"}]FalseEvery Sunday, starting December 30 through March 8, spend your Sunday afternoons on an Old Mission Snowshoe Wine & Brew outing. Snowshoe ‘season’ will be dependent on weather conditions.
Park at Jolly Pumpkin, arrive early and check out their brunch, before or after, then board the TC Brew Bus and start your trek! The TC Brew Bus will transport you to Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery. From there you will follow a flagged snowshoe trail across Old Mission Peninsula to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, then snowshoe back to where you parked at Jolly Pumpkin.
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Special Olympics Michigan 2019 State Winter Games[{"StartDate":"2/5/2020","EndDate":"2/7/2020"}]TrueApproximately 900 athletes, 350 coaches/chaperones & 500 volunteers participate in Special Olympics Michigan Winter Games every year.
Special Olympics Michigan serves 20,797 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in Michigan at no cost to the athletes and their families. Each year we are lucky to host the Winter Games for this outstanding organization.
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Suds & Snow[{"StartDate":"3/7/2020","EndDate":"3/7/2020"}]FalseThe 14th 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 14th anniversary event is Saturday, March 7, 2020, from 1:00-6:00 pm.
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Sunday Brunch at Aerie Restaurant[{"StartDate":"4/5/2020","EndDate":"4/5/2020"},{"StartDate":"4/12/2020","EndDate":"4/12/2020"},{"StartDate":"4/19/2020","EndDate":"4/19/2020"},{"StartDate":"4/26/2020","EndDate":"4/26/2020"},{"StartDate":"5/3/2020","EndDate":"5/3/2020"},{"StartDate":"5/10/2020","EndDate":"5/10/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/23/2020","EndDate":"2/23/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/1/2020","EndDate":"3/1/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/8/2020","EndDate":"3/8/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/15/2020","EndDate":"3/15/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/22/2020","EndDate":"3/22/2020"},{"StartDate":"3/29/2020","EndDate":"3/29/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/2/2020","EndDate":"2/2/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/9/2020","EndDate":"2/9/2020"},{"StartDate":"2/16/2020","EndDate":"2/16/2020"}]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: $24.95
- Ages 5-12: $9.95
- Kids 4 and Under: Complimentary
Call 231-534-6800 for Aerie Restaurant reservations.
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Traverse City Restaurant Week[{"StartDate":"2/23/2020","EndDate":"2/29/2020"}]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 - 29, 2020. 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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Valentine's Day Dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge[{"StartDate":"2/14/2020","EndDate":"2/15/2020"}]TrueCelebrate the most romantic weekend of the year with our featured dinner menu at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge.
Our Valentine's Day menu will be available February 14 and 15.
Check out the Valentine's Day Menu.
Call 231-534-6800 for reservations.
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VIP WINE & SPA WEEKEND WITH BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARD[{"StartDate":"2/7/2020","EndDate":"2/9/2020"}]TrueOur "VIP Spa & Wine Weekend" is a great option for couples and friends looking for a truly unique and memorable weekend getaway.
STARTING AT $405* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $456* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERPACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 additional for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to Bowers Harbor Vineyards (12:00p.m. - 2:00p.m.) includes wine tasting and wine education
- Insulated wine tumbler
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
50-minute Mother to Be Massage
Breathe Body Buff
Ambre Infused Body Glow
Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
Refreshing Organic Facial
Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
ABOUT BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDS
Tour description:
You will be welcomed to Bowers Harbor Vineyards with Brix Bubbly to toast the beginning of our grape harvest for 2019 vintage! Enjoy a brief history of our vineyards and a short walking tour through the vines. Next, you will be seated near the vines (weather permitting) with a variety of cheeses, spreads and crackers while we pour you some of our most popular wines. Our proprietor just completed a renovation of her cellar, so we will walk down to her lower level showing you our collection of wines starting from the first year we opened our tasting room in 1992. This special tour will include a comparative “vertical” tasting of one of the wines we have aged to perfection, alongside our newest version of the same wine. To top off your experience at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, we will serve you a fall apple crisp with our limited production Appletage dessert wine. You will have time to browse through our gift shop and take home some of your favorite bottles and souvenirs, with a 10% discount on all purchases! Taste, learn, enjoy!
bowersharbor.comThis 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. -
VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Chateau Chantal December 6-8, 2019 & May 8-10, 2020[{"StartDate":"5/8/2020","EndDate":"5/10/2020"}]TrueAvailable on select weekends, our VIP Wine & Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and Chateau Chantal will be teaming up to deliver this package on December 6-8, 2019 & May 8-10, 2020.
