Habitat for Humanity - Flower & Garden Show

Habitat for Humanity Flower and Garden Show

More than 40 vendors set up displays at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center to the delight of gardeners, homeowners and those just yearning for a splash of spring color.

For more information please call (231) 941-4663.

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy's Winter Presrevation Celebration

February 8, 2009
9am to 2:30pm

The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy will host its Winter Preservation Celebration on February 7, 2009. The event offers free activities to encourage people to enjoy some of the Conservancy's 30,000+ acress of protected land with guided snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, interpretive hikes, special events for children, and more.
Events will occur at Hickory Meadows in Grand Traverse County, Pyatt Nature Preserve on Old Mission Peninsula, Elberta Dunes in Benzie County, Seven Bridges Natural Area in Kalkaska County, Maple Bay Natural Area near Elk Rapids, and Cosner Nature Preserve in Antrim County.
Following the events, participants are invited to attend a reception at Cafe Habana in Traverse City's Old Town from 12:30pm-2:30pm to enjoy live music performed by Angelo Meli, hot cocoa and light appetizers. All of the days activities are free and open to the public, but the Conservancy askes that those interested in attending please register on their web site www.gtrlc.org. The site also provides further information about the Winter Preservation Celebration, including details of the activities at each preserve and directions.

Phone: (231) 929-7911

5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament - Bellaire

June 22, 2008

Time: 2:30 PM
Location: Cedar River Golf Course, Bellaire
Grass River Natural Area and the Three Lakes Association will host its 5th annual Charity Golf Tournament. This four-person scramble will begin at 2:30 pm with a shotgun start. Cost is $100/person which includes 18 holes of golf with cart, skill prizes and a putting contest. The tournament is limited to the first 128 golfers. For a copy of the registration form contact the number below or visit the website above.
Contact Information: Grass River Natural Area office
Phone: (231) 533-8314

Butterfly Walk - Omena

June 5th, 2008

Time: 10:00am
Location: Saving Birds Thru Habitat, Omena
Michigan State University Extension entomologist Erwin "Duke" Elsner will present a program at the Discovery Center in search of night-flying insects including moths, belts, mayflies and many other groups. Plan to stay late. Action picks up as the night goes on. Be prepared for cool weather and mosquitoes. Bring a flashlight. Space is limited and reservations are required in advance. Call (231) 271-3738 to reserve your space.

TraverseCityVacationer.com

Horse Shows by the Bay - Traverse City, Michigan

Horse Shows by the Bay

This three-week equestrian festival boats four arenas and a $25,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix each Sunday. It also includes a $10,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Junior-Amateur Owner Jumper Prix, Young Jumper Classics, Hunter Classics and the Zada Enterprises. LLC Dressage by the Bay shows. More than $350,000 in cash prizes and points for national awards are awarded during the event.

The National Cherry Festival 2008: US Navy Blue Angels!

When: Saturday, July 5 Opening Day Sunday, July 6 Start Time: 1:00 PM End Time: 3:00 PM

Join us for the 82nd National Cherry Festival Air Show, sponsored by Northern Michigan Toyota Dealers, Sam's Club and Charter Communications on Saturday, July 5 and Sunday, July 6 for an exciting airshow. Friday July 4, will also be an active day with a full practice airshow as well as a festive Twilight Airshow event prior to the Fireworks display over West Grand Traverse Bay.

Join us in welcoming the 2008 Air Show performers...

The US Navy Blue Angels Demonstration Team, Aeroshell Aerobatic Team, USMC AV-8B West Coast Demonstration Team (MCAS Yuma, Arizona), 2x McDonnell Douglas F-15D (114th FS "Eagle Beavers", Kingsley Field, Oregon),2x Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II (172nd FS "Mad Ducks", Battle Creek, Michigan), 4x USMC F/A-18 (VMFA-122 "Werewolves", MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina).

The flight pattern is over the Festival Open Space Park and West Grand Traverse Bay. The Festival Airshow will take to the skies at 1:00 p.m. both days.

