Upcoming shows.
Pond Hill Farm
Real Farm Life in Harbor Springs, MI
Little Dipper goes the furthest north they’ve ever been, to Harbor Springs! And what better place for a country band than a farm.
Pond Hill Farm, which has grown to 238 acres, has a rustic, real and intentional, on-farm vibe. An on-site saw mill provides wood for the countertops throughout the facility and slabs customers can purchase. “We wanted to use pieces from our land in the building,” Marci says.
The farm has goats, pigs, chickens and bunnies, too. “That’s been dramatically downsized since I first came to the farm,” Marci says, noting there used to be upward of 40 cows, and a whole herd of sheep, pigs and chickens. “The whole process was not financially viable, so now the animals live here for our guests to enjoy,” she adds. People particularly like their chicken wagon, a mobile chicken house that allows chickens to forage on new ground as the wagon and fencing are moved to new areas of the farm as cleanup after harvest. The farm hosts many educational fields trips. “We are teaching kids about where their food comes from, parts of the plant they eat, and making good choices in what they eat,” she adds.
There are four hoophouses on the farm with three heated. “We’re growing things year-round like kale and spinach in the winter, and in the summer, we’re doing everything from tomatoes and broccoli to cucumbers and peppers — it’s really the whole gamut,” Marci says. In the fall, the farm hosts its very popular fall festivals on the weekends, including music, bonfires, squash and pumpkins. They can draw up to 1,000 people a day. “Our giant pumpkins are a hit,” Marci says. “My husband is obsessed with growing giant pumpkins. It’s his favorite thing. … Well, it’s more like pumpkins, fish and beer.” The farm was named after the pond Jimmy’s dad dug on the property when he was a youngster. It’s used for irrigation, but also has schools of fish — rather large trout.
The Little Fleet
Little Dipper returns to the Little Fleet!
The Little Fleet was dreamed up by husband and wife duo Gary and Allison Jonas. After a 10 year stint in the New York restaurant scene, the two returned home to Michigan to raise their family with hopes of creating a community hub right in the heart of downtown Traverse City.
Shortly after opening, Barbara Saxton came on to manage the bar bringing her extensive knowledge of specialty cocktails, but more importantly her kindness, attentiveness, and care for both customers and staff. Barbara’s dedication and warmth is what makes The Little Fleet such a welcoming space to all.
Since opening its doors in 2015, Little Fleet has been home to many things. A bar, a restaurant, a food truck lot, sure. But also: concerts, Soup & Bread, bingo, flea markets and craft fairs, beer contests and wine nights, pumpkin painting, street festivals, sign-making parties and post-protest pours, life drawing, morning music, mural making, and who could forget the yurt?
The Little Fleet is a lot of things, but it would be nothing without you. Come early, stay late. We can’t wait to hang out.
Leelanau Uncaged
Little Dipper’s First Time at Leelanau Uncaged - Northport, MI
Leelanau UnCaged is inspired by John Cage, the American composer and philosopher, whose interpretation of rhythm and music was original in every way. He famously said, "Get yourselves out of whatever cage you find yourself in." One of our founders witnessed the amazement of a Cage event and carried it forward to fuel his vision of UnCaged.
The creative spirit behind Leelanau UnCaged traces its roots to a single chaotic, and inspiring event. In April 1970, at the Macalester College field house in St. Paul, Minnesota, the experimental composer John Cage staged his groundbreaking concept: a Musicircus.
About 25 music and dance groups, spaced around the infield of a track, performed simultaneously as attendees walked around the oval. This "simultaneous performance of multiple music and dance performers of a variety of genres,” Cage believed, was a powerful expression and celebration of the creative force. The event went on to inspire similar performances in Paris, London and other European cities.
It was this very event that inspired Leelanau UnCaged founder Andy Thomas. Just as Cage encouraged his contemporaries to “get out of whatever cage you may find yourself in,” our festival was born from the desire to break down traditional boundaries and celebrate creative freedom at a deliberate time of year.
Old Art Building wsg Elisabeth Pixley-Fink
Little Dipper brings acclaimed songwriter Elisabeth Pixley-Fink to the Old Art Building
Imagine an expanded cultural campus that reflects our community, nurtures the arts, fosters relationships, and increases green space. The availability of a neighboring property presents a rare opportunity to expand Old Art Building (OAB) programming and offer new possibilities for creating, learning, meeting, and gathering.This opportunity provides a timely solution to the strain on our ability to meet the current demand for programming and community space.
Elk Rapids Evening on River Street
We are thrilled to invite you back to Elk Rapids' most beloved summer traditions — Evening on River Street! Each week, the downtown River Street area comes alive with vendors, live music, food, activities, and more. As we continue to grow and evolve our programming, we'd love to have you join us for what is shaping up to be our best season yet!
