Libby’s Picks is Back! Dive in as our MyNorth Media and Traverse Magazine Office Manager extraordinaire Libby Stallman shares the best events happening this weekend in Northern Michigan. Kick off summer with these Memorial Day and weekend events.

Do you have an upcoming event? Send it to Libby for the chance to be included in an upcoming Libby’s Picks: info@mynorth.com

Events on Friday, May 27

May 27 | Gasoline Gypsies at Encore 201 | Traverse City

Coming to Traverse City’s newest music venue, catch the Gasoline Gypsies at Encore 201. This band of four delivers original, genre-transcending rock music. Their songs are powerful and intense, yet simple and honest. Grab tickets here.

Events on Saturday, May 28

May 28 | Cars in the Park | Northport

Northport’s longest-running auto show Cars In The Park features awards for best Corvette, best Pre-War Classic, best Modified and more!

May 28 | Guided Wildflower Hike | Sleeping Bear Dunes

Take a guided tour of Northern Michigan’s stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes to kick off your extended weekend. Hikers will find spring wildflowers blooming along wooded trails, led by a local expert. Grab tickets here.

May 28 | Michigan Beer and Brat Festival | Thompsonville

Kick-off the summer season this weekend at this beer and bratwurst fest at Crystal Mountain. Enjoy live entertainment while sampling an enormous selection of Michigan’s finest microbrews, meads, hard ciders, wine, liquor and gourmet brats from northwest Michigan markets.

May 28 | Mackinaw City Memorial Day Parade | Mackinaw City

May 28 | Bayshore Marathon | Traverse City

The Bayshore Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K has become a Memorial Day Weekend tradition for running enthusiasts who want to share the beauty of the Grand Traverse Region and the Old Mission Peninsula.

May 28 | Comedy Night at Encore 201 | Traverse City

Get ready for a fun night of laughs at Encore 201, featuring comedy by Steve Lott. Known as the master of improvisation, Steve takes the audience along as he spins his bizarre tales of ridiculous life experiences. Grab tickets here.

Events on Sunday, May 29

May 29 | Summer Launch Party at The Little Fleet | Traverse City

The Little Fleet’s Summer Launch Party closes Wellington Street for a block party, with an amazing lineup of musicians, a special beer table and some unique and delicious treats. $15 pre-tickets or $20 at the door.

Memorial Day Events on Monday, May 30

May 30 | Alden’s Memorial Day Parade | Alden

May 30 | Summer Kick-Off Party | Leland

Celebrate Leland’s unofficial kick-off of the summer season for over 30 years. After a pause for two summers, The Cove is happy to bring back the annual “Here Comes the Sun” party! Live music featuring the Rick Lieder Band.

Photo(s) by Taylor Brown