Halloween is here. It’s the season of dark nights, howling winds, glowing pumpkins, and haunting lore. So, gather up your little ghosts and goblins or pack your own costume for some spooky fun in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly festivities or prefer adult-themed shenanigans, you’re sure to find plenty of free candy, Halloween parties, and spooky lit-up yard décor over the next two weekends. Plus, there’s still time to catch the fall color!
Leelanau trick-or-treating
Leelanau Sands Casino will host a Trunk or Treat celebration 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29. Trick-or-treat from decked-out trunks, indulge in candy and other treats, and vote for your favorite display.
On Halloween, visit the Leelanau County Government Center in Suttons Bay from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 31 for trick-or-treating, crafts, and snacks. Info: leelanau.gov
Spooky fun in Suttons Bay
In Suttons Bay, Halloween trick-or-treating runs 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at participating businesses. From 5 to 8 p.m., the Suttons Bay-Bingham Fire Department will be open for food, candy, and a place to gather. There will also be “trunk or treating” on site. Neighborhood trick-or-treating begins at 5 p.m.
Halloween trunk or treat
It doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a visitor — come out for a spooky but safe fun-filled Halloween on Frankfort’s Main Street and Empire’s Front Street. Bring the kids, decorate your car, decorate yourself, and enjoy the festivities.
Frankfort’s Trunk or Treat runs 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 on Main Street (between Third and Sixth streets). It's free to participate, whether you want to grab some good candy, promote your business, or show off your family's spooky creativity.
Organized by Empire Area Community Center, Empire’s Trunk or Treat is 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Pulled pork, hot dogs and other snacks available.
Adult Halloween Parties
Have you been working on the ultimate Halloween costume? You’ll have several chances to show it off — and maybe even win a prize. Many local bars and wineries host parties, so check out your favorite to see what’s happening.
Gather your ghouls and goblins and celebrate early at HalloWINE at Bel Lago in Cedar. Come in costume to this spooktacular party noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Live music featuring Dominic Fortuna from 3:30–5:30 p.m., plus cozy mulled wine and ciders, food and Halloween fun.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, take a trip up the peninsula for the annual Halloween Hotdog and Brat Party at the Mitten Brewery in Northport.
The Village Council welcomes all from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at the Mitten Brewery outdoor seating area. They serve hotdogs and brats, along with apple cider and chips. Mingle with locals, tourists, and Mitten regulars during this Halloween tradition in the heart of the Village. Don’t forget your costume or Halloween spirit!
After the community party, stop in the Northport Pub & Grille for a Halloween party featuring Touch of Grey, a local Grateful Dead themed band. Enjoy a costume contest, special Halloween drinks, and treats for trick-or-treaters. No cover, music starts at 8:30 p.m.
Stay close to the action by booking at stay at The Homestead, and take in the leaf show on a drive through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or along M-22.
Marla R. Miller is a freelance travel writer, blogger, and content writer who enjoys exploring the Sleeping Bear area. Visit her website at marlarmiller.com.