December 6-8, 2019
STARTING AT $361 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412 PER PERSON* IN THE TOWER
May 8-10, 2020.
STARTING AT $384 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $435 PER PERSON* IN THE TOWER
Package includes:
2 Nights Accommodations
2 Breakfast Buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
VIP Ticket to Chateau Chantal (Saturday 11:30a.m. - 2:30p.m..)* for Chateau Chantal tasting paired with light food, complete with history and wine education
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
1 of the spa treatments below per person:
50-minute Relaxation Massage
50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
50-minute Mother to Be Massage
Breathe Body Buff
Ambre Infused Body Glow
Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
Refreshing Organic Facial
Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Chateau Chantal Tour Description:
A tour at Chateau Chantal includes a personal history of the founders, information on the Old Mission Peninsula as a wine making region, what makes winemaking unique here at Chateau Chantal, a tour of the cellar and winemaking equipment and tasting of our award winning wines. Set high on a ridge with panoramic views of East & West Grand Traverse Bays, Chateau Chantal farms 100 acres of vinifera vines to produce a multitude of wine styles.
For reservations, call 800-236-1577 or book online.
*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 Chateau Chantal.
For am tour, shuttle leaves lobby at 11:30 a.m., returning to Resort by 2:30 p.m. -
VIP Wine & Spa with Black Star Farms - November 15-17, 2019 and April 10-11, 2020[{"StartDate":"4/10/2020","EndDate":"4/12/2020"}]TrueAvailable on select weekends, our VIP Wine & Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and Black Star Farms will be teaming up to deliver this package on November 15-17, 2019 and April 10-11, 2020.
Offer available November 15-17, 2019.
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWEROffer available April 10-11, 2020
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWERPackage includes:
2 Nights Accommodations
2 Breakfast Buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro
VIP Ticket to Bonobo Winery for Bonobo wine tasting and tour with wine education
Insulated wine tumbler
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
1 of the spa treatments below per person:- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
- 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
- Breathe Body Buff
- Ambre Infused Body Glow
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
- Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
- Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Black Star Farms Tour description:
Go behind the scenes and experience Black Star Farms! A guided walking tour will take you through the breathtaking property including exclusive Inn, centennial barn, vineyard, and wine cave while learning the history of the gorgeous 160 acre estate. While in the estate vineyard you will learn about the incredible journey from grape to glass. Your tour concludes with a tasting (souvenir glass included) of five award-winning wines, accompanied by light snacks.
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*If buffet is not available, they can order breakfast of the menu for equal or lesser value. 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. Blackout dates apply and are subject to change. One (1) cocktail per adult.
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Winterlochen[{"StartDate":"2/15/2020","EndDate":"2/15/2020"}]FalseYou'll want to get here early and stay all day, as Interlochen's annual family-friendly festival celebrates all things winter with activities, performances and workshops both inside and out.
10:00am-10:20am - Winterlochen: Kids Conduct! Featuring Arts Academy Orchestra (Music Center 1008)
10:30am-10:50am - Winterlochen: Kids Conduct! Featuring Arts Academy Orchestra (Music Center 1008)
2:00pm-4:00pm - The Sleeping Beauty, Arts Academy Dance Co. (Corson Auditorium)
Upcoming Events
Barefoot Magazine
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Destination Relaxation
For five years, Spa Grand Traverse Director Dawn Olsen thought about the changes she wanted to make to the resort’s 7,000-square-foot spa and salon.
By Cymbre FosterRenovated Spa Grand Traverse is a serene have for guests. For five years, Spa Grand Traverse Director Dawn Olsen thought about the changes she wanted to make to the resort’s 7,000-square-foot spa and salon.
It had been 12 years since there had been any major renovations, and she knew it was time for a transformation. “I’ve thought a lot about what a guest wants,” says Olsen, who has been Spa director for six years. Ultimately, her goal was to create a space with even more benefits for guests. The long-awaited facelift to the two-story spa became a reality in February 2018. Olsen, her staff, and guests couldn’t be happier with the outcome that includes improvements to traffic flow and increased privacy and serenity. The new space is also fresh and inviting — from updates to the lobby and 23 treatment rooms to makeovers of the reception area and décor.
