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Events in December 2025
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December 25, 2025
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Looking for live music tonight?
Visit our Nightspots listing.
October 24, 2025
Lane 9 Women’s Running Group
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All men & women invited to join this women-focused running group on a 3-mile loop run. All paces (including running/walking) welcome. 6:45 a.m., meet outside Argus Farm Stop, 1600 Packard. Free, preregistration required by emailing [email protected]. lane9project.org.
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Used Book Sale: JLC Book Sale
Observer Editor
Oct. 22–25. Local family-run sale of over 30,000 books, as well as DVDs, audiobooks, video games, puzzles, and board games. Also, special deals for teacher and homeschool families on Oct. 22 from 4–8 p.m. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, bldg. A, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free admission. jlcbooksale.com.
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“Joe’s Breakfast Club”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack a lunch or stop in Dexter. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 10 a.m. sharp, meet at Delhi Metropark, 3902 E. Delhi Rd. Free. [email protected]
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Country Fair: Wiard’s Orchards
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun. A carnival atmosphere with a variety of family-oriented fall activities on this family farm, including wagon rides, a petting farm, a corn maze, and more. Also, for an extra charge on Sat. & Sun., an apple cannon, paintball, apple or pumpkin picking, and other activities available. Cider and donuts available. No pets. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Wed.–Fri.) & 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.). Wiard’s Orchards, 5565 Merritt Rd. (east of Carpenter), Ypsilanti. Weekend admission: $25.50 (babies under 2, free). Weekday admission: $18 (babies, free) online only at wiards.com. (734) 482–7744.
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“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s Nature Lab and Micro Worlds Lab to use scientific tools and museum specimens to answer questions and solve problems. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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“Real World Perspectives”: U-M Poverty Solutions Fall Speaker Series
Observer Editor
Every Fri. (except Oct. 3). Weekly lectures by scholars and social workers, followed by Q&A.
Oct. 10: Detroit Phoenix Center founder & CEO Courtney Smith on “Detroit’s Rapid Rehousing Program Designed by Youth, for Youth: A Panel on Meaningful Youth Engagement.”
Oct. 17: U-M public health professor William D. Lopez on “The High Cost of Mass Deportation.”
Oct. 24: University of Utah pharmacy professor Joey Mattingly on “The Economics of Medication Access: Drug Prices, Insurance Design, and the Patient Experience.”
Oct. 31: We the People of Detroit founder & CEO Monica Lewis-Patrick on “Lessons from the Water Warrior on Community Coalition Building for Water Justice.”
Noon–1 p.m., 1840 School of Social Work Bldg., 1080 South University. Also via livestream at tinyurl.com/um-real-world. Free. [email protected].
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Carillon Concert Series: U-M School of Music
Observer Editor
Every Mon.–Fri. (different locations). Performances by U-M carillon faculty and students. The carillons are open to visitors during the recitals; earplugs recommended. For a complete schedule see smtd.umich.edu/events. Noon, Burton Tower, 230 N. Ingalls & 1:20 p.m., Lurie Tower, 1230 Murfin, North Campus. Free. (734) 764–0583.
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Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops
Observer Editor
Every Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play one of 200 songs, with melodies transcribed in numbers, on the 17-bell chime’s numbered keys. Ambitious players can add chords. Kids welcome. Noon–12:30 p.m. (Fri. & Wed.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Kerrytown Market. Free. [email protected].
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Great Lakes Cup Show: Yourist Studio Gallery
Community Listing
Yourist Studio Gallery hosts The Great Lakes Cup Show, a juried exhibition celebrating the diverse forms, colors, textures, imagery and techniques of Great Lakes ceramics via the cup. You’re invited to join us in our gallery for the Opening Night Reception. On October 24th, from 6:30-8:30 pm, we will celebrate the 40 artists featured in this year’s show and their one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. The judges will announce “Best in Show” prizes, while gallery goers can vote for their favorite cup in the “Peoples Choice” award! Come enjoy refreshments, mingle with the artists, and toast their cups. All are welcome.
Exhibition hours:
October 24-November 15
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
12:00-6:00 pm
Opening night reception:
October 24
6:30-8:30 pm
In addition to juried cups, the show will feature works by five invited ceramic artists: Charlotte Grenier, Kenyon Hansen, Elliott Kayser, Tom Phardel, and Brian Westrick.
The exhibition is free and open to the public.
