|
Welcome to July, everyone! Summer always brings a fresh, exciting line-up of events and activities in and around Suttons Bay. Come see what’s in store! ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏
|
Click “View in Browser” above to see the full version of our newsletter. ———————— LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT ———————- Summer has officially arrived in Suttons Bay, and if the past few weeks are any indication, we're in for another memorable season. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make our Artisan & Wine Walk such a wonderful evening. From talented artists and local wineries to our participating businesses, musicians, volunteers, and the hundreds of guests who filled our streets, the event showcased everything that makes our village so special. The evening concluded with a beautiful Afterglow gathering at the Suttons Bay Harbor House. It was the perfect setting to relax, connect with friends, and celebrate another successful community event. We're also excited to welcome continued investment in our business community. Congratulations to American Spoon and Grand Traverse Distillery on their recent ribbon cuttings. These celebrations remind us that Suttons Bay continues to grow while staying true to the character and quality that make our village such a special place to live, work, and visit. This month also brought an extraordinary milestone for one of our community's most cherished businesses. Congratulations to Bahle's on the unveiling of its new 150-year commemorative plaque. Founded in 1876 and still owned by the same family six generations later, Bahle's represents the enduring spirit, resilience, and community commitment that have helped shape Suttons Bay for a century and a half. It is an achievement worth celebrating and a reminder of the rich history that surrounds us every day. As we move into the heart of summer, I encourage you to take time to enjoy everything our community has to offer. Visit a local shop you've never explored, enjoy a meal at one of our outstanding restaurants, attend a community event, or simply spend an evening strolling through the village or along the waterfront. Every visit, every purchase, and every conversation helps strengthen the vibrant community we all love. On behalf of the Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce, thank you for supporting our local businesses and making Suttons Bay such an incredible place to call home and to visit. Wishing you a safe, joyful, and unforgettable summer! Warmly, Cyndi
President
Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce ————————— SUTTONS BAY CHAMBER —————————
|
|
SEEKING: Destination Video Production The Chamber is seeking proposals from qualified videographers and production teams to create a short destination film that captures the spirit, character, and experience of Suttons Bay. The project will focus on authentic Northern Michigan charm, highlighting our walkable downtown, culinary experiences, waterfront, wine country, recreation opportunities, and community character. The final video will be used across digital advertising, social media, our website, and potential hotel visitor channels. We are particularly interested in hearing from videographers who excel at storytelling, lifestyle content, and destination marketing, and who can create a timeless piece that reflects the unique personality of our community. Proposals requested by July 10. Interested? Email Chamber President Cyndi Millns HERE. ————————————————————————————————-- NEW! $50 One-off Email Blast Offering The Chamber is excited to announce our new member benefit: a one-off email blast on behalf of your business or organization. With the Chamber’s current subscriber list numbers, this $50 send fee breaks down to 5 cents per impression! This is an excellent communication option for sales promotions, event publicizing or organizational announcements that require promotion outside of this monthly newsletter. —————————- AURORA CELLARS ——————————
|
|
Sip & Swap: Recipes
TOMORROW: Thursday, July 2 | 3:00–5:00 PM
Theme: Sweet Summer Harvest
Please see above for more details and future themes.
————————————————————————————————- Live Music: Luke Woltanski
Sunday, July 5 | 3:00–6:00 PM
————————————————————————————————-
|
|
Shrimp Boil
Saturday, July 11
Reservations are required at auroracellars.com. Tickets HERE.
———————————————————————————————- Candle-Making Class with Rock Bottom Candle Co.
Thursday, August 13 | 6:30–8:00 PM
Join us for a fantastic evening creating your own personal candle.
Price: $60 per person (Wine Club Members: $30)
Included: Class materials, your own candle, and a welcome pour of our award-winning wine.
Wine Details: Wine Club Members receive one complimentary glass pour upon arrival; additional glasses are available at club discounts. Non-members may purchase wine by the glass throughout the evening.
Note: This is a 21+ event. Advance reservation purchase is required.
