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Organizers outline Island Glow plans; DDA and public clarify special-license options for social district events

Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority · November 20, 2025

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Summary

Organizers previewed Island Glow (Dec. 5) and a Ladies Night Out debrief prompted questions about sampling and permitting; DDA members and commenters clarified that a nonprofit or the DDA can pull a special-license permitting sampled alcoholic service, typically $25 per business, and beverages may not leave premises.

At the DDA meeting, resident Chad Novak provided an update on Island Glow, confirming the event is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m., with Santa arriving after the procession. Novak described music lineup changes (madrigals and a high-school group, with a jazz band performing Christmas carols), vendor confirmations including a Cinnabon truck and a waffle vendor, and staffing plans including donated wood and monitored burn barrels.

During public comment and the Ladies Night Out debrief, board members and commenters raised concerns that some businesses could not offer alcoholic sampling at their tables. A commenter with recent Liquor Control Commission training explained that a nonprofit—or, in some circumstances, the DDA as a government entity—can pull a special license for one evening; participating businesses would receive a small, visible license to display and would pay about $25 per business for that permit. The commenter said alcohol served under the permit may not leave the premises.

Board members asked staff to follow up and provide clearer guidance to businesses on applying for permits and on options available under the township’s social district. A board member volunteered to contact event organizers and help coordinate permits and performance logistics for next year.