Events

Pure Michigan February Events Roundup

February 1, 2012

in Events,Posts by Region,What's Happening This Month

February in Pure Michigan means winter fun, food and family events. From award winning musicals to winter sporting events, there’s something for everyone this month. For more suggestions of things to do this month in Michigan, visit michigan.org.

Southeast

African American History Day
February 4, 2012, Detroit
Join in the celebration of African American history and culture as the Detroit Historical Museum kicks off Black History Month with this annual event. Find gifts from our Artists Market, learn from historical organizations and neighborhood organizations in the area, and bring kids to enjoy entertainment and a caricature artist. Renowned storytellers Ivory D. Williams and Shanta and the Kidz Art Zone will provide enthralling experiences for children. For more information, visit the event website or call (313) 833-1805.

Toy Collectible Show
February 4, 2012, Jackson
The Toy Collectible Show will take place on the Jackson Fairgrounds, inside the heated fair events center. Attendees can browse more than 155 tables featuring toys from Nascar, Hotwheels, Star Wars, Pez, Matchbox and more. Show information is available by calling (517) 524-8899.

Love, Loss and What I Wore
February 8 – March 4, 2012, Detroit
Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron’s Love, Loss, and What I Wore, an intimate collection of stories covering some of life’s most poignant moments and their corresponding wardrobe, will appear at Detroit’s historic Gem Theatre this month. The evening of vignettes, which is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Ilene Beckerman as well as personal reminiscences from the Ephrons and their friends, will feature a cast of five powerful actresses. Tickets are on sale at the Gem Theatre and Fisher Theatre box offices, at all Ticketmaster locations, online at ticketmaster.com and by calling (313) 963-9800 or (800) 982-2787.

Detroit Boat Show
February 11 – 19, 2012, Detroit
The Detroit Boat Show is the original, biggest and best boat show in the state of Michigan, featuring the premiere showing of hundreds of new 2012 and non-current model boats, motors, trailers, accessories and more. For more information call the Cobo Center at (800) 338-7648 or (313) 338-7648.

Motown Winter Blast 2012
February 11 – 13, 2012, Detroit
Motown Winter Blast is a unique combination of hip and fun winter events that are centered on Campus Martius Park. This year we are celebrating Motown with a fun celebration you will not want to miss. For more information, please visit the event website.

Storytelling Festival
February 18 – 19, 2012, Ann Arbor
Each year The Ark revives the oldest of all the arts with the February Storytelling Festival, featuring talespinners from far and wide. Sunday’s program features kid-oriented stories from 2012 Storytelling Festival artists. For more information, visit the event website or call (734) 761-1800.

Fire & Ice Fest
February 24 – 26, 2012, Rochester
Downtown Rochester’s much-anticipated winter festival features ice sculptures, ice skating, a tubing run, fireworks, and a taste fest inside the warming tent featuring beer and wine provided by Rochester Mills Beer Company. For more information, contact (248) 858-5437.

Shrek The Musical
February 28 – March 11, 2012, Detroit
Shrek the Musical, which tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land, comes to the Fisher Theatre at the end of the month. Joined by a wise-cracking donkey, this unlikely hero fights a fearsome dragon, rescues a feisty princess and learns that real friendship and true love aren’t only found in fairy tales. For more information on this performance, visit the website or call (313) 872-1000.

Southwest

Ice Breaker 2012
February 3 – 5, 2012, South Haven
Come Enjoy “The Four Seasons of South Haven” Ice Breaker 2012, where the Lake Michigan resort community of South Haven will heat up as it celebrates the 19th annual Ice Breaker festival. A major focus of the event is the sculpting of more than 50 blocks of ice, weighing 300 pounds each, into dazzling displays themed by “The Four Seasons of South Haven.” For more information, visit the event website or call (269) 637-5171.

Winter Blues Festival
February 11, 2012, Marshall
Winter Blues are usually a bad thing but not at this event! This is your chance to enjoy some great live blues music, enjoy dinner (catered by Roma’s Corner Café), or participate in several workshops offered. For more information, visit the event website or call (269) 789-9677.

Kalamazoo Live Green Fair & Home Show
February 18 – 19, 2012, Kalamazoo
The Live Green Fair and Home Show helps families live a healthier life, while saving money and energy too! The show offers products and services from over 60 exhibitors to help families live a greener life. For more information, visit the event website or call (734) 320-5322.

Great Scrapbook Show
February 24 – 25, 2012, Kalamazoo
Shop a large selection of paper crafting products at this scrapbooking and stamping show. For more information, visit the show website or call (810) 287-7711.

Upper Peninsula

International 500 Snowmobile Race
February 4, 2012, Sault Sainte Marie
Mark your calendar for the first Saturday in February and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime, and get ready to see drivers accelerate to speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour on the straight-aways! For more information, visit the event website or call (989)808-5266.

Michigan Ice Fest Family Activities
February 4, 2012, Munising
Different family events throughout the afternoon include the annual cardboard classic, a 5K snowshoe relay, children’s activities and games, food and beverages and a free shuttle to the Michigan Ice Fest climbing activities. Activities are in and behind the American Legion. For more information on this event call (906) 387-2138.

UP Snow Softball Tournament
February 11 – 12, 2012, St. Ignace
Come join the fun as teams compete against each other in the UP Snow Softball Tournament! Teams of 9-12 players will battle the elements as they vie for top honors. This game gives new meaning to the phrase ‘sliding into home plate.’ For more information, call (800) 338-6660.

UP 200 Dog Sled Races
February 16 – 20, 2012, Marquette
The UP 200 is one of America’s premier 12-dog, mid-distance sled dog races. Mushers say this is one of their favorite races, not only because of the challenging race, but because of the cheering crowds and warm welcome they receive here in the Upper Peninsula. Come join in the excitement for the start of the race located in downtown Marquette, MI. For more information on this event, visit the website or call (906) 228-3072 or (906) 869-2640.

West Central

Camper, Travel, & RV Show
February 2 – 5, 2012, Grand Rapids
This show will fill every square inch of the beautiful DeVos Place with the latest motor homes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, campers, accessories, campgrounds, and vacation destinations. For more information, visit the event website or call (616) 742-6500.

Animal Adventures: Growing Up Wild
February 6, 2012, Grand Rapids
Enjoy an evening of warmth and wonder and discover fascinating things about four animals – a mammal, a reptile, an amphibian and a bird. Watch live animal presentations, enjoy animal story time, explore the Tropical Conservatory by flashlight, or become engrossed in animal art activities. Reservations required by calling Meijer Gardens at (616) 974-5239 or John Ball Zoo at (616) 336-4310.

Nordic Nights Gourmet Dine & Glides
February 11, 2012, North Muskegon
Don’t miss out on one of the best culinary experiences in Michigan this winter. This event includes a four course dinner, ski pass and entrance to heated tent with live music. There will be three stations offering delicious food, featuring a blazing fire placed throughout your 5K glide. Back at the heated tent, guests will enjoy dessert and music by Mike Snell. For more information, call (231) 744-9629.

Grand Rapids Boat Show
February 15 – 19, 2012, Grand Rapids
This Boat Show includes powerboats and more sailboats on display than any other show in the state of Michigan! Fishing boats, water sport accessories and boating services like marina slips and sail lofts will be some of the attractions at DeVos Place. For more information, visit the show website or call (616) 742-6500.

Michigan Winter Beer Festival
February 25, 2012, Comstock Park
Hundreds of hand-crafted beers from Michigan’s finest microbreweries will be served up in this chilly outdoor festival. Entertainment, food and fun will help keep you warm! Tickets are sold in advance and are available online or at the Fifth-Third Ballpark box office or at participating Guild member breweries. For more information, call (517) 327-5004.

East Central

Shakespearean Dreams Performance
February 11, 2012, Saginaw
Poets have come and gone for centuries, but only one is known as “the Bard.” Finzi’s music and Timothy Jones’ powerful voice will bring some of Shakespeare’s most emotionally stirring verses to life. The Pit & Balcony Theatre Co. will perform a semi-staged version of one of the world’s greatest comedies, while the SBSO and the Saginaw Choral Society will perform the music that comedy inspired in Mendelssohn. For more information on this event, call (989) 755-6471.

Shanty Days
February 17 – 19, Caseville
Indulge in some fun in the wintertime! Enjoy four wheeler races, ice fishing, food and beverages tents, live entertainment, craft show, kids’ activities and demo derby. For more information, call (989) 856-3818.

Northeast

Winter Fun Days
February 3 – 5, 2012, Grayling
Lots of fun things for families to do in Grayling starting Friday with Dollar night, DJ music and a marshmallow roast over a campfire. The events continue Saturday and Sunday with free lift tickets and trail passes, Big Air Competition, chili cook off, Slush Pit and Sled Box race. For more information, call (989) 348-9266.

Alpenfrost 2012
February 11, 2012, Grayling
The first annual Alpenfrost winter celebration in downtown Gaylord combines anchor events such as the Polar Plunge and a Craft Beer & Wine Festival at Treetops Resort, with a flurry of downtown activities, games, and merchant sales. Alpine Village will unveil an open-air ice skating rink. For a schedule of events or for more information, visit the event website or call (989) 731-7378.

Treetops Olympics
February 23 – 26, 2012, Gaylord
The Treetops Olympics is an event for the whole family! Participate in crazy games such as Human Bowling, Human Curling and Minute to Win It. For more information, visit the event website or call (888) 873-3867.

Northwest

North American Snow Festival – 2012
February 2 – 5, 2012, Cadillac
Thursday night kicks off with a chili cook-off at this winter festival and the fun doesn’t stop there. Friday brings the Poker Fun Run, sleigh rides, a grilling contest and more entertainment at The Armory. Saturday compete in ice fishing, motorcycle and snowmobile races on Lake Cadillac – and a polar dip in the lake for those brave enough! Sunday, snow sculptures will dot the Lake Cadillac shoreline and the fun continues with more lake races. For more information, call (800) 22-LAKES or (231) 775-0657.

Mid-Winter’s Chocolate Therapy
February 4, 2012, Bellaire
An afternoon of chocolate featuring Michigan chocolatiers. Enjoy tasting samples, chocolate-making demo, cupcake competition, Valentine’s gifts, chocolate spa treatments, live music and more. For more information on this event, visit the event website or call (800)678-4111.

Taste the Passion
February 4 – 5, 2012, Cedar
This special weekend celebrates wine, chocolate and love in anticipation of Valentine’s Day! The combination of winter’s beauty in Leelanau with the special pleasures of life always makes a wonderful weekend. The weekend starts on Saturday as participants head to their first winery stop to collect a souvenir glass, then the fun begins with special pours and tasty chocolate treats offered at wineries throughout the rest of the weekend. In addition to chocolate, savory dishes will be served at a number of tasting rooms. For more information, visit the event website or call (231)421-1172.

Cherry Festival Winter Wonderfest
February 17 – 19, 2012, Acme
The Cherry Capital Winter WonderFest features a “Winter Fun Zone” at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa offering ice skating, bonfires, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and more. In downtown Traverse City, you can find beautiful ice carvings and walk through the snow sculpture park, enjoy live music under the tent at the Annual Soup’r Bowl Competition and Beer Tent and watch the Frozen Bed Race, Monster Dog Pull competition and “Tommy Tropic” juggler, take part in the Brain Freeze ice cream eating competition or frozen cherry pit contest, or take a horse and carriage ride. There’s also a two-day Snowball Winter Softball Tournament at the Grand Traverse Civic Center. For more information, visit the event website.

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What To Do in Detroit While at The Auto Show

January 13, 2012

in Events,Exhibits & Shows,Posts by Region,Southeast

The 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) officially opens to the public tomorrow, January 14^thand runs through January 22^nd. If you’re heading down to the show, make a day of it and enjoy what Detroit has to offer. Here are a few activities to check out in the city.

Explore over one-hundred galleries at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), the country’s fifth-largest fine arts museum. Several exhibitions are currently taking place, including Detroit Revealed: Photographs 2000-2010, where contemporary artists present photographs and video inspired by the city of Detroit and its people.

Visit the skating rink at Campus Martius Park, “Detroit’s town square,” for some winter fun! The skating rink is open every day of the week for people of all ages. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, enjoy the open fire, where you can purchase S’more kits at the Arctic Zone for your roasting pleasure.

Stop by Pewabic Pottery, a national historic landmark where the unique art form was developed in 1903. The pottery houses a museum, gallery of contemporary pottery, learning center and gift shop.

Score tickets to Green Day’s American Idiot, now playing at the Detroit Opera House. This award-winning musical tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia.

See why visitors from near and far rave about the barbecue at Slows Bar BQ in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood. Beyond barbecue ribs, pulled pork, several sandwiches and a variety of comfort food side dishes, Slows also serves a selection of Michigan wine and beers.

Nothing says “Detroit” like a Coney dog! Try one at the legendary American Coney Island, then head next door to Lafayette Coney Island to see how they compare.

Try your luck at one of Detroit’s casinos including MotorCity Casino and Hotel, Greektown Casino-Hotel and MGM Grand Detroit. Beyond luxurious hotel accommodations, each features celebrity chef restaurants, spas, nightlife and 24-hour gaming.

For more ideas on things to do in the Detroit area, visit www.michigan.org.

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Pure Michigan January Events Roundup

January 3, 2012

in East Central,Events,Northeast,Northwest,Posts by Region,Southeast,Southwest,Upper Peninsula,West Central,What's Happening This Month

Note: We’d love your feedback on how to make this site better. If you can fill out this quick survey, we’d appreciate it. Thanks!

It’s the start of a new year in Michigan! With a number of winter sporting events, new museum exhibits and more, there are plenty of ways to kick off 2012 this January. For more suggestions of things to do this month in Michigan, visit michigan.org.

Southeast

Etch, Sketch and Stilettos: The Work of Topher Crowder
January 6 – 28, 2012, Northville
The Northville Art House is delighted to present the work of Topher Crowder, an artist first inspired by animated Saturday morning cartoons, vintage postcards and 1960s/1970s comic books. The show includes pop cultural shoe paintings, day-glow plexiglass etchings, ‘studio weavings’ and Mr. Crowder’s ‘reverse vandalism signs’ – all aspects of his diverse and unique artistic vision. For more information call (248) 344-0497.

DSO Neighborhood Concert Series
January 7, 2012, Detroit
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra kicks off a new subscription-based series for the 2011 – 2012 season, starting in Bloomfield Hills with a fantastic symphony performance of Marriage of Figaro and Appalachian Spring performed at Kirk in the Hills. The Neighborhood Concert Series will take place in six different venues in a geographic arc across metro Detroit from Grosse Pointe to Dearborn and is intended to reach new audiences by making the DSO more accessible and convenient to you. For more information, call (313) 576-5053 or (313) 576-5412, or visit the DSO website.

The Ultimate Fishing Show
January 12 – 15, 2012, Novi
As Michigan’s largest fishing show, The Ultimate Fishing Show is all about fishing tackle, fishing trips, fishing boats and features including Lake Ultimate, Trout Pond, Seminar Stages, Fish Fry and more. For more show information, please call the show managers at (616) 447-2860 or toll free at (800) 328-6550.

Frankenmuth/Flint Area Brew Tour
January 14, 2012, Detroit
Tour three great breweries in the area – Frankenmuth Brewery, Redwood Lodge Brewing Co. and Black Forest Brew Haus. The tour includes guided bus transportation, brewer-led tours, three beer samples at each brewery, lunch, and water and snacks on the bus. For more information call (248) 850-2563 or visit the Brew Tour website.

North American International Auto Show
January 14 – 22, 2012, Detroit
Experience the next generation of transportation at the 2012 North American International Auto Show! See more than 500 vehicles on display, representing the most innovative designs in the world and experience North America’s largest and most prestigious automotive showcase. For more information, please visit the NAIAS official website or call (248) 643-0250.

Michigan Winter Dog Classic
January 19 – 22, 2012, Novi
Come and see Michigan’s largest Dog Show at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi, Michigan. Enjoy educational demonstrations, obedience and conformation judging, and breed seminars. The Michigan Winter Dog Classic will host more than 6,000 dogs and 160+ breeds of “man’s best friends” throughout the four day show. Visit The Michigan Winter Dog Classic website for full event details.

Plymouth Ice Festival
January 20 – 22, 2012, Plymouth
Enjoy free, seasonal fun for the family including large scale ice carvings, food and product vendors and wintertime activities. For more information call (248) 960-0700.

Chocolate Tea
January 21, 2012, Lansing
Are you tired of winter already and want to get out for some fun? Make your way to the second annual Chocolate Tea, where guests will enjoy everything chocolate this winter at Turner-Dodge. For more information, please call (517) 483-4220.

Ann Arbor Folk Festival 2012
January 27 – 28, 2012, Ann Arbor
The Ann Arbor Folk Festival will celebrate its 35th year with some of the finest in traditional and contemporary artists. The Festival returns to Hill Auditorium for two dynamic and different nights of folk and roots music beginning at 6:30pm each night. For more information, call (734) 764-2538.

Fire & Ice Fest Rochester
January 27 – 29, 2012, Rochester
Downtown Rochester’s much-anticipated winter festival features ice sculptures, ice skating, a tubing run, horse-drawn carriage rides, fireworks, and a taste fest inside the warming tent featuring beer and wine provided by Rochester Mills Beer Company. For more information, call (248) 858-5437.

Southwest

Twelfth Night
January 6, 2012, Albion
The public is invited to the Albion Historical Society’s annual 12th Night, held twelve days after Christmas at the Gardner House Museum. Guests will enjoy cookies, hot cider and other refreshments. For more information, call (517) 629-5100.

Hunter Ice Festival 2012
January 13 – 15, 2012, Niles
Come see World Class Master Carvers transform more than 25 tons of Ice into art! The festival showcases more than 50 ice sculptures situated all over the downtown area and created on site by well-known ice carvers from near and far. Also enjoy a Murder Mystery Dinner, Frigid 5k Run, History of Ice Carving/Harvesting Exhibit, Warming Center, kids’ crafts, Chillin’ Ice Bar at Riverfront Café, Chili Crawl, Hunter Ice Cream and more! For more information, call (269) 687-4332 or visit the Hunter Ice Festival website.

Winter Delights: A Festival of Wine, Food & Jazz
January 21, 2012, Benton Harbor
Enjoy an evening of wine tasting, culinary pleasures and the smooth sounds of Jazz for some soothing mid-winter relief. The festival will feature some of the best wines from across the state and local cuisine. For more information, call (269) 927-1221.

Upper Peninsula

RACE Your OWN Dog Team with Nature’s Kennel Sled Dog Adventures
January 6 – 8, 2012, Mc Millan
Be part of the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race excitement and run the 4-dog, 8 mile race! This new Race Package provides training, gear, dogs and all the fun of a real sled dog race. For more information, call (906) 748-0513 or visit this site.

Noquemanon Ski Marathon
January 26 – 28, 2012, Marquette
This fun-filled weekend will feature a Noque 12K – a classic and freestyle race which is meant to attract those skiers who want a first step into ski racing. Racers will ski on the same trail as the half marathon and marathon skiers. For more information on the Noquemanon Ski Marathon, mBank Half Noque and Noque 12K , contact Nikki Dewald at (906) 235-6861.

West Central

Ice Sculpting Competition
January 6 – 7, 2012, Holland
Over 20 talented students will be competing in the collegiate invitational, each transforming 300-pound blocks of ice into glistening works of art using chainsaws, torches and more in downtown Holland. Bundle up and come watch in amazement as the ice flies! For more information call (616) 796-1210 or visit the competition website.

Wine About Winter
January 6, 2012, Grand Haven
Indulge in the perfect pairing of wine, shopping, and winter! Local art and walking tour features a variety of wines for wine tasting in each participating store. Local businesses will host one or more West Michigan artists, fabulous wines for all palettes and excellent boutique shopping to create a charming, winter walking tour of the Downtown and Centertown districts. For more information, call (616) 844-1188 or visit the Grand Haven website.

Nordic Nights Gourmet Dine and Glides
January 21, 2012, North Muskegon
Experience one of the best culinary experiences in Michigan this winter. This event includes a four course dinner, ski pass and entrance to heated tent with live music. There will be three stations featuring a lovely blazing fire placed throughout your 5K glide. Each station will offer delicious food. Back at the heated tent, guests will enjoy dessert and music by Mike Snell. Guests can enjoy cross-country skiing on a well-lit groomed trail. For more information, call (231) 744-9629.

Orchid Show
January 28 – 29, 2012, Grand Rapids
Enjoy hundreds of exquisite orchids featured in lush displays in the Grand Room. Members from the Grand Valley Orchid Society will answer your questions and point out some of the most unique orchids. Shop early for the best selection and find the perfect orchid for your home. The “orchid pyramid” offers photo opportunities. Kids will have fun on an “orchid hunt” and can express their creativity at the art station. For more information, call (616) 957-1580.

Animal Adventures: Growing Up Wild
January 30, 2012, Grand Rapids
Enjoy an evening of warmth and wonder and discover fascinating things about four animals – a mammal, a reptile, an amphibian and a bird. Watch live animal presentations close up and pet the animals, enjoy animal story time, explore the Tropical Conservatory by flashlight, become engrossed in animal art activities and have fun playing Listen Up, What’s for Dinner and Pop Up Peek-A-Boo. Reservations required by calling Meijer Gardens at (616) 974-5239 or John Ball Zoo at (616) 336-4310. Visit the Meijer Gardens website for full event details.

East Central

Lexington New Year’s Day Bike Ride
January 1, 2012, Lexington
The Lexington New Year’s Day Bike Ride starts at Ehardt Pharmacy parking lot in downtown at 10:00 a.m. The ride is to Croswell on the bike path and back. For more information, call (810) 359-7461.

Gun & Knife Show
January 7 – 8, 2012, Birch Run
Head to Birch Run for the Midwest’s largest gun & knife show. For more information call (989) 624-4665 or visit the Birch Run Expo Center website.

Caro 150 Winter Fest & Snowmobile Races
January 20 – 22, 2012, Caro
Enjoy the sights and sounds of professional snowmobile racing with the excitement of a hometown winter festival. The festivities get started Friday evening with a special downtown Caro open house and live entertainment, and continue throughout the weekend with community-wide shopping and restaurant specials, contests, fireworks and more. Be sure to bundle up for the races as you sit on the edge of your seat in the grandstands watching the racers fly around the track. Saturday’s races feature Sprint pro, semi-pro and junior, and Vintage. On Sunday, the Kitty Kat races take place early followed by a 150 mile Enduro race. Before the big race, though, you can mingle with the racers and get up close to the snowmobiles at a meet-n-greet on the track. For more information, call (989) 673-7424 or (810) 569-6856, or visit the Caro 150 Winter Fest site.

Zehnder’s Snowfest 2012
January 25 – 30, 2012, Frankenmuth
Stop by Zehnder’s Restaurant to enjoy a fun filled winter event for the whole family. Activities include snow sculpting and ice carving competitions, a children’s area, fireworks, entertainment, warming tent and much more. For more information call (800) 863-7999 or visit the Zehnder’s website.

Chilly Fest 2012
January 28 – 29, 2012, Port Huron
Get ready for a weekend of winter indoor and outdoor fun that coincides with the Silver Stick Hockey Tournament Finals. The downtown Port Huron event includes a chili cook-off, former Red Wings player Chris Chelios signing autographs, winter activities, ice carving competition, Knowlton Ice Museum tours and free horse and carriage rides! For more information call (810) 987-8687 or visit the Chilly Fest 2012 website.

Winter White-Out
January 28 – 29, 2012, St. Clair
St. Clair is closing the streets for winter fun! Make way for winter games, live music, entertainment and plenty of celebration at the Winter White-Out, where the community of St. Clair will be competing against four other Michigan cities to make the most snowmen in two hours. Competing cities are Saline, Sault Ste. Marie and Zeeland. So, come out, play and brave the cold…like only Michiganders can! For more information call (810) 329-2962 or visit the 2012 Winter White-Out website for full details.

Northeast

Guided Snowshoe Hike
January 7, 2012, Grayling
Hartwick Pines State Park will offer guided snowshoe hikes through the old growth forest! These hikes will give visitors to Hartwick Pines a chance to try out snowshoes and hike through the Lower Peninsula’s largest stand of old-growth white pines. Guided by a park interpreter or historian, participants will learn about the forest in the winter and discover the importance of winter to Michigan’s logging industry in the 1800s, all while getting great exercise. Please call (989) 348-2537 for more information.

Fabulous 50’s Weekend
January 19 – 22, 2012, Gaylord
Put on your favorite 50s gear for a blast from the past! Activities include giant duck races, sock hop, kids activities, Minute to Win It, and other spectacular events held daily. Come join in on the fun! For more information, call (989) 732-6711.

Sno Drift Rally 2012
January 27 – 28, 2012, Atlanta
The 2012 Sno Drift Rally will be a total blast! Held entirely within Montmorency County, it is a winter challenge that is not to be missed. There will be 18 stages of fast cars racing against the clock on some of Michigan’s snowiest and iciest roads. For more information, call (989) 786-3160.

Northwest

Bay Harbor Ice & Spice Festival
January 13 – 14, 2012, Bay Harbor
Join Bay Harbor for the grand winter celebration – the Bay Harbor Ice & Spice Festival. The event will feature ice carving competitions and an Ice & Spice Warming Tent. Other winter activities include sled dog musher rides, “live” sculptures, a chill lounge and winter activities for the whole family! For more information, call (231) 439-2004 or visit the event website.

Beer and Boards Microbrew Festival
January 14, 2012, Bellaire
Experience a winter celebration of craft-brewed beer, where guests will sample unique flavors while chatting with the brewmasters themselves. For more information on this event, call (800) 678-4111.

Kalkaska Winterfest
January 14 – 15, 2012, Kalkaska
Kalkaska Winterfest is the largest sprint sled dog race in North America. It features an unlimited class race – the only one in the state of Michigan. Other activities include sled dog rides, IWPA Dog Weight Pull, outhouse races, children’s games, and Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament. For more information, call (800) 487-6880 or (231) 258-9103.

Winter Warm Up
January 14, 2012, Traverse City
The Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula (WOMP) have teamed up with peninsula area businesses for the 2012 Winter Warm Up. Guests may visit any of the seven Old Mission wineries between 11am-5pm to purchase a souvenir mug for $10. This mug is your “ticket” into each participating winery and business on Old Mission allowing you to enjoy warm comfort food and drinks. Some peninsula area restaurants are offering special promotions when you present your mug. For more information, call (231) 223-9303.

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Pure Michigan New Years Eve Event Roundup

December 29, 2011

in Events

As 2011 winds down, it’s time to start thinking about the new year. What better way to do that than to ring in 2012 by celebrating it in Pure Michigan? Some of the events going on around the state are listed below. They cover everything from family-friendly parties to romantic river cruises. Happy New Year to all!

Downtown Marquette New Years Eve Ball Drop. Celebrate the new year and watch the annual ball drop from the Savings Bank Building starting at 11:30 p.m. at the corner of Washington and Front Streets, Marquette.

Downtown Marquette Ball Drop

12/31/2011, Marquette

Celebrate the new year and watch the annual ball drop from the Savings Bank Building in downtown Marquette starting at 11:30 p.m. at the corner of Washington and Front Streets. For details, call (906) 228-9475.

New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Celebration

12/31/2011, Ludington

The Ludington New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Celebration includes an entertainment tent in James Street Plaza, a pub crawl around downtown Ludington and the highlight of the event – the Ball Drop. For more information, call (231) 845-6237.

New Year’s Fest

12/31/2011, Kalamazoo

New Year’s Fest is a community performing arts celebration in downtown Kalamazoo. The event features 24 performing artists in 10 buildings surrounding Bronson Park. Musical entertainment includes classical music, rhythm and blues, jazz, bluegrass and Christian contemporary. Performing artists include magicians, clowns, jugglers, storytellers and tricks. For more information, call (269) 388-2830.

New Year’s Eve at Shanty Creek

12/31/2011, Bellaire

Shanty Creek Resorts will be hosting two parties on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy dinner and a show at Summit Village with a fireworks display at midnight and FREE skiing after 6pm on the Summit slopes. Or enjoy the adult-only party at Schuss Mountain. For more information, call (800) 678-4111.

New Year’s Eve Waterpark & Snow Tubing Party

12/31/2011, Rothbury

The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. for a family party to ring in 2012 with a splash! Enjoy an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet, unlimited use of the Gold Rush Waterpark, snow tubing on Sundance Slopes, and lots of games and activities! Contact the front desk at (231) 894-4444 to make your reservations today or visit the Double JJ Resort website.

Rock the Boat New Year’s Eve Cruise

12/31/2011, Detroit

Adults 21 and older only on this cruise aboard the Detroit Princess Riverboat. Ring in the New Year in style on the seventh annual “Rock The Boat” New Year’s Eve party! The event includes a dinner buffet with main entrees of prime rib, chicken piccata, crab stuffed salmon and vegetarian lasagna. A champagne toast at midnight and party favors are included as are music, dancing and a cash bar. Gates open at 8 p.m. with cruising from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. The party goes until 2 a.m. For more information, visit the Detroit Princess Riverboat website or call (877) 338-2628 or (517) 627-2154.

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Pure Michigan December Events Roundup

November 30, 2011

in East Central,Northeast,Northwest,Posts by Region,Southeast,Southwest,Upper Peninsula,West Central,What's Happening This Month

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Michigan Decembers are festive, eventful and fun. From holiday-themed events to winter celebrations, there is something for everyone. For more suggestions of things to do this month in Michigan, visit michigan.org.

Southeast

Annual Christmas in Ida Festival & Parade of Lights
December 2 – 3. 2011, Monroe
Head to downtown Ida for a youth dance, live music, lunch with Santa, ice sculptures and craft shows during the day with a fireworks show and night light parade wowing at night. For more information call (734) 269-6017 or visit http://www.christmasinida.com

Annual Noel Night
December 3, 2011, Detroit
The 39th Annual Noel Night kicks off at in Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center Area. More than 40 are institutions open their doors to the public free of charge. Activities include horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday shopping, family craft activities and performances by over 120 area music, theatre, and dance groups. For additional information call (313) 420-6000 or visit http://www.detroitmidtown.com/05/noelnight

Saline Holiday Parade
December 3, 2011, Saline
Saline’s annual Holiday Parade begins at 5:30pm downtown and only gets more festive from there. Marching bands, horses, floats, youth groups, the Detroit Derby Girls and Mrs. Claus all lead up to Santa’s big arrival. Kids can even get a free gift bag from Santa (but only if they’re on the “good list”!). For more information call (734) 429-4494 or go to http://www.salinechamber.org/?module=Page&sID=holiday-parade

Heritage Holidays
December 2 – 17, 2011, Ray
A nostalgic holiday celebration for kids of all ages at the Historic Center. Kids can visit Santa Claus in an old-fashioned setting and create holiday crafts. The mill grounds will be lit and decorated with a modern synchronized light show. There’s even a bonfire to enjoy s’mores and hot mulled cider over. For more information call (586) 749-5997 or visit http://www.metroparks.com/calendar_item.aspx?ID=1440 .

Holly Dickens Festival
December 9-11, 2011, Holly
See the characters from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” come to life on the streets of Historic Downtown Holly during the annual Holly Dickens Festival. This free celebration boasts carriage rides, caroling choirs, hot roasted chestnuts and more amidst unique shops and the Victorian atmosphere of the holidays. Check out the Holly Dickens Festival Web site for full event details and schedule.

Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village
December 2- 27, 2011, Dearborn
Enjoy turn-of-the-century holiday fun with carolers, live reindeer and candlelit paths at the Henry Ford and Greenfield Village. For more information, call (800) 835-5237, (313) 982-6001 or visit The Henry Ford Web site.

The Big, Bright Light Show
November 28, 2011 – January 1, 2012, Rochester
Nothing says the holidays are here like seeing streets and homes lit up with lights. The Big, Bright Light Show covers every building on Main Stret from the south bridge to Romeo road will be covered by more than one million points of light. For more information on this event, call (248) 656-0060.

Southwest

Grand Ledge Christmas Parade
December 2, 2011, Grand Ledge
Family fun to kick off the Holiday Season including a Lighted Float Parade through Grand Ledge ending with Santa at the Sun Theater. For more information call (517) 627-2383.

Art Tasting
December 3, 2011, Paw Paw
Seek the art, savor the wine and meet the people who make it all happen. From 5 to 8pm, 20 artists will display their artwork, while St. Julian serves up wine samples & local eateries provide tasty treats. For more information call (800) 732-6002 or (269) 657-5568.

K-9 Fanciers Dog Show and Weight Pull
December 9 – 11, 2011, Kalamazoo
This United Kennel Club regional event features obedience classes, weight pulling, conformation, and junior showmanship. Fri 3pm, Sat & Sun 8am, in Hazel Gray. For more information visit http://www.dogonez.com

Holidays at the Homestead
December 1 and 11, 2011, Kalamazoo
Step back in time at the DeLano Homestead. Explore the 1858 farmhouse and enjoy holiday traditions such as making gingerbread cookies and crafts. Take a stroll to the 1830s log cabin replica to glimpse at life during a Michigan winter in the wilderness and try your hand at candle making. Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride (weather permitting) and afterwards warm up with warm cider and a cookie. For more information call (269) 381-1574 or visit http://www.naturecenter.org/Calendar.aspx

Upper Peninsula

Jack Frost Festival of Lights Parade
December 2, 2011, Ironwood
This annual event kicks off the holiday season with visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus and Jack Frost. There’s also a gingerbread house display and Gogebic Range Band Christmas concert. For more information call (906) 932-1122.

Christmas in Calumet
December 3, 10, 17, 2011, Calumet
Link: http://www.mainstreetcalumet.com/christmas-in-calumet.html
Santa arrives in downtown Calumet via horse-drawn wagon and include free goodie bags at Rowe Furniture, free horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers and holiday music by strolling musicians. Phone for details (906) 337-6246.

Homestead BBQ, Tubing & Sleigh Ride
December 22 – 31, 2011, Iron River
All you can eat barbecue on Thursday and Saturday evening. Take the free sleigh to the barbecue from the bottom of Homestead trail. Live music on Saturday and Homestead tubing add to the fun. For more information contact (906) 265-4957.

Downtown Marquette Ball Drop
December 31, 2011, Marquette
Celebrate the New Year and watch the annual ball drop from the Savings Bank Building starting at 11:30pm at the corner of Washington and Front Streets, Marquette. Phone for details at (906) 228-9475.

West Central

Dickens Christmas Festival
December 2 – 3, 2011, Mount Pleasant
Step back in time and enjoy the holidays the old-fashioned way at downtown Dickens Christmas Festival. Take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and listen to carolers or stop by Santa’s House to visit with live reindeer. Re-live the first Christmas at the live nativity and take in the performance A Christmas Story at the Broadway Theatre. For more information call (989) 779-5348 or visit http://www.downtownmp.com

Circle of Trees
December 4, 2011, Muskegon
Join family and friends at Walker Park in North Muskegon for the Annual Circle of Trees. Enjoy a dog parade, the lighting of the trees, a community carol sing and more. For more information on this event, call (231) 744-1621.

Homestead Holiday Festival
December 10, 2011, Grand Rapids
Experience the enchantment of winter with the whole family at Blandford’s annual Homestead Holiday celebration. Sing carols on a horse drawn sleigh, make traditional holiday crafts, dip cookies in delicious hot chocolate, and much more. For more information call (616) 735-6240.

Dutch Winterfest
November 19 – December 10, 2011, Holland
Historic downtown Holland provides the perfect backdrop for this holiday festival. Enjoy the creatively lighted floats in the Parade of Lights. Visit with Sinterklaas, the Dutch St. Nicholas, and stroll through the “Kerstmarkt”, a European open-air Christmas market. There are holiday theatre and musical performances, a greens sale, Victorian Christmas teas, special exhibits, and, of course, Santa himself. For more information visit the Dutch Winterfest Web site

Winter Solstice Celebration
December 22, 2011, Grand Rapids
Come out to Blandford Nature Center to celebrate the first day of winter and the longest night of the year – The Winter Solstice. Learn about the science behind the winter solstice, make and decorate a paper luminary to take home, and help out the birds on this long night by making a take-home bird feeder. For more information call (616) 735-6240.

New Year’s Eve Waterpark & Snow Tubing Party
December 31, 2011, Rothbury
Join us at 6:30 for a family party to ring in 2012 with a splash! Enjoy an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet, unlimited use of the Gold Rush Waterpark, snow tubing on Sundance Slopes, and lots of games & activities! Contact the front desk at (231) 894-4444 to make your reservations today or visit http://www.doublejj.com/New-Years-Eve-Party.html.

East Central

Caro’s Gingerbread Village
December 1 – 7, 2011, Caro
An old-fashioned holiday in Caro, where true happiness is homemade. Events include gingerbread house competitions for all ages, baking contest, family fun fest, raffles and visits from Fred and Ginger Bread, the mascots of the event. For more information contact (989) 673-5211.

Frankenmuth Farmers Market Christkindlmarkt
December 2 – 4, 2011, Frankenmuth
The Frankenmuth Farmers Market presents its free annual Christkindlmarkt, a traditional European-style Christmas market. Visitors are invited to experience the Lighting Ceremony in Frankenmuth’s River Place after visiting the Christkindlmarkt on Friday evening. For more information call (989) 295-9766 or visit http:/www.frankenmuthfarmersmarket.org.

Downtown Midland’s Holly Jolly Days
December 3, 4, 10, 11, 2011, Midland
Enjoy a festive atmosphere in Downtown Midland while doing your holiday shopping or enjoying a bite to eat with your family. Experience free horse-drawn carriage rides, strolling carolers, 25 cent hot cocoa and great holiday deals at participating stores. Call (989) 837-3330 for more information.

Galloping Gourmet
December 8, 2011, St. Clair
Enjoy an evening of exquisite tastes and merriment. Cuddle up in a horse-drawn carriage that will carry you around to St. Clair’s delightful restaurants where you’ll be served their finest cuisine. A wonderful holiday evening to share with friends and family! For more information, call (810) 329-2962.

Flea Market and Nascar Swap
December 18, 2011, Lapeer
The holidays are in full gear with Lapeer’s Flea Market and NASCAR Swap. There will be more than 40 plus tables of new and old items. Door prizes will be given every hour and there will be plenty of food. Come get your last minute Christmas gifts! For more information call (810) 654-0417.

Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic
November 25 – 30, 2011, Flint
This holiday fantasyland features thousands of sparkling lights and Michigan’s most spectacular moving light display, the Huckleberry Railroad. The entire village is aglow with colored lights and more lights decorate the railroad’s locomotive, coaches and trackside displays. For information and reservations call (800).648-PARK or visit http://www.geneseecountyparks.org/pages/Christmas.

Northeast

Olde Fashioned Christmas
December 3 – 4, 2011, Presque Isle
Take a step back in time in Presque Isle and experience Christmas like they did “back then”. Celebrate with, horse drawn rides, children’s programs, a soup & chili lunch, live music, ice skating, snowman contest, arts & craft show and more! For more information, call (989) 595-5490 or visit http://www.presqueisletwp.org/content/Olde_Xmas/Olde_Xmas.asp.

Gladwin County Festival of Lights Christmas Parade – 2011
December 3, 2011, Gladwin
Enjoy the Christmas In Toyland Spectacular lighted parade in Gladwin. There’s huge helium balloons, lighted floats and Santa coming to town. Warm up with free hot chocolate and carriage rides at Riverwalk Place. Don’t miss out on this great family event. For more information call (989) 246-8000.

Farm By Lantern Light
December 9 – 10, 2011, Grayling
Our popular annual event, Farm By Lantern Light, is an interpretive, historical play presented by local actors depicting life during the holidays on a farm in 1932. Be guided by a team of horses through the snow-covered trails of Wellington Farm, USA. Each building is lit with the gentle glow of lanterns as the story unfolds with you visiting our Visitor’s Center, Blacksmith’s Shop, Carpenter’s Shop, Grist Mill and Summer Kitchen. Join us for this unique journey back in time. This event is very popular and requires reservations. Please call ahead to schedule your family or group to (989) 348-5187.

Northwest

Victorian Sleigh Bell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend
December 1 – 4, 2011, Manistee
Highlights of the festival are the authentic Victorian parade with period costumes and horse-drawn units. Ramsdell Theatre production, tours of historic buildings, concerts, Festival of Trees, special museum and art exhibits. For more information call (800) 288-2286 or (231) 723-2575.

Holiday Open House
December 2, 2011, Petoskey
The evening begins with an appearance by Santa Claus, who flies in to town to light a giant Christmas tree in Pennsylvania Park. Merchants open their doors to offer warm holiday greetings. The streets are filled with merry entertainment by carolers and the Petoskey High School Steel Drum Band. For more information, call (231) 622-8501

New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Celebration
December 31, 2011, Ludington
The Ludington New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Celebration includes an entertainment tent in James Street Plaza, A Pub Crawl around downtown Ludington and the Highlight of the event – The Ball Drop. For more information, call (231) 845-6237.

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