The local community and visitors are invited to enjoy this celebration of fall, one of our favorite seasons in Leelanau.
Saturday, October 20th, 2018 | 12 – 3:30pm
Family and Pet friendly event open to all ages! Festivities include: Costume Parade, Pie Eating Contest, Pumpkin Carving, Kid friendly activities like Face Painting, Chalk art, Plus! There will be a food and a Live Musical Performance by Jack Pine. Pumpkin Fest will be held at the newly renovated Glen Arbor Township Park (located at the corner of M-22 & State Street).
• Activities List & Times TBD
Enjoy the spectacle of the Carved Pumpkins that will be lit up at 3:30pm, on display at the corner of M-22 & State Street. Please return Saturday evening or early on Sunday to pickup your pumpkin(s).
Open to the public. Donation Suggested to participate.
Expect peak colors for fall color tours, shopping & dining in Glen Arbor.
Benefits of Sponsorship may include being listed in Event Posts online, Social Media post tags, listed in the Press Release, Event Program, Flyers or Print Ads.
Comments Off on Fall Fiber Show | Center Gallery in Glen Arbor
Center Gallery exhibits the fiber constructions of three Northern Michigan artists in its final 2018 exhibition. The work of Midge Obata, Holly Sorensen and Elizabeth Rodgers Hill opens with a reception on Friday, September 14, 6 pm – sundown, and runs through Sunday, October 7 at the Glen Arbor gallery located at 6023 S. Lake St.
The gallery’s fall show spotlights three contemporary approaches to working with fiber: weaving and hand felting, all of it taken into a sculptural, three-dimensional direction. All three artists approach fiber as a material that can be pushed beyond its conventional and utilitarian uses, into the realm of art object.
Center Gallery is open daily 11 am – 5 pm. For more information go to www.lakestreetstudiosglenarbor.com, or call 231-334-3179
Come on out to shop, dine and seek some recreation in Leelanau. You won’t want to miss the stellar end-of-summer deals during Sidewalk Sale days in Glen Arbor. Held annually Labor Day weekend, this year it will be Saturday, Sept. 1st through Monday, Sept. 3rd, 2018.*
Saturday, Sept 1st – Monday, Sept. 3rd 2018
The town puts on a great shopping experience each year, rain or shine!
There’s a few new shops and others that have moved locations in town, so enjoy discovering Glen Arbor in new ways! From gift shops, clothing and gear, to art galleries, home goods, gardening and more – there’s something for everyone. The deals don’t stop outside – there’s always more inside!
Eat great food around town.
It doesn’t end with Art’s and Boonedocks, make your way to other ends of town. You can get something quick like a hot dog, pizza, burger, or something homemade from a deli; get a slice of Italy and France; or get a fine dining experience with a view of Lake Michigan.
Recreation is at it’s prime right now, with activities for any age.
Locals and visitors alike can experience the Natural Beauty that the area has to offer: From Putt Putt Golf in town, to pickin’ up a Paddle board and getting out on the Glen Lakes. Check out the newly remodeled Glen Arbor Township Park for Tennis, Pickle-ball, Basketball and a Playground! Try a different section of the Heritage Trail to walk, run or bike; Rent a boat or go fishing; Kayak the Crystal river or Lake Michigan, and hike a trail in the National park!
*Participating merchants each have their own specials and hours.
Traverse City painter Royce Deans exhibits a new body of working that offers a glimpse into his ongoing relationship with the Leelanau landscape August 31 – September 13 at Center Gallery, 6023 S. Lake St., Glen Arbor. An artist’s reception to open the show is Friday, August 31, 6 pm – sundown in the gallery.
“While my work is based on specific places, I’m more concerned about the essence of the place than I am about being completely representational,” Deans said. “I am nearly always in wonder of the natural world around me. Its beauty and balance gives me peace. Many years ago I was much more interested in pop culture and the things that man has created to make living on this planet easier and to keep us entertained. But these accomplishments of man, which are many and are indeed astounding are ever changing, breaking or going out of style.”
Center Gallery is open daily 11 am – 5 pm. For more information go to www.lakestreetstudiosglenarbor.com, or call 231-334-3179
An annual tradition returns to the Glen Arbor Arts Center. The GAAC’s 2018 Member Show, a showcase of GAAC members’ talents, opens August 17 with an artists’ reception, 6 – 8 pm at the GAAC, 6031 S. Lake Street, Glen Arbor.
The GAAC Members’ Show will display up to 50 works by as many member-artists. It is open to both 2D and 3D work. The exhibition runs through August 31. GAAC gallery hours are: Monday – Friday 9 am – 4 pm; Noon – 4 pm Saturday and Sunday. For more information go to GlenArborArt.org
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Comments Off on Story time with author Maria Dismondy
The Fruit Salad Friend By Maria Dismondy
Cardinal Rule Press. $10.95
Chloe loves going to school, but lately something is different. Chloe has all the ingredients of a great friend – kindness, empathy, compassion, and more. Chloe wonders, “What do you do when friends don’t treat you with kindness?” Find out how this brave girl navigates the trials and tribulations that pop up on her way to discovering the recipe for lasting friendship. (Ages 3 and up)
Story time and author visit at Cottage Book Shop in Glen Arbor on Wednesday August 1
Comments Off on Discovery Days Pt 2 – Leelanau County Poor Farm
Discovery Days – Leelanau County Poor Farm
Seeking: Memories, Photos & Stories • Life at the Leelanau County Poor Farm
Second Discovery Day with the Coleman Family
Kasson Township Hall, 10988 S. Newman Rd., Maple City
Saturday, July 28th, 10 – noon
Looking for any memorabilia about the Leelanau County Poor Farm, located west of Maple City on Burdickville Road, across from Myles Kimmerly Park. Between 1900 and 1960, this working farm housed up to 20 residents at a time who helped to operate the farm. In addition, the farm had a managing family living there and some hired help. This farm was referred to as the County Farm by the community.