Traverse City: 2008 Boat Show

2008 Traverse City Boat Show

Location: Grand Traverse County Civic Center - Howe Arena

This is your best chance to see a huge selection of watercraft all under one roof featuring special boat show pricing and readily-available financing. As residents of Michigan we have super easy access to the best fresh water lakes and rivers in the world. Don't put off purchasing your new boat any longer. Take advantage of low pricing, incredible selection and one-stop shopping at the Traverse City Boat Show. Hours: Friday & Saturday - 10am - 9pm and Sunday - 10am-4pm. Admission: $5 for Adults and Children 12 and under $1.
Contact Information: Andrew McDonald
E-Mail: info@traversecityboatshow.com
Phone: (231) 775-9900

Traverse City: 17th Annual Northwest Michigan Camper & RV Show

17th Annual Northwest Michigan Camper & RV Show

Location: Grand Traverse County Civic Center, 1213 W. Civic Center Dr., Traverse City, MI
Friday & Saturday - 11am to 9pm, Sunday - 11am - 5pm. Fees $5.00 Admission. Kids under 12 years are free. Friday Seniors Admission is $4. All types of new, year 2008 recreation vehicles-over 50 units and over 15 brands displayed; folding campers, motor homes, travel trailers and fifth wheel travel trailers.
Contact Information: Bill Sheffer
Phone: (800) 422-6478

TRAVERSE CITY VACATIONER

Traverse City: 10th Annual Easter Festival

10th Annual Easter Festival

Time: 10:00am
Location: Traverse City Central highschool Gynmasium
10,000 Easter eggs filled with candy and prizes are dropped on three fields for three age groups: 0-3 years, 4-6 years, 7-10 years old. And for a special prize, one egg on each field has a certificate for a new bicycle (one bicycle per age group courtesy of Meijer)! Other activites include face painting, coloring, photo opportunites with the Eatser Bunny and Sly The Fox, balloon animals, a clown and more!

TRAVERSE CITY VACATIONER

Traverse City Old Town Playhouse: Into the Woods

Arts & Culture (Fri. Sat. )
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: 148 E. Eighth Street
Website: http://www.oldtownplayhouse.com/
An ambivalent Cinderella? A blood-thirsty Little Red Ridinghood? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? A Witch...who raps? They're all among the cockeyed characters in James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim's fractured fairy tale musical. When a Baker and his Wife learn they've been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell, swindling, lying to and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the beanstalk). Everyone's wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results. What begins as a lively irreverent fantasy in the style of “The Princess Bride” becomes a moving lesson about community responsibility and the stories we tell our children. One of Sondheim's most popular works, this timeless yet relevant piece is a rare modern classic. Individual Tickets Go on Sale Monday, February 25 at 4 p.m.
Phone: (231) 947-2210

Lodging? Goto: TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER .COM

Morning Stroll on the Boardman Lake Trail

We will meet at the front of the library, and then head out for early signs of spring along the east side of Boardman Lake. Feel free to join us for lunch afterwards at a local restaurant. This will be an entry-level outing, so if the weather is really crummy, we'll reschedule it. Please contact Judy or Bob for details and to sign up bennettjj@charter.net or phone (231) 932-9249. We want to be able to notify you in case of cancellation.

for lodging: TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Leelanau: Taste the Passon - Wine, Chocolate & Love

Taste the Passion ~ Wine, Chocolate & Love
02/09/2008 - 02/10/2008

The annual Taste the Passion weekend celebrates wine, chocolate and love in anticipation of Valentine's Day! The combination of winter's beauty in Leelanau with the special pleasure os life always makes for a wonderful weekend. Each person will receive a souvenir glass at your first stop and each winery will offer you a special wine pour. To add to the weekend, many wineries will be hosting special events that celebrate the beauty and fun to be had in our region in wintertime. Attendance is limited. Tickets are just $30 each and may be purchased online at www.lpwines.com.

For Lodging Visit;
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Grand Traverse Hiking Club - Snowshoe Outing

01/16/2008
Every Wednesday evening through the winter, people will meet at 6:30 in Parking Lot K behind Munson Hospital (at the side closest to the hill) with snowshoes, and hike for 1 to 1-1/2 hours and then adjourn to Sleder's for food and/or beer. Trip will go only if there is sufficient snow. You do not have to call to sign up, this is a "show and go" type of outing. Contact Debby or Mike if you have questions pagedebby@yahoo.com. If you wish to call, please do so after 5 PM (231) 947-9379.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Wine Immersion Seminar - Chateau Chantal: Old Mission Peninsula

