As the vibrant colors of fall give way to crisp November air, Michigan transforms into a haven for quiet adventures, cozy experiences, and seasonal festivities. From serene trails and empty beaches to bustling city events and cultural celebrations, November is the perfect time to savor the last moments before winter takes hold. Whether you’re a foodie, a sports fan, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy the Great Lakes State, there’s something for everyone. Here are 12 things to do in Michigan this November to help you make the most of the month.
Nov 6-9 Hockeytown Centennial Fanfest – Detroit
In some ways it seems like the the Red Wings have been around forever, or maybe that’s just how long it feels like it’s been since we watched them twirl with the Cup above their heads. Turns out, our beloved hometown hockey club is turning 100. That is definitely worthy of a celebration. MotorCity Casino Hotel is hosting a once-in-a-century event, bringing together over 50 alumni and generations of fans for an immersive journey through the legacy of one of hockey’s most iconic franchises. Fans will experience interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, themed installations, and cutting-edge technology. The weekend will feature autograph sessions, special guest appearances, family-friendly activities, sponsor activations, and exclusive merchandise, all honoring the past, present, and future of Hockeytown.
Nov 1-April 5 Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation – Detroit
Most of the leaves have fallen, and the air has turned a little more than brisk, which makes it an excellent time to head inside an experience color in a different way. For the first time in three decades, the Detroit Institute of Arts is offering a major exhibition of Native American art. In fact, it’s one of the largest presentations of contemporary Native American art in the Midwest. This collection is designed to celebrate the enduring cultures and creative achievements of over 60 Anishinaabe artists from across the Great Lakes region. Curated with guidance from an advisory council of Ojibwe (Chippewa), Ottawa (Odawa), and Potawatomi (Pottawatomi) artists, the exhibition features basketry, beadwork, birchbark artistry, clothing, film, graphic design, jewelry, painting, pottery, sculpture, and woodwork. While in Midtown, save some time to explore cool shops like City Bird, Art Loft Midtown, and Shinola.
Nov 7, 14, and 21 Swiss Raclette Dinner – Suttons Bay
Wine and cheese have been the best of friends for centuries. So what happens when an excellent Michigan winery teams up with a phenomenal local cheesemaker? Find out for yourself by attending one of these Friday night dinners in November at the Bistro Polaris at Black Star Farms. Indulge in this delicious Alpine tradition with a gourmet meal. During dinner, enjoy a brief discussion on the history of Raclette and learn how it’s produced by the talented team at Leelanau Cheese. A foodie’s delight, this evening promises to be a relaxed, communal dining experience. You can even chat with one of the cheesemakers, ask questions, and purchase their award-winning Raclette, and of course, don’t forget to leave with some Black Star bottles as well. Tickets for this unique Northern Michigan experience are $65 each.
Nov 7-15 Restaurant Week GR – Grand Rapids
WalletHub recently named Grand Rapids one of America’s best foodie cities. If you’ve ever been, then you’ll understand why. If not, then this is the perfect week for some culinary exploration. This year, participating restaurants will be offering two courses or more for $25, $35 and/or $45 during the 9-day promotion. Before you go, it only takes a couple minutes to sign up online for the Restaurant Week GR Digital Pass. Your check-ins with the Digital Pass can earn you a free gift, just for enjoying great food. You’ll also be able to vote for your favorite participating eatery. The winner will receive a special award and a donation to the GRCC Secchia Institute for Culinary Education in their name. Every Restaurant Week check-in will send a $1 donation to the Secchia Institute, too, courtesy of Gordon Food Service. These donations will go toward a scholarship fund for local culinary students, to help keep Grand Rapids’ impressive food scene thriving.
Nov 7-15 Traverse City Beer Week – Traverse City
During the calm that is the month between color tours and holiday extravaganzas, Traverse City is a key destination for beer lovers. Gather some friends and go on a self-guided brew tour from November 7-15. Each day will feature a special theme that highlights one of the many kinds of inventive brews crafted locally in the Traverse City area. Sign up online for the Beer Week pass. This mobile exclusive passport is a collection of curated bars, restaurants and more, offering deals and discounts to redeem during your visit. Your ready to use passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text. There is no app to download. When visiting a participating business, simply use your phone to check-in, access discounts, and earn points toward a prize.