This is valuable local history in the process of being preserving. We are looking for any stories, photos or items from this farm which was referred to as the County Farm by the community. You are our link to documenting this important history. If you have stories and would consider sharing we would like you to join us at Kasson Township Hall for our first Discovery Day. With your permission we would like to scan and document these photos, take notes and/or audio record your recollections. This information then will be organized, catalogued, stored and made publicly available at the Leelanau Historical Society Museum as a part of the Leelanau County Poor Farm Collection. Leelanau County Historic Preservation Society is hosting this event in junction with Empire Area History Group and Leelanau Historical Museum.
The second Discovery Day will be held with the Coleman Family on July 28, 2018 from 10am to 12 noon also at Kasson Township Hall. Their relatives George and Mabel (Ashmore) Coleman managed the farm from 1925 to 1960. These grandchildren have fond and detailed memories of their time spent every weekend at the farm. They look forward to sharing these stories and their family photographs that day.
These events have been partially funded by Michigan Humanities Council and National Humanities Endowment.
Further information, or if are you unable to attend but still want to add your memories, please contact Barbara Siepker 231-334-4395 [email protected]
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Comments Off on 4th of July Boat Parade on Glen Lake
4th of July Boat Parade
Join the community for some fun in the sun, on the water! All boats welcome on Glen Lake. The more the merrier. Decorations encouraged but not required!
Time: 4:00 pm
Meet: In Front of the Glen Lake Yacht Club ( 6617 Sunset Drive, Glen Arbor )
Follow the “On the Narrows Marina” lead boat along the shore of Glen Lake, through the bridge & Little Glen and back…Then drop anchor where a water volleyball net will be set up! Visit with other boaters – Play some volleyball – Celebrate the 4th!
Head on down to Glen Arbor and shop/dine – most places are open for at least half the day for visitors. Grab a spot and enjoy the big 4th of JulyParade downtown Glen Arbor, beginning at 12pm. The parade leaves from Glen Haven then makes it’s way through to the North/East end of town. This years parade Marshal is Bonnie Quick. Thank you!
If you’re a boater, you can join in on the boat parade 4th of July evening on Glen Lake beginning at 4pm in front of the Yacht Club.
To Participate in the Parade…
Want a front row seat at the parade? Volunteer! We always need as many parade volunteers as possible.
Volunteers can pick up a parade t-shirt at Art’s Tavern the week prior to the 4th. Bring your own broom to help walk with the parade and sweep the candy back towards the crowd, to keep kids off the street and safe.
Want to participate in the parade?Everyone is welcome! Bikers (kids and families) and Walkers can join in the parade starting at the Christian Science Church. Cars and Floats participating in the parade, please meet at Glen Haven to line up 45 min prior to the parade start time. The parade begins at Noon.
Enjoy the area.
Most shops and restaurants are open part of the day for you! Please make sure to come to town early to park and enjoy shopping the lovely retailers and art galleries. Whether you’ll end up back where you’re staying or head back home, there’s a beach or lake or trail for you to enjoy some outdoor recreation the remainder of the holiday.
Celebrate the founding of our nation in a patriotic, joyous ceremony with community members of all ages. The Flag Raising will be performed by VFW Post 2780 and American Legion Post 33 followed by an invocation by Pastor Dockery. Jerry Pearson will share thoughtful comments about the Declaration of Independence, titled Remember, Appreciate, and Celebrate. A singalong of well-loved and familiar patriotic songs will be led by the Summer Singers.
Cookies and lemonade immediately following. Flags will be distributed to all children.
The Flag Raising Ceremony begins at 10 am, July 4th, at the Old Settlers Picnic Grounds, located on the south eastern shore of Glen Lake near the corner of Dunn’s Farm Rd. (CR 675) and Burdickville Rd (CR 616). Please bring your own lawn chairs. Event sponsored by Glen Lake Woman’s Club.
Organized by the Glen Lake Woman’s Club. For more information contact Pat Smith at [email protected] or 231-334-3301
The public is welcome to come and share By Heart Poetry, Stories, or Music or to simply enjoy the experience of a community bonfire on the shore of Lake Michigan.
30th Anniversary!
Friday Nights at 8pm | June 29 – August 3
The Leelanau School Beach/Bonfire Area, One Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636
The Northport Community Band kicks off the Glen Arbor Arts Center’s 2018 Manitou Music Festival season on Tuesday, July 3, at 7 pm with a musical evening celebrating Independence Day. This concert of patriotic and march favorites takes place on the Old School House lawn located in Glen Arbor on M-22 directly across from the Glen Arbor Township Hall. FREE to attend. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets.
The Flag Raising Ceremony begins at 10 am, July 4th, at the Old Settlers Picnic Grounds, located on the south eastern shore of Glen Lake near the corner of Dunn’s Farm Rd. (CR 675) and Burdickville Rd (CR 616). Please bring your own lawn chairs. Event sponsored by Glen Lake Woman’s Club. Celebrate the founding of our nation in a patriotic, joyous ceremony with community members of all ages.
Head on down to Glen Arbor and shop/dine – most places are open for at least half the day for visitors.
Grab a spot and enjoy the big 4th of JulyParade, where “anything goes.” Parade begins at 12pm, leaves from Glen Haven then makes it’s way through to the North/East end of town. The parade Marshal this year is Bonnie Quick.
“Drawing more than 4,000 neighbors and visitors, and shares more treats than Halloween. Floats, kazoo band, decorated boats, trucks, vintage autos & bikes, politicians & community groups, inflated college mascots with fight songs blasting, and our favorite: a gang of Elvis impersonators.”~Glen Arbor B&B
Boat Parade on Glen Lake
If you’re a boater, you can join in on the boat parade 4th of July evening on Glen Lake beginning at 4pm in front of the Yacht Club.
Want a front row seat at the parade? Volunteer! We always need as many parade volunteers as possible.
Volunteers can pick up a parade t-shirt at Art’s Tavern the week prior to the 4th. Bring your own broom to help walk with the parade and sweep the candy back towards the crowd, to keep kids off the street and safe.
Want to participate in the parade?Everyone is welcome! Bikers (kids and families) and Walkers can join in the parade starting at the Christian Science Church. Cars and Floats participating in the parade, please meet at Glen Haven to line up 45 min prior to the parade start time. The parade begins at Noon.
