Good morning, Traverse City.

Local groups and businesses are stepping up to help those hurt by the federal shutdown — the Traverse City Film Festival is offering free movie tickets at the State Theatre for SNAP recipients and laid-off workers, while grocers like Bayside Market and River Street Market distribute food — as food banks brace for rising demand.

Traverse City has posted a calendar of holiday happenings for the season & the page shares today’s weather forecast with a high around 50°F and a slight chance of rain.

Organizers plan local events to bring the community together during the festive period.

Three Trees Vineyard in Suttons Bay channels Rembrandt’s classic style by recreating a landscape of a couple fishing on a pond, distant waters, and three trees on a hill—merging art with nature.

The venue invites guests to sip wine in a setting that evokes the calm feel of a 17th-century etching.

Troy DeShano, executive director of the Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network, said northern Michigan’s arts ecosystem grows stronger when people and ideas join together in galleries, theaters, and public art installations.

He explained the network works to spark connections that help local art and culture thrive.

A small craft advisory remains in effect until 5 AM EST Saturday in Grand Traverse Bay as gusts reach 30 kts and waves peak at 8 feet — inexperienced boaters are urged to avoid the hazardous conditions.

Traverse City Central earned its 13th win against West, defying the idea that 13 is unlucky.

The team added to its winning season record with a strong performance.

Onekama won its sixth straight district volleyball title by sweeping Suttons Bay 25 to 15, 25 to 16, and 25 to 23 in Bear Lake — the win capped a season of hard work and strong play.

Kingsley's volleyball team swept Manton 25-19, 25-17, and 25-12 to win a second district championship and will now practice hard for the upcoming regional semifinal (as they build on tonight's win).

Joe Hill: King Sorrow Book Talk

7-8:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Ticket with book purchase — Engage in a chilling conversation about Joe Hill's latest novel, King Sorrow, followed by a Q&A and signing.

Nathan Graham and Noah Guthrie Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of soulful Americana music with two rising stars in the genre.

Traverse City Light Parade

5:30-9 p.m. — Downtown Traverse City Association — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with Santa’s arrival, a tree lighting, and a vibrant light parade down Front Street.

Traverse City Turkey Trot

8:45 a.m. — St. Francis High School — Kids under 3 free — Celebrate Thanksgiving with the 18th Annual Turkey Trot featuring a fun 5K run/walk and 5-mile race.

2025 Mac & Cheese Bake-Off

10 AM – 5 PM — Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail — Ticket sales begin October 1st — Experience the ultimate pairing of seasonal wines with inventive Mac & Cheese dishes from top chefs.

Dennos Brand Refresh Presentation and Q&A

2-3 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Community members gather to learn about the Dennos brand updates and engage in a Q&A session.

Visible Mending Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Materials provided — Learn creative sewing techniques while mending garments or making soft-sculptures from scrap fabric.

Make Your Own Fresh Holiday Wreath

10 AM – 12 PM — The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park — Tickets limited — Create a handcrafted wreath using fresh evergreens and natural accents to celebrate the holiday season.