Prepare for spine-chilling haunts, eerie creatures, and heart-pounding scares as we explore one of Michigan’s most terrifying haunted attractions. From haunted houses to creepy trails, Screams in the Dark is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, screaming for more. This is a must-do for any Halloween lover, and it's bound to be a night full of adrenaline and excitement!

Want to carpool? We’re making it easy for you to join in on the fun! Meet us at Meijer’s parking lot in Traverse City (near the car wash): we’ll be departing at 7 PM sharp. If you'd like to sign up for the carpool, or even volunteer as a driver, shoot us an email at JackL@evergreen-mi.org. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the action, text 231-534-5678 on the night of the event, and we’ll help you find the group. We want everyone to experience the thrills together!

About the Hike

Michigan’s High Rollaways is one of the most breathtaking places to explore in the fall. Our walk will wind through forested trails glowing with autumn color and lead us to sweeping views of the Manistee River from the observation decks. These riverbanks attract hikers, bikers, and travelers eager to take in the scenery.

Come join us for this festive outing filled with vibrant leaves, fresh air, and good company!

Meeting Location

Kingsley Public Library

213 S Brownson Ave, Kingsley, MI

We’ll offer a carpool and the option to follow along in your own vehicle.

Because parking at the overlook is limited and there’s no cell service in the area, we highly recommend meeting at the library to stay with the group.

Planning on carpooling? Please email us at Hello@evergreen-MI.org

Get ready for one of Evergreen’s most beloved traditions! Join us on Thursday, October 23rd, for our 4th Annual Ghost Photo Shoot in downtown Traverse City. This hauntingly fun event brings together photographers and Evergreen friends dressed as sheet-draped ghosts, for an evening of laughter as we wander the streets at dusk capturing spooky, creative moments.

Grab an old white sheet and make it your own with fun touches like sunglasses, hats, or other quirky accessories. Don’t have one? No worries—we’ll have extra white plastic sheets available by $5 donation. Meet us outside the Post Office on Union Street. We’ll be setting up and helping each other get ready starting at 5:30 PM. The photoshoot begins at 6 PM sharp! To catch up with the group anytime during the event, text 231-534-5678.

Michigan’s High Rollaways is a breathtaking place to explore in the fall. Our walk will wind through forested trails glowing with autumn color and lead us to sweeping views of the Manistee River from the observation decks. These riverbanks attract hikers, bikers, and travelers eager to take in the scenery. Join us for this festive outing filled with vibrant leaves, fresh air, and good company!

We are meeting at the Kingsley Public Library, offering a carpool and the option to follow along with your own vehicle. Evergreen leadership won’t know the parking situation until arrival and the area has no cell service. We highly recommend following along from the meeting location to ensure you are able to stay with the group. If you have questions prior to the event, please reach out to Jack or Gabi.

Our October gathering is getting a Halloween twist! Jack will be cooking up a big pot of chili, paired with cornbread, toppings, and punch. To keep the spirit alive, we’re asking everyone to bring along a spooky dish of their own—sweet or savory, creepy or clever. Costumes are welcome (and encouraged!), but if pajamas are more your vibe, we say come cozy.

Adults of all ages are invited to join in, so bring your friends, neighbors, or anyone looking for community. Everyone is welcome, and every dish tells a story. So gather around the table for this festive potluck and enjoy an evening where laughter, flavor, and connection are always on the menu.

Spend an autumn evening with fellow reading enthusiasts at Panera Bread! We’ll settle in with good conversation about recent reads, favorite genres, and the authors who keep us turning pages. No assigned book—just an open exchange of ideas and inspiration. Food and drinks will be available for purchase if you’d like a little something while we chat.

We’ll all be part of one big group discussion; add your voice to the mix or settle in for a cozy evening listening. Either way, you might leave with a new connection, a spark of creativity, or a stack of book recommendations you can’t wait to dive into. We hope to see you there!

Evergreen Community Group invites you to a night of bone-chilling fun on Saturday, October 11th—with not one, but two haunted adventures! The night begins aboard the Ghost Ship in Manistee at 8PM, where eerie tales and phantom shadows linger on every deck. Once we escape the ship’s haunted waters, we’ll plunge into the Haunted Prison in Free Soil, where restless spirits and chilling surprises wait around every corner.

