Every October, as the air turns crisp and the last of the fall leaves scatter down Broad Street, downtown Bellairetransforms into a lively, spooky celebration that locals look forward to all year long. The Annual Halloween Costume Party, hosted by Short’s Brewing Company, isn’t just an event — it’s a full-village takeover. Restaurants, bars, and businesses all join in the fun, making Bellaire one of the most spirited small towns in Northern Michigan on Halloween weekend.
The Tradition
Held every year on the last Saturday before Halloween, the Bellaire Halloween Costume Party has become a beloved local tradition. Short’s Brewing leads the charge with live music, themed brews, and a wildly creative costume contest that fills the taproom with everything from zombies and superheroes to classic northern “up north” flannel lumberjacks.
Visitors pour in from all over Northern Michigan for a night of laughter, music, and community — and the best part? The entire downtown joins the party.
🕯️ Downtown Bellaire After Dark
As the sun sets, the lights and laughter spill out onto Broad Street. Every corner of downtown offers something festive:
- Short’s Brewing Company — The heart of the celebration, complete with live music, craft beer releases, and a legendary costume contest that brings out the town’s creative side.
- Toonie’s Fish & Steak House — Keeps the energy going with karaoke and costume fun, where locals take the mic in everything from pirate hats to vampire capes.
- Fireside Lounge — Sets up outdoor firepits and cozy cocktails, creating the perfect spot to sip and socialize under the crisp fall sky.
- Bee Well Mead & Cider and Mammoth Distilling often keep their doors open later, welcoming costumed wanderers for late-night drinks and warm laughter.
The whole village buzzes with energy — laughter echoing down the street, the smell of autumn in the air, and the glow of pumpkins and porch lights giving Bellaire that perfect Halloween glow.
🧙♀️ What Makes It Special
What makes this night truly memorable is its small-town heart. Everyone shows up — families in early evening, locals in flannel or full costume, and groups of friends hopping between bars and firepits. It’s welcoming, funny, and full of character — a reminder that you don’t need a big city to have a big Halloween.
🌕 Make It a Weekend at The Dragonfly Cottage
With the Annual Halloween Costume Party happening just minutes from The Dragonfly Cottage, it’s the perfect time for a cozy fall getaway. Spend the day hiking or wine tasting, then head into Bellaire for a night of live music and Halloween fun. End the evening back at the cottage, stargazing by the firepit or warming up with cocoa by the lake.
🎃 Plan your Halloween weekend now — visit TheDragonflyMI.com to book your stay and experience one of Northern Michigan’s most spirited nights of the year.