6087 Jackson Road ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] [email protected] 734-662-4914.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
John and Susanne Stephenson Sculpture Garden
Community Listing
Take a beautiful drive through the heart of Ann Arbor and head west where you will discover a secret sculpture garden like no other.
For over 60 years, internationally acclaimed ceramic artists and educators Susanne and John Stephenson redefined what it means to shape clay. Working side-by-side in their serene studio off Waters Road, this “duo of ceramics” cultivated a lifelong partnership with each other and clay. Both created prolific and distinctive bodies of work and are recognized for their achievements globally. Nestled among the trees on their three-acre country property, their studio became more than a workspace, it was a vibrant haven for creativity and exploration. Over the decades, their property evolved into a playground for the arts, a place for artists to gather and share ideas.
Now, the public is invited to explore the grounds where their legacy lives on. Wander the gardens where large metal and ceramic sculptures tower among the trees and colorful wall plates brighten the landscape. Step inside their studio and travel back in time–feel the tools that helped bring their visions to life and learn about their tremendous contributions to the field of ceramics. During your visit, stop by the Stephenson Ceramic Gallery, a newly opened space on the property that will be showcasing the work of Dennis Nahabetain and Katie Shulman thru Nov 9th.
The Sculpture Garden Closes Oct. 25th
Noon-4 p.m., 4380 Waters Road, Ann Arbor. Free. www.stephensonceramicstudio.com
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U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages, including the new T. Rex (noon), an exploration of the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history that contains scenes of dinosaur violence. Also, The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.) is an exploration of the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own, and Tales of the Maya Skies (2 p.m.) immerses viewers in the wonders of Mayan science, examining how Mayan scholars developed a sophisticated understanding of astronomy, architecture, and mathematics. Noon, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. $8 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
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Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Fri., & Tues. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Tues. & Fri.) and a 499er game (Thurs.) for players with no more than 499 ACBL master points. 1–4 p.m. or so (arrive by 12:45 p.m.), City Club, 1830 Washtenaw. $8 per person. If you plan to come without a partner, email [email protected] beforehand.
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“Lessons of Authoritarianism and Democratic Resilience in Latin America: Cuba’s Digital Revolution: Between Quiescence and Revolt”: U-M Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies
Observer Editor
Panel discussion with U-M information professor Michaelanne Thomas and Harold Cárdenas Lema, cofounder of one of the foremost digital spaces in Cuba, La Joven Cuba. 4–5:30 p.m., 555 Weiser Hall, 500 Church. Free. 763–0553.
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Nuclear Energy in the United States: Growth or Decline?: U-M Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences
Observer Editor
Talk by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) nuclear science professor Jacopo Buongiorno about the key challenges facing the U.S. nuclear industry, including the loss of know-how about new nuclear reactor construction, the under-investment in fuel cycle facilities, and the dominance of Russia and China in the nuclear export market. 4-5 p.m.,
Industrial & Operations Engineering (IOE) Bldg., rm. 1610, 1205 Beal Ave., North Campus.
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Ypsilanti Cryptid Festival
Observer Editor
Screenings of short spooky films, presentations on paranormal topics, and vendors with Halloween-themed merchandise. Also, a performance (after 7 p.m.) by Fangs and Twang, an Ypsilanti trio that plays twangy, high-energy country rock, with songs about vampires, mummies, and other fantastical creatures. Costumes encouraged. 4–10 p.m., Ypsilanti Freighthouse. 100 Market, Ypsilanti. Free. tinyurl.com/ypsicrypt.
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“In Conversation with Malala Yousafzai”: U-M Ford School of Public Policy.
Observer Editor
Conversation between the Nobel Peace Prize winner, known for her advocacy for education for women and girls around the world, and U-M law and international diplomacy professor Susan D. Page. 4:30–6 p.m., Michigan Union Rogel Ballroom, 530 S. State St. Free, but preregistration required at . Also available via livestream at fordschool.umich.edu/events. ffspp-events@umich-edu.
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“In Conversation with Malala Yousafzai”: U-M Ford School of Public Policy.
Observer Editor
Conversation between the Nobel Peace Prize winner, known for her advocacy for education for women and girls around the world, and U-M law and international diplomacy professor Susan D. Page. 4:30–6 p.m., Michigan Union Rogel Ballroom, 530 S. State St. Free, but preregistration required at . Also available via livestream at fordschool.umich.edu/events. ffspp-events@umich-edu.
