What to Do Up North This November

Don’t let the gray days get you down with these 12 events

By Rachel Pasche | Nov. 1, 2025

The cooler months are upon us and the holidays aren’t quite here, but there’s still plenty to do in northern Michigan. Whether you want to push your limits with a challenging race, chill out at a craft beverage festival, or see a show, November is full of events to keep busy.

1. Cantus – Saturday, Nov. 1

Step out of the cold and warm up with the distinctive performance of Cantus, one of the few full-time vocal ensembles in the nation. The members of Cantus perform completely a cappella, covering a wide range of music, from modern-day favorites to Renaissance numbers. The group performs at the Great Lakes Center for the Arts; doors open at 3:30pm and the show begins at 4pm. Tickets start at $32. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/cantus

2. Iceman Cometh – Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7–8

Bell’s Iceman Cometh Challenge is a point-to-point mountain bike race that promises 30 miles of epic mountain biking. This year’s course starts at the Kalkaska Airport and ends at Timber Ridge Resort, with miles of rugged terrain between that may or may not be seriously muddy, depending on the weather leading up to the race. The Meijer Sno Cone and Slush Cup races offer shorter courses for beginner and younger riders. Last year, over 1,200 spectators lined the course and greeted racers at the finish line for the after-party. Registration is full for the Iceman, but spots remain for the other races, and spectating is always free! iceman.com

3. Fall Floral Workshop — Friday, Nov. 7

Interested in assembling some fun fall florals? Check out this workshop hosted by the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park in Traverse City. The Botanic Garden will provide all the autumnal blooms, plants, and textures to work with, though attendees are asked to bring their own container (with an opening of 6 inches or fewer) and favorite snippers to work with. Tickets are $43-45. thebotanicgarden.org

4. Second Saturday at Raven Hill — Saturday, Nov. 8

Gather the family and gear up for a day of curiosity and learning at Raven Hill Discovery Center in East Jordan. Admission is free at their monthly Second Saturday event, and all exhibits are open to visitors. Raven Hill boasts a variety of displays and interactive activities that teach visitors about a range of topics, including energy, printmaking, history, woodworking, technology, earth and life sciences, radio, geology, and reptiles (this last involves animals you can meet and hold!). Raven Hill asks that visitors register in advance. miravenhill.org

5. Hoffmaster Turkey Trail Run — Saturday, Nov. 8

For those who prefer something a little more rugged than the traditional Turkey Trot, the Hoffmaster Turkey Trail Run in Muskegon hits that mark. Enjoy the last of the beautiful fall colors and the scenery of Hoffmaster State Park as you wind through peaceful forests and dunes. The race begins at 10am, starting at the beach parking lot and ending at the visitor center. Registration is $35 and can be done online or before the event on race day. runsignup.com/Race/MI/Muskegon/TurkeyTrail5KatHoffmaster

6. Clairvoyants Show — Saturday, Nov. 8

Sit back and experience a magic show unlike any other when the Clairvoyants tour arrives at Odawa Casino. Straight from Las Vegas and America’s Got Talent, Thommy Ten and Amélie van Tass put on a performance that blends mentalism, illusions, and magic for an unforgettable and dazzling evening. Tickets are $45. odawacasino.com/entertainment

7. Cider Fest — Sunday, Nov. 9

LeRoy Brewing, the cider and beer arm of Cadillac Winery, is hosting its first-ever Cider Fest. The fun starts at 12pm, and the $20 ticket includes a tasting of each of the cidery’s five creations and a pint of your favorite (including a souvenir glass to take home). cadillacwinery.com/event-details/cider-fest-2025

8. 9 to 5: The Musical at Interlochen — Friday, Nov. 14

The Tony-Award nominated musical 9 to 5 hits the stage at Interlochen this fall, delighting guests with the comedic script and a soundtrack including Dolly Parton originals. The musical is adapted from the popular 1980’s film, following disgruntled employees plotting to rid themselves of their licentious boss. Tickets are $38. interlochen.org/events

9. Small Business Saturday — Saturday, Nov. 15

As part of Small Business Saturday—on which we’re encouraged to shop local and support the businesses that make our communities thrive—Cadillac will be doubling up with their Holiday Market Series. Explore the seasonal selection from local farmers and artisans at the Cadillac Farmers Market from 12-4pm. facebook.com/CadillacFarmersMarket

10. Flapjack and Flannel Festival — Saturday, Nov. 15

Come enjoy some flapjacks while watching lumberjacks do what they do best at the Flapjack and Flannel Festival. Hosted by Timber Ridge Resort, this festival features World Champion lumberjacks competing across events: axe throwing, chopping, log rolling, speed climbing, and more. Drinks from multiple local breweries, wineries, and cideries are available. Tickets are $40 and include two drink tokens and one flapjack. flapjackandflannelfestival.com

11. Christmas on the Farm — Sunday, Nov. 16

Ready to get into the Christmas spirit a little early? Myrtle & Maude’s of Williamsburg welcomes Santa to the farm on Nov. 16 from 11am-2pm for photos and merriment. Other attractions include a free hot cocoa bar, shopping the market for holiday finds (think Michigan-made gifts, refurbished furniture, and more), and the famous “Grandma Birdie” homemade treats. myrtleandmaudes.com

12. Thanksgiving Market at Farm Club — Saturday, Nov. 22

If you’re looking for that perfect something to make a dish pop or to give your host this Thanksgiving, swing by Farm Club for their Thanksgiving market. Baskets of local and seasonal produce and corresponding recipe cards, hosting gifts, and beer and wine samples await any eager shopper prepping for the big meal. farmclubtc.com/events