The Petoskey region is a hub of music and art, performaces of all kinds from local musicians to performers from around the world. “Petoskey Rocks” offers music and fun for all ages every week and Crooked Tree Arts Center serves as the backbone of the Petoskey arts community. Here are just some of the art and music opportunities to check out in a Petoskey summer.
Crooked Tree Arts Center
The Little Traverse Region has long been a haven for artists—and in Petoskey, the heart of that community is Crooked Tree Arts Center. Housed in an 1890-built Methodist church (in itself a work of art, with incredible architectural details and original stained glass), the center is a vibrant hub for creative and cultural happenings—from exhibits to live music to classes in art, music and dance. After wandering through the galleries, catch a performance in the 235-seat theater or peruse the Art Tree Gallery, a year-round shop with jewelry, pottery, paintings and other works for sale by local artists. This summer brings a special salon-style exhibit from Oil Painters of America, featuring lectures, workshops, and more than 400 works from some of the best oil painters in the nation. A must-stop on Petoskey’s annual Gallery Walk, held this year on June 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 461 E. Mitchell St., 231.347.4337, crookedtree.org.
Bay View Music Festival
Since its founding in 1875 as a Methodist retreat camp, the Bay View community has always had its roots in the fine arts and education. Each summer brings nine full weeks of entertainment—nearly a performance every single night—ranging from live music to theater arts to comedy. Visit Bay View online for performance dates and ticket information, and to learn more this season’s visiting artists series. bayviewfestival.org.
Blissfest
This annual family-friendly, feel-good celebration of music, art and culture is a highlight of the summer for its tight community of long-time attendees. Known for showcasing American roots and world music, the festival also features art and music workshops, a plethora of activities for kids, a juried arts and crafts show, rustic camping, and lots more. Cross Village, July 12-14, blissfest.org.
