Frequently Asked Questions
 

Do I need to buy a ticket to enter UnCaged?
Leelanau UnCaged is free, and has always been free from Day One. Its expenses, which approach $40,000 a year, are paid by donors, merchants, foundations and individuals like you.

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What time does the festival get started and end?

It is always on the last Saturday in September. A Native American water blessing occurs on the bay at 11 a.m., followed by a short parade into town. Music begins at noon. The festival ends at 10 pm.

Is there food for sale?
Northport’s eight bars and restaurants offer food and drink well into the night, along with more than a dozen food
trucks brought in for the day.

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
Merchants who sell alcohol will not allow you to bring alcohol purchased elsewhere onto their premises.

May I bring my dog?
Your dog (on a leash) will have lots of canine company at UnCaged!

Can I bring a bike or my golf cart?
For safety reasons, bikes and golf carts are prohibited on the grounds of the festival.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Absolutely! One of our goals in creating it 10 years ago was to demonstrate to all generations the power of music and art – and without a hefty (or any!) charge. It spans only a few blocks and offers many places to sit or rest. Food comes in all sizes and prices. A Kids’ Tent in the afternoon stimulates the creativity of the next generation of artists. And most festivals have been attended by stilt-walkers and a mermaid.

What about parking and handicap parking for festival goers?
A special handicapped lot is available near the action. Street crew can direct you. Otherwise parking lots include
Northport School, the marina, and churches; there’s also parking along the village streets.

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Will BATA be running a shuttle from TC to Northport?
Yes! Check this website for the schedule.

Is WIFI service provided?
We don’t provide vendors with WIFI service.

How’s cell service in Northport?
Cell service is generally good throughout the village but cannot be guaranteed.

Is the Northport Marina open?
Yes, the marina is open but can be busy with transient boaters who love to spend the UnCaged weekend on the water. Make reservations early.

Will the festival go on if the weather is crummy?
Yes! Some music venues and vendors are covered, and merchants welcome everyone inside their shops. So far our luck with weather has been excellent, with only one wettish event.

2024 is an election year. Is political campaigning allowed?
Leelanau UnCaged is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that secures a permit for the festival from the Village of Northport. Thus Leelanau UnCaged will not allow a political party, campaign or any candidate for public office to have booth space within the festival boundaries. A candidate is free, however, to chat with attendees or distribute leaflets.