If you have any questions on any of the above events, please reach out to us at tastingroom@auroracellars.com or wineclub@auroracellars.com. ——————————- BAY BOOKS ——————————
|
|
Forest Bathing and Readers Retreat at the beautiful, lakefront Hendryx House: September 18-20, 2026. Two nights, three days Your stay will include daily yoga and well-being meditation sessions, as well as healthy meals Time to read and shop for new books, swap old books, and yes, not cook a single meal or clean-up! Private room and accessibility to SUPs, kayaks and beach Space is limited to 6 adults Email baybooksmi@gmail.com to register
————————————————————————————————--
|
|
—————- BLACK STAR FARMS —————
|
|
Black Star Farms delivers some of the most unique wine experiences on the Leelanau Peninsula. Enjoy memorable dining, outdoor adventures, immersive Estate and Wine Tours, or a Wine & Chocolate Workshop - all celebrating Northern Michigan’s wine, food, and hospitality. Experience Goat Yoga for wellness, wine, and relaxation, or join Happy Hour with Goats for drink specials and furry company. Skip Traverse City’s Cherry Festival crowds and celebrate cherries at Black Star Farms. Enjoy tasting room discounts on cherry libations and cherry cocktails, plus a Celebration of Cherries Bistro Dinner featuring cherry-infused dishes. Add Paella Nights on the Patio to your summer bucket list for a unique group dining experience. Cheers to creating summer memories in wine country at Black Star Farms! Learn more here. ———— SENIOR DOULA SERVICES OF NWMI ————- Next End-of-Life Doula Cohort Training Program Begins July 9, 2026 End-of-Life (EOL) Doulas and Senior Services of Northwest Michigan is pleased to announce the start of our next end-of-life doula cohort training program. As our region continues to grow in its understanding of compassionate end-of-life care, and the Boomer Generation demands it-we are preparing a new cohort of EOL doulas to serve older adults and families with skill, presence, collaboration and compassion. In short -term- or long-term assignments. Up to 24 hr care. Serving the Grand Traverse & Leelanau Region. This training includes online credential-based instruction, face-to-face learning with elder law attorneys, funeral home professionals, hospice teams, grief support specialists, and social workers, as well as supervised experience alongside nurses, chaplains, hospice volunteers, and actively dying patients. Although we do not practice medicine we know it. And collaborate well with the clinical staff on behalf of your loved one. Our end-of-life doula training is currently embedded in agencies so trainees can receive invaluable hands-on experience in real care settings. And many of our recent trainees have come from hospitals & hospice agencies An end-of-life doula is a trained, non-medical companion who supports individuals and families through serious illness, decline, dying, and grief. Many End of Life Doulas come from a healthcare background and feel called to this work. They are trained in the dying process, the diseases and medication necessary for these maladies. EOL Doulas provide emotional, practical, spiritual, and informational support during a health crisis or end of life journey for your loved one. They work alongside hospice, palliative care, and family caregivers; they do not replace them, and they do not compete with them. We also work alongside discharge planners and social workers as part of hospital teams supporting older adults and dying patients, especially when helping them return home through our program, Compassion and Grace: My Final Journey Home. For many families, this work helps fulfill a deeply held wish: to die at home, surrounded by familiarity, comfort, and loved ones. This program is about more than training. It is about filling the gaps in elder and end-of-life care, especially during a time of healthcare crisis, when families need clarity, continuity, and compassionate support the most. We are building a stronger workforce and a stronger community by preparing EOL doulas who can help families navigate difficult decisions, We provide respite, access the right resources, so families feel less alone in the journey. Our goal is a healing positive end of life journey for the entire family. If you need more information call 231-534-5491 seniordoulaservicesofnwmi.org ———————— GILCHRIST FARM WINERY ——————————- Red, White & Boil: July 4th July 4 | 2–5 PM
$55 per person (beverages not included) Gilchrist Farm Winery 417 N. St.Joseph, Suttons Bay This Fourth of July, gather with us for an afternoon of Cajun-spiced crawfish, award-winning wine and the simple pleasures of summer in Suttons Bay for Gilchrist Farm Winery's first-ever Fourth of July Crawfish Boil! Enjoy an afternoon of Cajun-spiced crawfish, classic fixings, award-winning wine, and summer gathering. Whether you're a longtime crawfish enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to celebrate Independence Day, our Red, White & Boil event promises great food, cold drinks, and good company in a relaxed Northern Michigan setting. Gather your friends and family, pull up a chair, and make an afternoon of it! Tickets are limited and can be purchased HERE. ————————- GOOD HARBOR VINEYARDS —————————
|
|
GHV Family BBQ Join us for a casual family BBQ at the winery, with food served from 4:30–6:30 p.m. The family behind the winery will be with us, so the gathering will be relaxed and personal. Guests are welcome to settle on the porch, patio, or check out the new cellar event space. Menu: A choice of Pulled Chicken or Pulled Pork, Mac & Cheese or Potato Salad, Fresh Slaw, Cornbread, Dinner Rolls, Pickled Red Onions, Pickles, BBQ Sauce
Tickets include: BBQ catered by Cordwood BBQ One complimentary glass of wine. Members can purchase additional glasses at 20% off or with loyalty points. The opportunity to meet and connect with the owners of Good Harbor and Winemaker Drew Perry. Access to exclusive library wines First to experience the new cellar event space
Tickets: Tasting Room will be closed to the public from 3pm-close for the event.
