Traverse City is full of live music, from wineries and breweries hosting local bands to open mic nights that give emerging artists a voice. These events are part of the cultural fabric here, but they often involve louder sound levels than we realize. To enjoy the music and take care of your hearing, having the right information is key.

Why These Events Can Be Tough On Ears

Louder volumes, live amps, crowds, and outdoor acoustics can combine to push sound levels past 90 decibels, the level where prolonged exposure may begin to cause hearing damage. Even genres that sound mellow can use equipment that amplifies sound significantly. Plus, being close to speakers or stage monitors, or attending events frequently without giving your ears rest, increases the risk.

Upcoming Traverse City Events Where You’ll Want To Use Protection

Here are some Traverse City events coming up where sounds will likely get loud:

• DJ Nights at The Little Fleet — Every Saturday, a rotating list of DJs playing in an open-air setting.
• Music events at The Little Fleet — Including “DJ Night w/DJ EKNUP” and others listed in their live music calendar.
• Alluvion Presents: Kait Rose & The Thorns — Intimate but amplified performance downtown.
• Other Live Shows at wineries, breweries, and Opera House events throughout Traverse dCity.

What You Can Do: Solutions & Tips

1. Bring ear protection — Reusable high-fidelity earplugs or custom ones are ideal. They cut harmful frequencies without drowning out music.
2. Choose your spot wisely — Stay back from speakers; elevated or mixed locations often have better acoustics and lower sound pressure.
3. Take regular breaks — Move away from the crowd or step indoors between sets. A short quiet period can help reset your hearing.
4. Check your hearing regularly — If you notice ringing, muffled hearing, or need to turn up the volume on your devices, get a screening. Catching changes early helps a lot.

Hearing Care In Traverse City

At Higgins Hearing, we’re dedicated to helping our community enjoy the sounds they love, without compromise. We offer custom ear protection and thorough hearing screenings designed for live event participants. Whether you’re dancing on a Saturday night at The Little Fleet or sipping wine while listening to
a band at a winery, keeping your ears safe means more enjoyment, dwith less risk.