Hi, I’m back, and have I got news for you! You think June and the 4th of July were amazing in Downtown Petoskey, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet.
On Friday, July 21st, I will be cavorting and carousing with some of the best artists around while I tour and shop at the Art in the Park beginning at 10 a.m. But, let me give you a little hint; get to Roast & Toast, North Perk, or the Dripworks early, grab your coffee, and head over to Pennsylvania Park while the artists are putting up their displays. You get to browse and shop for what everyone else will see in a couple of hours. That way you won’t miss out on a piece you simply must have.
For an added memory, I’m going to scoot over to Beards Brewery and enjoy a cold one on their new patio overlooking Little Traverse Bay. My favorite porter is always at the ready.
I won’t be going anywhere soon. I’ve taken a room at The Perry, Downtown Petoskey’s only traditional hotel dating back to 1899. The Victorian rooms, balconies and verandas harken back to days of quiet and contentment before cellphones and a constant connection to the Universe kept us glued to any number of electronic devices.
The reason I stayed in town for a week is easy to explain. On July 27th and 28th the Sidewalk Sales happen. Starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, the streets are closed off and a shopper’s paradise explodes before your eyes. I already know which ACE Hardware table I’ll head to, which shirt at The Clothes Post I’ll try on, and I’ve picked out the books at McLean & Eakin I hope go on sale. When all is said and done, though, I will spend a lot of time in the Shorter Family gift shops and end up at Symons General Store with bags of candy. Well, unless I’m full from Kilwins or Murdick’s ice cream; however, the family won’t rest unless I stop and get some cupcakes from Jessica at Simply Sweet on Mitchell Street.
No matter the weather. The waterfront can cool me, and the restaurants and taverns can soothe me if the rain decides to join me. July is the peak of summer in Downtown Petoskey, and I’m not going to miss a minute.
So, until next time, enjoy the art and the shops. Watch out for me, though, I may be napping in the park after a massive lunch at Chandler’s – A Restaurant or City Park Grill. Need to get ready for Happy Hour at the Palette.