|
|
Happy Hour Join us at Good Harbor Vineyards every day from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for happy hour. $5 select glass pours. ———-—- GRAND TRAVERSE LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM ———-—-
|
|
———————— GREEN SUTTONS BAY ————————-
|
|
Green Suttons Bay planted our 34th and 35th trees in the Village of Suttons Bay. Check out these beautiful KV plum trees on Grove St. between Front St. and M22! ————————————————————————————————- Village Rain Garden Work Bees, 9am - 10:30am, July 6th and July 16th. Green Suttons Bay will continue our summer maintenance of the village rain gardens. Please join us in keeping them free of weeds and functioning properly for collection and filtration of storm water runoff. Meet at the corner of M22 (St. Joseph) and Madison Street in Suttons Bay (by VI Grill). Please bring gloves, shovels, digging tools and clippers. ————————————————————————————————- Show-up / Pick-up Trash Collection - 5pm July 28, August 25, September 22 and October 27. We gather at Waterwheel Park (intersection of Jefferson and St. Marys Ave), then spread out to pick up litter throughout the Village of Suttons Bay. We need everyone’s help to keep our community clean, so bring your family, friends and neighbors! Gloves, reflective vests, grabbers, pickers and trash bags will be available, but please consider bringing your own materials. ————————————————————————————————- Volunteers Needed! Green Suttons Bay welcomes all volunteers, please reach out via email at greensuttonsbay@gmail.com or visit us at Green Suttons Bay on Facebook. ————— INLAND SEAS EDUCATION ASSOCIATION —————
|
|
ISEA Breaks Ground on New Education Center Yesterday, Inland Seas Education Association marked a historic milestone in its mission to protect freshwater ecosystems by celebrating their official groundbreaking ceremony for the highly anticipated ISEA Education Center. Donors, volunteers, educators and community members came together to celebrate the moment that officially launches the final phase of the Campaign for the Future of Great Lakes Education. “The enthusiastic response to our waterfront vision underscores the community’s understanding that the Great Lakes are essential to our health, economy, and quality of life,” said ISEA Executive Director, Fred Sitkins. “Through this campaign, we are expanding our ability to meet the growing demand for hands-on, experiential learning about these vital waters, inspiring people of all ages to take meaningful action to protect them.” Congratulations, Inland Seas! ————————————————————————————————--
|
|
Great Lakes Discovery Sail $40 for Adults, $30 for Children Time: 1:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. July 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21
Are you curious what lies beneath the surface of the Great Lakes? Have you ever wondered what it means to be a scientist, sailor, or steward of the Great Lakes? Join us on a Great Lakes Discovery sail for a three-hour, hands-on adventure aboard the 77-foot schooner Inland Seas to find out! Throughout this adventure, you’ll act as a scientist by collecting fish, plankton, and organisms from the bottom of the lake using REAL scientific equipment. You’ll also get to try your hand at some on-board water chemistry and learn how scientists monitor the health of the Great Lakes. During your sail, you’ll help raise the sails and even try your hand at steering the ship! This program is appropriate for learners of all ages, so bring along your family and friends, and we’re sure everyone will learn something new and feel more connected to the Great Lakes. Tickets HERE. ———————————————————————————————— Fishes of Lake Michigan $35 for Adults, $25 for Children Time: 9:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. July 7, 9, 13, 15, 17, 21
Have you ever wondered what fish species live in the Great Lakes? Are you curious how researchers collect and identify the fish that live here? Do you want to touch or hold a real fish? This two-hour program will introduce you to the fish that thrive in Lake Michigan. During this sail, you’ll help deploy REAL scientific equipment to collect fish from the bay and play the role of a citizen scientist by identifying and documenting the fish that are caught. All of our fish counts are reported to the Michigan DNR, so you’ll be making a real contribution to fish species monitoring. We’ll also bring along a community fish expert to answer any of your fish-related questions. You’ll also have the opportunity to play the role of schooner sailor as you help raise the sails and steer the ship. This program is appropriate for learners of all ages, so bring along your family and friends, and we’re sure everyone will learn something new and feel more connected to the Great Lakes. Tickets HERE. ————————————————————————————————- Steady the Ship Raise the anchor! Hoist the sails! On this two-hour sailing adventure, you’ll play the part of a schooner sailor as you explore the history of sailing on the Great Lakes. Sailing was the Early European settlers’ preferred mode of water transportation, which helped facilitate not only travel between places but also the trading of goods. Today, sailing remains a popular recreational activity among Great Lakes visitors. Not only will you have the opportunity to hoist the sails and steer the ship, but you’ll also learn how sails work, what keeps the ship afloat, and why the ship moves the way it does. This program is appropriate for learners of all ages, so bring along your family and friends, and we’re sure everyone will learn something new and feel more connected to the Great Lakes. Tickets HERE. ————————————— MAWBY ————————-———- July 17th- Discover the Magic of Sparkling Wine. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at how MAWBY sparkling wines come to life! Your experience begins at our winemaking facility, where you'll take a guided, one-hour tour. Along the way, you'll sip on three wine samples while learning the ins and outs of sparkling wine production—from grape to glass. We'll explore the differences between Cuve Close Method and Méthode Champenoise, giving you a deeper appreciation for the bubbles in your glass. After the tour, head over to our tasting room, where you'll put your new knowledge to the test! Choose three wines to create your own personalized flight and enjoy a relaxed tasting experience. $59 per person | Fizz Club member discounts apply With two unique locations and one unforgettable experience, this is a must for any sparkling wine lover. Tours are limited to one per month with only 16 spots available, so don’t wait, book your spot today! ————————————————————————————————- July 18th - Camp bigLITTLE Pizza party Join us at the bigLITTLE tasting room for a classic camp-style pizza party as part of our Camp bigLITTLE summer series. Frederick’s Wood-Fired Catering will be popping up from 4:00 to 7:00 PM with wood-fired pizzas available for purchase. Owned and operated by Cole Frederick, Frederick’s brings together fresh ingredients, local inspiration, and the kind of pizza that feels right at home with a glass of wine in hand. Come hungry, grab a pizza, enjoy live music by DJ PJ, and settle in with bigLITTLE wines by the glass or flight. This is a non-ticketed pop-up event. Food and wine will be available for purchase.
|
|
Camp bigLITTLE Charm Bar Workshop July 19th from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm, join us for a relaxed, hands-on charm bar workshop with Phoenix Fiber Arts as part of our Camp bigLITTLE summer series. During this creative workshop, you’ll design your own charm necklace using a curated selection of upcycled charms. Phoenix Fiber Arts will guide you through the process, helping you choose pieces that feel personal, playful, nostalgic, or just plain cute. Come ready to sip, socialize, and build a one-of-a-kind necklace to take home as your own little piece of Camp bigLITTLE. Seatings are limited to 8 guests each, with four workshop times available (12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm). Event is 21+
|
|
bigLITTLE Trivia July 23rd from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm, join us in the bigLITTLE Tasting room for themed trivia! We recommend that you keep your teams at 2-4 people, but we welcome multiple teams from your party! This is FREE to play and prizes will be awarded to the winning team. Theme will be released closer to event date. Come and test your Trivia skills with some good people and great wine! Tasting room seating is limited, so secure your spot by emailing reservations@biglittlewines.com. ———————————————————————————————- GRAZE Leelanau July 20th - August 17th, join us for GRAZE Leelanau; an intimate, guided food and wine experience featuring three curated light food courses thoughtfully paired with a lineup of bigLITTLE and MAWBY wines. Your visit begins at the MAWBY tasting room host stand, where you’ll be greeted with a special welcome pour before your private server leads you to your reserved table on the covered terrace. From there, your dedicated wine guide will lead you through each pairing, sharing the story behind the wines, the flavors on the plate, and the local inspiration behind the experience. This is a perfect summer afternoon for anyone who loved our past Table for Two experience, or for anyone looking for something a little more special than a standard tasting. And because every good table deserves a good story, your seat comes with a little MAWBY history too. The covered terrace was once our crush pad, where grapes arrived during harvest before beginning their journey into wine. Experience Details: Dates: Mondays and Fridays, July 20 through August 17 Times: 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM Check-In: MAWBY tasting room host stand Location: Outdoor covered terrace at MAWBY Capacity: Limited to 4 guests per time slot Price: $89 per couple or $44.50 per person (pricing listed is before taxes, discounts, and gratuity)
————————- PENINSULA PROVISIONS —————————
|
|
Picnics from Peninsula Provisions Summer evenings in Leland are back! Enjoy live music every Thursday at 6:00 PM for the Music in the Air Summer Concert Series on the Old Art Building lawn. The team at Peninsula Provisions is excited to be offering fresh, handcrafted picnic dinners for the concerts this year. Simply place your order by Wednesday at 5:00 PM, and your picnic will be ready for pickup at the Old Art Building before the music begins. Bring a blanket, gather your favorite people, and enjoy an evening of great food, live music, and community. We can't wait to see you there! Call or email to order: info@peninsulaprovisionsmi.com or 231-994-2223.