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“Laser Queen”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Fri. & Sat., Oct. 3–25. Retro date night in the planetarium & dome theater with a 45-minute laser show to the soundtrack of the hits of legendary British rock band Queen. 5, 6, & 7 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. $10 in advance by calling (734) 764–0478 and (if available) at the museum store on the weekend of the show. ummnh.org.
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“Nightmare on Cross St.”: Depot Town Merchants
Observer Editor
Every Fri. and Oct. 4 & Oct. 18. Haunted House (6:30 p.m.) in an old train caboose, a treasure hunt with clues collectible (anytime between Oct. 4 & Oct. 25) from Depot Town businesses, magician Jimmy the Magnificent and other street performers, and more. Also, a procession for the dead (Sat., Oct. 18, 6–7 p.m.) with live music by a quartet of members from the Ypsi-based A7 Brass Band. Food for sale. 5–9 p.m. or so, Depot Town, E. Cross between N. River St. & N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. Free, except the Haunted House, which is pay-what-you can with tickets available at Depot Town shops. facebook.com/ypsiodds.
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Blast Corn Maze: Nixon Farms
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun., Sept. 20–Nov. 1. A large corn maze with 3.5 miles of trails and 3 exits to allow for routes of various lengths. Also, a U-pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, pedal cars, straw maze, and yard games. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (Sat.), 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (Sun.), & 5–9 p.m. (Fri.), Nixon Farms, 6175 Daly Rd., Dexter. $16 (ages 5–12, $13; age 4 & under, free with adult admission). blastcornmaze.com.
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Parent's Night Out at We Rock The Spectrum: We Rock The Spectrum
Community Listing
Parent's Night Out at We Rock The Spectrum Ann Arbor is back and we have three upcoming opportunities for you to get the night out that you deserve!
Drop off your kids from 5pm-8pm and let the We Rock team entertain them in our sensory safe gym. Your kids will have a blast jumping on the trampoline, riding the zipline, trying out all of our swings, or just playing games and doing arts & crafts.
We will also provide a pizza dinner, juice and water. It's a win-win for everyone.
-September 26th
-October 24th
-November 28th - Your babysitter for Black Friday stress free shopping
$50 per child
$40 per sibling
Pre-registration required. Must be potty trained.
If you require special accommodations or an aide, please call to discuss - 734-623-9422
We Rock The Spectrum - 4370 Varsity Dr. ,Ann Arbor. https://werockthespectrumannarbor.com/classes/ $40-$50. [email protected] https://werockthespectrumannarbor.com/ 734-623-9422.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“AADL World Famous Trivia”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
AADL staffers lead 2 rounds of trivia aimed at adults. Prizes. 5:30–7:30 p.m., AADL Westgate, 2503 Jackson Ave. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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“Halloween Trunk-or-Treat & Dance”: Disability Network
Observer Editor
Trick-or-treat at decorated cars in the parking lot (5:30–6:30 p.m.), followed by dancing to recorded music (6–8 p.m.). Age 14+. Costumes encouraged. 5:30–8 p.m., Disability Network, 3941 Research Park Dr. Free, but preregistration required at tinyurl.com/dnhalloween25. [email protected].
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"The Evolution of 'Recreational' Drug Use": U-M Evolution & Human Adaptation Program
Observer Editor
Washington State University evolutionary anthropology professor Edward Hagen presents his findings that evidence from hunter-gatherers and other primates suggests that a “taste” for drugs might have evolved as a form of self-medication against parasites. This is the inaugural Evolution in the Public Eye Award celebration, honoring exceptional work in bringing evolutionary perspectives on behavior to a wide audience. 5:30-7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. Free. aadl.org/node/640805
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Community Self Defense: Ann Arbor Martial and Healing Arts
Community Listing
This class emphasizes situational awareness, correct mechanics, and remaining in center to reduce the number of ways a person can be compromised in a defensive situation, better positioning you to bring the situation under control. Participants will learn self-defense techniques that work against much bigger and stronger opponents, allowing you to feel more confident out in the world. Suitable for ages 18 and over and younger teens with a parent participating.
