TRAVERSE CITY — Blue Tractor will close its downtown location on Aug. 31 after nearly two decades of serving barbecue, beer and live entertainment.

The restaurant — which opened in July 2006 — announced the closure in a social media post on Aug. 19 with the owners thanking the community, guests and staff who helped make it a local favorite.

“It’s been one heck of a ride,” the post read.

Employees have been offered positions at the company’s sister location in Traverse City, allowing patrons to continue seeing familiar faces.

Blue Tractor said the closure is not a final farewell, noting that a new venture is planned and will be announced in the future.

“This isn’t goodbye — it’s a see you soon," the post read. “We’ve got something new cooking, and we can’t wait to share it with you. St

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