Northern Michigan holiday events, music and authors all ring in November. Wrap your event in some small-town shopping and be sure to look out for all the ways you can give back in Northern Michigan.

Please note, as these dates approach,  some events may be modified, postponed or canceled to protect the safety of both event organizers and attendees. Check online or call ahead to confirm details.

2020 Northern Home & Cottage Virtual Home Tour // October 30–November 30

The Northern Home & Cottage Tour that you love is going virtual for 2020! Explore eight of Up North’s most stunning residences from the comfort of your own home through virtual video documentaries by MyNorth’s partner, Eagle Eye Video Production. This donation-only event benefits Child and Family Services of Northwest Michigan. Special thanks to our presenting partner, Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings. (Here’s a sneak peek of the eight homes!)

2020 “Virtual” Fundraiser Concert with Pico, Chown and Sears // November 6

Please join Miriam Picó, David Chown and Laurie Sears in concert in support and appreciation of the Music House Museum in Acme, near Traverse City. This will be a musical evening event filled with classic show tunes, jazz standards and songs such as, “Over the Rainbow,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “I’ll Be Seeing You,” and much more to make your senses soar!

A Virtual Evening with Bob Giles // November 10

The National Writers Series welcomes Traverse City author and veteran journalist Bob Giles to discuss his memoir, “When Truth Mattered.” His story takes readers inside the turmoil of the newsroom as bullets exploded at Kent State University, leaving four students dead and nine wounded. The free event will be held via Zoom. 

Shop your Community Days in Traverse City // November 12–14

For every purchase you make at 60+ participating stores from Nov. 12–14, 5 percent of the sale will be donated to the nonprofit organization of your choice. It’s a great way to get a jump on your holiday shopping.

Power of the Purse // November 14

This year’s 14th annual event will take place online, with some new and exciting ways to participate. The Gaylord fundraiser is hosted by Otsego County United Way. Ticket prices range from $15 for a link to shop the event, up to $50 for a box full of artisanal items to help you celebrate the evening. The auction link will be emailed to you on November 7 and will remain open for seven days. Purchased items will be available for pick up starting November 16 (unless you paid for shipping). 

“The Thanksgiving Play” // November 17

Parallel 45 Theatre performs a virtual staged reading of the award-winning play “The Thanksgiving Play,” followed by a National Writers Series interview with the playwright, Larissa FastHorse.

Suttons Bay Saturday Friends & Family // November 21

Do your holiday shopping and give back to the community. Participating merchants will donate up to 10 percent of their sales to an area nonprofit selected by you.

Light Up Leland for the Holidays // November 27

The annual lighting of the tree followed by a parade, caroling and treats with Santa.

Charlevoix Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting // November 27

Take advantage of Black Friday deals at downtown stores, get free photos with Santa and take part in the community tree lighting celebration, among other events.

Frankfort Tree Lighting & Santa // November 28

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Frankfort High School to pass out complimentary candy canes from 10 a.m.–noon. The tree lighting starts at 7 p.m. at Rotary Park.

Harbor Springs Tree Lighting // November 28

Celebrate the 105th anniversary of this magical tradition.

Photo(s) by Dave Weidner