The Sunday before Halloween, come out and enjoy family-friendly, daytime trick-or-treating in Glen Arbor on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 12–3 pm (or until the treats run out). Be festive, dress in costume and invite your friends, family and neighbors to trick-or-treat at participating businesses. This is open to the public and free to attend. The Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce encourages you to “shop small and eat local,” too. SHOPtober runs the month of October.
Ed Ricker has driven the grand marshal in Glen Arbor’s Fourth of July parade in his iconic 1976 black Cadillac for decades. This year, Glen Arbor Township has bestowed the honor of grand marshal on Ricker, himself. The owner of Glen Lodge, pride of Miami University (Ohio) and longtime fixture at Art’s Tavern, passed away under tragic circumstances last November. Ricker was 95. Former Art’s owner Tim Barr will drive the Cadillac; Ricker’s daughter, Glen Lake Chamber president Darci will ride next to him.
Get ready to indulge during the 11th annual Glen Lake Restaurant Week. From casual bites to gourmet dining, participating locations will feature specials or a prix-fixe menu that highlight the best of the local culinary scene. Whether you’re craving comfort food, fresh ingredients, exquisite drinks, or an elevated dining experience, there’s something for every palate. Some may also offer breakfast, lunch and dinner specials in accordance with their own hours and offerings. For special menus and the full lineup of participating businesses, click here.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Glen Arbor as participating local businesses come together for the annual Sidewalk Sale Days during Labor Day weekend! From Friday to Monday, indulge in exclusive deals and discover hidden gems while supporting the local community. Shoppers can take advantage of exclusive discounts and promotions offered by participating retailers. While the main focus is on sidewalk sales, many stores also have indoor specials. Explore both indoor and outdoor options to find the best deals. Each merchant offers their own distinct selection and promotions, so be sure to check with your favorite spots for their specific hours and offerings during this exciting event.
Following your family’s Thanksgiving turkey feast, visit Glen Arbor for weekend festivities, including the Pajama Party from 7-9 am on Friday, Nov. 24. The PJ Party is an annual tradition in the Glen Arbor business district, where you are invited to wear your pajamas and come out for special sales and offers with participating local merchants for a “Better than Black Friday” shopping experience. Among other holiday traditions in Glen Arbor, the fun and quirky Bed Parade returns on Friday from 9-9:30 am. On Friday evening, from 6:15-8 pm, celebrate the season with a community tree lighting and caroling at the Glen Arbor Township Hall, followed by shopping the opening of the Holiday Artisan Marketplace. Then on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 10 am-4 pm, shop a curated variety of local artisan goods during the 2023 Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace. Santa Claus will visit on Saturday between 11 am and 1 pm.
The annual Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace returns on Thanksgiving weekend with the “preview party” on Friday, Nov. 25, from 6:30-8 p.m. and the Holiday Market on Saturday, Nov. 26, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The market is known for showcasing a variety of quality, artisan-made goods. It is a popular annual event for year-round and seasonal residents, tourists, and vendors. The Holiday Marketplace nearly went on hiatus this year, but local resident and business owner Dotti Thompson stepped forward to take over as event coordinator.
Batter up! Step up to the plate and take a swing during Glen Arbor’s season opener. The “Shop Small, Eat Local” campaign takes place May 20-22.
The Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce reports that this year’s Glen Lake Winter Fest has been revamped in light of COVID-19 social distancing precautions. The popular chili cook-off fundraiser will take place at locations in both Glen Arbor and Empire during President’s Day and Valentine’s Day weekend, February 13-14.
See colorful Adirondack chairs, painted by local artists, sprinkled throughout the Glen Lake area. Each chair is sponsored by a local business or person and is on display all summer around Glen Arbor. In its second year, the “ARTirondack Chair Project” is coordinated by the Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce, a 501c organization.
Don’t miss this fifth annual foodie event in Leelanau County from April 26-May 4. Glen Lake Restaurant Week offers an array of options, “from French Fries to French Cuisine,” boasting something for everyone with a variety of dining options around the greater Glen Arbor area.