Good morning, Traverse City.

Founded in 1839, Old Mission General Store on the Peninsula has served as a local hub where residents gathered and famous visitors including Babe Ruth and Henry Ford stopped by.

The site remains a cherished symbol of community history and tradition.

City Opera House Youth and Community Engagement Coordinator Brian Michael Raetz said the venue is planning arts programs for youths as summer nears and schools let out, offering local teens and children creative ways to explore and express themselves (details to follow).

Brian Oberlin of Lake Ann uses his mandolin to blend classical, bluegrass & swing music, captivating local fans with a fresh twist on tradition.

His evolving sound highlights a creative approach to classic tunes that continues to draw attention in the community.

Grand Traverse Musicale presents 'Around the World' featuring Doc Probes and scholarship winners Liam Bauer and Marella Mast at 2 p.m. May 14 at Mission Hill Church (6015 Center Road).

Guests can enjoy light refreshments after the performance.

On Friday, the DNR burned 142 acres in Union Township starting at 1 p.m. to remove overgrown brush and promote native plants, part of nine burns across northern Michigan intended to reduce overgrowth and support wildlife habitat in Otsego and Gratiot counties (weather conditions were monitored closely).

City officials are inviting residents to review and comment on the draft 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update released May 1 (comments accepted until the end of May) to shape future park improvements and secure federal and state funding.

5th Annual Asian American Pacific Islander Celebration

5-8 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free event — Celebrate culture and community with food, film, and poetry featuring local talents and diverse culinary offerings.

Great Lakes Child Safety Conference

The inaugural Great Lakes Child Safety Conference will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Traverse City Central High School, beginning at 4:00 p.m. The free conference is presented in collaboration with Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), Northwest Education Services, Rotary, and Traverse City Area Public Schools.

Spring Art Market

10 AM – 4 PM — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Engage with over 25 artists showcasing diverse media from painting to ceramics.

Traverse City Repair Cafe

10 AM – 2 PM — Traverse Area District Library — Donation-based — Bring your household items to be repaired by skilled volunteers and help reduce waste.

Astrophysics with Radioactive Isotopes 2026

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Hagerty Center — Registration fees apply — Explore the role of radioactive nuclei in astrophysics at this comprehensive conference.

GTAGS Monthly Genealogy Program

1-3 p.m. — Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Room — Free entry — Explore your ancestry at this engaging genealogy program open to everyone.

Butterflies & Brews Fundraiser

3-7 p.m. — Right Brain Brewery — $40 ($20 for under 17) — Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon featuring a butterfly release, silent auction, and kids' crafts supporting butterfly conservation.

Interlochen Summer Job Fair

1-5 p.m. — Traverse Area District Library — Free entry — Explore summer job opportunities in a variety of camp roles at this local job fair.