Summer of Wine and Music

Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to enjoy the finer things in life – and what’s finer than sipping wine and listening to live music amidst the beauty of nature?

Find the Perfect Vineyard

Our region is home to numerous spectacular vineyards, many of which feature live music as part of their summer offerings. Below are 10 wineries to visit this August, where you can pair live music with stunning views and world-renowned vino.

Dune Bird Winery (Leelanau County) – Every Wednesday and Sunday
Traverse City (Traverse City) – Throughout August
French Valley Vineyard (Cedar) – Every Monday and Thursday
Chateau Grand Traverse (Old Mission Peninsula) – Every Thursday and Saturday
Rove Winery (Traverse City) – August 7
Bel Lago (Cedar) – Every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Chateau Chantal (Old Mission Peninsula) – August 7, 14, 21, and 28
Shady Lane Cellars (Suttons Bay) – Every Friday
Bluestone Vineyards (Lake Leelanau) – Every Saturday
Black Star Farms (Suttons Bay) – Every Saturday
Leelanau Cellars (Omena) – August 16, 23, and 30

Dune Bird Winery

Dune Bird Winery in Leelanau County is hosting an outdoor live music series every Wednesday and Sunday this year. You’ll catch beloved local talent like Luke Woltanski and Chris Smith while enjoying Dune Birds’ outstanding sparkling wines. Pro tip: This is an excellent hangout for music lovers midweek and on Sundays.

Some notable concerts to catch include: Rebekah Jon on Mondays and Looking Forward‘s tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young on Thursdays.

Traverse City

On the beautiful grounds of the commons, Left Foot Charley bustles with a host of events throughout August, including performances by local bands, open mic nights and a free community concert on the Piazza with the TC Knuckleheads. Wine club and wine industry members can enjoy 25 percent off wine, cider and food all evening long. Musical offerings range from country and rock to folk and bluegrass, with talent like Jakob Abraham and Laura Thurston.

French Valley Vineyard

This August, French Valley Vineyard makes weekday evenings rock at their cool barn venue, from the soulful tunes of Rebekah Jon to the dynamic duo Billy & The Kid. Don’t miss Looking Forward‘s tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, or performances by Zeke Clemons, Keith Scott, Larz Cabot and Rob Coonrod.

Chateau Grand Traverse

Chateau Grand Traverse’s new music and culinary series, Sound Bites, pairs food, wine and music every Thursday and Saturday from 5-8 p.m. You’ll catch live music, seasonal small bites, and award-winning wines against a backdrop of vineyard and bay views. No need for reservations. Just chill on the outdoor patio and enjoy the magic of the Old Mission Peninsula’s summer nights.

Rove Winery

On August 7, Rove Winery hosts a powerful mix of art and community to raise awareness for a worthy cause. The non-profit Flow Water Advocates “Sound & Shore” event welcomes beloved NoMi singer-songwriter May Erlewine performing songs that inspire love and respect for the Great Lakes.

Bel Lago

Bel Lago’s August music series features Chris Smith, Pinter Whitnick, Rhett and John, Larry Perkins, Luke Woltanski, Larz Cabot, Zeke Clemons, Swingbone North, Nick Veine, Jesse Jefferson, and John Piatek. Don’t miss the Red, White and Blues Fest on August 16, with proceeds going to the non-profit Reigning Liberty Ranch, which offers equine therapy to veterans. If you’re a wine club member, enjoy a glass of wine or a pint of cider for half off every Friday.

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Chateau Chantal

Chateau Chantal offers an elegant take on the winery concert with Jazz at Sunset. The event marks its 31st year with headliner The Jeff Haas Trio and guests. Sip wine, sample charcuterie and enjoy the sounds of jazz floating over the vines as the sun sets.

Shady Lane Cellars

Shady Lane Cellars is hosting “Friday Night Live,” featuring local musicians every Friday and Saturday. The event includes charcuterie, snacks, and wine by the glass. Enjoy the stunning scenery and listen to the sounds of Mason Grady, Drew Alkema, Jeff Socia, John Paul, John & Madeline Piatek, Luke Woltanski, Real Ingredients and Dennis Palmer.

Bluestone Vineyards

Bluestone Vineyards’ Sunset Saturdays are the perfect nights to sample Blustone’s wines while taking in the summer evenings and stunning views—the winery is a five-time Red Hot Best Award winner beloved for its elegant tasting room and pretty patio. The lineup includes Jacob McLeod and Woltanski & Piatek in July, and A to Z (Zinnia), Jakob Abraham and Anna PS in August.

Black Star Farms

For a healthy dose of romance this August, the sprawling estate and handsome Inn at Black Star Farms makes for the perfect setting. Their Saturday dinner series starts with a craft cocktail or glass of wine before serving Mediterranean cuisine at onsite restaurant Bistro Polaris, accompanied by live music outside on the lawn from 6-8 p.m.. Be sure to make reservations in advance because this popular event fills up quickly.

Leelanau Cellars

The best of both worlds in NoMi—wine and water. Leelanau Cellar’s waterfront patio overlooks Omena Bay, where you can lose yourself to the sounds of Brett Mitchell on August 16th, Kevin Paul on August 23 and Laura Thurston on August 30, all from 4-7 p.m.

Ciccione Vineyard

Ciccione Vineyard offers live music on their beautiful patio every Sunday this summer from 2-4:30 p.m. Sip on award-winning wines while vibing to talented local musicians, including Highway North, Jabo, Elizabeth Landry and Michelle Chenard.

Plan Your Visit

Before you start planning your summer of wine and music, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Check the winery’s website or call ahead to confirm the live music schedule.
Arrive early to ensure a good spot, especially during peak season.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for outdoor concerts.
Wine clubs often offer exclusive discounts and perks, so be sure to check if you’re a member.