Join our carpool from Traverse City’s Meijer (near the car wash), departing at 6:00 PM sharp, returning by midnight. Reserve your carpool seat or volunteer as a driver by emailing jackl@evergreen-mi.org. Prefer to drive yourself? No problem, meet us at A&W. For questions or live updates on the night of, text 231-534-5678. 

Break away from your everyday rhythm and wander into something quietly magical in the Arcadia area. These outdoor adventures are a gentle invitation to make new friends, share stories between footsteps, and soak in the expansive beauty that surrounds us. Meet us at the Arcadia Dunes: C.S. Mott Nature Preserve for a one-mile hike with a breathtaking lookout over the sparkling sweep of Lake Michigan.

Afterwards, anyone that is interested in continuing the adventure can join Evergreen at the Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve to check out the boardwalk and look for wildlife. And if the mood strikes, you might find us stretching our time together just a little further to the stairs at Inspiration Point or lunch in Frankfort. If you’d like to join in at any time, text 231-534-5678 to find out where the group is.

Climbing nights with Evergreen at ELEV8 are all about energy, encouragement, and community. We gather to move, laugh, and take on walls of every size, creating a mix of challenge and fun that leaves everyone smiling. This is one of our popular events and we’re so happy to welcome returning friends & new faces!

First-time climbers and experienced regulars alike will find routes to enjoy, with plenty of cheers and high-fives along the way. All gear is included for $20—and don’t forget to sign the waiver before joining in. Not interested in climbing? Come check out the facility and meet new people!

This month’s table is inspired by the flavors we love to share around town! We’ll provide Asian-style chicken, noodles, and veggie eggrolls ready to dig into. To round out the spread, we’re inviting friends to bring their go-to takeout favorites. Think pizza boxes, fried shareables, cartons of Indian curry, loaded nachos, or even a pint of ice cream from Culver’s.

Food has a way of uniting people, breaking the ice, and turning strangers into friends. Evergreen celebrates diversity by welcoming people from every background, culture, and walk of life—because community is stronger when everyone has a seat at the table. So save the date, invite a friend, and enjoy a Taste of Takeout!

Step back in time and join Evergreen for a day at Michigan Renaissance Festival! Wander the 16th-century village of Hollygrove filled with artisan shops, live shows, jousting tournaments, and of course, giant turkey legs. It’s the perfect chance to dress up, laugh with friends, and experience a little medieval magic. Join anytime by texting 231-534-5678 to find us! RSVP or ask questions by emailing Hello@evergreen-mi.org.

Costumes are strongly encouraged, with contests and immersive fun abound. Let’s meet at 10:30 AM near the front gate for our opening cheers and then disperse into the realm of Hollygrove. Admission is $27.95 for adults and parking is $15 per vehicle. For additional information, please visit the official ticket page and the festival FAQ page.

Gather with fellow book lovers for an evening at Farm Club! We’ll share a charcuterie board and let the discussion flow—favorite genres, current reads, beloved authors, and more. No assigned reading, just the joy of swapping stories and hearing what others are excited about.

Like all Evergreen gatherings, this event is about more than the activity itself—it’s about bringing people together. Maybe this event will spark a connection over a book or hobby! If you’ve never been to Farm Club, experience it and then come back with friends. Come ready to laugh, listen, and leave with a few fresh ideas for your reading list.

Looking for a new challenge that’s active, social, and just plain fun? Come climb with Evergreen! We’ve partnered with ELEV8 to bring you regular climbing nights throughout the year—and this is your next chance to jump in. All skill levels are welcome, from first-time climbers to seasoned chalk-dusted pros.

We’ll gear up (everything included for $20), cheer each other on, and tackle walls of all shapes and heights while having a blast together. No need to worry about experience—friendly staff will help you get started, and the group vibe will keep the energy high. No registration needed, but you’ll want to fill out ELEV8’s online waiver before you arrive to speed things up.

Did you know? Christina Moutsatson of Evergreen's leadership team is this year's Polka Queen and President Jack Lankford is Polka King. Experience the Polish culture in Cedar at the 43rd Annual Polka Fest! Grab some delicious pierogi, cabbage rolls, kielbasa food trucks, and much more. The highlight of the night is polka dancing and music under the big tent.

Evergreen friends will be there at 5:00 PM, admission is $15. Buy tickets online or at the festival. They do perform bag checks, so pack only what you need. Parking is on a first come first serve basis and tends to fill up quickly. We hope to see you there!