1904 Federal Blvd, MI 48103 ,Ann Arbor. Preregistration via the website encouraged. Free. [email protected] https://annarbormartialandhealingarts.com 7347700737.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Mini Succulent Pumpkins!”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
All invited to make decorative landscapes using pumpkins, succulents, moss, acorns, pinecones, dried berries, and other supplies. 6–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, Secret Lab. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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“Self-Guided Lantern-Lit Trail”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Observer Editor
Self-guided hike along about a mile of lantern-lit trail through the woods, followed by a campfire and treats. Dog walkers and Halloween costumes welcome. 6–8:30 p.m. (check in by 7:30 p.m.), Independence Lake County Park Beach Center Pavilion, 3200 Jennings, Whitmore Lake. $15 per household (up to 5 people), plus $6 (nonresidents, $10) vehicle entry fee. Preregistration (one per household) required by 4 p.m. Oct. 23 at washtenaw.org/registerparks (#IL431310). [email protected].
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D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All invited to play the current official campaign of the popular Dungeons & Dragons tabletop role-playing game, using 5th-edition rules. Kids under 13 must have parent or guardian accompaniment. 6–10 p.m., Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. $10. Space limited, preregistration strongly recommended at sylvanfactory.com/events, (734) 929–5877.
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Stuttering Awareness Day Celebration: U-M Speech Neurophysiology Lab
Community Listing
Join us Friday, October 24th for a fun-filled evening that celebrates International Stuttering Awareness Day and highlights the amazing members of our local stuttering community. This is a great way to learn more about stuttering and to connect with other individuals who stutter as well as their family and friends.
This event is free and open to all. Members of the student group A2STAR and the U-M Speech Neurophysiology Lab will provide fun, child-friendly activities and resources for all ages. Come make art with us, hear stories from stuttering community members, chat with a speech-language pathologist, and learn more about stuttering research. Small plates will be served and attendees will be entered to win cool raffle prizes!
This event is open to everyone, including those who don't stutter, so we encourage you to bring along friends and family who might be interested in joining the celebration.
Please RSVP to let us know if you plan to attend. We appreciate it—this helps us make sure we have enough food and supplies for everyone! https://michmed.org/w4JZd
911 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] https://chang.lab.medicine.umich.edu/home (734) 926-8775.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Dark Skies: Rare Phenomena in America’s Public Lands”: Literati Bookstore
Observer Editor
Chicago-based photographer Jeff Pfaller discusses his new landscape photography book. 6:30 p.m., Literati, 124 E. Washington. Free. (734) 585–5567.
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Candlelight Concert: Kalkaska String Quartet
Observer Editor
This Detroit-based ensemble presents “A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics” featuring instrumental arrangements of spooky pop, classic, and movie music, from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Vic Mizzy’s “Addams Family Theme” to Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain” and Edvard Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King.” Age 8 & up. 6:30 & 8:45 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw. $27–$59 per show. Preregistration required at feverup.com/en/ann-arbor/candlelight.
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Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Mon.–Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play both casual and tournament forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering (MTG).
Mon. (6:30 p.m.): Just Another Modern Monday. Three rounds using powerful cards, for experienced players, with prizes. $10.
Tues. (6:30 p.m.): MTG Pauper. A fun and fast format for all skill levels, three rounds. $5.
Wed. & Sat. (5 p.m.): Casual Commander Night. A drop-in session of the most popular form of the game. Free.
Wed. (6:30 p.m.): MTG Standard Showdown. Three rounds, with competitive tournament rules, prizes of store credit. $10.
Fri. (6:30 p.m.): Friday Night Magic. Cost and format vary.
Various times, Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. Various costs. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
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“Beetlejuice”: Young People’s Theater
Observer Editor
Oct. 16–26. Caroline Huntoon directs young local actors ages 13-18 in Eddie Perfect's 2018 musical based on Tim Burton’s 1988 comic horror film about a pair of new ghosts who hire an obnoxious bio-exorcist to scare off the living residents of their former home. 7 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Young People's Theater Blackbox, 331 Metty Drive, Suite 2. Tickets $15 ($10, age 18 and under) in advance at https://cur8.com/14897/project/133788, (734) 763–8587, and (if available) at the door.
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“Feel Good Friday: Queer Night”: UMMA
Observer Editor
All age 18 & up invited to an evening that includes performances by Detroit drag performer Cherriel and Detroit hip-hop & R&B singer Na Bonsai, a film screening TBA, on-the-spot portrait paintings by local artists, and a chance to view art. Also, a costume contest (no fake weapons or masks) hosted by Detroit-based funk & soul singer and trans activist Baddie Brooks. Refreshments. 7–10 p.m., UMMA, 525 S. State. Free. 764–0395.
