11 Northern Michigan Festivals You Don’t Want To Miss

Traverse City Film Festival in front of the State Theatre in Downtown Traverse City

People gather in front of The State Theatre during the Traverse City Film Festival

Northern Michigan is known for its variety of activities and rich culture. Throughout the warm season, you will find many opportunities to experience Up North as a local. There is perhaps no better example of this than the festivals and events hosted by the area’s many towns. Whether you enjoy the outdoors, food and drink, the arts, or just trying new experiences, you’ll find it here in Northern Michigan. Here are some of our favorite festivals and events that occur throughout the year:

Empire Asparagus Festival – Empire – Mid, Late May
Join the Village of Empire as it celebrates the start of the asparagus growing season. Activities include live music & pig roast, 5k fun run, asparagus-themed cooking contest, street parade, poetry competition, and a children’s’ magic show.

Leland Wine & Food Festival – Leland – Early June
Explore Leland and the historic Fishtown amidst the excitement of the Wine & Food Festival. Enjoy award-winning wines, culinary masterpieces, non-stop live music, and interactions at the artist booths.

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival – Traverse City – Late June
Wide Angle View of the Traverse City Wine & Art FestivalTake in the sights and sounds of downtown Traverse City in late June. Experience a variety of wine, food, fine art, and live music. 21+ only.

National Cherry Festival – Traverse City – Late June through Early July
Celebrate Traverse City’s signature week-long event with people from all around the country. Many activities for all ages. See complete list.

Traverse City Film Festival – Traverse City – Late July through Early September
A true spectacle of charity and creativity, the TCFF is one of the most beloved events of the summer. Watch new and classic films, participate in panel discussions, and try something new with twice-daily film classes.

Friday Night Live – Traverse City – Every Friday in AugustTraverse City Film Festival in front of the State Theatre in Downtown Traverse City
Stroll the streets of Traverse City as it hosts its weekly block party. Enjoy music, food, art and family focused fun.

Suttons Bay Art Festival – Suttons Bay – Early August
Spend the day at Marina Park where over 100 artists put their work on display. Interact with community groups and local food vendors.

Traverse City Summer Microbrew & Music Festival – Traverse City – Late August
Get your fill of great beer, local food, and live music at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. 21+ only.

Harvest Stompede – Leelanau – Early SeptemberView of the Vineyards and Starting Line at the Leelanau Harvest Stompede
A celebration of the season’s harvest bounty. Run or walk through Leelanau’s vineyards and enjoy a self-guided wine (and food) tour of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.

Downtown Traverse City Art Walk – Traverse City – Early September
Take a self-guided tour of local art, food, drinks, and music. A definite local favorite.

Empire Hops Festival – Empire – Early OctoberLocals Enjoying the Sights and Sounds of the Empire Hops Festival
Head to downtown Empire for a day of fun and celebration. Michigan-made food and drinks, live performances, and interactions with local brewers. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

For more, see our Festivals & Events page.

2 Comments
  1. I think this is among the most important information for me.

    And i am glad reading your article. But want to remark on few general things, The website style is wonderful, the articles is really great. Good job, cheers

  2. I’m extremely impressed with your writing skills and also with the layout on your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself? Either way keep up the excellent quality writing, it is rare to see a great blog like this one these days..

Leave a Reply