This is a cultural heritage celebration and alcohol and drinking will be present. Evergreen does not provide or promote alcohol or substance consumption.

We’re back on track and this time we’re bringing cookout vibes with grilled hotdogs, BBQ pulled pork sliders, coleslaw, and refreshments. We invite friends to contribute their favorite sides, salads, and desserts to make it a true feast. This is a welcoming event designed for adults to relax, share a meal, and spark new friendships.

Our monthly gatherings are one of the ways we create a warm, welcoming space where it’s easy to start conversations and find your crowd. We believe in community without cliques, laughter without judgment, and making sure every person who walks through the door knows one thing: you belong, you matter.

Evergreen Community Group is heading out for a day trip to the Buckley Old Engine Show (admission is $5) where vintage tractors, steam engines, and classic farm equipment roar back to life. We’ll stroll through rows of historic tractors and explore hundreds of antique engines in action, with live demonstrations that show off old-school farming and milling techniques.

The grounds will be buzzing with vendors offering everything from tools and parts to handmade crafts and collectibles. Here are some activities we may catch live: sawmills cutting lumber, straw being baled, cider presses at work, and even take a ride on a steam-powered train or a miniature railroad. This is a fun, hands-on way to experience Michigan’s mechanical heritage, connect with friends, and enjoy a truly unique day together.

Let’s roll into a night of strikes, spares, and plenty of laughs! Join us at the lanes for some friendly competition, good vibes, and a chance to knock down pins while building connections with other adults in the community. This is a grown-ups-only night out designed for mingling, cheering each other on, and showing off that lucky spin shot you’ve been saving.

We’ll fuel the fun with hot, cheesy pizza served right at our lanes, keeping the energy high as we bowl the night away. Come solo or bring a friend—no need to be a pro, just ready to have fun. Grab your shoes, pick your favorite bowling ball, and let’s make this a night we can all spare some time for! This event is generously sponsored by Incredible Mo’s. 

Evergreen is heading to the beach for a laid-back day of sunshine and sand! We’ll meet just off the blue ADA trail, then spread out by the water for swimming, beach games, and plenty of laughs with friends old and new. Think towels, sandals, and that easygoing vibe that only a Michigan summer day can deliver.

Pack some snacks or a favorite non-alcoholic drink to share with the group, and toss a few bucks in your pocket for a round of ice cream when the afternoon heat hits. This is one of those simple, carefree days where we can kick back, relax, and just enjoy being together by the lake. Reach out to Jack via 231-534-5678 if you need assistance locating the group.

The Northwestern Michigan Fair is rolling into Traverse City, bringing a week packed with hometown fun! Come wander through the open-air flea market, stop by the 4‑H barns to see baby animals,and snack your way through classic fair food with Evergreen friends.

This is a true summer tradition where neighbors come together to celebrate agriculture, music, and good old-fashioned fair vibes—don’t miss it! General admission into the fair is $5 (does not include Grandstand Events or Arnold Amusement Rides). Follow our Facebook group for updates on where we will meet, or text 231-534-5678 on the day of.

Step off the beaten path and explore the quiet beauty of Reffitt Nature Preserve! This 1.6 mile trail loops through shady forest and lush wetland, giving us a quiet space to walk, talk, and enjoy time together. It’s a tranquil escape right on the edge of Traverse City, with boardwalks crossing over Mitchell Creek and spots ideal for birdwatching.

If there has been recent rain or we are experiencing high water levels, we may encounter mud. Wear sturdy shoes (your preference on sandals, tennis shoes, boots, etc) and embrace the outdoors! Evergreen will have bug spray handy and offer simple refreshments to keep everyone hydrated. We will be meeting at the north parking lot via Oak Drive.

Catch the summer vibe at Harbor Days in Elk Rapids! This lively waterfront festival brings music, vendors, and small-town charm all in one place. We’ll meet at 4:00 PM right in front of the cinema before strolling through downtown together, exploring shops and festival happenings.

If you'd like to keep the fun going after this excursion ends at 6:00 PM, join the crew for fair food, rides, and fireworks off the marina to end the night! Text 231-534-5678 to find where the group is.

Join us in the heart of downtown where we’ll be making free friendship bracelets all evening long! We’ll have a table set up on West Front Street by Grand Traverse Pie Company. Whether you’re already part of the group or just curious about who we are, swing by to connect and create something fun with us.

