It’s time to get in the holiday spirit! There are a slew of seasonal goodies coming up around Thanksgiving weekend for the county and here’s a peek on how to get involved!
Glen Arbor
Glen Arbor has become famous for its “Better than Black Friday” PJ Party, which is being held this year on Nov. 29 from 7-9 a.m. Locals from surrounding areas come to the event decked out in flannel jammies and you’ll find a slew of mother-daughter duos on the move! Join this fun #shopsmall event, where you are invited to wear your pajamas and come out for a special with local merchants for a “Better than Black Friday” shopping experience. Select businesses open early from 7-9 a.m. to feature specials and sales only offered during this time.
Afterward, watching the fun and quirky Bed Parade is another holiday tradition in Glen Arbor. Anyone can participate – just show up on those old caster wheels with a decorated bed to parade! Or enjoy the show with lots of laughs and zany elf characters often make an appearance! The “parade” will begin just outside the Pine Cone at 9 a.m. and end at the Post Office. Join other participants for a post-parade treat from Leelanau Coffee Roasters or Art’s Tavern, which will be open for breakfast. And, shops continue Thanksgiving weekend sales during their normal hours of operation the rest of the weekend.This event is open to everyone. No registration required.
That night, also enjoy the Glen Arbor Tree Lighting + Holiday Market Opening from 6:15-8 p.m. at the Town Hall. The following day, Sat., Nov. 30 enjoy the full enchilada of the Glen Arbor’s Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Empire
On Saturday, Nov. 30, take advantage of a perfect shopping trifecta in Empire as well! There are three markets in Empire on that day. First, find goodies at the Empire Artisan Marketplace at the Empire Town Hall – where you can meet 20 artisans and have a take-out lunch prepared by Leelanau catering company, Mel and Fell. Next go across the street to the library for a used book sale, plus a beautiful vintage jewelry sale by the Glen Lake Women’s Club. Last, be sure to stop in at the Cottonwood Inn at 9583 W. Front Street, where you’ll find a Christmas Boutique plus more artisans. All events are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Suttons Bay
The Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce presents “Celebrate The Season & Santa Comes To Town” on Nov. 30.
On Nov. 30 enjoy “Holiday in the Village,” which includes… the big man himself, Santa, who arrives in the village at 5 p.m. by fire truck to light the village tree. Visit with him at the Bay Theater afterward. The day also includes shopping specials, wreath making (pre-registration required), letters to Santa, a free family movie at Bay Theater (2pm!) and MUCH more!
Northport
Northport celebrates the start of the season Nov. 30 as well! Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a brunch fundraiser from 10 a.m.-noon. There are tours of the lighthouse from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (ticket required), a holiday arts & crafts fair from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and a Gingerbread House Competition that rages all day long.
There is also free holiday wreath making, festive calligraphy card making, a soup cook-off, snow globe making and – oh yes – MEET SANTA’S REINDEER! Visit the website for all the red & green deets! (BTW – there’s a Santa Beard Competition…)
Cedar
Meet up in Cedar on Black Friday, November 29th, 2024, from 3:30-7:00 p.m. for “Light Up Cedar.” Come see Santa and his reindeer. Santa arrives by fire truck and "lights up the town" and is then available for pictures at the town hall. There will be a Choo Choo Train for rides and a 12-foot inflatable slide (!) and bonfire, Christmas carols, and Arts and Crafts. This is a FREE community event sponsored by The Cedar Chamber of Commerce & paid for with Polka Fest proceeds.
Come on out – and let’s celebrate the season!
