Observer Editor
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Events in December 2025
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December 25, 2025
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December 14, 2025
“Merrily We Roll Along”: Fathom Entertainment
Observer Editor
Fathom Entertainment. (734) 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi.) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Dec. 4–18: “Merrily We Roll Along.” Prerecorded broadcast of a 2024 Broadway production of this bittersweet 1981 Stephen Sondheim musical. The story begins in 1980 with 3 disillusioned old friends who have gone their separate ways, and travels back to the 50s when the pals were brimming with excitement and enthusiasm. Stars Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez. Various times; see website. $15.
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Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
Observer Editor
Every Tues., Wed., & Sun., except Dec. 24. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different locations. Rain or shine. 8 a.m. (Sun.) & 7 a.m. (Tues.), Dozer Coffee, 112 Jackson Plz., and 7 p.m. (Wed.), Fleet Feet, 123 E. Liberty. Free. (734) 929–9022 (Sun. & Tues.) & (734) 769–5016 (Wed.). fleetfeetsemichigan.com.
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Huron Gun Collectors
Observer Editor
Dec. 13 & 14. About 100 dealers and collectors offer guns, knives, ammunition, and other hunting equipment for sale, including antiques and collectibles. Concessions. Youths age 17 & under must be accompanied by an adult. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sat.) & 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sun.), Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, bldg. A, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Admission $5 (members, $3; kids age 12 & under, free). (517) 546–4710.
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Holiday Brunch - Lake Forest Golf Club: Ellsworth Food & Spirits
Community Listing
🎄 Indulge in Our Exclusive Holiday Brunch! 🥂
Celebrate the season in style on Sunday, December 14th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM!
Savor a gourmet spread featuring:
🍳 Made-to-order omelet station
🧇 Fluffy Belgian waffles
... and so much more!
Enjoy the smooth sounds of live jazz music, sip on festive featured cocktails, and let the little ones get creative at our children's craft table!
Pricing: $38 (Adults 14+), $18 (Children 4-13), Free (Under 3). A $50 reservation deposit is required to book.
Don't miss out—make your reservation today!
lakeforestgc.com/product/2025-holiday-brunch/
3110 W Ellsworth Rd ,Ann Arbor. $38 (Adults 14+), $18 (Children 4-13), Free (Under 3). [email protected] lakeforestgc.com/product/2025-holiday-brunch/ 734-994-8580 Ext. 2.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Scio Farms Christmas Market
Observer Editor
Dec. 13 & 14. Artisan goods. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Scio Farms Clubhouse, 6655 Jackson Rd.
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“Elemental Ecstatic Dance”: Our Play Ground
Observer Editor
Every Sun. Dancers of all ages & abilities invited for free-form dancing. Flow toys, hula hoops, and other props provided. Wear loose clothes, barefoot or stockinged feet. 11 a.m.–1 p.m., A2 Yoga, 2030 Commerce Blvd. $20 (age 13 & under, free) cash or Venmo (@andjru) at the door only. [email protected], bit.ly/ecstatic-dance-a2.
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“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun., except Dec. 24, 25, & 31, and Jan. 1. 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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“Signed Books Make Sweet Gifts”: Schuler Books
Observer Editor
Open house with a chance to chat with local authors and get personalized signed books. With popular local chalk artist David Zinn (11 a.m.–1 p.m.) and local romance writer Lexi Alexander (1:30–3:30 p.m.). Also, a mini scavenger hunt for Zinn’s artwork featured on walls throughout the store. 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Schuler Books, Westgate shopping center. Free; preregistration requested at schulerbooks.com/events-ann-arbor. (734) 662–0600.
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Sunday Artisan Market
Observer Editor
Every Sun. through Dec. 21. Juried market of local handmade arts and crafts, now in its 34th year. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Farmers Market Pavilion, Kerrytown. Free admission. (734) 913–9622.