July 8th - Lakeshore Leisure
Explore the best of the outdoors with nature and wellness-focused activities, talks, and vendors! Relax and unwind to the warm, easygoing sounds of Little Dipper, whose laid-back country melodies are the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening by the lake.
Daisy May / Little Dipper wsg John Richard Paul
Join us for another round of Little Dipper with Daisy May on lead vocals! The floor of the Garden Theater may be rumbling on June 20th (if you know you know). Pick up your tickets today, this one sells out quick: Tickets for Daisy May / Little Dipper wsg John Richard Paul
May Erlewine (“Daisy May”)
"One of the Midwest’s (and northern Michigan's) most prolific and passionate songwriters, May Erlewine (Daisy May) isn’t afraid to say the hard thing."
Little Dipper
"From boot-stomping anthems to heartstring-pulling ballads, Little Dipper delivers the songs you grew up loving—played the way they were meant to be played."Daisy May and Little Dipper
John Richard Paul
John Richard Paul began playing music at a young age, starting on saxophone and piano before settling into electric bass. After performing extensively in the Lansing indie scene and opening for acts like The All-American Rejects and The Format, he returned to Traverse City in 2007 and became a sought-after musician for a wide range of Northern Michigan artists and bands. He brings the heart of Americana to Northern Michigan.
Iron Fish Distillery Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party
Little Dipper saddles up for Iron Fish Distillery’s 9th Annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party on May 2nd, delivering a soundtrack that’s as bold and smooth as the spirits in your glass. Rooted in Northern Michigan but steeped in classic country tradition, the band brings driving rhythms, worn-in harmonies, and a dance-floor pulse that pairs perfectly with big hats, fast horses, and celebratory pours.
From toe-tapping originals to crowd-pleasing country favorites, Little Dipper’s set is made for an afternoon that rolls straight into evening. High energy, unpretentious, and full of grit and charm. Come dressed to impress, raise a glass, and let Little Dipper carry the party from the starting gate to the winner’s circle. 🐎🥃🎶
Short's Anniversary Party
Little Dipper is thrilled to be part of Short’s Anniversary Party on April 25th, bringing their Northern Michigan–bred country sound to one of the region’s most iconic celebrations. With a mix of tight harmonies, dance-hall energy, and songs that feel tailor-made for a beer in your hand, Little Dipper’s set is built for a night of good company and great stories.
Expect a lively, rootsy show that fits right in with Short’s spirit, equal parts grit and joy, polished musicianship without losing the barroom soul. Whether you’re there to celebrate another year of Short’s or just to soak up the party, Little Dipper will be keeping the taps flowing and the crowd moving.
Frankfort Garden Theater
Little Dipper is playing the Frankfort Garden Theater on April 10, sharing the night with Metal Bubble Trio for a laid-back, good-music kind of evening. Little Dipper brings their Northern Michigan country sound, simple, honest songs, tight harmonies, and a rhythm that feels right whether you’re leaning back in your seat or tapping your boot on the floor. MBC brings their bossa-nova influenced power pop to their leader Andrew Dost’s hometown.
It’s a great fit for the Garden Theater: a classic room, a mixed bill, and two bands doing their thing without a lot of flash. Come out for the music, stick around for the vibes, and enjoy a night that feels local in the best possible way.
Lake Ann Brewing NEW INDOOR VENUE
Little Dipper is excited to play Lake Ann Brewing’s newly built indoor venue on March 7th, bringing their Northern Michigan country sound into a brand-new room. It’s the kind of space made for live music—warm, welcoming, and perfect for settling in with a beer while the band does what they do best.
Expect an easygoing night of honest songs, close harmonies, and a steady groove that fits right in at Lake Ann Brewing. Come check out the new space, grab a pint, and spend an evening with good music and good people.
Silver Spruce
Little Dipper hits Silver Spruce Brewing Company in Traverse City on February 28th with a night of real-deal country. Expect plenty of ’90s country favorites, plus classic hits from Willie, Waylon, and more. Cold beer, hometown vibes, and songs you’ll be singing all night, don’t miss it. 🤠🎶
Flapjack and Flannel Festival
Flapjack & Flannel Festival. Beer, Wine, Spirits, Pancake Pairings, BBQ, Live Music, Professional Lumberjack Show and TONS OF FLANNEL
Daisy May and Little Dipper
Local favorites May Erlewine and Little Dipper join together to bring you a night of country music to dance and sing along to, hosted by the historic Old Art Building. Reprising songs from the best eras of the genre, folks oughta be two-steppin’, line dancin’, and boot-scootin’ all night long. Whether you're there to dance or just sit back and listen, the room will be filled with high energy and classic twang. Adding to the magic, May Erlewine brings back the moniker that she rode in on as Daisy May, blending her soulful presence with the timeless sound of country’s most danceable classics. A night of music, movement, and community you won’t want to miss!
