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Thanksgiving Week Kicks off the Holidays in Northern Michigan

Thanksgiving is a busy weekend in Northern Michigan as several special events kick off the holiday season in style. While Black Friday is busy everywhere, in Northern Michigan it is more personal with shopkeepers greeting you to announce their specials.

Most events are held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving Day, unless otherwise noted.

Here's a list of events that typically take place:

Walloon Lake Village Lighting

Christmas in Indian River

9am-4pm – Shop unique, hand-made gifts from more than 100 vendors at the annual Christmas Craft Show at Inland Lakes School- 4363 S Straits Hwy, Indian River. For an application, visit irchamber.com.
5pm – Parade starts at Modern Pharmacy and ends at S. Straits Hwy and River St.
Following the Parade – Santa lights the Community Christmas tree.

Holly Jolly Boyne

Boyne City’s downtown sparkles for this family fun event. Businesses stay open, and the parade begins at 6 pm. Join Santa as he travels to the tree lighting in Old City Park.

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting in Charlevoix

Charlevoix kicks off the holiday season on the Friday after Thanksgiving with Children’s activities, Christmas parade at 5:30pm, and tree lighting at 6pm.

Harbor Springs Christmas Tree Lighting

Announcement of winners of the Holiday Decorating Contest
Santa meet and greet outside the Lyric Theatre- 275 E. Main St., Harbor Springs
Mailbox to Santa will also be located at the Lyric Threatre At 6pm, Celebrate a magical tradition in downtown Harbor Springs at the Christmas Tree Lighting
Following the parade, an ecumenical chili dinner will be held in the Holy Childhood Parish Hall- 150 W. Main Street. Homemade cookies and hot cocoa will also be available, courtesy of the American Legion Auxiliary and their sponsor, First Community Bank

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Discover Northern Michigan Events throughout the year!

Festivals & Events in Boyne City

Boyne City is a gem in Northern Michigan’s crown. This growing, bustling city has it all, including great festivals and events for all ages.

Easter Egg Hunts & Activities in Northern Michigan

There are many Easter Egg Hunts and activities to be enjoyed by families throughout Northern Michigan each spring.

Emmett-Charlevoix County Fair

The Emmet-Charlevoix County Fair is held at the fairgrounds on Charlevoix Avenue, and is a mix of carnival rides, food, exhibits, and more.

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Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Heritage Village Celebrates Mackinaw’s History

Mackinaw City’s Heritage Village lets visitors explore life in the Straits of Mackinac as it was during the era of 1880-1917.

Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum

Built during World War II to haul heavy materials during the winter, the Icebreaker Mackinaw was in service for 62 years then became a museum.

Cross Country Ski Trails

Just a short drive from Harbor Springs or Petoskey are more than a dozen Northern Michigan cross country ski trails in Emmet County.

The Mackinac Bridge in Northern Michigan

The Mackinac Bridge is the 10th largest suspension bridge (over water) in the world and connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsula.

Cross Country Skiing in Charlevoix & Boyne City

With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.

Kayaking Up North Is The Best!

Northern Michigan has many varied settings for kayaking- whether it by river, one of the inland lakes, or Lake Michigan,

Young State Park Near Boyne City

Young State Park outside Boyne City is a ‘year round delight for campers, hikers, snow lovers, swimmers and nature lovers.

Fisherman’s Island State Park

Fisherman’s Island State Park has more than 2,600 acres and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beach and is located just south of Charlevoix.

Ski Resorts in Northern Michigan

The many ski resorts in Northern Michigan have winter activities for the entire family including sledding, sleigh rides, tubing, and more.

Antiques

Shop Northern Michigan antiques shops, art galleries, and furniture stores for home furnishings that are unique and affordable.