Observer Editor
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Events in May 2026
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May 3, 2026
Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
Observer Editor
Every Sun., Tues., & Wed. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different locations. Rain or shine. Dozer Coffee (8 a.m. Sun. & 7 a.m. Tues.), 112 Jackson Plz. and Fleet Feet (7 p.m. Wed.), 123 E. Liberty. Free. (734) 929–9022 (Sun. & Tues.) & (734) 769–5016 (Wed.). fleetfeetsemichigan.com.
48th Annual Burns Park Run: Burns Park Elementary School PTO
Observer Editor
Around 1,000 people ages 5–90 attend this popular family affair. This year’s event offers 5K and 10K chip-timed races along beautiful tree-lined streets, as well as a half-mile kid-popular fun run ($5) around the park. Awards for the top male, female, and nonbinary finishers in each age group. Proceeds benefit Burns Park PTO programs. T-shirts & running caps available. 8:30 a.m. (5K run & walk), 8:40 a.m. (10K run), & 9:45 a.m. (fun run), Burns Park, 1700 Wells. $39–$45 in advance at burnsparkrun.org & (if available) at the race. [email protected].
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.
Fiddle music and coffee at Veridian, County Farm: Veridian
Community Listing
Live fiddle music from the wonderful Second Things First and coffee by Curious Coffee. You can also tour the Veridian complex and homes while you're there! Entry is free and no tickets are required. Coffee & other drinks and pastries will be available for purchase.
2203 Veridian Circle ,Ann Arbor. N/A [email protected] https://www.veridian.communityThird Space Sundays
Observer Editor
Every Sun., except May 24. 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., York, 1946 Packard. 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. On May 17, guest teacher Lucine Eusani leads a 5Rhythms dance session designed to promote a meditative state through dance. Wear loose clothes; barefoot or stocking feet. 10:45 a.m.–1 p.m. A2 Yoga, 2030 Commerce. $20 (age 11 and under, free) cash or Venmo (@andjru) at the door only. tinyurl.com/ecstatic-dance-a2.
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. 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.
“Paper Paper Art Book Fair”: Cluster Museum
Observer Editor
May 2 & 3. Show and sale of books, prints, and posters by independent art book makers, writers, and more than 20 publishers from across the Midwest. Zine makers are invited to bring their zines to swap. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 307 N. Main. Free. clustermuseum.org/events.
“Star Wars Day”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
All invited to celebrate International Star Wars Day (traditionally May 4) with themed crafts, games, and activities. With a performance by the Star Wars tribute band Threepios (2–3 p.m.). For a complete schedule see aadl.org/starwarsday. Costumes encouraged. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.
H.A.C. Ultimate
Observer Editor
Every Sun. All invited to a relaxed pickup 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
Fri. May 1 & 15 and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show off some rescued animals, including a wolf hybrid, a reticulated python, a black vulture, and an axolotl at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. and Sun., conservancy staffers show off the first three animals 1 & 4 p.m., and an animal keeper shows the axolotl at 2 & 3 p.m. All tickets include a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 7–9 p.m. (Fri.) & Noon–5 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), 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.
“SnowBuddy Fest”: SnowBuddy
Observer Editor
This all-volunteer organization celebrates 12 years of keeping Water Hill sidewalks free of snow with a party that includes live music for children (noon–12:30 p.m.) by local folk-rock singer-songwriter Kat Steih and music for the whole crowd (12:30–6 p.m.) by Steih, local folk-country singer-songwriter Chris Buhalis, Irish pub rock quartet The Glen Leven Band, vintage jazz and blues band Ukulele Slim & the Career Criminals, and local alt-country quartet The Minor Pieces. Also, food and drinks for sale. Bring a lawn chair. Rain or shine. Noon–6 p.m., Ann Arbor Distilling Co., 220 Felch. Free, donations accepted. snowbuddy.org.
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. Noon (Sun.) & 6:30 p.m. (Wed. & Mon.), meet at the Kerrytown clock tower. Preregistration requested at meetup.com/a2runners. Free. [email protected].
Mad Hatter’s Tea: Ballet Chelsea
Community Listing
Tumble down the rabbit hole and join us for a delightful afternoon at Ballet Chelsea’s Mad Hatter Tea before our enchanting 2:00 performance of Alice in Wonderland!
When: May 3, 12:00-1:30
Where: Chelsea High School
This fun and magical event is perfect for children and adults alike. Sip tea fit for a queen, nibble on scrumptious sweets and snacks, and enjoy charming crafts and games in a whimsical storybook setting. Little dreamers and grown-up adventurers alike will delight in meeting their favorite Wonderland characters — from curious Alice and the delightfully peculiar Mad Hatter to the commanding Queen of Hearts and the ever-grinning Cheshire Cat. Don’t forget your camera — these magical photo moments are not to be missed! Before you follow the white rabbit to the theater, collect your gift bag of curious keepsakes!
