Good morning, Traverse City.

Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation announced a $400,000 award to improve Vasa Trailhead Park, with work expected to begin soon to enhance local recreation.

Michigan officials reported a shortage of youth care facilities has forced some families to seek out-of-state placements as available beds dropped from 1,200 in 2020 to 398 today.

State representatives are working with providers to change policies and keep care local.

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.

New Year, New Garden: Landscape Design Workshop

10 AM - 2 PM — The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park — Cost not specified — Enhance your gardening skills in this immersive two-day workshop led by expert Matthew Ross.