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“New Moon Hike”: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Observer Editor
LSNC staff lead a family-friendly hike through Black Pond Woods to enjoy the intense nighttime darkness offered by the new moon and do some science experiments on the trail. Followed by moon-themed stories & poems around an outdoor campfire. 7–8:30 p.m., LSNC, 1831 Traver. $5 (infants age 1 & under, free). Preregistration required at lesliesnc.org or (734) 997–1553.
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“Spooky Species for Adults”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
Oct. 18, 24–26, & 31. Annual Halloween event to check out and learn about animals TBA associated with the season (possibly a Eurasian eagle owl, a black vulture, ravens, snakes, tarantulas, and rats), and hear Halloween legends tailored to adults. Followed, at 9:15 p.m., by a chance to see Egyptian fruit bats fly free in the main building. Donuts & cider. Age 18 & up only. 7–9:30 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $45, preregistration required at thecreatureconservancy.org. (734) 929–9324.
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An LA Summer Dust party: Perfect Scenario
Community Listing
local singer-songwriter Larkn is joined by Jean Maverick at Perfect Scenario in Saline, for a show that includes video footage for a music video. 10$ presale, 15$ at the door. All ages welcome.
984 E Michigan Ave ,Saline. https://www.itsperfectsc25.com $10/$15. [email protected] 517-514-2676.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Janelle Haskell Album Release Party: None
Community Listing
Celebrate the release of Janelle's sophomore album, Dedications & Postcards! The first set features Janelle performing all the songs from her new album solo, and make sure to stick around for the second set - the album release afterparty! Janelle will pull out her clarinet and tenor sax and join guitarist Alex Belhaj and bassist Rob Bickley in a trio performing jazz tunes that will have you tapping your feet or maybe even up and dancing.
510 N. Main St. ,Chelsea, MI. https://www.rumpusroomvenue.com/event-details-registration/janelle-haskell-album-release-party-1 $15. [email protected] https://janellehaskell.com 7349044255.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Phil Ogilvie’s Rhythm Kings (P.O.R.K.): Ypsilanti First United Methodist Church
Observer Editor
Listening and dancing to this popular local 10-piece big band led by tubaist Chris Smith that specializes in the old-time big band music of the late 1920s and early 1930s associated with Jelly Roll Morton and King Oliver. Part of the church’s bicentennial celebration. 7 p.m., Ypsilanti First United Methodist Church, 209 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti. Free, donations accepted. (734) 482–8374.
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U-M Men’s Soccer
Observer Editor
Match vs. Chicago State. The U-M also has home games this month against Rutgers (Oct. 5, 2 p.m.), UCLA (Oct. 17, 6 p.m.), Northwestern (Oct. 24, 7 p.m.), Detroit Mercy (Oct. 28, 7 p.m.), and Wisconsin (Oct. 31, 7 p.m.). 7 p.m., U-M Soccer Stadium, 2250 S. State. $10 & $12. (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com.
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“Night Terrors”: Wiard’s Orchards
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun. A haunted hayride, an asylum, and three more scary attractions, all bristling with scores of costumed monsters. Refreshments available. Kids age 14 & under must be accompanied by an adult. 7:15–11:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 7:15–10:30 p.m. (Sun.), 5565 Merritt Rd., Ypsilanti. Tickets $36–$65 in advance only at hauntedhousemichigan.com. (734) 390–9212.
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Jenny Zigrino: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
Oct. 23–25. Brassy, charming Boston comic whose act is a mix of personal anecdotes and witty observations on topics from dating and home-buying to current events. Opening act TBA. Alcohol is served. 7:15 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $22 (Thurs., $17) at aacomedy.com and (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors”: Ann Arbor Civic Theatre
Observer Editor
Oct. 24–26 & Oct. 31–Nov. 2. Ethan Gibney directs local actors in this farcical, gender-bending version of Bram Stoker’s classic tale, with a cast of six inhabiting over a dozen roles, including the story’s familiar characters Jonathan Harker, Dr. Van Helsing, and Count Dracula himself. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Civic Theatre, 322 W. Ann. Tickets $20 (seniors, $17; students, $10) at a2ct.org and (if available) at the door. (734) 971-2228.
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Friday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Performance by Eleven Non-Blondes, the house team of experienced improvisers. 7:30–9 p.m., HSBT, 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events or $18 (if available) at the door. [email protected].
