Festival season isn’t over yet! Whether you’re planning an end-of-summer vacation or craving a weekend adventure, put these upcoming Northern Michigan festivals on your calendar for August and September.
Lobster Fest | Northport | August 20
It’s back! Fresh live lobster (or filet mignon), cherry dessert and delicious beverages are the highlights of this key fundraiser and festival held in support of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum at Leelanau State Park. The event will feature a silent auction, take-out or curbside service and live music, while proceeds benefit the continued restoration and preservation of the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse.
What else to do in Northport: This quaint village is located at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, making for great views of Grand Traverse Bay. Grab a bite at New Bohemian Café and head to Christmas Cove Beach for epic sunset views.
Photo by Lydia Mejia
B3 Festival | Gaylord | September 4
Start off September with an afternoon of beer, barbecue and blues at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. Eagle 101.5’s 5th Annual B3 Festival is a crowd favorite for locals and visitors alike. Headlining this year’s event is The Steepwater Band, sharing true southern rock and blues. Not only will visitors enjoy a traditional pig roast, but also a variety of Michigan craft brews. If you’re not into the roast, don’t worry, there will be plenty of food options including vegan dishes. Chairs and blankets are encouraged for a comfortable time at the resort.
What else to do in Gaylord: Did you know Gaylord is home to secret sinkhole lakes? (Perfect for a weekend adventure!) Follow along this epic journey to Lost Lake, one of seven sinkhole lakes in Northern Michigan’s Pigeon River Country State Forest.
Hops & Props | Manistee | September 17
Located in Manistee’s historic downtown area right along the riverwalk, the annual Hops & Props festival pairs Classic Century boats with Michigan craft beer, cider, wine and spirits. Michigan has over 250 craft breweries, but it’s also home to plenty of craft cider mills, wineries and distillers. So why not try some of them? You can taste your way through over 100 locally-crafted beverage options, play a game of cornhole or grab a bite from a local food truck, all while you listen to live entertainment.
What else to do in Manistee: First, we recommend a trip to First Street and Fifth Avenue Beach. Along River Street, you’ll also find great food options to satisfy your weekend cravings, small shops and the historic Vogue Theatre, a must-visit while you’re in town.
Photo by Manistee Hops and Props