If you are looking for a magical way to spend your afternoon, this event promises a memorable experience for all ages. Gather your friends and family for this enchanting pre-show celebration!
(The Mad Hatter Tea is a separate ticketed event, and you’re welcome to attend even if you’re not seeing the ballet.)
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 May 3, 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. sylvanfactory.com.
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.
“May Porch Music Fest”
Observer Editor
Organizers of the original Water Hill Music Fest decided to end their run a few years back, but some musicians in the neighborhood maintain the tradition of performing on front porches and in yards and driveways on the first Sunday in May. The Ecotones (1–2 p.m., 1202 Bydding), pop covers and jazz standards. Music Students (1:30–3 p.m., 1205 Brooks), recitals by students of Sean Duffy. Ad Hoc (2–6 p.m., 716 Hiscock), a group of friends that plays an eclectic array of music. Hard Candy (3–4 p.m., 611 Hiscock) plays deep-cut rock covers and is fronted by Spark vocalist Robin Grant. The Ralph McKee Blues Trio (3:15–4:30 p.m., 1205 Brooks), blues and roots music from a trio led by singer-bassist McKee. Corndaddy (4–5 p.m., 611 Hiscock) plays early 70s-style country-rock influenced by bluegrass, power pop, and the British Invasion. Indie Rock Royalty (4:45–6 p.m., 1205 Brooks), an eclectic mix of covers and originals, including some parodies, by this quartet. The Vicissitones (5–6 p.m., 611 Hiscock), an instrumental rock ’n’ roll quartet, plays a blend of originals and surf, horror, and spy covers. Also, other musicians TBA. 1–6:30 p.m., Water Hill neighborhood north of Miller bounded by Brooks, Sunset, and the train tracks. Free.
“Power to the People: John & Yoko Live in NYC”: Michigan Theater
Observer Editor
Film screenings every Wed.–Sun. Tickets $10.50 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $8.50; members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. (734) 668–8397. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Apr. 29 & May 3: “Power to the People: John & Yoko Live in NYC” (Simon Hilton, 2026). Documentary concert film of two live shows by John Lennon & Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band with Elephant’s Memory at Madison Square Garden in 1972. They were the only full-length concerts Lennon performed after leaving The Beatles. 7 p.m. (Wed.) & 1 p.m. (Sun.).
Tour: Kempf House Museum
“Tovah: 50 Years on Broadway”: 2026 Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 3–13. Screenings of films from around the world that address the Jewish experience. Various times, State Theatre except as noted. Each screening $12 in advance at jccannarbor.org/film-festival and at the door.
May 3: “Tovah: 50 Years on Broadway” (David Serero, 2026). Star-studded documentary about the life and career of Broadway star Tovah Feldshuh. 1:30 p.m.
Cocktail Class: Tequila Time: Tammy's Tastings
Community Listing
This immersive tequila experience invites you to explore tequila’s unique character—earthy, bright, and complex—through a curated selection of cocktails. Learn the story behind every pour, from agave to glass, and deepen your understanding of this iconic spirit.
Dragonfly & Birch 115 E Main St ,Manchester, MI, United States. https://www.tammystastings.com/upcoming-event/tequila-time/ $59. [email protected]“Alice in Wonderland”: Ballet Chelsea
Observer Editor
May 2 & 3. Artistic director Michelle Quenon leads this Chelsea-based company of young dancers ages 8–18 in Carl Davis’s popular ballet adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s novel, set to music by Tchaikovsky and featuring original choreography, costumes, and sets. 7 p.m. (Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Chelsea High School Auditorium, 740 N. Freer, Chelsea. $32 (kids & seniors, $27) in advance at ballet-chelsea.org/tickets and at the door.
“Chicago: Teen Edition”: Pioneer Theatre Guild
Observer Editor
Apr. 30–May 3. Pioneer High School students perform a kid-friendly adaptation of this 1975 musical, a satire on corruption in the criminal justice system and the “celebrity criminal” set in 1920s Chicago. Music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and book by Ebb and Bob Fosse, whose style is strongly identified with the show. 7 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), PHS Schreiber Auditorium, 610 W. Stadium. Tickets $20 (students, seniors age 65 & over, & PHS staff, $15) in advance showtix4u.com/events/ptg & (if available) at the door. (734) 994–2191.
“Cinderella”: Skyline High School Theatre Program
Observer Editor
May 1–3. Kristine Stephens directs Skyline students in a stage adaptation of this Rodgers & Hammerstein fairytale musical originally written for a 1957 TV broadcast starring Julie Andrews. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), SHS Theatre, 2552 N. Maple. Tickets $15 (seniors, students, & kids, $10) in advance at a2skylinetheatre.ludus.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 994–6515, [email protected].
“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.
“Spring Flora Ramble”: Waterloo Natural History Association
Observer Editor
WNHA naturalist Robert Ayotte leads an easygoing ramble to look for tulip tree, leatherwood, wild geranium, swamp buttercup, bog laurel, starflower, cuckoo flower, and more. Dress for the weather and bring a loupe (hand lens) if you have one. 2–4 p.m., Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush, Chelsea. $2 (families, $5). Space limited; preregistration required by emailing [email protected] with your name, phone number, and number of attendees. $15 per vehicle recreation passport required ($20 at the gate). wnha.org/events.
Sunday Drop-in Tour: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
Observer Editor
Every Sun. Docent-led tours exploring Death and Ritual in Ancient Egypt” (May 3), “Women in the Ancient World: A Mother’s Day Tour” (May 10), a look at smaller artifacts in “Hidden in Plain Sight” (May 17), an exploration of how some artifacts were created in “I Wonder How They Did That?” (May 24), and “Images of Women in the Ancient World” (May 31). 2–3 p.m., 434 S. State. Free. (734) 764–9304.
International Folk Dancing: Ann Arbor Folkdancers/Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance
Observer Editor
May 3 & 17. Dancing to recorded music. No partner needed; beginners welcome. The program begins at 2 p.m. with a lesson, followed by open dancing. 3–5 p.m., Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse. $10 suggested donation. [email protected], aactmad.org/international-folk.
“Choral Evensong”: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church
Observer Editor
The St. Andrew’s adult choir presents a choral evensong service featuring Herbert Howells’ settings of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis (Collegium Regale), Maxine Thévenot’s “Preces and Responses,” and Philip Stopford’s “The Spirit of the Lord.” 4 p.m., 306 N. Division. Free. (734) 663–0518.
“ChoreoLab Project”: Terpsichore Collective
Observer Editor
This local professional contemporary dance troupe performs works in progress by various choreographers. Audience members are invited to stay after the performance and discuss the work with a mentor panel, the dancers, and the choreographers. The finished works will be performed at the collective’s June and October concerts. 4–6 p.m., Ann Arbor Dance Classics, 3777 Plaza. $25 (students, $10) in advance at terpsichorecollective.com, & (if available) at the door.
Senior Showcase: U-M Musical Theatre Department
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.
Zal Gaz Grotto - 2070 W. Stadium Blvd ,Ann Arbor. Free (tipjar for the band). [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/porkjazz 734-663-1202.“Extra Credit”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
“The Pianist's Choice”: 2026 Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 3–13. Screenings of films from around the world that address the Jewish experience. Various times, State Theatre except as noted. Each screening $12 in advance at jccannarbor.org/film-festival and at the door.
May 3: “The Pianist's Choice” (Jacques Otmezguine, 2024). Sumptuous historical romance about a gifted pianist in occupied Paris, is faced with the choice to perform for Nazi officers or lose the woman he loves. French & German, subtitles. 6:30 p.m.
“Not Quite Star Wars”: 8-Ball Movie Night
Observer Editor
8ballmovienight.weebly.com. All age 21 and older are invited to watch 2 films each night, with trivia about each at intermission. Prizes. Free snacks. 8 Ball Saloon (201 S. First St.). 7 p.m.–midnight, preshow starts at 6:30 p.m.
May 3: “Not Quite Star Wars.” Two movies similar to, but not quite Star Wars: The Humanoid/L’umanoide (Aldo Lado, 1979), an Italian B-movie about an evil warlord who plots to take over the planet Metropolis with the help of a mad scientist; and The Hidden Fortress (Akira Kurosawa, 1958), about a pair of bickering peasants in feudal Japan who are tricked into helping a general and a princess escape across enemy lines, a major inspiration for Star Wars: A New Hope.
“The Story of Everything”: 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. 30–May 6: “The Story of Everything” (Eric Esau, 2026). Religious documentary that argues that the laws of nature point to intentional design. 7 p.m. (Cinemark only).
Ballroom Dance Club at the U-M
Traditional Irish Session: Conor O’Neill’s
Senior Showcase: U-M Musical Theatre Department
The Head and the Heart: Live Nation
Observer Editor
This Seattle-based indie folk-rock band celebrates the 15th anniversary of its self-titled debut album by playing it in full tonight, along with other songs from their extensive catalog. Known for earnest and moving live shows, heartfelt lyricism, and tight, emotive harmonies, the 6-member band has played prime time mainstage sets at Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits. Opener: Seattle sibling Americana trio the Brudi Brothers. 8 p.m., Michigan Theater. Tickets $62–$271 in advance at (800) 745–3000, ticketmaster.com, & (if available) at the door.