Gather with fellow friends and lovers of Leelanau to celebrate the Leelanau Conservancy’s 30th anniversary on Thursday, August 1 at the historic Dechow Farm in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Share a locally sourced, casual meal catered by Epicure Catering with beverages by Baia Estate and Arbor Brewing while enjoying entertainment from Cabin Fever String Band. The green, zero-waste event will have 100 percent compostable or recyclable food and beverage service items.

The Conservancy held its first “Friends Rally” in 1991. Today, the organization’s mission remains the same: to conserve the land, water and scenic character of Leelanau County. With the community’s support, the Conservancy has been able to protect more than 14,000 acres forever. In the same spirit as the first-ever gathering, rally to celebrate the past, present and future of the Leelanau Conservancy.

There will be guided hikes and bike rides at Palmer Woods Forest Reserve with Conservancy staff and docents before the event. Additional information and details coming soon. Executive Director Tom Nelson will give a celebratory address and toast at 6:30 p.m. followed by the Cabin Fever String Band, who played at the very first Leelanau Conservancy rally, from 5–7:30 p.m. The event concludes at 8 p.m.

Adult Ticket Menu
  • Cheese tray featuring locally made artisan cheeses, handmade crackers and condiments
  • Grilled local chicken breast sandwich on rustic white with pickled carrots and chimichurri (on side)
  • Minted local watermelon
  • Housemade radish, carrot and cabbage slaw
  • Double chocolate, dried cherry cookie
Children’s Ticket Menu
  • Cheese and crackers
  • Grilled chicken on plain pasta with Parmesan
  • Local watermelon
  • Double chocolate, dried cherry cookie

Tickets are on sale until July 25. Tickets will not be available to purchase at the door due to National Park regulations.

Photo(s) by Taylor Brown