Good morning, Traverse City.

The Kiwanis Club recognized Students of the Month by naming Brant Blodgett, a senior at Traverse City Christian High School active on student council, worship team, and in basketball — he plans to attend Northwestern Michigan College and join the Coast Guard.

State wildlife officials said fewer hunters joined deer season even as deer remain healthy, with a one-to-one buck to doe ratio (improving from past imbalances) that raises concerns for tracking the population.

MDOT warns drivers that road salt loses its effect when temperatures fall below 20° and even more so under 10°; crews now mix salt + sand to improve grip on icy roads while urging motorists to give extra space around MDOT vehicles.

The tribal council plans to install a highway sign honoring Native American Civil War soldiers on treaty land near Traverse City — a project set to use local bids and MDOT standards as state legislation stalls.

This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of these soldiers.

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.

Women in Tech Meetup – Traverse City

5-7 p.m. — Earthen Ales — Free entry — Connect and empower each other in a casual setting focused on women in tech.

Candlelight Concert: Christmas Carols on Strings

8:45 p.m. — Kirkbride Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas carols performed by the Listeso String Quartet under candlelight.

Dominic Fortuna’s Holiday Spectacular

4:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Hotel Indigo Traverse City by IHG — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of festive entertainment, delicious holiday dining, and nostalgic music.

Traverse City Track Club Jingle Bell Run

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Park Place Hotel and Conference Center — Free entry — Enjoy a festive holiday run through beautifully decorated neighborhoods with cookies and hot cocoa afterwards.

Traverse City New Year's Eve CherryT Ball Drop

10:30 PM – 12:30 AM — Downtown Traverse City Real Estate — Ticket info available online — Celebrate the New Year with a giant cherry drop and fireworks in the heart of the Cherry Capital.