Nov 8 Public Tea Ceremony – Saginaw
If you’re looking for a little calmness in your life, or just want to experience something you’ve never done before, then consider heading to the Japanese Cultural Center. There you can join in on a serene tea ceremony. You’ll experience the ceremony’s rich history and culture amid beautiful architecture, scrolls, and pottery. Watch practitioners in traditional kimono perform the ritual, and end with a bowl of matcha and a sweet. The ceremony takes place at 2PM. Reservations are required, and admission is $10.
Nov 9 All Things Detroit: Holiday Experience – Detroit
With the scent of Christmas pines in the air, Eastern Market is a fun destination even as cold temps set in. Warm up inside and do some serious shopping at this annual marketplace featuring more than 200 small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to find something locally-made for everyone on your list. Then pop on over to Detroit City Distillery to celebrate your success with a hot toddy, or head into Bert’s for some legendary Detroit BBQ.
Nov 12 TEDxDetroit – Detroit
Looking for a little inspiration? Put this event on your calendar. TEDxDetroit is an annual gathering of the area’s leading thinkers, designers, entrepreneurs, educators, scientists, and artists in downtown Detroit. The whole day is designed to celebrate creativity while fostering new connections, collaborations, and opportunities. This year’s event is at the Durfee Innovation Society, and aims to take attendees inside some of the event’s most popular talks from previous years, as well as offering up new and innovative ideas.
Nov 14-16 Motor City Comic Con – Novi
Fans of pop culture will be delighted to know that Motor City Comic Con is returning to the Suburban Collection Showplace once again. There will be plenty of photo ops, games to play, and people to meet. Join in on the cosplay contest. Test your skills in the pinball zone. Discover amazing new creations. Attend a panel discussion. Get a celebrity autograph or selfie. Stephen Amell, Linda Blair, Alex Brightman, Holly Marie Combs, Casper Van Dien, Vincent D’Onofrio, Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Juliette Lewis, Kellan Lutz, Rose McGowen, Dina Meyer, Amy Smart, Tom Sturridge, Gina Toress, Skeet Ulrich, and many more, are currently slated to appear.
Nov 21 Silver Bells in the City – Lansing
This annual tradition, just may be the best time you’ll have in Lansing all year. Kick off your holiday season in our capitol city, which will glow during the Electric Light Parade at 6PM. Get some refreshments, holiday shop, or purchase your Silver Bells commemorative ornament in the The Silver Bells Village. Made up of vendors from throughout Michigan, you’ll find it on the 100 E. Block of Allegan Street. Be sure to pick your spot for the lighting of the Official State Christmas Tree at 7:25PM. After which, you can show off your musical chops with the community carol sing-along. Look toward the sky at 7:35PM for a dazzling drone show, followed by incredible fireworks over the capitol. This is an event that is sure to delights kids from one to ninety-two.
Nov 21-22 International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival – Grand Rapids
Named a Best Fall Wine Festival Not to Miss by Forbes.com, this fest has really established itself as Michigan’s annual tasting event for drinking aficionados. More than 1,200 wines, beers, ciders and spirits from around the world, including many local options we love, are featured. They are complemented by creations from the area’s finest restaurants. This year’s event features special appearances by Pistons’ great Isiah Thomas, cookbook author Gina Ferwerda, Lorraine’s Premium BBQ Sauce founder Larry Crockett, Master Chef Jody Robinson, and other culinary experts. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just a novice, this a fun event to explore. Single day admission is $25.
Nov 27 America’s Thanksgiving Parade – Detroit
Some of us go every year, while others have only seen it on TV. This is an event that every Michigander should experience in person at least once. Pick your spot on Woodward Avenue and marvel at the creativity of the floats and size of those inflatables. Watch each team work hard to keep their colorful helium-filled balloons from catching a breeze and drifting off to Canada. Cheer on those high school marching bands. Get charmed by the Distinguished Clown Corps, and have fun trying to identify each of the famous Big Heads. It’s a tremendous way to start your Thanksgiving holiday. If you can’t make it down this year, then look for the broadcast on WDIV.
November in Michigan is a month of contrasts, peaceful landscapes waiting to be explored and lively events that bring communities together. Whether you’re embracing the calm before the snow or celebrating local culture and flavors, these experiences remind us why the Great Lakes State is so special. So bundle up, step outside, and let this November be full of discovery, connection, and a little bit of magic.
