Almanac

The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park invites the community to join them under the big white tent for an unforgettable evening of food, friends, and fundraising on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

The evening begins with cocktails and networking, followed by a delicious dinner surrounded by sweeping garden views. Guests will also take part in one of the most anticipated events of the year—the Rare Plant Auction. From hidden gems and collector-worthy perennials, every plant tells a story. Even better, each plant up for bid comes as part of a pair: one goes home with the winning bidder, and its twin joins the permanent collection at The Botanic Garden.

Whether you’re a passionate gardener or just looking for a fun evening out, the Dinner & Auction offers something for everyone. Guests can reserve individual seats or gather a table of eight for a memorable night with friends, colleagues, or fellow plant lovers.

Proceeds from the event support The Botanic Garden’s mission of preserving natural beauty, offering year-round education, and creating a welcoming space for all.

For more information about the dinner and auction, please click here.

Traverse Area District Library & Grand Traverse Area Citizens' Climate Lobby Presents:
"Climate Conversations through Film & Dialog Series"

First Topic: Climate Effects on Mental Health + Strategies

Two short films:
"Gen Z Mental Health: Climate Stories" &
PBS Independent Lens "Everything Wrong and Nowhere to Go"

Discussions to follow each film. Appropriate for teens and adults.

Popcorn & Cider will be available.

Traverse City Main Library on Woodmere, McGuire Room

https://www.tadl.org/ClimateFIlms

TADL and Citizens Climate Lobby are partnering to bring you this facilitated film series about various aspects of climate change and how it affects people and our region. Each evening in this series you'll watch a short film or two and then participate in an open discussion about the topic with local environmental enthusiasts and experts.

September 25th - Climate Effects on Mental Health and Grounding Strategies

Dr. Laracey will discuss his recent book "Informing a Nation: the newspaper presidency of Thomas Jefferson". The book explores how President Jefferson used the media to advance his political agenda, and also raises broad questions about the relationship between the presidency and media today. Copies of the book will be available for sale.

About the Documentary
The Search for Anna & Levi: A Lost History of Black Homesteaders in Leelanau County brings to light an overlooked chapter of Leelanau County’s history and the broader story of African American settlement in the Midwest. Directed by Joe VanderMeulen, the film explores the lives of Anna and Levi Johnson — early Black homesteaders whose farm once stood in what is now Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Featuring interviews with descendants, local historians, and regional experts, this documentary offers a heartfelt and personal journey into a past that connects directly to our present.

A special thank you to the Leelanau Historical Society for allowing us to show this incredible film.

The riotous live musical comedy is based on the hit 1992 film! When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won't be found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid traditions of the church and uptight Mother Superior. Using her sense of humor, disco dance moves, and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. The chase is on as Deloris begins to understand the power of her newly found sisterhood.

The Elk Rapids Farmers Market is brought to you by the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. This Friday morning market offers a wide selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers and plants, baked goods, cheese, meats and fish, jams, maple syrup, local honey, coffee and tea, lavender products and so much more! In 2025, the Market is open every Friday from 8:00am to Noon from May 30th through October 3rd.

Munson Healthcare's Thomas Judd Care Center presents the 2025 Northern Michigan HIV Summit. This event will be held in person, with a virtual option. Details for remote attendees will be provided closer to the event.

Free registration | Lunch included | Free CEUs

Keynote speaker Karen Daley, PhD, RN, FAAN

The Thomas Judd Care Center in Traverse City, provides care to people in northern Michigan living with HIV/AIDS and to those at risk of contracting this infectious disease. The center offers medical care, support services, and prevention services. Founded in 1994, it is the only Ryan White federally-funded program in northern Michigan.

This event is free to all, but you must register to attend either virutally or in-person!

Registration open through 9/15/2025 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Continental Breakfast and Lunch will be served

The Great Lakes, Great Plants Symposium returns this fall with a fresh lineup of lectures, tours, and immersive experiences celebrating horticulture, design, and the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Designed for professionals and plant lovers alike, this two-day symposium includes inspiring talks, a rare plant auction, guided garden tours, and exclusive bonus experiences.

This year’s programming focuses on Gardening in the Midwest, Wild Designs, and Art in the Landscape, offering practical knowledge, innovative ideas, and plenty of inspiration.

To see the full schedule of events and purchase tickets, please visit the ticket link below.

Learn diverse dance styles and make new friends in a warm and welcoming environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced dancer, everyone is invited to join the fun.

Designed for dancers of all ages and skill levels, our Social Dance Classes offer an opportunity to learn new dance styles and enjoy the camaraderie of other dance enthusiasts. Each week, you’ll explore a different dance genre such as salsa, waltz, swing, or tango. Under the guidance of one of Interlochen’s skilled instructors, you’ll learn the steps and techniques—all while connecting with others and gaining confidence on the floor.

The classes emphasize the joy of moving to the music, sharing laughs, and creating memorable moments. Come dance with us and experience the delight of social dancing.