Enjoy the area.
Most shops and restaurants are open part of the day for you! Please make sure to come to town early to park and enjoy shopping the lovely retailers and art galleries. Whether you’ll end up back where you’re staying or head back home, there’s a beach or lake or trail for you to enjoy some outdoor recreation the remainder of the holiday.
The M22 Challenge is a unique run-bike-paddle event held in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Recognized as “The Most Beautiful Place in America,” the overwhelming beauty of the race course and the camaraderie of fellow racers will make this event one you won’t forget!
Located at: 6900 South Dune Highway
Empire, MI US 49630
Registration is $150. It is free to be a spectator, but if you’re within the National Park, you must have a National Park Pass for your vehicle.
Last Minute Cancellations & Special Offers and Rates can be found on this website too for booking your up north Michigan, Pure Leelanau stay around Glen Arbor.
The Glen Arbor Arts Center’sGlen Arbor Players [formerly Readers’ Theater] head back in time to Hollywood in its next production, “Sunset Boulevard.”
Performances are June 1 +2 at the Glen Lake Community Reformed Church, 4902 W. MacFarlane Road, Burdickville. The performance is free.
It’s 1950’s Hollywood, and the obscure screenplay writer Joe Gillis is not able to sell his work to the studios, is full of debts and is thinking of returning to his hometown to work in an office. While trying to escape from his creditors, he has a flat tire and parks his car in a decadent mansion on Sunset Boulevard. He meets the owner and former silent-movie star Norma Desmond, and, suddenly, Joe Gillis has something to write about. The GAP script was adapted by the production’s director, Ron Smith, from a 1951 radio broadcast and from the 1950 script used in the Hollywood film.
While our favorite time to visit the beach is when the sand is warm between our toes and the days are long, the expansive Lake Michigan shoreline boasts “ends of the earth” vibes and ever changing unique formations and scenes to explore in the winter time.
From Ice Balls, to Pancake Ice, Ice Caves and Ice Volcanoes, the shoreline takes on many shapes ~ Depending upon the winter weather and location, you’re likely to see a different scene each visit.
We had fun this past weekend visiting our “Home Beach” at the end of Bohemian Rd and M-22, just north of Glen Arbor and Port Oneida, the Rural Historic District.
Share your photos!
We love reposting and sharing contributor images. Yours may be featured on our website or in a social media post!
Comments Off on Trick or Treating in Glen Arbor 2017
Fun in Glen Arbor Trick or Treating
(Annually, the Sunday before Halloween)
Thank you to all the wonderful businesses who participate in costume, decor and plenty of goodies to give, – opening their doors and hearts for the community to enjoy!
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Join us on Sunday just before Halloween for a fun afternoon of trick or treating in downtown Glen Arbor! Dress up in your Halloween finest and bring the whole family for treats from all participating businesses. This is a wonderful event, open to the public, and free for all to enjoy!
Sunday October 29th 2017, just before Halloween, from 12-4pm
Beyond trick or treating, it’s a great time of year to shop off-season sales, see the end of fall colors, get some locally-sourced gifts for the Holidays and dine at a variety of eateries.
Enjoy plenty of family-friendly recreation from a simple hike in the National Park, take a bike ride on the new section of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, play at the Glen Arbor community park, or take a relaxing scenic drive.
Comments Off on Sidewalk Sale Days in Glen Arbor ~ Labor Day Weekend
Come on out to shop, dine and seek some recreation in Leelanau. You won’t want to miss the stellar end-of-summer deals during Sidewalk Sale days in Glen Arbor, held annually Labor Day weekend. Starting Thursday Aug 31 and continuing on thru Monday Sept 4 – Labor Day.*
Thursday, Aug. 31 – Monday, Sept. 4 2017
The town puts on a great shopping experience each year, rain or shine! There’s a few new shops and others that have moved locations in town, so enjoy discovering Glen Arbor in new ways! From gift shops, clothing and gear, art galleries, home goods, gardening and more – there’s something for everyone. The deals don’t stop outside – there’s always more inside!
Eat great food around town. It doesn’t end with Art’s and Boonedocks, make your way to other ends of town. You can get something quick like a hot dog, slice of pizza, burger, or something homemade from a deli, all the way to a fine dining experience with a view of Lake Michigan.
Recreation is at it’s prime right now, with activities for any age. Locals and visitors alike can experience the Natural Beauty that the area has to offer: From Putt Putt Golf in town, to pickin up a Paddle board and getting out on the Glen Lakes. Try a different section of the Heritage Trail which can be walked or biked; Get out and rent a boat or go fishing; Kayak the Crystal river or Lake Michigan, and hike a trail in the National park!
*Participating merchants each have their own specials and hours.
After a few years of this event taking place in some of the worst winter storms to date, everyone who attended this year enjoyed Spring-like weather with temperatures in the 50’s, sunshine and blue skies. Because of the snow and cold we had prior to this President’s Day weekend, the Glen Lake were still safe enough to ice fish on.
Chili Cook-Off winners
#1 – Boonedocks
#2 – Pleva’s Meat
#3 – Market 22
#4 – Shipwreck Café
#5 – Anderson’s
The Fishing Contest
#1 – Nick Rice
#2 – Clay McNit
#3 – Hannah Nowicki
#4 – A Three Way Tie: Leif Sporck, Tim Egeler, Matt Rice
Congratulations To All The Winners! Thanks To ALL Who Participated!
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has been catching PR across the nation for years now, although we still want to protect and keep this secluded gem in the Leelanau Peninsula a secret. Despite our feelings, we’re glad to share it with the world, especially because visitors to our area help make our small businesses thrive!
Sleeping Bear Point was included in the dune walkers category in National Geographic’s list of picks for “21 Best Beaches in the World.”
The Sleeping Bear Point Trail is a 2.8 mile loop through the sand dunes with great views of Lake Michigan and South Manitou Island. There is a 0.5 mile spur hike from the trailhead to the Lake Michigan beach. It is less strenuous than the hike from the Dune Climb to Lake Michigan.