“It’s just much more modern,” Olsen says. “For me, it’s now a more serene spa environment, and the spa aesthetic has changed dramatically.”
Her favorite addition is the noise barrier that was installed between the reception area and the rest of the spa, because it immediately created a more relaxed environment.“I love the wall that we built in the reception area,” she says. “It really makes it much more conducive to guests as well as giving it a much more updated appearance.
“There’s also a better flow for relaxation purposes". They can no longer hear the phone ring or hear us greeting other guests. We also moved the upstairs waiting area away from the facial rooms, again, to diminish the noise levels while guests are in treatment.”
Adding to the serenity is a change-up in the color scheme and the addition of an updated, modern finish with new furnishings and artwork. “The color palette is more relaxing, and we also changed the furniture,” Olsen says. “We ended up repainting all of the cherry wood throughout the spa with a more up-to-date paint color. Ultimately, we made small aesthetic changes that created a fresh space for our guests.” The renovations, which took two months to complete, are more than skin deep.
“I think our local guests love to see us reinvesting in the business and keeping up with the times,” she says. “Overall the resounding response is that they love the new setup.”
The staff is also thrilled with the new space, she adds.
“The team absolutely loves the new fresh space,” Olsen says. “We all feel very proud of our current work environment and feel that it offers a more modern approach to our goal of relaxation.” -
New Look for Iconic Governors' Hall
Premier gathering space undergoes $1.5 million renovation
By Brian McGillivaryGovernors’ Hall at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has hosted hundreds of stellar events over the years. Now it enters its fourth decade with a $1.5 million renovation.
The ballroom at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa had a stately and august air that never revealed its age. Still, after three decades, it was time to shake off the old and make a splash. Governors’ Hall, named after the convention that led to its construction, underwent a $1.5 million renovation in 2018 and now sports a look that celebrates the waters of Northern Michigan, says Ryan Buck, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Director of Sales. “It’s a total transformation, which is incredibly exciting for everybody,” Buck says.
The makeover included new lighting, audio, wall coverings, flooring, ceilings, and furniture. The warm blue and gray color scheme depicts water interacting with the elements in nature.
“It’s neutral enough that a group can come in and really make it their own without having issues,” Buck says. “But it definitely will feel like Northern Michigan. It’s going to be a very exciting, but calming, space for our guests.”
The makeover does not alter the original bones of a structure designed for its ease of use and ability to accommodate a wide array of events. It can be used as a theater for 2,300 people, an elegant dinner setting for 1,500, or to even host a cattlemen’s auction. It has a door large enough to truck in a U.S. Coast Guard rescue helicopter.
“Some groups come in and spend a lot of money transforming the space,” Buck says. “Governors’ Hall really cleans up nice.”
A Grand Vision
With 580 rooms and 86,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, the Resort gets little downtime. Technology upgrades to the hall started months in advance, with the major work for the $1.5 million project squeezed into a three-week window.
The short turnaround and attention to detail mirrors the Resort’s actual founding by Paul Nine, a Detroit-area attorney. “Our founder had a really great vision for this property and this area,” Buck says. “He envisioned a meeting-focused resort experience operating year-round.”
It was 1980 when Nine decided to build a six-story hotel outside of Traverse City, followed by a signature golf course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. He took it even further when, a few years later, he announced plans for a $7 million, 17-story, 186-room tower and a 19,000-square-foot banquet hall just to hold a national governors’ meeting.
The Resort had a lead on hosting the National Governors Association summer meeting, but needed a ballroom and additional rooms, Buck says. The move clinched the 1987 National Governors Association Summer Meeting, chaired by future President of the United States Bill Clinton.
Now, Governors Hall is long established. Its unique setting earns many repeat customers, including a rare return visit by the National Governors Association in 2007.
“We have groups who have been coming here for 30-plus years,” Buck says. “It’s quite extraordinary, and having a great event space makes that happen.” -
Reuniting at the Resort
“It’s a beautiful place to reconnect and build close ties to those we love in one of the most spectacular places in Michigan.”