01/19/2008
Wine Immersion Seminar at Chateau Chantal with winemaker Mark Johnson. Seminar includes an overview of winemaking, viticulture and food and wine pairings, plus lunch, multi-course dinner, learning materials and instruction. 11 am through dinner, $135.
Old Mission Peninsula (231) 223-4110
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Luau at The Lakeview: Shanty Creek Resort

Luau at The Lakeview

When: 12/31/2007

Ring in the New Year in Style at Shanty Creek Resorts! Shanty Creek Resorts is turning into a tropical paradise! Our Hawaiian-themed New Year's Eve Party takes place in the Grand Ballroom at The Lakeview Hotel & Conference Center and will feature a delectable Hawaiian buffet and family friendly activities including a costume contest, dance contest and DJ's playing hits, sure to get those grass skirts swaying. Adults $35, Teens (13-17) $25, Children (4-12) $15 and Children 3 and Under Free! 7:00 pm - 12:30 am. Aloha attire is optional. To make reservations for, please call (800) 678-4111 x 4400. For more information, please contact our Director of Events & Activities at (800) 678-4111 x 7860
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

A Holiday Serenade: Omena, Michigan

A Holiday Serenade - Celebrating the Season in Omena

When: 12/30/2007

Presented by the Omena Historical Society, the program will include a variety of musical styles from Gospel to classical, instrumentals and vocals, with a lively sing-a-long to close. Musicians include Eva & T.J. Lymenstull, the Boyer Family, Marshall & Mary Collins, Mike Moran, Karen Remington and Donna Brunsma, The Trillium Quartet, and Steve Stanton & Ruby John. At the Omena Presbyterian Church, 7 pm, tickets are $15, available at the Tamarack Gallery or by phone at 386-5529.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Frozen Foot Race - Eastern Elementary Start/Finish

The Frozen Foot 5-Mile Road Race!
When: Saturday, January 19th, 2008 at 10:00am
Where: Start/Finish at Eastern Elementary School
1600 Eastern Avenue
Traverse City, MI 49686

Race Day Registration & Packet Pick Up:
Race day from 8:30-9:30am at the start/finish location
Course:
Expect a "figure 8" course, mostly flat with a 1km climb.
Entry Fee:
$15 prior to January 19th
$20 Race Day
Entry fee includes winter hat (limited supply)

Click here for downloadable entry form

Checks are made payable to:
The Traverse City Track Club
Mail entries to:
Running Fit
300 East Front Street, Suite 103
Traverse City, Michigan 49684

Awards:
Awards will be handed out to the top 3 in each age group and the overall winners.
For more information call: 231-933-9242

Traverse City: Big Business - Silent Film Series

Silent Film Series: Big Business
12/29/2007
Starring Laurel and Hardy and 'One Week' starring Buster Keaton - Stephen Warner, Organist. At the Music House Museum. Adults $15; Couples $25, 16 and under $5. Matinee 5 p.m.; evening 7:30 p.m. 7377 US 31 N., Acme. (231) 938-9300.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Downtown Chili Cook-Off !

When: January 19th, 2008
11:30am - 3:00pm
Area restaurants compete for top honors in this favorite cook-off, which is held at the Park Place Hotel inside the "dome." Bring your appetite and get ready from some good ole winter time chili!
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Men's Night - Holiday Shopping - Downtown

When: 12/20/2007
Men’s Night Gentlemen, the evening is yours for gifting and gabbing! Celebrate the spirit of the evening as well as the season at Men’s Night Downtown. The gents can enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drink specials at Downtown eateries to begin the evening. Downtown merchants will have in-store specials, gift wrapping, refreshments and downtown prize drawings. Take advantage this special night of in-store specials while enjoying refreshments, entertainment and drawings to find the perfect gift for that special someone. Downtown Traverse City Association. 922-2050.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Northport: Christmas Concert at Northport Community Arts Center

12/16/2007 December 16, 2007 - Sunday. 3 pm.
It has become a tradition to start Christmas in Northport with this festive concert. The Village Voices, under the leadership of Ann Bloomquist and the Northport Community Band, conducted by Ken Bloomquist, are together once again for this most anticipated performance. Here we go again with a full spectrum of holiday cheer. You can expect to hear the songs you all know and love along with a sprinkling of delightful new music. It will be done with spectacular staging, lighting and sound that should dazzle the imagination. This concert presents more than just the Village Voices and Community Band ensembles. We are fortunate to have talented musicians in our groups and in the surrounding area that we will add to the program. Surprises are to be expected so come join us for An Old Fashioned Christmas at the NCAC. Northport Community Arts Center 231-386-5001. Adult Ticket: $15 Student Ticket: $5.00.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Old Town Playhouse - Disney's Mulan