Labor Day Weekend ~ Sidewalk Sale Days in Glen Arbor
Get the best deals of the season, Eat great food + Enjoy recreation around the Glen Lake area!
Most of the Sales usually begin around 9am, line the sidewalks throughout the village of Glen Arbor, and last all weekend long. The deals don’t stop outside – there’s always more sales inside!
The town puts on a great shopping experience each year, rain or shine! There’s a few new shops and others that have moved locations in town, so enjoy discovering Glen Arbor in new ways! From gift shops, clothing and gear, art galleries, home goods, gardening and more – there’s something for everyone.
Eat great food around town. It doesn’t end with Art’s and Boonedocks, make your way to other ends of town. You can get something quick like a hot dog, slice of pizza, burger, or something homemade from a deli, all the way to a fine dining experience with a view of Lake Michigan.
Recreation is at it’s prime right now, with activities for any age. Locals and visitors alike can experience the Natural Beauty that the area has to offer: From Putt Putt Golf in town, to pickin up a Paddle board and getting out on the Glen Lakes. Try a different section of the Heritage Trail which can be walked or biked; Kayak the Crystal river or Lake Michigan, or hike a trail in the National park ~ remember it’s the 100 year Park anniversary so get out and #findyourpark
Independence Day gets celebrated usually beginning the day before the 4th with some free, local live music, followed by things to do for everyone. On the “Old School House” lawn – bring your chairs/blankets. From 7 – 8pm, on July 3rd, the Northport Band plays live. FREE to attend, Donations to the Band welcomed. View Event
On the 4th – the Flag raising ceremony at Old Settlers Park at 10am sharp, to the Parade downtown Glen Arbor beginning at 12pm in Glen Haven then making it’s way through to the North/East end of town. If you’re a boater, you can join in on the boat parade 4th of July evening on Glen Lake beginning at 4pm in front of the Yacht Club.
To Participate in the Parade…
Want a front row seat at the parade? Volunteer! We always need as many parade volunteers as possible.
Volunteers can pick up a parade t-shirt at Art’s Tavern the week prior to the 4th. Bring your own broom to help walk with the parade and sweep the candy back towards the crowd, to keep kids off the street and safe.
Want to participate in the parade?Everyone is welcome! Bikers (kids and families) and Walkers can join in the parade starting at the Christian Science Church. Cars and Floats participating in the parade, please meet at Glen Haven to line up 45 min prior to the parade start time. The parade begins at Noon.
Adventure and beauty awaits
There’s tons of things to do, in and around the Glen Arbor area. From Dining and Shopping, to the arts; Beaches & Boating and a variety of outdoor recreation; to specific places to visit that are great for kids & families. Visit our “Things to Do” page to get started on your Pure Leelanau adventure.
Visit the National Park ~ Discover a new hike, trail, scenic drive or outlook or ride.
Visit our Events page to see what other businesses and community organizations are up to.
The Leelanau Farmers Markets is a non-profit organization started up with the initiation of the Leelanau Agricultural Alliance & MSU Extension with the goal of improving the marketing of local farm products and preserving county farmland.
All products and produce sold at our markets are made or grown within 60 miles of the farmers market!! Buy Fresh, Buy Local!!
Their mission is to
“provide locally produced farm and food products for the benefit of the Leelanau Community.”
Leelanau Farmers Markets | 2016 Season
Suttons Bay (Saturdays) – May 7 – October 29
Empire (Saturdays) – June 18 – September 10
Lake Leelanau (Sundays) – June 12 – September 4
Glen Arbor (Tuesdays) – June 14 – September 6
Leland (Thursdays) – June 16 – September 1
Northport (Fridays) – June 3 – September 9
Cedar (Fridays) – June 17 – September 9 – 3 to 7 pm
All markets open 9am – 1pm, except for Cedar, which runs 3 pm – 7 pm.
This is a great opportunity for you to get local produce and meet the farmers who grow it!
Comments Off on Noteworthy things to CELEBRATE in 2016 around Glen Arbor
Glen Arbor, it’s residents and business owners all look forward to Memorial Day weekend, where most of all the seasonal shops are open for the season by this weekend. It’s usually nice weather and is a great kick-off to the summer. There’s been some nice changes in town you can look for when you visit, and some noteworthy things to celebrate in the community! Join us and and #findyourpark at the Sleeping Bear Dunes ~ we might be bias, but it’s our favorite National Park 🙂
The Heritage Trail is undergoing another completion of a new section being added this season: from Port Oneida Historical District, NE along M-22, ending at Bohemian Rd. in Maple City.
• The National Park Service celebrates it’s 100 year Anniversary! Check out Sleeping Bear Dunes Centennial Initiative, and get involved. #findyourpark #sleepingbeardunes
• Glen Craft Marina has been in business for 70 years!!! Wow! When it comes to the Glen Lakes and boating, they know what they’re doing!
• Northwoods Hardware opened a new sister store this year, Northwoods Home & Gift, offering “Home accessories, Thoughtful gifts and Unexpected surprises.” Visit northwoodshardware.com for more on what’s new around Northwoods.
• Synchronicity Gallery will celebrate it’s 20th year in business. It will undergo a re-brand this year, gallery openings during the summer, staying open later for after dinner summer shopping, and a few other fun updates! Like and follow them on Facebook year-round for artistic inspiration.
• The Good Harbor Grill opens for its 25th season on May 21 ~ Congratulation Ann & Brendan!
• Momentum apparel shop has new owners ~ stop in to say Hi and Welcome, and see their get some Glen Arbor and Lake Michigan garb.
• Century 21 Northland / Northland Vacation Rentals has moved across town into a new space, located at: 6391 W. Western Avenue, Glen Arbor
• The Sylvan Inn and the Gersenson’s other property, The Lakeshore Inn, both underwent renovations and updates this winter/spring, open and ready for the summer season. Visit www.sylvaninn.com for more.
