Good morning, Traverse City.

Christopher Smith’s article in Grand Traverse Scene’s Holiday issue describes his late fall habit of eating waterfowl, venison and drinking bourbon—a routine that earned him a Christmas card from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

He explains with humor how chasing animals with fur, feathers and fins makes this season his happiest time.

On Monday, November 10, Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City held its Mariners Memorial Service to honor the 29 men who lost their lives on the Edmund Fitzgerald—white flowers were tossed into the water in tribute.

The City Opera House hosted an event by National Writers Series featuring Antoni Porowski — cook, actor, and author known for his role on Netflix’s Queer Eye revival and his book Antoni: Let's Do Dinner — that drew local guests eager to learn about his food and wine insights.

Local readers can enjoy two debut novels by Northern Michigan authors featured in Grand Traverse Scene magazine’s Holiday issue—free copies are available at area hotels, visitor centers, chambers of commerce, and the Record-Eagle building on Front Street.

Bay Area Transportation Authority is offering free rides on its fixed-route Loop buses today for veterans and active military as a thank you for their service.

Riders get half off every day when they show a military ID or a BATA reduced-fare card and may call 231-941-2324 for route and schedule information.

On Saturday, the Traverse City Tritons won their fifth consecutive Coastal Conference Championship at Paine Aquatic Center with 631 points.

Coach Megan Petroelje said the seniors played an important role — having helped win four straight titles.

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.

Men's Night Shopping Event

5-9 p.m. — Downtown Traverse City Association — Free entry — A festive shopping night dedicated to men with exclusive holiday deals and surprises.