Good morning, Traverse City.

Northwestern Michigan College, Central United Methodist Church and the Northwest Michigan Coalition to End Homelessness hosted the 10th annual Walk for Health & Housing on November 19 at 6 from the rear entrance of the church at 222 Cass St in Traverse City.

Ryan Hannon led a 90-minute tour downtown that highlighted service and volunteer opportunities during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week while free parking was available at Municipal Parking Lot B on North Cass St.

Robert Downes, an author, biker and songwriter, will perform a live show at the City Opera House at 6:30 p.m. today, featuring travel stories from his eight books and more than 100 songs — admission is free-will.

The Traverse City Police Department is planning its largest police presence ever at the tree lighting parade to keep everyone safe.

Officials say the move will help secure the celebration for the community.

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has unveiled the Santa Suite, a holiday-themed space with festive lights, trees, garlands, and family games that make guests feel at home.

Guests can book one or two-bedroom suites and enjoy Santa’s visits—every Saturday from the weekend after Thanksgiving until the Saturday before Christmas.

In October, Aspire North Realtors reported 276 homes sold in Grand Traverse, Antrim, Leelanau, Benzie and Kalkaska counties—a 12.2% increase over last October; year-to-date sales reached 2,276 homes, marking a 7% rise from last year.

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.

The Bergamot - A South Shore Christmas

7:30-10:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Cost info not provided — Experience soaring harmonies and heartwarming stories at this beloved Christmas tradition.

Christmas in the Village 2025

3-6 p.m. / 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — The Village at Grand Traverse Commons — Free entry — Celebrate the season with festive activities, shopping specials, and visits with Santa.

DMC Concert: Mr. Sun

6-7:30 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Ticket info available — Experience the innovative sound of supergroup Mr. Sun reimagining classical works through American roots music.