• Serbin Real Estate will be moving to the west end of town and is renovating the building before moving in. Stop in and say hi to Rob Serbin and his real estate team once they get into the new location, at: 6675 W Western Ave., Glen Arbor. Visit serbinrealestate.comto search their listings and the MLS.
Follow the Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce on Instagram for more beautiful local images, year round. @visitglenarbor
Let us know about other local noteworthy things to celebrate by emailing us: [email protected]
Comments Off on Escape to Glen Lake: In the Spring
Plan a Spring trip! Escape to Glen Lake for a #springtour in #leelanau. Experience #puremichigan#cherryblossoms.
Browse our Business Directory for B&B’s, Resorts, Vacation Rentals, Dining, Shopping and more!
#glenarbor#glenlake#sleepingbeardunes
Other things to do around Glen Lake in the Spring:
• Participate in Glen Lake Restaurant Week. Enjoy everything from French Fries to French Cuisine. Restaurant Week happens annually, the week before Mothers Day. This year it happens from April 29 – May 7. MORE about the event | Browse “Dining & Specialty Foods.”
• Wine Tastings around the county. You can taste the local wines any time of year, but the annual Spring Sip and Savor event held by the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail happens April 30th to May 1st. View event listing
• Hunt for rocks along the beach. While it might not be warm enough to bust out the swimsuit, you can still say hi to Lake Michigan. After all, it’s right out our back door. Take Totou for a walk too. You can always find a dog-friendly beach to take a hike on near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Just make sure to pick up and discard #2 🙂
• Go Shopping. While not all of the seasonal stores are open, most of them will be by May 1. Be the first in to see what’s new this year. Shopping local is always interesting, providing the opportunity to splurge on local artisan made items, gifts, outdoor gear, cherry products, chocolates, and more. Visit our Business Directory for local retailers.
• Take a hike. Spring is a wonderful time to hike the woods. The bugs aren’t out yet, the smell and sight of fresh growth is refreshing. Spring is a time of our beloved State flower’s bloom, the Trillium. Seek a forest floor full of these beautiful white blossoms. And Northern Michigan’s ever popular Morel mushroom can be found during the month of May. Learn more about hunting for Morels. | Check out our list of trails to visit.
• Weather permitting, get outside to a local Park, or inside to the Library. There’s the Leland Township Public Libraryin Leland, and the Glen Lake Library, in Empire…both about equal distance from Glen Arbor, in either direction. Glen Arbor Township Park, off of M-22 next to Northwoods Hardware, has Tennis Courts, covered picnic tables, Basketball, and a sandy Playground. The Myles Kimmerly Recreation Area has fields for Soccer and Baseball, a Disc Golf Course, 1 Basketball Court, Picnic/Shelters and Grills, Restrooms, Playground, 2 Tennis Courts, a Forested area you can hike.
Comments Off on What do you do up north all winter?
We thought it’d be fun to answer this common questions as a community and post the results here, and in social media, to create some real conversation with locals and visitors alike.
Hike around our beautiful lakes and take in gorgeous icy views.
Read a book with a glass of local wine.
Ski – cross country the heritage trail or out our backyard; Downhill ski at the Homestead
Snowshoe – the national park is right our our back door
Wine tours
Commit to a fitness program or train for an event…How’s that going for you?
Cooking
Go to Glen Lake Winterfest and eat chili until you can’t eat any more.
Shovel, salt the walk, carry firewood, repeat.
Take advantage of the off-season dining deals 🙂
Knitting groups
Pickleball in the Glen Arbor Town Hall. Yeah, believe it or not, we get pretty competitive.
“Lake Michigan and its bays are renowned for being the most scenic of the Great Lakes, with turquoise-colored waters similar to the Caribbean because of sandy bottoms and varying depth levels of the water. You almost expect to see palm trees, though a visit during winter would dispel that notion…”
Out on the west side of the county, most people don’t even know where the bear sleeps, or that it’s a national park. But, wow, Sleeping Bear Dunes can offer a similar outdoor adventure experience as the best parks of the West.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is a national lakeshore, not a “national park,” but nevertheless is part of that national program administered by the brown-hat rangers of the Department of the Interior.
When Sleeping Bear Dunes was carved out of the Michigan landscape in 1970, much of the land already had uses that predated park status. It was a lot easier to bestow the title of national lakeshore on it because it gives managers more flexibility to mesh federal, state and private lands into a workable park.
Sleeping Bear Dunes covers 71,000 acres on the Lake Michigan shore of Michigan’s lower peninsula. As a point of reference, Sleeping Bear Dunes is across the great lake from Green Bay in Wisconsin and sits quiet close to the 45th parallel of latitude, which also runs through Oregon at Salem and Lincoln City.
The gateway city is Traverse City, with air service from Detroit, Chicago and Minneapolis year round and other major cities during the busy summer tourist season.
Unlike Wisconsin, which gives up most of its sand to the winds, Michigan collects that sand and has miles of gold sand beaches on the east shore of Lake Michigan. The highest dunes are at Sleeping Bear, though they are “perched dunes” because they sit atop a 450-foot high ridge above the lake
that was left behind by the glaciers of the last ice age.
Just inland are huge swaths of sand in this part of Michigan, not unlike the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area on the central Oregon coast. But unlike in Oregon, the dunes of Michigan’s national lakeshore are limited to non-motorized recreation, though you can take a dune buggy tour beyond the boundaries.
In addition to the dunes, the national lakeshore is known for two islands that helped give the landscape its name. As the native legend goes, long ago a great fire was burning on the Wisconsin side of the lake, causing a mother bear to flee across the water with her two cubs. She made it to the Michigan shore and sat down to await their arrival. Alas, they never made it, instead becoming islands out in the lake where they drowned. The mother bear never gave up her vigil as she cast her gaze westward to North Manitou Island and South Manitou Island.
Erosion over the years changed the profile of a bear asleep on the shore, but the two islands are still there to explore. Both were inhabited by pioneer settlers long ago, but life was so difficult that everyone either moved to shore or were buried on the islands.
The National Park Service acquired most of the islands’ acreage as part of the national lakeshore. A seasonal passenger ferry transports day trippers and overnight backpackers to the islands from the mainland port of Leland. The only long-term inhabitants on the islands are national parks staff,
though in winter they are not occupied.
