Hello, August! Traverse City Area Happenings
As summer begins to wind down, August offers that perfect blend of sun-soaked fun and laid-back charm. The water is still warm, the sunsets feel extra golden, and there’s a hint of “last call” in the air that makes every moment feel more magical. It’s the time for squeezing in one more festival, one more beach day, and one more memory before fall starts to whisper its way into the trees.
Whether you’re here for a long weekend or soaking up every last day of summer break, we’ve rounded up August’s can’t-miss events—plus the summer-long favorites still going strong. Let’s make it count!
🍑 August Adventures Around Traverse City
Summer-Long Events
May – August – Traverse City Pit Spitters Home Games
The Traverse City Pit Spitters are a collegiate baseball team that competes in the Northwoods League. They play at Turtle Creek Stadium.
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May – October – Interlochen Farmers Markets
Thursdays 2–7pm and Sundays 9am–2pm at Interlochen Corners. Over 60 vendors offering local produce, food, and crafts. Pets welcome!
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May – October – Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market
Wednesdays 8am–12pm and Saturdays 7:30am–2pm in downtown TC’s Parking Lot B. One of Michigan’s largest grower-only markets.
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June 10 – August 26 – Drop-In Tours at Dennos Museum Center
Join informal docent-led tours of rotating exhibitions every Monday at noon. Free with museum admission.
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June 12 – August 14 – Grand Traverse Pavilions Concerts on the Lawn
Free Thursday evening concerts on the beautiful Grand Lawn.
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June – August – Interlochen Arts Festivals
World-class performances by renowned artists, musicians, and up-and-coming stars.
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June – September – Traverse City Horse Shows
National-level hunter/jumper competitions run all summer long.
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🎉 August Events
August 1 – Downtown Street Sale
Deals and energy fill downtown TC during this annual open-air sale. A great way to shop and explore!
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August 1 & 8 – Friday Night Live
Live music, food vendors, and family-friendly fun on Front Street.
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July 30–August 2 – Elk Rapids Harbor Days (Fancy Family Favorite!)
A four-day small-town summer celebration with fireworks, parades, and more.
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August 1 – Silver Springs: A Fleetwood Mac Experience – City Opera House
Sing and sway to timeless hits in a gorgeous historic venue.
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August 2 – Cherry Rumble Scrimmage – TC Roller Derby
Skaters from all over the state converge for a $5 roller derby extravaganza.
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August 2 – Kenny Olson Rock-N-Hole Charity Golf Tournament – Elmbrook
Rock, golf, and give back with TC native and guitar legend Kenny Olson.
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August 2 & 3 – Suttons Bay Art Festival
100+ artists, food, music, and beachside charm in downtown Suttons Bay.
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August 3 – TC Dance Project Summer Tour – Open Space Park
Free outdoor performance followed by a Q&A with the artists.
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August 4–8 – Broadway Intensive – City Opera House
A five-day workshop for students exploring acting, music, and dance.
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August 3–9 – Northwestern Michigan Fair (Fancy Family Favorite!)
Carnival rides, livestock, concerts, and cotton candy galore.
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August 5 – Gala in the Gardens – Historic Barns Park
An enchanting night of dance, music, and community beneath the stars.
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August 7 & 14 – Music in the Street – Beulah
Open-air concerts along Beulah’s charming downtown sidewalks.
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August 8 – Hike the Ridge – GTRLC
Take a guided hike through this new conservation preserve with spectacular views.
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August 8 – Suttons Bay Sidewalk Sale
Seasonal deals and good vibes in this Leelanau gem.
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August 14 & 15 – Henry Cho Comedy – City Opera House
Clean, clever comedy from one of SiriusXM’s funniest regulars.
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August 21 – Jeff Daniels Live – City Opera House
Actor. Musician. Storyteller. An unforgettable night of entertainment.
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August 21–24 – Cedar Polka Fest (Fancy Family Favorite!)
Polka your heart out at this beloved Leelanau celebration of Polish culture.
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August 22 – Antoni Porowski (Queer Eye) – City Opera House
Food, fame, and fabulousness with TV’s Antoni Porowski.
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August 23 – Dishing it Out – City Opera House
Food TV stars dish on their culinary adventures and misadventures.
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August 28 – A Night with Chicago Transit – City Opera House
All the Chicago hits, all the horns, all the fun.
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August 29 – Loop the Lake – Boardman Lake Loop Trail
A scenic race on TC’s most beloved trail. Choose 4-mile, 8-mile, or relay.
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August 30 – Jeff Richards & Friends – City Opera House
Comedy from SNL and MAD TV alumni. Meet & Greet included!
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August 30 – Elk Rapids Arts & Crafts Show
60+ makers and creators line River Street with handcrafted goods.
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August 30 – Let’s Go Fly a Kite – Frankfort Beach
Free kites, blue skies, and lakeside joy.
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☀️ Don’t Forget the Everyday Fun
Between all the festivals and concerts, take time to enjoy the everyday magic of Northern Michigan. Some guest favorites include:
- Hiking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Wine tasting on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas
- Biking the TART Trail or hiking the Boardman River Trail
- Downtown shopping, coffee shops, and art galleries
- Boating or paddling on Grand Traverse Bay
- Golfing the area’s scenic courses
- Relaxing beach days at Clinch Park or Bryant Park
Plan Your August Escape
If July is about peak summer energy, August is about soaking in every last golden drop. With so much happening across the Traverse City area, it’s the perfect time to unplug, explore, and make memories. Dyer Lake Vacation Home offers the serenity of the forest with quick access to all the fun—book your stay now and discover your own slice of summer paradise.
Looking to stay in Traverse City?
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Traverse City? Our vacation home is centrally located, just minutes from Downtown Traverse City and an easy drive to surrounding activities. Whether you’re here to relax on the beaches, explore local wineries, or set sail on a sunset cruise, you’ll be right in the heart of it all.
Skip the extra fees—book direct and save! Or, if you prefer, you can reserve your stay through Airbnb.
📅 Ready to plan your getaway? Book now and experience everything the Traverse City area has to offer!