Disney's Mulan at Old Town Playhouse
12/14/2007 - 12/16/2007
Based on the 1998 Disney film Mulan and the story FA Mulan by Robert D. San Souci. Travel back to the legendary, storytelling days of ancient China with this action-paced stage adaptation. Mulan Jr. is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirt. 7 p.m. Sunday's performance is at 2 p.m. Suitable for all ages.
Old Town Playhouse, 148 East 8th Street, Traverse City. (231) 947-2210
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City Vacationer™ Gets New Look!

Traverse City Vacationer - What started out as an idea has grown into a collection of several Traverse City and Leelanau rental properties. While at first I really liked the "black" theme of the site leaning on my photography gallery preferences, it was time for a new look for the Traverse City Vacationer, something more in tune with what it has become, vacation rental listings. I decided to get in line with a beache-er theme as that is what the site is mostly about, summer time fun in the sun with several locations to do so. The new site has a simpler contact method with e-mail links instead of dreaded "forms" to fill out. Just click the e-mail link and type...it's fast and easy. This puts the perspective renter in contact with the owner or manager of that particular property. I'm still transfering listings from the "old" site, so expect to see more listings pop up over the next couple of weeks.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City's National Cherry Festival - 2007

The National Cherry Festival is a festival in Traverse City, Michigan in Northern Michigan. Founded in 1926, the mission of the National Cherry Festival is to celebrate & promote cherries. It also serves to promote tourism and community involvement, and to enhance the economic, entertainment, and cultural interests of the Grand Traverse region.
Every year more than 500,000 attendees enjoy the National Cherry Festival, which is now in its 80th year. Families can enjoy many kinds of activities from cherry pit spitting and pie eating contests, to the Grand Royale Parade in which the newly crowned Cherry Queen greets the crowds.
Originally held in mid- to late July to coincide with the cherry harvest, the Festival was moved to early July to take advantage of the July 4th weekend. Cherries are harvested with a "shaker", that quickly vibrates the trunk of the cherry tree and the ripe cherries fill off into a large, expandable tarp.[1] During the harvest approximately 200,000,000 pounds of tart (Montmorency) cherries are harvested. Other cherries, including sweet cherries and Balaton cherries are also harvested. The moderate climate, caused by the proximity of Lake Michigan and the sandy soil are why cherries grow so well in the region.
Traverse City is the self-proclaimed "Cherry Capital of the World" and is in the Guinness Book of World Records, for baking the world's largest cherry pie (the pie was 17' 6", weighing in at 28,350 pounds), unveiled at the festival on July 25, 1987. This replaced the pie baked nine years earlier in Charlevoix, Michigan. This record was held until July 14, 1990, when a pie weighing 37,740 lbs 10 oz, 20 feet in diameter was baked and eaten by approximately 1500 people in Oliver, British Columbia (the Wine Capital of Canada).Source: Wikipedia.com

Parallel 45 - Wine Dinner

''Parallel 45'' Wine Dinner
Mar 23, 2007

Visit Bowers Harbor Inn every other Friday night throughout the winter months as they present a series of very special dinners from some of the great food and wine regions of the world - all located on the 45th parallel. Chef Colin Beaumier has created outstanding five-course menus, and each course will be paired with an exciting regional wine to complement. This Friday 'Northern Michigan' cuisine will be featured - price is $65 per person in advance or $75 at door, plus tax and gratuity. Please call (231) 223-4222 for tickets or more information. Bowers Harbor Inn is located on the Old Mission Peninsula at 13512 Peninsula Drive, Traverse City.

Traverse City Film Festival

Jul 30 - Aug 5, 2007

The Traverse City Film Festival will be an annual event in Northern Michigan. The 3rd annual film festival will have more films, more days, more venues, more activities, and more fun. There will be more parties and premieres, more family and children's films, as well as more panel discussions featuring actors, directors, writers and other film industry representatives. More details to follow. For more information call (231) 392-1134 or visit www.traversecityfilmfestival.org.