The second weekend in May is coming up. It is a bit of a crossroads between cooler and warmer spring weather, as it is still a few weeks from the “unofficial start of summer” in northern Michigan. So with the weather being a bit more on the cooler side, let’s see about some indoor fun for the weekend that has to do with art, some performances and, of all things, a roller derby!
The Rat Pack were a huge deal back in the day. In honor of the great hits they had, the “Rat Pack Together Again” performance will be on Friday at 7:30PM at the City Opera House in Traverse City. A Toast to the Rat Pack takes you on a musical journey featuring the greatest hits from the legendary Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. This production will treat you to Sinatra classics including Come Fly With Me, My Way, and New York Dino with great songs like Everybody Loves Somebody and That’s Amore! And from the dynamic Sammy Davis Jr…Mr. Bojangles and Candy Man. After watching these performers, you will leave the show feeling as though The Rat Pack is still going strong after all these years! Tickets on sale between $35 & $45 per person. To buy your tickets, go to cityoperahouse.org
At the Father Fred Foundation Annual Garage Sale on Saturday, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at 826 Hastings Steet in TC, you’ll find a wide mix of finds, including jewelry and antiques, unique collectibles, apparel and footwear, housewares, seasonal decor, toys, and other treasures. One hundred percent of proceeds support programs that provide assistance to individuals and families in need across five northern Michigan counties with the help of the Father Fred Foundation. Donations of items are accepted during regular business hours, and volunteer opportunities are available. Complete detail are at fatherfred.org/annual-frostbite-food-drive-february-7-15
Looking for some gifts for Mother’s Day? You’ll find them at the Spring Art by the Barn on Saturday, from 10AM-5PM at the Emmet County Fairgrounds, just outside of Petoskey. There will be Batik art, fudge, Michigan rock art, paintings, plants, locally foraged wellness items, gourmet food, food trucks & more. Admission is free!
Now, a little something different. When I was a kid, my friends and I used to love watch the men’s and women’s roller derby on TV on the weekends. Well, now you can see the action in person at the TC Roller Derby 2026 Home Opener Triple Header, Saturday, from 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Howe Arena! Traverse City’s Civic Center hosts TCRD’s home opener triple header featuring three roller derby matchups. It begins with a junior mixed scrimmage showcasing the Rolling Raccoons, continues with the A Team facing Downriver Roller Derby, and concludes with the B Team against an opponent to be announced. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door, with cash and card accepted. Kids 12 and under get in free with an adult. Tickets will be available closer to the event, and beverage service will be offered. Further details at tcrollerderby.com on their events page.
Last, but certainly not least, I’ve never been able to see Bob Seger in person, but if you love his music, bring a friend or significant other to, A Tribute to Bob Seger, Saturday evening starting at 7:30PM, at the City Opera House in Traverse City. You’ll experience Bob Seger’s greatest, featuring all his hits including “Old Time Rock and Roll,” “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man,” “Against the Wind” & more. Ticket prices are between $39 & $69. You can buy your tickets at CityOperaHouse.org.
Have a great weekend, and hopefully, we’ll have some outdoor weekend events to share!
