Traverse City Film Festival

Day 1 at the Traverse City Film Festival (Must-See Movies + Restaurants)

The Traverse City Film Festival has an impressive lineup of cinematic creations for viewers of all ages. You won’t want to miss Northern Michigan’s movie event of the year. Here’s a look at day 1 of Traverse City’s highly touted film festival along with a few tips as to where you ought to eat and the films you’ve just got to see.

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Day 1: Tuesday, July 25

It’s opening night of the Film Festival, which means it’s time to roll out the red carpet and get ready for a night of dancing and good food under the Traverse City night sky. Grab your favorite guy or gal and head over to Front Street for a night of celebration and great movies.
Start your date night at the glowing State Theatre for a 6 p.m. showing of I, Daniel Blake also playing at the City Opera House at 7:30 p.m. (there’s another show at the State at 10 p.m). After the movie, stick around for the Opening Night Party. at 8:30 p.m. Front Street will shut down and the stars will come out. With your all-access passes, you and your date will share some of the best food, beer and wine Traverse City has to offer during this red carpet evening. Tickets are $50.
If the party isn’t your scene, the classic comedy, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, will be screened at the Open-Space Outdoor Cinema for free at 9 p.m. (Find more free films here!)
Other Movies We Want to See:

• Long Strange Trip,Dutmers at the Dennos Museum, 9 a.m., music documentary on the history and legacy of the Grateful Dead.
• Gilbert, Nauti-cat, 9 p.m. the unknown life of Gilbert Gottfried, stand-up comic and voice of Iago in “Aladdin,” and the Aflack Duck.

Nearby Food Venues:

• PoppyCock’s — 128 E. Front St.
• Amical — 229 E. Front St.
• Mama Lu’s — 149 E. Front St.