Lodging in historic buildings that were preserved on the islands is limited to official visitors, but that doesn’t stop a steady stream of overnight visitors during the busy June to September season. Walk-in campgrounds are less than a half-mile from the ferry landings on both the North and South Manitou Island, or you can hike further for more privacy in other campgrounds, or look for you own campsite on the north island. South Manitou still has one of the best preserved lighthouse of the several hundred that line the shores of the Great Lakes.
A visit to the islands can provide unimaginable quiet, the darkest night skies in the American Midwest and easy, mostly level, walking to pocket beaches, a lake and sand dunes. The only similar experience in the Pacific Northwest would be to visit one of Washington’s uninhabited San Juan Islands, though there would not be public ferry service to get there.
The mainland farms and towns around Sleeping Bear Dunes are amazingly tidy, with none of the urban blight in evidence you would expect in the factory zones in the industrial southern part of the state.
In 2011, viewers of ABC’s “Good Morning America” named Sleeping Bear Dunes the “Most Beautiful Place in America.” Visit and it’s easy to understand why. Lake Michigan and its bays are renowned for being the most scenic of the Great Lakes, with turquoise-colored waters similar to the Caribbean because of sandy bottoms and varying depth levels of the water. You almost expect to see palm trees, though a visit during winter would dispel that notion.
The area has dozens of inland lakes that send crystal clear rivers flowing gently through the landscape. There are even enough rolling hillsides to allow for a few downhill ski areas, though they would only qualify as the bunny hill in the West.
The Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, just north of Traverse City, are Michigan’s wine growing region. Mainly known for cool weather German varietals, Michigan’s wine isn’t widely known, but is very popular locally and gets consumed without having to travel far.
In addition to the two Lake Michigan islands, the national lakeshore has two auto campgrounds, wilderness designated by Congress, outstanding dune and lake vistas from Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and an historic shipping port and U.S Coast Guard station at Glen Haven.
Adjacent sites include the historic fishing port of Leland, from where the ferry to the islands runs; the prettiest small town park you will ever see at Empire; and the Betsie Point Lighthouse, where Lake Michigan does its imitation of the Pacific Ocean when winds crash waves 10 feet high on shore.
This year will be a good time to find a new adventure in a U.S. national park. May it be as pleasant as what waits at Sleeping Bear Dunes, which will be celebrating it’s 100th year!
If you go:
Sleeping Bear Dunes Air: Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport has regular service on Delta Airlines to Detroit and Minneapolis and on American Airlines to Chicago. Air fare is around $500.
Lodging: Traverse City, population 15,000 but 10 times larger in the commercial area it serves, is one of the busier vacation destinations on the Great Lakes. It has all types of lodging and related services; Traverse City Tourism, 800-872-8377, traversecity.com.
The dunes: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore headquarters at Empire is 25 miles west of Traverse City. The lakeshore goes 25 miles north from there, to the ferry port at Leland, or 15 miles south through the park’s Platte River section. Small towns next to the park’s districts offer a variety of services and lodging. Besides hiking, main park activities are paddling the clear rivers, sun bathing on the beaches and biking the long distance Sleeping Bear Heritage multi-use path; 231-326-5134, nps.gov/slbe.
The islands: Spending a night or more on North and South Manitou Islands ranks among the great national park experiences in America. Book passage with Manitou Island Transit, 231-256-9061, manitoutransit.com.
Comments Off on Trick or Treating on Halloween in Glen Arbor
Join us on Saturday, October 31st from 12-4pm for a fun afternoon of trick or treating in downtown Glen Arbor! Dress up in your Halloween finest and bring the whole family for treats from all participating businesses. This is a wonderful event, open to the public, and free for all to enjoy!
Beyond trick or treating, it’s a great time of year to shop end-of-season sales, shop for holiday gifts from your local galleries and artisans, and dine at a variety of eateries in the area.
Enjoy plenty of family-friendly recreation from a simple hike in the National Park, a bike ride on the new section of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, kayak the crystal river, play at the Glen Arbor community park, or take a relaxing scenic drive.
Comments Off on PJ Party, Tree Lighting & Holiday Markets
There’s plenty to do during Thanksgiving weekend around the Glen Lake area.
Start by shopping early during the PJ Party in Glen Arbor on Friday morning for special sales at participating merchants. Eat out Friday then come back after dark for the annual Tree Lighting and Christmas caroling to get you in the holiday spirit. Then on Saturday, you’ll have a great opportunity to buy from your local artisans during two Holiday Marketplaces!
Glen Arbor and Empire both host an annual holiday market featuring a variety of artisans showcasing different types of gifts/work, with an emphasis on local and handmade products/artworks. There’s different artisans at both markets and plenty of time in the day for you, your friends and family to drive and shop both markets!
Plus, Saturday on November 28th is the nationwide #ShopSmall Saturday. Visit all the #SmallBiz around town for the Holidays! *Available at participating restaurants and shops.
PJ Party
Friday, November 27th, 2015 | 5am – 8am
The town’s version of the day-after-Thanksgiving shopping. Shop the downtown district stores in your PJ’s for extra special discounts and fun! Shops offer special discounts during this time on clothing, gourmet foods, household decor, Michigan/USA Made products, local Artisan gifts, Art, Jewelry, Toys and More! Shoppers can grab some coffee, baked goods and breakfast or lunch while in Glen Arbor that morning too.
Tree Lighting, Caroling & Holiday Market preview party
Friday, November 27th, 2015 | 6:30pm – 8pm
at the Glen Arbor Township Hall
Glen Arbor’s annual Tree Lighting and Caroling, located outside in front of the Town Hall, off of M-22/Western Ave. in downtown Glen Arbor. The Holiday Market “Preview Party” is located inside the Town Hall immediately following the tree lighting. Mingle, shop and get first picks of all the goods during the Holiday Marketplace preview party!
Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace:
Saturday, November 28th, 2015 | 10am – 4pm
in the Glen Arbor Township Hall
Shop locally made artisan goods at the Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace. During the market from 10:30am-3pm – Meet Santa & Mrs. Santa Claus! They will be at the Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace with some little toys and goodies! Bring the kids and your camera for some great fun and photo opportunities.
(If you are a vendor or artisan and have any questions, please contact Betsy at [email protected])
Empire Holiday Market:
Saturday, November 28th | 11am-5pm
in the Empire Town hall
Shop the Empire Artisan’s Market. Following the Market, will be a Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Village of Empire!
Comments Off on Holiday Market 2015 – Info + Application Form
Held at the Glen Arbor Township Hall
Friday, Nov. 27th – Set-Up | 2-7pm
Friday, Nov. 27th – Preview Party | Open to the Public for early shopping | 7-8pm
Saturday, November 28 – Glen Arbor’s Holiday Market | Open 10am-4pm
2015 Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace
Dear Previous and New Artists/Vendors:
The Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce will continue to hold the event for this year. As in years past, we have a limited number of booths to sell. Priority for acceptance into our Holiday Marketplace will be based on the following criteria as well as an attempt by our Committee to create a “balanced” show
with a variety of artisans showcasing different types of gifts / work.
Criteria will be based not only on the quality of your product, but the following as well:
• Date application and check is received
• Previous Participation
• Handcrafted Products / Artwork
• Chamber Members will receive priority consideration, but membership is not necessary
If you participated in last year’s show, you do NOT NEED to send any photos of what you would be
selling. If you are a new applicant to the Marketplace, please submit one or more photos of items you would be selling. Our 2015 Marketplace Committee will be meeting After Oct. 1st to review all
applications and finalize our Vendor Roster. We will notify you via email or phone by Oct. 15 as to your status. Again . . . Space is limited and while we may make some adjustments to floor plan this year, we only have 26-28 spaces available.
If you have any questions about this process please feel free to contact Betsy Webb, 2015 Holiday Market Chair, at [email protected] or call (231)334-4312. Our community is looking forward to a fun and festive event this year.
Please see the PDF APPLICATION for Marketplace Hours and Schedule.
Betsy Webb | Holiday Marketplace | Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce
The hard work and sense of community around here shined enough light to get us all through the week following the storm of August 2nd.
As of 8.7.15 evening – The power was restored in and around Glen Arbor!
It’s a great weekend and worthy to celebrate and enjoy this “Naturally beautiful” area!
Send a thank you to all the residents, business owners, tree/power/road crews that have come together and worked so hard all week! Maple City, Cedar and Leland got power back the day before.
While there was devastation, inconvenience, and loss this past week from the Storm on Sunday August 2nd – we’re all still counting our blessings to enjoy the beauty, community and solitude that our region brings. We’re staying thankful knowing that this storm is nothing compared to catastrophes that are felt around the globe.
The beautiful waters of Lake Michigan call you to take a hike. These TRAILS have been cleared and are NOW OPEN… Pyramid Point (all sections), Windy Moraine Trail, Bay View Trail, and Shauger Hill Trail. > Follow the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park on Facebook for updates.
Planning your Stay :
If your visiting the area and plan to stay at an Inn, Bed & Breakfast, Motel, Lodge, Resort or Vacation Rental, we recommend you call/contact the company, rental, or place you’re staying at before coming into town – if you haven’t been contacted already. They’ll be able to give you more specific and relevant information as it pertains to your rental, room and visit.
Summer’s not over…
…and the Seasons ahead still provide opportunity for year round getaways, northern Michigan beauty and recreation!
A visitor recently asked about friendly places downtown Glen Arbor for their classic cars. While the parking gets filled fast downtown in the height of the summer season, we’ll leave it up to you whether you care to park it in a public location.
However, there’s a place dedicated to pulling in your classic and mingling with other car buffs: Northwoods Hardware. They “Host The Classics” in their store parking lot, starting the 1st Thursday AFTER the July 4th Holiday, and every Thursday through the summer season.
“The theme of Cruise Night is to bring your classic hardware to the hardware,” said Don Drabik. From Glen Arbor Sun article.
The Classics start showing up at about 6:15 and will stay until about 8pm (weather dependent). Park your car and mingle. Northwoods is within walking distance of any local shops, galleries or restaurants you may also want to visit while in town.
All products and produce sold at our markets are made or grown within 60 miles of the farmers market. Buy Fresh, Buy Local!
The 2015 Season is here…
All markets are OPEN from 9am – 1pm
Suttons Bay Saturdays, May 9 – Oct 24
at North Park, intersection of M-22 & M-204
(601 Front Street)
Empire Saturdays, June 13 – Sept 12
Next to the Post Office
(10234 W Front St)
Lake Leelanau Sundays, June 14 – Sept 6
Corner of M-204 & Lake Leelanau Drive (112 W Philip Street)
Glen Arbor Tuesdays, June 16 – Sept 8 Behind the Township Office (6394 W Western Ave )
Leland Thursdays, June 18 – Sept 3
Leland School parking lot (200 N Grand Ave)
Northport Fridays, June 5 – Sept 11
at the marina (105 Bay St)
The Leelanau Farmers Markets is a non-profit organization started up with the initiation of the Leelanau Agricultural Alliance & MSU Extension with the goal of improving the marketing of local farm products and preserving county farmland.
Glen Arbor, Michigan: It’s that time of year again, the annual salute to the beginning of summer, with delicious local fare and the best of Northern Michigan micro-brews! This family-friendly Glen Lake BBQ and Brew Summer Celebration happens the third Saturday in June each year. This year the anticipated event falls on June 20th, 2015, from 2:00 – 8:00 pm.
The ever-growing celebration of summer features a variety of Michigan microbreweries, fabulous BBQ food and other great small plates from local food purveyors. In addition to craft beer, lots of great drink options are also available including non-alcoholic beverages and a Wine table! From 1-4pm will be great music and prize giveaways by The Brew Crew during their onsite live broadcast of ROCK 105 and THE BEAR 98.1. From 4-8pmThe Rick Hick’s Band returns from Muskegon to provide a flavorful mix of Blues and Motown.
This family-friendly event is located at the corner of M-22 and Lake Street, in downtown Glen Arbor, is just a short walk from Lake Michigan and your favorite Glen Lake shops, restaurants, galleries and recreation. From 2:30-4:30pm, Painted Lady Face Art will be doing face painting. During the event, other games/activities will also be available. From 4:30-5:30pm, will be a LIVE auction, with items to bid on like an authenticated M-22 Road Sign, recreation packages, wine tour tickets, and locally made art.
Admission is $15 per person, which includes an all-day wristband, plus four tickets to use toward the purchase of beverages. Food Vendors will be collecting cash for small or larger plates ranging from $5 to about $8. Children under 12 are FREE, with a reduced rate of admission for ages 13-20.
Comments Off on NEW section of Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail open for use!
The newest segment of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail (SBHT) from Fisher Road to Port Oneida Road opened on Friday May 22, 2015.
This segment adds about 3.5 miles to the 9.5 miles of previously completed trail. This portion of the trail includes 600 feet of boardwalk over wetlands along the west side of Westman Road and connects users to the Port Oneida Rural Historic District.
Port Oneida is perhaps the most complete early 20th century agricultural landscape, unique for the number of intact farmsteads which reveal a small closely-knit farming community founded in the early 1860’s and the evolution of agriculture from subsistence farming to cash crop, common throughout the United States. The 1.3 mile section of the trail within the Historic District has an aggregate surface. Much of the route follows a portion of the Bay View trail and winds through scenic forests, over beautiful rolling terrain, with short, but moderately challenging hills.
Comments Off on Calling all Beer Pourers, Gate keepers, Ticket Seller’s…
The BBQ & Brew Summer Celebration will run from 2:00pm until 8:00pm. We have about 80 shifts to fill, so invite friends to join us for some of the fun! If anyone is willing to help with set up please us know. Remember, all volunteers get free admission to the event, Saturday June 20th.
We have a lot of little details we could use help with, so if you first shift folks want to come earlier; we would gladly take the additional hands.
We would like the first shift volunteers to show up around 1:30, second shift is from 3:45-6 and the final shift 5:45-8:30. I am asking that the 6-8pm shift to stay a half hour longer to help with the clean-up.
Thank you all for your willingness to help and I look forward to speaking with you all soon.
Summer will soon be upon us. Why not celebrate by planning now for a summer full of enriching art experiences for the young people in your life? The Glen Arbor Art Association has a full line-up of fresh classes and inspiring teachers to stimulate creative development. To help you get started, we are running early bird discounts on selected children’s classes until May 15. All the details can be found at glenarborart.org so don’t go to bed tonight until you’ve checked it out!
We have new learning opportunities this year such as drama classes, metal-smithing, pottery, drawing and painting, and many more.
If you enjoy sharing experiences as a family or group of friends, our new customized classes might be just the thing. You choose what you’d like your group to learn about from six different options.
Comments Off on Glen Lake Restaurant Week | May 1st-9th 2015
Glen Lake Restaurant Week offers an array of dining options “From French Fries to French Cuisine.” Don’t miss this annual event happening the week before Mothers Day.
| Friday May 1st – Saturday May 9th, 2015
Restaurant week around Glen Arbor is a time to discover new local food at a great price, while dining at your usuals too! Throughout the week, show up to each restaurant on the list to experience a unique and mouthwatering time.
Participating establishments will offer their own appetizing 3 course prix-fixe dinner menus for $25. Some establishments will be offering $15 lunch specials as well.
NEW THIS YEAR:
Restaurant Week Passports will be available at each participating restaurant. Get one and take it to each place you dine to get stamped during Restaurant Week. The participants with the most stamps who return their Passport at the end of the week will be a part of a drawing to win local gift cards. We will personally contact the winner, as well as make an announcement via Glen Lake Chamber + Restaurant Week social media.
#foodie #foodporn #GlenArbor #eatlocal
Participating local Restaurants*
Art’s Tavern | 6487 Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI | P: (231) 334-3754
Comments Off on Results: Winter Fest 2015 | Chili Cook-Off + Fishing Contest
A lot of people came out Glen Lake Chamber’s Annual Winter Fest event. There was very nice community support, especially with the extreme winter weather conditions…below zero wind chills, white out driving conditions, drifting, and constant snow fall. (see image gallery below…)
Perch Fishing Contest Results…
Despite the almost un-fishable winter conditions, 52 people participated in the ice-fishing contest, Raising $520 For Glen Lake. Scholarship fund. By far the worst conditions in the 18 years running the tournament.
Ken Fosmore took 1st place with a 11 7/8 in Perch;
Second place was Joseph, an 11 in. fish;
Third place was Tim Egeler with a 9 7/8 incher;
and Sam Shimek with 8 3/4 in. fish.
Chili Cook-Off Results…
There were 425 Attendees, with generous donations, we had over $5,000.00 in proceeds! Proceeds will given to the Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce’s Glen Lake Scholarship Fund.
All but one Chili lasted, and the crowd gave up by about 2:45 pm.
Randy Chamberlain, Chef/Owner of Blu in Glen Arbor, with his son Logan took first place, by popular vote, with their Black bean-chorizo Chili topped with homemade frito’s. Their First win in 10 years….very proud!
The first time we’ve had The Homestead enter, taking 2nd place; Cherry Republic took 3rd, Anderson’s Market in Glen Arbor took 4th, and Bear Paw took 5th.
A visitor recently asked about friendly places downtown Glen Arbor for their classic cars. While the parking gets filled fast downtown in the height of the summer season, we’ll leave it up to you whether you care to park it in a public location.
Port Oneida is perhaps the most complete early 20th century agricultural landscape, unique for the number of intact farmsteads which reveal a small closely-knit farming community founded in the early 1860’s and the evolution of agriculture from subsistence farming to cash crop, common throughout the United States. The 1.3 mile section of the trail within the Historic District has an aggregate surface. Much of the route follows a portion of the Bay View trail and winds through scenic forests, over beautiful rolling terrain, with short, but moderately challenging hills.