|
|
———— SUTTONS BAY BINGHAM DISTRICT LIBRARY ———— Outdoor Story Time Tuesdays June 16 - August 11 at 10:30 am. Preschool children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs and more! Every Tuesday at 10:30 am behind the library, overlooking the beach. Please bring a blanket for your family to sit on. Rainsite will be the library’s lower-level Community Room. Join us for an extra special Outdoor Story Time on July 7. We will be joined by Interlochen Public Radio’s Sound Garden Project for musical storytelling fun! ————————————————————————————————
|
|
Unfixed: Author Talk with Kimberly Warner TODAY: Wednesday, July 1: 5:30pm Wine reception, 6:00pm Conversation at the Old Art Building in Leland What do you do when the foundations of your life―family, identity and health―begin to crack beneath your feet? Kimberly Warner, in conversation with her uncle, filmmaker Rich Brauer, will describe her unforgettable journey through the uncharted waters of family secrets, chronic illness, and the relentless search for truth and forgiveness from her book Unfixed: A Memoir of Family, Mystery, and the Currents that Carry You Home by Kimberly Warner. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event courtesy of Bay Books. Join us at the Old Art Building for what is sure to be a captivating conversation! This event is brought to you in collaboration with Leland Township Public Library, the Old Art Building, and Bay Books.
|
|
Old Time in the Current Times: An American Folk Concert Wednesday, July 8: 6pm at the Friendship Community Center in Suttons Bay History buffs and music lovers alike are invited to the Friendship Community Center in Suttons Bay on Wednesday, July 8 at 6pm for Old Time in the Current Times: An American Folk Concert with Michigan folk singer Ben Traverse. When people say “American folk music,” they’re often referring to the folk revival of the 1960s. But what is “old time” music? Old time is rooted in a much deeper, more complex story shaped by working-class traditions and inspiration from other cultures, especially African American musical traditions. Traverse, along with their guitar, banjo, mountain dulcimer, and autoharp, will perform a variety of songs, serving as lenses through which to view old time’s wide range of cultural and systemic influences, how those affect its perception today, and the music’s continual evolution and growth. Join us for a lively evening of old time music and history! No pre-registration needed. This program is brought to you by the Suttons Bay Bingham District Library, Leelanau Historical Society, Leland Township Public Library and the Friendship Community Center. ————————————————————————————————--
|
|
———————— TRAVELS WITH LISA BAIRD —————————
|
|
Explore Italy's Culinary Delights! Join us on an unforgettable Food & Wine Tour of Italy from October 18–31, 2027! Experience the heart of Italian cuisine as we journey through the vibrant streets of Naples, the sun-soaked vineyards of Puglia, and the stunning cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Indulge in handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and world-class wines, all while immersing yourself in the rich culture of Italy's most beloved regions. Each meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition, crafted to create lasting memories. Don’t miss out on this exclusive guided tour! Scan the QR code to learn more and secure your spot today. For inquiries, contact Travels with Lisa Baird at 616-292-3109. Buon Appetito!
|
|
|
|