Little Dipper Returns to the Hayloft
Hayloft Inn
5100 E Traverse Hwy
Traverse City, MI 49684
The Little Fleet
Traverse City's Favorite Bar & Food Truck Destination
The Little Fleet brings together delicious food, craft cocktails, local beer, and natural wines. Our pet-friendly patio is perfect for the whole family, with live music and djs on rotation all summer long.
Friday Night Live
Bringing the Party to the Pavement!
When: August 1 | 6-9pm
Who: Fun for all ages
What: Friday Night Live is a perennial local favorite – a block party celebrating community and camaraderie to wind down the summer season. This FREE event features live music and performances, nonprofit organizations providing interactive games, food and beverage vendors, and a variety of entertainment.
Where: Front Street between Union Street and Park Street. Front Street will be closed to vehicle traffic between Park and Union Streets.
Details: Come downtown to shop, eat, and enjoy the events taking place on Front Street. Enjoy this walkable event in summer’s third act. The Aug. 1 FNL event will be paired with the all-day Street Sale, so take your shopping bags! The Aug. 8 FNL event will feature the theme of “Connecting Through Arts & Culture” with a focus on various art disciplines like music, dance, and visual arts.
Parking: For information on where to park, click here. We recommend the Old Town parking structure ($1.25/hr.), with plentiful parking just a short walk away; Larry Hardy parking structure east of Park Street is also available. Metered parking is free after 6pm.
Lake Ann Brewing
Join Little Dipper for a night of country classics in the Lake Ann Brewing Beer Garden.
Lake Ann Brewing Company specializes in craft beers as well as local ciders, mead, and wine. A casual, rustic “up north” tavern.
Founded in 2014. The vision for the old LA Cafe building was to create a spot where neighbors, friends, and visitors alike could enjoy a fine libation, not take anything too seriously and learn more about the people and the history that make Lake Ann special.
Elk Rapids Evening on River Street
Join us on River Street for music, food, and fun!
An annual summer tradition, Evenings on River Street are a Wednesday-night favorite in beautiful downtown Elk Rapids. Come downtown every Wednesday from June 25 through July 30 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event features food from local restaurants, kid’s activities, live music and more. Stores stay open late and the Social District will be open during Wednesday Evenings on River Street. Discover a new theme each week!
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, you’ll find something to love at Wednesday Evenings on River Street!
For additional information, contact the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce at 231-264-8202.
Frankfort Garden Theater
“Whiskey Wolves of the West is composed of Nashville guitarist Leroy Powell & singer/songwriter Tim Jones. The pair performed their debut show at Stagecoach Music Fest in April of 2016 to critical acclaim from the LA Times. Their first release Country Roots was heralded by Rolling Stone as one of the Top Ten Country Eps of 2018. The Wolves have played boutique music festivals like Long Creek, Wildwood Revival, Savannah Stopover, and the inaugural Holler on the Hill and are featured heavily during Americanafest being named Best Backing Band by Rolling Stone Country at the 2018 Festival.”
Tickets: $27
Short’s Fest
Summer starts here. Join us for the 14th annual Short’s Fest—an all-day celebration of beer, music, and good vibes in Elk Rapids.
Saturday, June 7 | 1 PM – 10 PM
Free • All Ages • Family Friendly
We’re talking two bars with 20+ Short’s Brews and Starcut Ciders on tap, killer live music, and local food trucks slinging delicious eats from start to finish.
We’ve got the line up nailed down and can’t wait to jam:
1:30–3:00 — Kanin Wren’s Taylor Swift Experience
3:30–4:00 — Shortstop
4:15–5:15 — BH&TC
5:30–7:30 — Stonefolk
8:00–9:30 — Lil Dippers
Bring your camp chairs, your dancing shoes, and your VIP Party Pint (Don’t worry, we’ll have some for sale at the party if you don’t have one yet).
Well-behaved doggos are welcome, but fair warning: there will be loud music, big crowds, and yes—flamethrowers.
No tickets. No fuss. Just one unforgettable kickoff to summer.
Dick’s Pour House
Join Little Dipper for Dick’s Pour House anniversary party.
Located in downtown Lake Leelanau, Dick's Pour House is a local Family Restaurant. Dining is in a casual "Up North" atmosphere with a full service menu.
Lake Ann Brewing
Join Little Dipper for a night of country classics in the Lake Ann Brewing Beer Garden.
Lake Ann Brewing Company specializes in craft beers as well as local ciders, mead, and wine. A casual, rustic “up north” tavern.
Founded in 2014. The vision for the old LA Cafe building was to create a spot where neighbors, friends, and visitors alike could enjoy a fine libation, not take anything too seriously and learn more about the people and the history that make Lake Ann special.