This annual event is a high-energy, family-friendly block party that brings live music, performers, food trucks, local vendors, and community groups together. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening in Traverse City.

Interested in volunteering at our table? We’d love your help welcoming folks and showing them how to make bracelets! Just send us a quick email at Hello@Evergreen-MI.org

Evergreen is heading to the Cherry Festival for an evening of lights, laughter, and festival vibes—think the smell of kettle corn in the air, the sound of games and rides, and plenty of good company along the way. From salty snacks to sugary favorites, we’ll be soaking in everything the midway has to offer.

We’re meeting at 6:00 PM in front of the Traverse City Visitor Center before diving into the fun. Not sure where to find us? Just text 231-534-5678 and we’ll point you in the right direction. Bring a friend or two—the more the merrier!

Ready to push your limits, meet great people, and have an awesome time doing it? Come climb with us at ELEV8 Climbing Gym! With an energetic, welcoming vibe and top-quality bouldering walls, this is the perfect place to challenge yourself while staying connected to the Evergreen community.

We’re teaming up with ELEV8 throughout 2025, with both their crew and our leadership on hand to support you—whether it’s your first time on the wall or your hundredth. Every session is just $20, which includes all the gear you’ll need. No need to book ahead; just show up and get climbing! To make check-in faster, be sure to complete ELEV8’s online waiver before you arrive.

It's our 3rd full year as an official nonprofit organization! Let's have cupcakes, discuss favorite traditions, and talk about our roots. The Evergreen crew is settling into streaming, and we hope you are having as good of a time as we are! With a lot of set up (thanks Kevin) and never much of an agenda, we've had fun navigating this new experience. Tune in with us to hear about upcoming events, ask questions, and have a laugh over whatever stories come up during the live.

We are combining our meet & greet coffee event with an excursion to the downtown farmer's market. Evergreen is hosting a daytime hangout that’s all about ditching the isolation and meeting new people! Try something off the menu at Water Bearer Coffee and chat with someone outside your usual orbit. Afterwards, we'll walk to the market & wander the rows of fresh produce, handmade goods, and local treats.

In June we are combining our potluck with this annual pizza event at ICA's Botanical Lab & Gardens, where a roaring stone pizza oven and open-air pavilion set the stage for an evening of fun, flavor, and friends. We’ve got the dough, sauce, and cheese: toppings and other dishes, sides, desserts, and contributions are always welcome. Don’t miss this slice of summer magic!

Directions:
Search the coordinates provided in your choice of map app. Once you are on Karlin Rd / J Paddy Pkwy, next you'll turn onto Lyon Rd. You'll only drive about 335 ft on Lyon Rd before you'll see the pavilion on your left. Park as directed by members of the Evergreen Team and/or the art center security staff.

Summer is just around the corner and there’s no better way to welcome it than with a good walk in the woods. Join us for a group hike at Veronica Valley Park (formerly a golf course), one of Leelanau County’s most peaceful pockets of nature, where meadows stretch wide and ponds shimmer under the sun.

We’ll be winding through grassy trails, crossing bridges, and pausing to take in the small wonders along the way. This time of year the forest wetlands come alive: keep an eye out for baby amphibians near Merbert Creek! Summer is also the season of turtles, dragonflies, trout, water fowl, and snakes at Veronica Valley. Let’s see what we can see, together!

Game night is back! We’ll have games to share and players are encouraged to bring their own too. No need to be a pro — just bring your willingness to try something new and maybe roll the dice (literally or figuratively). Tile movers, card flippers, and piece collectors: this night’s got room for everyone.

This all-ages event is designed for fun, connection, and a little friendly competition. We have a snack potluck every time, so grab something tasty to share. Don't feel like playing? Come hang with Evergreen friends for the conversation and food!

Get ready to immerse yourself in one of Michigan's most iconic hidden gems—Fishtown in Leland! Evergreen is heading out for a day of exploration, history, and coastal charm. We’ll wander through this picturesque district, taking in the scenic beauty, unique shops, and local history that make Fishtown a must-see location.

Expect a relaxing and fun-filled day with local art, handcrafted goods, delicious local treats, stunning views, and waterfront vibes. There’s no set itinerary—feel free to explore at your own pace, whether you want to shop, sit by the water, or explore the historic district. We’re offering a free carpool from Traverse City, leaving from Thirlby Field at 9:30 AM.