Traverse City located in Michigan is known to be one of the most favoured travel destinations due to its natural beauty and old-world charm. So, if you want to spend a relaxing weekend away from the city’s madness, then this small town with its tree-lined neighbourhood and beautiful historical buildings will be perfect for you. You can also spend some time learning about its thriving cherry industry. The region also includes vineyards, local eateries serving indigenous fare, and bayside beaches. Don’t forget to time your trip around the National Cherry festival that attracts more than 500,000 people in the first week of July. Here’s a rundown of the popular festivals in Traverse City, Michigan.
1. Festival of Trains
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Northern Michigan RailRoad Club on Saturday, July 26, 2014
The Festival of Trains in Traverse City began in 1991 as an annual event. What was to be a fundraiser for renovations of Opera House soon became a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Held in the Northern Michigan Railroad Club, this festival is one of the largest fundraisers for multiple charities in Traverse City. You can plan a day out with your kids to show them 0-gauge train models, along with HO-, S-, and G-gauges. There is a special train for kids too!
Festival of Trains
Address: Crooked Tree Arts Center, 322 Sixth St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Website: Festival of Trains
Takes place: December
2. VASA Festival of Races
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The North American VASA Festival, also known as the Festival of Races, started in 1977. It is during this time that community members participate in winter activities, such as country skiing. It doesn’t matter if you are a pro or a novice, Vasa has something for everyone. You can participate in classic ski races or skate-style. You can also become a part of fat bike races and a snowshoe race. All the festivities take place in Pere Marquette Forest. Choose your adventure and indulge in this amazing winter festival.
VASA Festival of Races
Address: 4050 E. Hammond Road Traverse City, MI US 49686.
Website: VASA Festival of Races
Takes place: February
3. Traverse City Restaurant Week
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are in Traverse City at the same time as Restaurant Week, you will get to experience the local cuisine and the best flavours offered in the town, all under the same roof. It is the perfect event for all the foodies out there who like to experience the culture of a place through their food. This week-long festivity includes some of the best eateries in the town that come together to showcase their culinary skills. It is also a great way to check out a new eatery. With 40 participating restaurants, you will be spoiled for choice.
Traverse City Restaurant Week
Address: Downtown Traverse City, Michigan
Website: Traverse City Restaurant Week
Takes place: February
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4. National Cherry Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are planning to visit Traverse City, you must time your trip around the National Cherry Festival. This cute little town is so much more than a summer celebration. The festival plans more than 100 events and activities, most of which are free. Kids can enjoy pie-eating contests, turtle races, and lots more! This food festival is a major tourist draw and one of the best ways to experience the city’s local culture.
National Cherry Festival
Address: 521 S Union Street, Traverse City, MI 49684
Website: National Cherry Festival
Takes place: July
5. Traverse City Boat Show
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Traverse City Boat Show is excited to welcome back Dewitt Marine to the show April 6-8!! http://www.dewittmarine.com/
Posted by Traverse City Boat Show on Tuesday, October 3, 2017
The Traverse City Boat Show is a fantastic event that displays a wide range of docks, ski boats, cruisers, paddleboards, and much more. All the boat lovers would especially enjoy the event as they get to meet the best boat dealers in the town. You can easily plan a family weekend to Traverse City around the same time to participate in this unique event and check out a fine selection of boats.
Traverse City Boat Show
Address: Grand Traverse County Civic Center, 1213 W Civic Center Drive, Traverse City, MI 49686
Website: Traverse City Boat Show
Takes place: March
6. Traverse City Chocolate Festival [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
These are SO CUTE! We all know and love Patricia's Chocolate. Thanks for their continued support. And YES, you CAN order from them. And what a cute shop! https://www.facebook.com/patriciaschocolate/
Posted by Traverse City Chocolate Festival on Monday, April 20, 2020
A good reason for all the chocolate lovers to head to Traverse City. The Chocolate Festival brings chocolatiers from around the state to talk about chocolates at length and taste some of the finest products. What’s more? Participants not only get to taste the yummy chocolates, but also enjoy activities like shopping, demonstrations, live music, and the celebration of Michigan’s chocolates. It is a great opportunity to experience the state’s culture up close and also indulge in some decadent chocolates.
Traverse City Chocolate Festival
Address: 300 E State Street, Traverse City, MI 49684
Website: Traverse City Chocolate Festival
Takes place: April
7. Great Lakes Equestrian Festival
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Do you love horses and all things equestrian? If the answer is yes, then you need to check out the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival, which is also the summer highlight of Traverse City. This 6-week show will take you inside the world of the 88-acre (36-hectare) premier equestrian venue that features top performances from some of the best global athletes. Come be a part of this unique event at the beautiful venue that will give you a glimpse into the action-packed world of equestrians and horse enthusiasts.
Great Lakes Equestrian Festival
Address: 6535 Bates Rd, Williamsburg, MI 49690, United States
Website: Great Lakes Equestrian Festival
Takes place: July or August
8. Traverse City Film Festival
Held in the month of July in Traverse City, this annual event celebrates the country’s homegrown films and art forms. If you love films, then this festival is the perfect place for you to immerse yourself in the beauty of cinematic arts. The festival also brings together filmmakers from around the world to showcase their talent. The inflatable outdoor screen in cool summers of Michigan only adds to the film-watching experience. You can also participate in the free panel discussion with the directors, actors, and other members of the film industry.
Traverse City Film Festival
Address: Traverse City Film Festival, c/o State Theatre, 233 E Front Street, Traverse City MI 49684
Website: Traverse City Film Festival
Takes place: July or August
9. The Taste of Traverse City Festival [Event has passed]
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Taste of Traverse City is a festival for the foodies. Spend a weekend binge-eating some of the finest culinary preparations from Michigan. Start with Friday Night Grub Crawl and conclude the weekend with a Sunday Brunch. You can sample a wide range of food options, with drink pairings to wash down the meals. Feel free to indulge in as many food samples to get the best taste. Culinary experts from all over the state participate in this event. So be sure to eat your fill.
The Taste of Traverse City Festival
Website: The Taste of Traverse City Festival
Takes place: September
10. Traverse City Summer Microbrew and Music Festival [Event has passed]
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Microbrew & Music Festival on Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Traverse City Summer Microbrew & Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind event in the city that brings beer and music together. Sample some local and international cuisines while enjoying live music performed by some renowned artists. This event is a fine mix of delectable foods, soulful music, craft brews, and plenty of fun activities. Be a part of this event to support local breweries, artists, and businesses.
Traverse City Summer Microbrew and Music Festival
Address: 2497 Ski Run Road Mancelona, MI 49659
Website: Traverse City Summer Microbrew and Music Festival
Takes place: August
Explore the small-town culture of Traverse City with its festivals
This picture-perfect small town attracts people from all over the country for its beautiful locales and famous cherries. The best thing about this town is that you can do things at your own pace. Therefore, it is ideal for slow travellers. Do time your visit around these popular festivals in Traverse City, Michigan, to get the first-hand experience of the local culture and traditions.
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