Thanksgiving weekend in Leelanau County is the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season—complete with small-town traditions, tree lightings, festive markets, and plenty of reasons to shop local. Whether you're hosting family or enjoying a long weekend Up North, here are some highlights happening around the county.
Suttons Bay: A Full Day of Holiday Cheer
Suttons Bay comes alive with seasonal music, local shopping, and activities perfect for families. Stroll the village, enjoy special deals, and let the kids drop their letters to Santa at Bahle’s.
All-Day Fun
- Village shopping specials
- Holiday music throughout town
- Santa letter drop at Bahle’s
- Vote for the Best Decorated Tree
Scheduled Highlights
- 1 PM: Centerpiece Workshop with Forget-Me-Not Florist (registration required; held at VI Grill)
- 2 PM: The Polar Express – Free family movie at The Bay Theatre
- 4 PM: Photos with the vintage fire truck
- 5 PM: Santa’s arrival by fire truck + Tree lighting, followed by visits with Santa at The Bay Theatre
Find event updates and details from Suttons Bay Chamber.
Glen Arbor: Black Friday Traditions & a Holiday Market
Glen Arbor embraces the Thanksgiving spirit with quirky traditions and a full lineup of festive fun.
Kick off Friday morning with the beloved PJ Party from 6–9 a.m.—come in your pajamas, sip hot coffee, and shop early-bird specials at local businesses. At 9 a.m., line the streets for the always-entertaining Bed Parade.
In the evening, gather for the Tree Lighting and Community Caroling at Town Hall, followed by a cozy preview of the Holiday Marketplace.
Saturday’s events include
- 10 AM–3 PM: Holiday Marketplace featuring 25+ local makers
- 11 AM–1 PM: Santa & Mrs. Claus photos at the M22 Wine Patio
- 10 AM–4 PM: Empire Artisan Marketplace at Glen Lake Community Library
More information available at Visit Glen Lake Chamber.
Leland: Light Up Leland & Season of Lights
The festivities begin on Thanksgiving Eve with Light Up Leland, a charming night of music, caroling from the Old Art Building, and the downtown tree lighting at 6 p.m. Santa arrives shortly afterward for photos and holiday wishes.
Across the bridge, explore the Old Art Building’s Season of Lights, featuring beautifully decorated trees inspired by the “12 Days of Leland.” The display runs through Jan. 2 and is free to enjoy.
Local shops also host Black Friday and Small Business Saturday specials throughout the weekend—perfect for holiday shopping in this postcard-worthy village.
Looking ahead, the OAB Holiday Market returns Dec. 5–6, with artists from across Michigan, Santa’s reindeer appearances, s’mores by the fire pit, and more.
Event details at Leland Chamber and the Old Art Building.
Northport: A Day-Long Celebration
If you’re in the mood for a scenic drive, Northport throws one of the most festive holiday celebrations around. Events run throughout the day on Saturday, Nov. 29, ending with a magical tree lighting and Santa’s arrival.
Throughout the Day
- Letters to Santa, crafts, and story time at Leelanau Township Library
- Grand Traverse Lighthouse tours
- Holiday Arts & Crafts Sale at multiple venues
- Cookie decorating at Barb’s Bakery
- Ornament and calligraphy workshops
- Wreath-making, soup cook-off, and reindeer visits
Evening Highlights
- 5:30–6:30 PM: Caroling, Blessing of the Season, Santa’s arrival, and the community tree lighting
Northport keeps the holiday spirit going with events every Saturday through December.