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Yourist Studio Gallery Holiday Sale
Observer Editor
Dec. 12–14. Juried show & sale of ceramic works. Reception Dec. 12, 5–8 p.m. Noon–8 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sat.), & 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sun.), YSG, 6087 Jackson Rd. youristpottery.com.
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Yourist Studio Gallery Holiday Sale: Yourist Studio Gallery
Community Listing
Yourist Studio Gallery Hosts its annual Holiday Sale, a juried selection and sale celebrating the ceramic works of more than 30 artists throughout a sprawling 5,000 square foot studio space, turned gallery for this special yearly event.
6087 Jackson Road ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] https://www.youristpottery.com/news/index.html (734) 662-4914.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
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].
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Holiday Open Skate & Exhibition: Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club
Observer Editor
Family open skate with an appearance by Santa (11:45 a.m.), followed by an exhibition (1:15 p.m.) of freestyle, ice dance, and pairs routines by AAFSC members of all ages and skating levels. 11:45 a.m.–4:05 p.m., Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr. at Scio Church Rd. Admission price is canned food or a cash donation for Food Gatherers. (734) 213–6768.
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“Adult Open Hours & Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
1st & 3rd Fri. and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show off some nocturnal animals, including a reindeer, Dumeril’s boa, African-crested porcupine, and wolf hybrid at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. and Sun., the first three animals are presented at 1 & 4 p.m., and an animal keeper talks about the wolf hybrid 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.), CC, 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.
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“Matilda”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
Observer Editor
Dec. 5–14. Megan Wright-Jones directs 3 casts of local youth actors in grades 2–12 in a 1-hour version of Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin’s 2011 musical. The story, based on Roald Dahl’s children’s novel, centers on a precocious 5-year-old girl with the gift of telekinesis who loves reading. New York Times theater critic Ben Brantley called the original Broadway production “a sweet and sharp-witted work.” 6 & 8 p.m. (Dec. 5), noon; 2, 6, & 8 p.m. (Dec. 6); noon & 2 p.m. (Dec. 7); 7 p.m. (Dec. 12); 2 & 7 p.m. (Dec. 13); and noon (Dec. 14). Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $20 in advance at pytmi.square.site & (if available) at the door. (734) 660–2966, pytmi.com.
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Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun. A chance to view LSNC birds of prey and its Critter House animals, which include frogs, turtles, snakes, and other species native to Michigan. Noon–3 p.m., LSNC, 1831 Traver. $5 suggested donation. (734) 997–1553, lesliesnc.org.
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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 Dec. 7, 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., Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. Free. [email protected].
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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 We Are Stars (noon), an exploration of the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins; The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.), an exploration of 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.), an exploration of the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history that contains scenes of dinosaur violence. 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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“How to Become a Fossil”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun., except Dec. 6. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for age 5 & up about how fossils form and what they can tell us. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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Christkindlmarkt: St. Thomas Catholic Church
Observer Editor
Dec. 14. European-style outdoor festival with vendors. 1–6 p.m., St. Thomas, 530 Elizabeth. (734) 761–8606.
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German Christmas Open House: Kempf House Museum
Observer Editor
Dec. 7 & 14. Guided tours of this restored 19th-century Greek Revival home, decked out this year with a Christmas tree made from dyed goose feathers, a popular alternative to real trees in late 19th century German-American households. 1–4 p.m., Kempf House, 312 S. Division. Free, but donations appreciated. (734) 994–4898, kempfhousemuseum.org.
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Shape Note Singing: Ann Arbor Sacred Harp
Observer Editor
All invited to join an afternoon of shape note, or sacred harp, singing, an early American form of communal hymn singing. Songbooks available, but singers are encouraged to bring their own. 1–4 p.m., the Ark, 316 S. Main. Free. Info: email [email protected] or call (734) 478–3394 or (734) 995–2519.
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“Home Alone”: 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.
