Good morning, Traverse City.

The Father Fred Foundation is hosting its annual garage sale this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Traverse City where visitors can buy clothing, shoes, houseware, glassware, toys plus antiques with all proceeds supporting foundation programs and volunteers still needed for cleanup.

On May 8, the blood bus parked at UpNorthLive Studios and 26 pints were donated to Versiti Blood Center, which can save up to 78 lives in our community.

This blood drive was the 11th hosted at UpNorthLive since 2020 and a total of 240 pints have been collected; the next drive is on Tuesday, July 22 from 12-5:30 p.m.

An investigation found that pilot error—using night vision goggles in unsafe conditions—caused a helicopter crash last February near Pine Valley that killed five service members, including 28-year-old Captain Miguel Nava from Traverse City.

NanBop Farm held an event — inside its hoop house — on May 8 where community members learned about local growing and sustainable food practices.

Traverse City's City Commission will meet Monday, May 12 at 400 Boardman Avenue — the meeting will include the second public hearing on the Annual Action Plan for the 2025-2026 Community Block Grant and a decision on the Special Land Use Permit for the Safe Harbor Emergency Shelter to operate year-round. Deputy City Planner Leslie Sickterman presented a plan outlining $365,323 in spending for affordable housing, infrastructure, and homeless services.

May is here and the Traverse City Bayshore Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K races will take place at the end of the month—drawing runners and walkers of all ages.

Executive director Lindsay McLaughlin said the event supports health and family recreation—bringing the community together.

Spring Art Market

10 AM - 4 PM — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Explore unique works by Michigan artists while enjoying springtime festivities and refreshments.

An Evening with Taro Yamasaki

5-8 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Explore powerful stories through the lens of Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Taro Yamasaki.

AI in the Prehistoric Great Lakes

7-9 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Explore ancient Great Lakes hunting sites and meet the scientists using AI to bring the past to life.

Recycle-A-Bicycle Bike Swap

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Old Town Parking Structure — Free entry — Discover a variety of used bikes and support local families in need through the Recycle-a-Bicycle program.

Traverse City Counter Day

11 a.m. — Young Supply Company — Free cheesesteak lunch — Enjoy mouth-watering cheesesteaks during this local community event.

Cherry Capital Comic Con 2025

5 PM – 5 PM — Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — Ticket prices vary — Northern Michigan's premier comic book and pop culture festival featuring panels, artists, and collectible vendors.

Bayshore Marathon VIP Experience

5:30-8 a.m. — Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center & Library — Complimentary access — Upgrade your race day with exclusive amenities and snacks to fuel your run.

Music Mondays at Blush Rooftop Terrace

4-6 p.m. — Alexandra Inn — Free entry — Unwind with live acoustic performances and craft cocktails while enjoying stunning rooftop views in Traverse City.

Northwest Michigan Art and Culture Summit

12 PM – 9 PM — City Opera House — Cost info not provided — Explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene at this community-centric summit across multiple venues.

The Big Run Celebration

6-8 p.m. — Hull Park — Free entry — Celebrate Global Running Day with a fun 4-mile run followed by a community party with food and drinks.