It’s Christmas 2023 in Leelanau County! Here’s the lineup of several events coming up this month that celebrate the season – both indoors and out!
Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 & 10: Lighthouse Light Hike at Leelanau State Park in Northport.
If you’ve never been, this is a MUST. You are literally going to the peak of the pinky in the Mitten State. The campground is lit with lanterns, Christmas trees, and holiday decorations and your $5 admittance comes with 3D glasses. End your tour at the lighthouse and walk through the decorated home of the McCormick family of the 1920s. Hear the pump organ and climb the tower for a “night view” of Lake Michigan! Venture into the Fog Signal Building to see the “Grinch” tree and activities for kids and adults. The cost is $5 per person and includes your 3D glasses (choose from 12 different holiday designs). Children 5 and under are free. Tickets may be bought online or purchased at the event. A recreation passport is required for entry into Leelanau State Park.
Sunday, Dec. 10: Northport Holiday Concert.
The Village Voices and Northport Community Band present a Christmas-themed concert. Enjoy the performance from 3-5pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students from outside Northport and free for all students within Northport Public School. Buy tickets here.
Saturday, Dec. 16: Christmas on the Farm.
This is a first-ever event! Join the festivities at Serenity Ranch in Suttons Bay from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for hot cocoa, cookies, and photos with mini horses and Santa. See more here. They are asking for donations to the herd, which is used for equine therapy.
Saturday, Dec. 16: “Grand Concert!” Holiday Magic.
Held at the Bay Theatre in Suttons Bay, The Grand Concert includes music with David Chown, Miriam Pico and a spectacular musical ensemble. This event sells out every year! Also check out the Christmas movies the Bay Theatre plays all month, including the $5 Movie – It’s a Wonderful Life – on Dec. 24. Gather the gang and go back in time for a little Christmas Eve nostalgia!
Saturday, Dec. 16: Gingerbread House Decorating Party.
Gather at the Little Traverse Inn in Maple City from 12-4 p.m. to create delicious decorations. They provide candy, icing, and houses. Plus Santa! Give the Inn a call to let them know how many houses you may need at 231-228-2560.
Ongoing: Strolling Lights Festival at Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District in Glen Arbor.
Each tree is sponsored by a local family or business, with proceeds going to support Kelly Florip and her family. Kelly is the lead buyer and is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. There is no cost for strolling the trees, although donations can be made to Kelly’s family. Enjoy the novel and gorgeous trees created by this warm and loving community. It’s the 3rd Annual Strolling Lights Festival!
Saturday, Dec. 16: Friends & Family Night in Glen Arbor.
Join Coastal and M22 Glen Arbor for an evening of shopping and fun for “Friends & Family Night” from 3-7 p.m. Grab your friends and family to shop for last-minute gifts and holiday deals. Enjoy a glass of wine, cozy up on the wine patio or by one of their fires, and have a festive night!
Saturday, Dec. 23: “Ugly Christmas Sweater Party”.
“Ugly Christmas Sweater Party” at Little Traverse Inn at 6 p.m. Join in for a night of festive cheer, live music by Blind Dog Hank, great food, fine ales, and fun times. Give the inn a call at 231-228-2560 to hold a table.
Happy Holidays to all!