Dec. 14: “Home Alone” (Chris Columbus, 1990). When a vacationing family leaves its youngest son behind by mistake, his glee at ruling the family home turns into a hilarious battle to foil 2 burglars. Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern. FREE; reservation requested at marquee-arts.org. 1:30 p.m.
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“Walking with Whales Tour”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Sun. Thirty-minute tour that uses the museum’s specimens to tell the story of prehistoric whales and dolphins, who had 4 limbs and walked on land. 1:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. Limited capacity. Sign up at the welcome desk. (734) 764–0478.
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“A Man for Christmas”: Neighborhood Theatre Group
Observer Editor
Dec. 5–7 & 11–14. NTG founder Kristin Ann Danko directs local actors in her 2019 Hallmark Christmas musical parody, cowritten with local playwright A.M. Dean. It’s about a single woman, about to turn 30, returning home for the holidays to celebrate the engagements of both her sister and her dad. If she can win the affections of a local lad and make it into a triple engagement, she’ll have herself a Christmas for the books. For mature audiences. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), The Back Office Studio, 13 N. Washington St., Ypsi. Tickets $20 (students, $12) in advance at ticketstripe.com/manforchristmas and (if available) at the door. [email protected].
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“All About the Trio: Holiday Vibes”: Ellen Rowe Trio (Kerrytown Concert House)
Observer Editor
Guest vibraphonist Cary Kocher sits in with the other members of U-M jazz piano Rowe’s trio—bassist Paul Keller and drummer Pete Siers—to perform arrangements of holiday standards that pay tribute to jazz vibraphonists like Milt Jackson, Gary Burton, and Lionel Hampton. 2 p.m., KCH, 415 N. Fourth Ave. Tickets $30–$40 (students, $20–$30) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com and (if available) at the door. (734) 769–2999.
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“Christmas Cabaret”: Dexter Community Players
Observer Editor
Dec. 12–14. Members of this local theater troupe perform a family-friendly cabaret-style revue of Christmas favorites and Broadway showtunes. Also, a chance for kids to take pictures with Santa. Hot cocoa, coffee, and desserts served. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Columbus Hall, 8265 Dexter-Chelsea Rd., Dexter. Tickets $20 (students & seniors, $15) in advance at dcp.yapsody.com and at the door.
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“DJ Whittington’s Kool Kat: A Hip-Hop Panto”: Theatre Nova
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun., Dec. 5–Jan. 4. Mike Sandusky directs Carla Milarch and R. MacKenzie Lewis’s latest seasonal panto comedy, a hip-hop version of the English folktale of Dick Whittington. Loosely based on a lord mayor of London in the late Middle Ages, Whittington rises from poverty to wealth by selling his cat to a rat-infested town. British panto is a genre that blends familiar children’s stories with a bit of vaudeville to create a raucous family entertainment. Theatre Nova’s panto, a popular annual tradition, usually sells out. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Tickets $32 ($25, seniors; $15, students; $12, age 16 and under) in advance at theatrenova.org & at the door. (734) 635–8450.
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“Frozen”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Dec. 4–Jan. 11 (different times). Daniel Cooney directs this local professional theater company in Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez, and Jennifer Lee’s 2018 stage musical, itself based on the 2013 animated Disney movie, a loose adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.” It tells the story of Queen Elsa of Arendelle, whose self-seclusion in an ice palace prompts her younger sister Anna to attempt to find her, aided by a cast of characters including Olaf the snowman and Kristoff the ice vendor. The musical features numbers like “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” and “Let It Go.” 7 p.m., Encore, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $44–$65 (17 and under $34) in advance at theencoretheatre.org & at the door. (734) 268–6200.
