Beachy Days & Holiday Ways Playcation - July 24-26, 2026

July in Bellaire is all about sunshine, lake days, patio dining, and small-town charm.  During Beachy Days & Holiday Ways, our local shops add a festive twist with Christmas in July specials, holiday-themed promotions, and summer shopping surprises.  

Spend your days exploring downtown, relaxing on the water, enjoying great food, and discovering why Bellaire is the perfect Northern Michigan summer getaway.  


FRIDAY ARRIVAL

Checkin - Relax - Explore Downtown

Places to Stay

Sunset

Find a beach, dock, or scenic overlook and enjoy one of Northern Michigan's beautiful July sunsets.  

[Tip:  to find the best locations, ask a local resident or business owner]  Things to do

Dinner

Choose from casual pubs, patios, upscale dining, or lakeside restaurants.

Food & Drink

Nightlife

Wrap up the evening with live music, craft beer, cocktails, or simply relax back at your lodging under the stars.

Getting Around in Bellaire


  • Downtown is very walkable
  • Uber & Lyft are generally unavailable
  • Shanty Creek Resort offers a shuttle to downtown (check resort schedule)
  • Several downtown lodging options are within walking distance
  • Downtown bars typically close by 11pm or 12 midnight on weekends and earlier weekdays.  Many restaurant kitchens close about 9pm.  
SATURDAY SHOP & EXPLORE

OPTION 1: Shop the Cheer


Christmas in July Shopping Day, Saturday, July 25th! 

Holiday cheer, summer style — no snow boots required.

Shopping in Bellaire

Make sure to check out these specials: 

Christy's in Bellaire - Women's boutique - Beach apparel sale + Christmas Gift Ideas under $50

The Flying Pig - is having a sidewalk sale - furniture, gifts and Christmas Gift Ideas

The Spice & Tea Exchange - don't miss these great stocking stuffers and their amazing tea bar

Riverside Floral - is having a sidewalk sale

Outdoor Adventures - is having a 30% off regular priced items sale

Nifty & Neat - has food trucks & sales happening

Ruthie's Dairy Twist - will have frozen hot chocolate and peppermint stick ice cream

Odd Fellow at DeWitt Marine - is hosting a Heroes & Hounds fundraising event - tickets available, bounce house, silent auction, food, cash bar.  fundraising for a new police k9.

Bellaire Public Library - join the scavenger hunt 10am-2pm


SATURDAY EXPLORE

OPTION 2: Play on the Water

Things to do


This is classic July in Bellaire — relaxed, refreshing, and memorable.

SUNDAY MORNING - Slow Down & Send-Off

Breakfast or Brunch

Enjoy one last relaxed meal before heading home.

Last-Minute Shopping

Pick up a few favorites or Christmas in July specials before you leave.

Take One Last Walk 

Enjoy the riverwalk, downtown parks, or a scenic overlook before heading home.  


Church Service Options - local Churches welcome visitors for Sunday services.


Thanks for Playing Like a Local

We hope your Beachy Days & Holiday Ways Playcation leaves you with sun-soaked memories, new favorite shops, and plans to return again soon for another Playcation in Bellaire.

Because some places you visit...

...and some places feel like they've been waiting for you.

Bellaire, Michigan