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The London Philharmonic Orchestra: University Musical Society
Observer Editor
This world-renowned symphony orchestra returns to Ann Arbor led by its young Finnish principal conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali. Tonight, they perform Shostakovich’s Symphony no. 5, a tour de force that managed to appeal to both the public and government officials in a time of rigorous Soviet censorship. Also, a performance of Beethoven’s beloved and spirited Piano Concerto No. 5 (“Emperor”) featuring acclaimed Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson essaying the technically difficult solo part, and contemporary Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz’s Si el oxígeno fuera verde. 7:30 p.m., Hill Auditorium. Tickets $26–$128 (students $15–$20) in advance at tickets.ums.org, by phone, and (if available) at the door. (734) 764–2538.
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“Black Cat: Folklore”: Neighborhood Theatre Group
Observer Editor
Oct. 17–19 & 23–25. Marisa Dluge directs local actors in an original staging of a series of horror folk tales, centered around a campfire theme. Part of NTG’s annual Black Cat Halloween Series. 8 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Back Office Studio, 13 N. Washington, Ypsilanti. Tickets $15 (students, $12) at ticketstripe.com/blackcatfolklore and at the door ($20). ntgypsi.org.
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“Dry Summer”: Theatre Nova
Observer Editor
Every Thurs.–Sun., Oct. 10–Nov. 2. Brittany Connors directs local actors in the world premiere of Ann Arbor playwright Robert Axelrod’s comedy/drama about a depressed 20-something gay Jewish man who returns to his Ann Arbor family home to get his life back on track. When he takes a job as a “sober companion” to his recovering alcoholic neighbor, an unconventional friendship ensues. The cast features Nick Smathers, Laura Mandernack, Brian Cox, and Sarah Burcon. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Tickets $30 in advance at theatrenova.org & at the door. (734) 635–8450.
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“Norma & Wanda”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Sept. 25–Dec. 21. Rhiannon Ragland directs Purple Rose founder Jeff Daniels’ 2005 comedy about two very different sisters who get themselves into an outrageous pickle over an old high school boyfriend, a chaotic church social, and a secret family recipe for Christmas sausage. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $30–$50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org & by phone, and (if available) at the door. Discounts available for students, seniors, teachers, military personnel, and groups. (734) 433–7673.
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Count Basie Orchestra: U-M Music School
Observer Editor
Big band standards by this renowned ensemble now led by trumpeter Scotty Barnhart, the 5th person to hold the position since Count Basie himself died in 1981. The group has been a who’s who of jazz since its start in the 30s, with such stellar musicians as Freddie Green, Lester Young, and Billie Holiday. The program is highlighted by a performance of “Dark Morning,” U-M jazz professor Dennis Wilson’s tribute written the morning of Basie’s death, performed jointly with the Michigan Youth Orchestra high school student ensemble. Opener: U-M Jazz Ensemble. 8 p.m., Power Center. Tickets $34–$40 (students, $16) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.
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“Observing Night”: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
Oct. 10, 24, & 31. All invited to drop in to use the Observatory’s 1857 Fitz telescope. Exhibits are also open for viewing. 8:30–11 p.m., U-M Detroit Observatory, 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free. (734) 764–3482, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
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Candlelight Concert: Kalkaska String Quartet
Observer Editor
This Detroit-based ensemble presents “A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics” featuring instrumental arrangements of spooky pop, classic, and movie music, from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Vic Mizzy’s “Addams Family Theme” to Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain” and Edvard Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King.” Age 8 & up. 6:30 & 8:45 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw. $27–$59 per show. Preregistration required at feverup.com/en/ann-arbor/candlelight.
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“Tree Town Stand-Up Showcase”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Performances by 6 area stand-up comics TBA. 9–10:30 p.m., HSBT, 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events and $18 (if available) at the door. [email protected].
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Riverside Swings: Riverside Arts Center
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Swing dancing to recorded music. No partner or experience needed. Wear comfortable low-grip/tread shoes. Preceded by hour-long lessons at 7 and 8 p.m. The 1st Friday of each month is free, and the 3rd Fridays include a Charleston lesson. 9–11 p.m., RAC, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. $5 (students, $4). riversidearts.org/riverside-swings.
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“Rocky Horror Picture Show”: Michigan Theater
Observer Editor
Film screenings every day. Tickets $10.50 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 and older, & U.S. veterans, $8.50; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Oct. 24 & 25: “Rocky Horror Picture Show” (Dick Sharman, 1975). Musical comedy cult classic that spawned a long tradition of participatory showings. Wear your fishnets. The U-M student pantomime troupe Leather Medusas provides live accompaniment for both shows. 9:30 p.m.
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