Satisfy your inner foodie with these eight winter festivals, dinners and wine-tasting excursions taking place across Northern Michigan from now through mid-February. Hosting a local event? Let us know! info@mynorth.com.
Unpack your lederhosen and enjoy a taste of the Alps at this upcoming winter festival. Take on the ski trail system at the Cross Country Ski Headquarters, join contests, and then the highlight of the event includes delicious Bavarian fare. Think soft pretzels, sausages, sauerkraut, and of course, German beer. The festival runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Celebrate winter in Northern Michigan with live music and an epic chili face-off at the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Running from 2-6 p.m., the cook-off will feature homemade chili recipes from local businesses, while you enjoy music by the band “Knee Deep,” yard games and a bonfire.
Beat your cabin fever with Pure Ludington Brrrewfest! During this weekend festival, Michigan breweries head to Ludington to offer festival-goers a taste of the best and most unique flavors of beers, wines, ciders and meads from all around the state. The event runs from 1-6 p.m. and is held at Legacy Plaza.
There’s nothing quite like a magical winter dinner served in an igloo! NanBop Farm will host a 3-course meal by Gabe’s Old Fashion Foods, featuring Braised Lamb, Beets & Chevre Bruschetta, and a delectable dessert to top off the evening.
The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is bringing back an old favorite: Sips & Soups. This two-day event features hand-selected wine paired with a sample of soup from each of the participating wineries. While ticket holders can travel along the peninsula at their own pace, reservations are highly recommended and may be required for larger groups.
Spend a winter weekend exploring the beautiful Sturgeon River Valley during this wine walk at Otsego Resort. Along the way, you’ll taste delicious wines at three stations and warm up at a toasty bonfire when you reach the end of your walk.
Make your winter weekend extra cozy with a guided cross-country ski tour at Bel Lago’s North Farm, paired with delicious refreshments and soup. This 2-mile trek is a great way to work up an appetite for the wine tasting to follow. The event runs 2-6 p.m.
Head to Suttons Bay for a Saturday winter weekend filled with chili, a scavenger hunt, and a hockey tournament at the outdoor ice rink. The chili cook-off starts at 2 p.m., including recipes prepared by local restaurants. Bring your little ones for face painting, a free movie, and hot chocolate!
Photo by Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce