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Events in April 2026
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April 26, 2026
17th Annual Ride for Recovery: Dawn Farm Fundraiser
Observer Editor
Bike rides from 10K to 58 miles and 5K & 10K run-walks to raise money for this substance use recovery nonprofit. Followed by lunch. 7 a.m.–2 p.m., Dawn Farm, 6633 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsi. $40 ($30 before Apr. 1; lunch only, $5) in advance only at dawnfarmrideforrecovery.org. (734) 485–8725.
Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
Observer Editor
Every Wed., Sun., & Tues. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different locations. Rain or shine. Fleet Feet (7 p.m. Wed.), 123 E. Liberty; and Dozer Coffee (8 a.m. Sun. & 7 a.m. Tues.), 112 Jackson Plz. Free. & (734) 769–5016 (Wed.) & (734) 929–9022 (Sun. & Tues.). fleetfeetsemichigan.com.
Spring Training Series- Beginner bike racer program: Ann Arbor Velo Club
Community Listing
Clinic includes instruction, demonstration, small and large group practice, drills, a short practice race, and discussion led by licensed coaches and experienced racers.
Apr. 26 & May 3.
https://www.bikereg.com/spring-training-series
2319 Bishop Circle E, Dexter MI 48130 ,Dexter, MI. www.bikereg.com/spring-training-series $15-$25. [email protected] https://www.annarborveloclub.org/ 9898540354.Ann Arbor Oddities Bazaar
Observer Editor
Over 40 “oddities vendors” selling off-kilter art, clothing, taxidermy, and more. Also, games, food trucks, and live music TBA. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, bldg. A, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $2 entry at the gate. onestopsoulshop.com.
Earth Day Electric Vehicle Ride and Drive: East Michigan Electric Vehicle Association
Community Listing
If you have questions about Electric Vehicles, this is the group that can help you! We are EV advocates and own all sorts and brands of electric vehicles. Questions about charging? What vehicle to buy? Should you buy a new or used? Range anxiety? How much do they really cost to operate? We have all the answers and will be happy to take you for a cruise around the area. Starts at 10:00am and runs (quietly) until 3:00pm.
Jungas ACE Hardware, 1220 East Michigan Avenue ,Saline. Free Free. [email protected] https://www.myeva.org/eastmichiganeva 734-680-9367.Third Space Sundays
Observer Editor
Every Sun., except Apr. 5. All invited to take part in a one-hour ritual of guided verbal & writing exercises to encourage reflection and connection. Kids welcome. Doors open at 10:15 a.m. 10:30–11:30 a.m., Venue, 1919 South Industrial. Free. Preregistration required at thirdspacesundays.org. [email protected].
Elemental Ecstatic Dance
Observer Editor
Every Sun. Dancers of all ages and abilities invited for free-form dancing to a variety of recorded music, from EDM to classical and ambient to world music. Wear loose clothes, barefoot or stocking feet. 10:45 a.m.–1 p.m. A2 Yoga, 2030 Commerce Blvd. $20 (age 11 and under, free) cash or Venmo (@andjru) at the door only. tinyurl.com/ecstatic-dance-a2.
“Frostbite Regatta”: U-M Sailing Club
Observer Editor
All invited to watch races between club members and any others who want to enter (for free) in their sailboats. Spectators should bring a chair or blanket to sit on. 11 a.m., Baseline Lake, 8010 Strawberry Lake Rd. Free. Preregistration required to race at michigansailingclub.org/racing.
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun., except Apr. 11. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s labs to use scientific tools and museum specimens to answer questions and solve problems. The newest program examines how Michigan animals get along with each other—or don’t. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
Friends at Front Porch Spring Sale
H.A.C. Ultimate
Observer Editor
Every Sun. All invited to a relaxed pick-up game of this spirited team sport played with a flying disc. Note: Overly competitive players are politely asked to leave. 11:15 a.m., Fuller Park, just west of the pool & parking lot (or occasionally across the street). Free. (734) 846–9418, [email protected].
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun., and Fri. Apr. 3 & 17. On Sat. and Sun., conservancy staffers show off representatives of some invasive species, including a Burmese python, muntjac deer, and cane toad at 1 & 4 p.m., and an animal keeper shows a green iguana at 2 & 3 p.m. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show off all four animals at 7:30 p.m. All tickets include a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. Noon–5 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.) & 7–9 p.m. (Fri.), 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $15 (kids ages 2–12, $13; under age 2, free) cash or credit at the door only. (734) 929–9324, thecreatureconservancy.org.
“Critters Up Close!”: Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
“Different Eras: A Historical Fiction Book Club”: Booksweet Bookshop
Observer Editor
All invited to discuss Brotherless Night, former U-M creative writing professor V. V. Ganeshananthan’s 2023 book, set in the early years of Sri Lanka’s civil war, about a young girl who dreams of becoming a doctor. Noon–1 p.m., Courtyard Shops, 1729 Plymouth Rd. Free. Preregistration requested at shopbooksweet.com.
“Native Applique and Beadwork”: Ann Arbor District Library
Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Group Runs: A2 Runners
Observer Editor
Every Sun., Mon., & Wed. Runners of all abilities invited to join a beginner or advanced 3- to 5-mile group run, followed by socializing at a downtown coffee shop. 6:30 p.m. (Wed. & Mon.) & noon (Sun.), meet at the Kerrytown clock tower. Preregistration requested at meetup.com/a2runners. Free. [email protected].
Open Board Games: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Sun. All invited to play one of a wide variety of board games in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Instruction provided. Also, on Apr. 5, game playtesting with Michigame Design Lab (2 p.m.), during which players are invited to try out new board and card games from local designers Bruce Bielawa & Joe Hopkins and provide feedback. Noon–6 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. Free. [email protected].
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. Sea Monsters (noon) follows an intrepid Dolichorhynchops osborni (an extinct species of marine reptile) as she travels through the most dangerous oceans in history; The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.) explores the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own; and T. Rex (2 p.m.) describes the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history (includes scenes of dinosaur violence). Noon, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., 1105 North University. $8 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“Ecological Restoration Workday”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
Observer Editor
All invited to help improve bird habitats by maintaining trails and clearing invasive shrubs at the WBNA Searles Nature Preserve. Dress for the weather; bring leather work gloves and water. Tools and know-how provided; bring your own tools, if you’d like. 1–3 p.m., Searles Nature Preserve; park along Bolla Rd., ¼ mile west of Stony Creek Rd., Ypsi. Free. washtenawbna.org.
“Puzzling Puzzles: Help Us Find Our Missing Pieces”: Ann Arbor District Library
Craft Beer + Candle-Making Workshop: The Universe Stuff
Community Listing
An afternoon designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and craft beer come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming brewery atmosphere — no experience needed.
Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory).
✨ What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handcrafted candle
o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
• One complimentary beer of your choice
• A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere
✨ What to Expect
• 1:00–1:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your beer, and get comfortable.
• 1:15–2:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
• 2:15–2:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your beer while your candle begins to set — we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
• 2:30–3:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate and personalize your candle with dried florals, herbs, or crystals for an extra special touch.
✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Pair beer with hands-on creativity
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory
✨ Meet the Host
Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuff
Renata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
✨ About the Space
hear.say brewery + theater – https://hearsaybrewing.com/
This workshop will take place at hear.say brewery + theater, a craft microbrewery and community hub where beer, creativity, and connection come together.
Known for its welcoming taproom, patio, and grassy biergarten, hear.say is a place where people gather to share a pint, laugh a little louder, and feel at home. With roots in both craft brewing and improv comedy, the space is built around one simple mission: crafting community through joy and laughter. Blending thoughtfully brewed beer with a playful, creative spirit, hear.say offers the perfect setting for a candle-making experience that’s relaxed, interactive, and full of good energy.
It’s where craft beer meets hands-on creativity — and where conversation flows as easily as the pours.
hear.say brewing + theater, 2350 W Liberty St ,Ann Arbor. https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/craft-beer-candle-making-hearsay $60. [email protected] https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/craft-beer-candle-making-hearsay 248-979-4561.U-M Softball
Observer Editor
Game vs. Ohio State. The first in a 3-game series (Apr. 11, noon; Apr. 12, 3 p.m.). This month’s home schedule includes another 3-game series vs. Indiana (Apr. 24, 6 p.m.; Apr. 25, 2 p.m.; Apr. 26, 1 p.m.), and single games against Bowling Green (Apr. 15, 5 p.m., free) and Toledo (Apr. 21, 4:30 p.m.). 6 p.m., Alumni Field, 1114 S. State. Tickets $8–$25 at mgoblue.com/tickets & at the gate. (734) 764–0247.
“African American Migration in Michigan”: Genealogical Society of Washtenaw County
Observer Editor
Talk by genealogist Rozlyn Kelly about the migration of Black people to Michigan in the mid-1880s, before the Great Migration from the South. Followed by facilitated “Small Group Sessions” (3:15 p.m.) on a topic TBA. 1:30–4:30 p.m., Trinity Health Education Center Auditorium, 5305 Elliott, parking lot P, Ypsi. Also via livestream; for URL email [email protected] by Apr. 21. Free.
“Loving Kindness Crafters”: Jewel Heart Buddhist Center
Observer Editor
All invited to bring crafts to work on, socialize, and share knowledge. 1:30–2:30 p.m., 1129 Oak Valley. Free. [email protected], jewelheart.org.
“Walking with Whales Tour”: U-M Museum of Natural History
“Indigenous People Who Were in Pittsfield Township”: Pittsfield Township Historical Society/StoryPoint Saline
“Murder on the Links”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Apr. 2–May 31. David Bendena directs Steven Dietz’s 2023 farce, based on an Agatha Christie whodunit, in which eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s newest client is discovered, dead, on a French golf course. A cast of 6 actors embody a plethora of suspects in this high-energy, comic adaptation. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 3 p.m. (Thurs., Sat., & Wed.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). PRT, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
“Rent”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Thurs.–Sun., Apr. 9–May 3. Matt Bogart directs this local professional company in Jonathan Larson’s Tony- and Pulitzer Prize–winning 1996 musical, based on Puccini’s La Bohème, about an impoverished community of artists in the East Village living under the shadow of AIDS. It features an inventive rock score with intricate choral work and dexterous lyrics. Mature audiences only. 7 p.m. (today) & various times (see date), Thurs.–Sun., Encore Maas Main Stage, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $34–$65 in advance at theencoretheatre.org & (if available) at the door. (734) 268–6200.
“Rhinocéros”: Ann Arbor Civic Theatre
Observer Editor
Apr. 17–26. Kat Walsh directs local actors in Eugène Ionesco’s acclaimed 1959 absurdist fable. It tells the story of Bérenger, a gentle drunkard who is spurred into action after watching a rhinoceros run through the square of his French town, transforming the townspeople into rhinos. Considered to be Ionesco’s finest work, the play is a parable about French collaboration with the Nazis. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin. Tickets $20 (seniors, $17; students, $10) at a2ct.ludus.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 971–2228.
“Ride the Cyclone: Teen Edition”: Huron Players
Observer Editor
Apr. 24–26. Huron High School students perform a 90-minute version of Jacob Richmond & Brooke Maxwell’s 2009 dark musical comedy about 6 teenage choir members who are killed in a freak roller coaster accident. When they awake in limbo, they are met by a mechanical fortune teller who invites each to tell a story to win a chance at returning to life. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Huron High School, Meyers Auditorium, 2727 Fuller. Tickets $15 (students & staff, $10) in advance at huronplayers.ludus.com & at the door (cash, check, or Venmo). huronplayers.weebly.com.
Social Tango Dances: Michigan Argentine Tango Club
Observer Editor
Every Sun., except Apr. 12. Tango dancing to recorded music. No partner necessary. 2–5 p.m., Michigan Union, Movement Studio or Anderson Rm. (inquire at front desk). $10 (students, free). [email protected].
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“Selfie Museum”: Ann Arbor District Library
Klezmer: A Living Tradition: Beth Israel Congregation
Community Listing
Join us for an afternoon and evening of klezmer music and fun! This event will help teach the music and dance traditions of Jews from Eastern Europe in theory and practice.
We will have a free instrumental klezmer and dance workshop from 3-4pm, refreshments and a break from 4-5pm, and a free concert from 5-6:30pm. The event is free, but registration is required:
https://www.bethisrael-aa.org/event/klezmer-workshop--performance.html
The performers and educators include Jake Shulman-Ment, Raffi Boden, Ira Temple, and Hannah Lewis.
Co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, Community Engagement Fund, Beth Israel Congregation, Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation, The Ethel Hyman and Rose Kaplan Foundation, and Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance.
2000 Washtenaw Avenue ,Ann Arbor. https://www.bethisrael-aa.org/event/klezmer-workshop--performance.html Free (registration required). [email protected] https://www.bethisrael-aa.org/event/klezmer-workshop--performance.html (734) 665-9897.“The Silence of the Lambs”: Fathom Entertainment
Observer Editor
(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Apr. 26 & 29: “The Silence of the Lambs” (Jonathan Demme, 1991). Bloodcurdling thriller about a fresh-faced FBI newbie who matches wits with a ferociously intelligent serial killer. Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins. 4 p.m. (Sun.) & 7 p.m. (Wed.).
“Wine, Women, & Song XXIV: Songs in the Keys of Life”: Kerrytown Concert House
Observer Editor
Apr. 25 & 26. Popular KCH tradition featuring musical numbers that are alternately witty, poignant, and funny. Singers include Laurie Atwood, Linda Beaupré, Sue Booth, Gayle Martin, Jess Merritt, January Provenzola, Deanna Relyea, Emily Rogers-Driskill, Susan Shipman, Monica Swartout-Bebow, and Kathy Waugh. With pianist Tim Van Riper and drummer Jonathan Brown. 7:30 p.m. (Sat.) and 4 p.m. (Sun.), 415 N. Fourth Ave. Tickets $35–$75 (students, $20–$60) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 769–2999.
Phil Ogilvie's Rhythm Kings: Zal Gaz Grotto
Community Listing
10-piece big band led by Chris Smith, specializing in hot jazz of the 1920s and 30s. Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, Duke Ellington and other jazz legends are prominent in their repertoire. Great for listening or dancing.
2070 W. Stadium Blvd ,Ann Arbor. Free (tipjar for the band). [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/porkjazz 734-663-1202.“Cinderella”: World Ballet Company
Observer Editor
This L.A.-based dance company performs Johann Strauss II’s classic ballet of the rags-to-riches fairytale with a cast of 40 dancers, elaborate sets, and choreography by Marina Kesler. The production, billed as a “Broadway-style” ballet, integrates acrobatics and other theatrical elements into the narrative. Age 2 & up. 6 p.m., Michigan Theater. $43–$103 in advance at marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Ann Arbor Morris
Observer Editor
Every Sun. All invited to try this boisterous, jingly English ceremonial dance thought to be descended from the 15th-century Spanish morisca. Wear athletic shoes. 6–8 p.m., Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse. Free. Email [email protected] to check whether they meet on Easter Day.
“Mic Drop”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Experienced improvisers compete by improvising songs with live accompaniment. Followed at 7:30 p.m. by a pay-what-you-want Musical Improv Jam: All invited to sing or move in musical/comical improv games and exercises, led by a facilitator and accompanist. No experience required. Spectators welcome. 6:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events, $18 (if available) at the door. [email protected].
“17 Blocks”: Michigan Friends Center
Observer Editor
7748 Clark Lake Rd., Chelsea. Preregistration requested at mfcenter.org.
Apr. 26: “17 Blocks” (Davy Rothbart, 2019). Ann Arbor native and Found magazine creator Rothbart’s documentary assembled from 20 years of footage shot by a close-knit family living 17 blocks behind the U.S. Capitol in one of America’s most dangerous neighborhoods. FREE. 7–9:15 p.m.
“Animal Farm: A Fairy Story”: Dreamland Theater
Observer Editor
Apr. 4, 17, 23, 26, & May 1, 9, & 16. The troupe uses marionettes and rod, hand, and shadow puppets to bring Naia Venturi’s adaptation of George Orwell’s dystopian classic to life. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. 7–8 p.m., 26 N. Washington, Ypsi. Tickets $15–$18 at our.show/animalfarm & (if available) at the door. facebook.com/theaterdreamland.