—Lori, Leaver family reunionBy Jillian Manning // Photography by Megan Renae StudiosIn the early 1980s — when wineries were few and far between and the State Theatre was enjoying its original heyday — the Leaver family held their first family reunion in Traverse City. Ross and Kathryn Leaver’s four daughters had growing families of their own, and the reunion was a chance to gather the children and grandchildren together for a weekend of fun.
Fast-forward nearly four decades, and the Leavers now boast more than 50 family members, including four generations that stretch from ages 1 to 87. Although the family is spread throughout the country, the beauty and tranquility of Northern Michigan draws them back to Traverse City every few years. For the last three reunions, they have returned to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa to celebrate.
“The Resort is the perfect place for us to stay for our reunion,” says Lori, whose family lives a few hours south in Midland. “My adult children agree that this year was one of our best vacations ever. “It’s a beautiful place to reconnect and build close ties to those we love in one of the most spectacular places in Michigan.”
On a July weekend this past summer, 28 Leavers arrived at the Resort for a welcome reception in one of the Valleyview condominiums. Shouts of greeting chorused from the balcony, and hugs and headlocks were doled out in equal measure. Lynda, one of the original Leaver daughters who started the reunion tradition, smiled as she thought about how her family has expanded. “It’s a joy to see the spouses and little ones joining the family,” she says. “I can’t believe how much things have changed.”
The Resort’s wide array of lodging opportunities and amenities appeals to Leaver families of all sizes, from couples staying in the Tower to larger groups spread among the condos. Those with young children, like Ryan and Maigan, parents to a 4-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter, especially love the family-friendly atmosphere.
“They may be too young to fully appreciate dinner with their aunts and uncles, but they’re definitely not too young to appreciate the pool,” Maigan says, laughing. “They stayed in until they were both pruney. And they were so excited to visit the toy store in the lobby.
“Grandma let each kid pick out a toy, so Hunter got a giant brachiosaurus and Hannah immediately spotted a colorful caterpillar.”
All Smiles
Once the greetings had been shared, what’s new had given way to remember when and photographer Meg Bowen of Megan Renae Studios sprang into action. Family photos are a must-have for each reunion, though it’s nearly impossible to convince this crew to keep straight faces.
“It’s so great to be able to see my cousins that I grew up with as adults and have relationships with them,” says Kristen, one of the 14 Leaver cousins. “Every time I’m with all the cousins, my sides are in stitches from the laughter — I feel like I did a thousand sit-ups and my face hurts from all the smiling.” The next 48 hours of the reunion weekend plowed ahead at full steam. Family time with the Leavers is packed with adventure, from swimming in Grand Traverse Bay to a highly competitive “jarts” tournament, a vintage lawn game that inevitably brings out the family’s cheerleaders and trash talkers. Jesse, the 22-year-old runner-up of the 2018 games, nearly lost to two of his great uncles during the tournament. But in the end, beginner’s luck triumphed.
“This was my first year playing, and they definitely have more experience than I do. I don’t want to lose my title, so I’ll have to practice before the next reunion,” he joked.
Breakfasts were shared at Sweetwater American Bistro, and several couples headed 16 floors up in the Resort’s Tower to enjoy dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge. “The out-of-town families are always stunned by the view,” says Ralph, who lives in Traverse City and loves to bring visitors to Aerie. “The food is excellent and creative, and you can’t beat the sunset over the bay.”
Out and About
For the Leavers, another part of the beauty of the visit is the chance to explore the Traverse City area. That includes scenic morning drives along the Leelanau Peninsula or tours of the old state hospital inside the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.
“Visiting the state hospital was awesome,” says Josh, who as a lover of history and ghost stories found the old buildings and sprawling grounds fascinating. “It was so cool to learn about the area and the history.”
In fact, Traverse City has become so beloved to the family that a growing number of them now call it home all year round. “I’m so grateful we can gather our family here,” says Eric, who moved to Traverse City in the early 1990s. “Year after year, we continue to enjoy Traverse City with a family that appreciates the natural beauty in our area. It’s important to us to be able to share this special place with the younger generations.”
Multiple generations come together for the Leaver family reunion, made easy with the variety of family-friendly accommodations available at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and the diverse array of activities and attractions on-site and around the Grand Traverse area.
