Family-Friendly Events in Traverse City & Northern Michigan
Here's a list of family-friendly events and happenings around Traverse City and Northern Michigan.
For weekly storytimes, check out my list of area storytimes. For scheduled drop-in activities and playgroups, head to my Drop-In Activities & Playgroups guide.
Know of an event I should add? Email the details to thirdcoastkids.mi@gmail.com
Natural Ornament Workshop
“Celebrate the season with nature! Join us for a hands-on Natural Ornament Workshop, where participants will create one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments using natural materials like native milkweed seed pods, leaves, and other found treasures. Learn a bit about the plants behind the materials while crafting decorations that honor nature, creativity, and sustainability. Perfect for all ages and a cozy way to bring the outdoors into your holiday traditions.
Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.”
Light Up Downtown Traverse City
Kick off the holiday season in downtown Traverse City with holiday activities, treats, music, games, Santa’s arrival, and the official tree lighting at 6:30 PM at Cass & Front Streets. Afterward, stop by Santa’s House at Cass & State Streets.
Good to Know:
The tree lighting takes place at 6:30 PM.
More event details are still to come!
Traverse City Light Parade
Find a spot along Front Street to watch glowing floats, marchers, and decked-out vehicles light up the night at the annual Traverse City Light Parade.
Good to Know:
The parade begins at 6 PM and lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The route runs along Front Street from Franklin to Union.
Brunch with Santa at Black Star Farms
“Get into the holiday spirit and bring the family to Black Star Farms Suttons Bay for a memorable dining experience with Santa! Our warm, festive Inn will be the perfect backdrop for this family-friendly strolling brunch, including menu options that will surely delight your little ones and grown-ups.
In addition, our guest of honor, Santa, will arrive for those priceless photo ops in our holiday-decorated Inn!”
Tickets:
Ages 3 and under: Free
Ages 4–12: $24
Ages 13+: $52
Tickets are selling fast! Purchase tickets here.
Northwestern Michigan Ballet Theatre Presents "The Nutcracker"
Enjoy a holiday tradition with Northwestern Michigan Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker. Multiple performances take place throughout the weekend.
Tickets:
Adults: $22
Students: $12
View showtimes and purchase tickets here.
Interlochen Center for the Arts presents "The Nutcracker"
Experience the holiday classic The Nutcracker, featuring Tchaikovsky’s beloved music and a festive performance for the whole family. Multiple performances take place throughout the weekend.
Tickets:
Adults: $42
Children and college students: $19
View showtimes and purchase tickets through the Interlochen Center for the Arts
Breakfast with Santa at Grand Traverse Resort
“Join us for a magical Breakfast with Santa in Governors' Hall at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Delight in a festive breakfast buffet perfect for the whole family, complete with holiday favorites and seasonal treats. Kids can participate in holiday activities and crafts, plus enjoy special time with Santa himself!”
Adults: $38, Children 4-14: $18, Children 4 and under are FREE.