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“Hand-Sewing Marathon: Adorable Felt Radishes”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
A chance for adults & teens to learn how to make a decorative radish. This craft takes the entire session to complete. No sewing experience required; involves the use of sharp needles. 2–5:30 p.m., AADL Pittsfield. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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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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“Paper Lanterns”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
Adults and kids grade K & up invited to make a paper lantern decorated with watercolor paint. 2–3 p.m., AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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“The Nutcracker”: Ann Arbor Dance Classics
Observer Editor
Dec. 13 & 14. Young local dancers perform choreography by AADC teachers to Tchaikovsky’s Christmas ballet. 2 p.m., Milan High School Performing Arts Center, 200 Big Red Dr., Milan. Tickets $19 through Dec. 12 at aadanceclassics.com and $22 (cash only) at the door. (734) 302–4248.
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“The Nutcracker”: Dance Alliance
Observer Editor
Dec. 13 & 14. Lisa Darby Clark & Adam B. Clark direct local dancers in this local dance school & repertory company’s 28th annual production of Tchaikovsky’s ballet. 7 p.m. (Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Saline High School Ellen Ewing Performing Arts Center, 1300 Campus Pkwy., Saline. Tickets $20 in advance at danceallianceofsaline.com, and (if available) at the door. (734) 429–9599, [email protected].
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Channeling Fall 2025: Remembering Wholeness, Darshan with the Mother: Deep Spring Center
Community Listing
Contact information: deepspring.org, [email protected] or 734.477.5848.
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DJ Workshop: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
A chance for teens and adults to learn the basics of mixing & beat-matching and get hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment. 2–3:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Connect with all your Guides Shamanic Sound Journey with Cacao: Verapose
Community Listing
Experience the healing, guidance and interconnection of this shamanic journey, after drinking cacao, which enhances the spiritual connection.
Arrive 15 minutes early to make nest and get drink. We will do an energy cleanse, call in the directions, drink cacao, set intentions, be guided in the shamanic journey while you receive a sound bath, then there will be time to share your experience. Due to uninterruptible nature of journey, doors will be locked at 2:15 pm.
Bring: a cup/chalice for hot liquids, journal and pen, anything you need to feel comfortable like a pillow, an eye mask or your own blanket. Bringing your own yoga mat is appreciated. But there will be yoga mats, bolsters and blankets available along with cacao to drink. If you are allergic or have any concerns, you can do journey without cacao.
3173 Baker Rd Suite A, ,Dexter. https://www.maryledvina.com/tea-cacao-ceremonies $50-$65. [email protected] maryledvina.com 734-646-9161.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“How to Become a Fossil”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun., except Dec. 6. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for age 5 & up about how fossils form and what they can tell us. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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“Celebration of Christmas”: St. Paul United Church of Christ
Observer Editor
Area musicians TBA—choirs, ensembles, solos, and instrumentals—gather to present songs of the season. Also, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. All invited to arrive at 2 p.m. to join an ad-hoc choir. 3 p.m., SPUCC, 122 W. Michigan Ave, Saline. Free, donations to the Salvation Army welcome.
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“Lessons & Carols”: St. Thomas Catholic Church
Observer Editor
Scripture readings and seasonal anthems & carols, along with a play, Our Lady of Guadalupe. 3 p.m., St. Thomas, 530 Elizabeth St. Free, donations accepted. (734) 761–8606.
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“Suite & Swing Holiday Extravaganza”: Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra
Observer Editor
Adam Riccinto directs this volunteer community orchestra in a program highlighted by 2 versions of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. After the YSO performs Tchaikovsky’s original ballet score, the Depot Town Big Band plays Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s 1960 jazz arrangement of it. Also, other holiday favorites and an appearance by Santa. Fundraising auction. 3:30–5:30 p.m., Lincoln High School Performing Arts Center, 7425 Willis Rd., Ypsi. Tickets $13 (students, $7; seniors, $6; family of 4 or more, $30) in advance at a2tix.com and at the door. [email protected].
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“December Informance”: Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra
Observer Editor
Music director Rodrigo Amorim leads small ensembles from this local student orchestra in performances of classical music and jazz and in demonstration of what they’ve learned. 4 p.m., WCC Morris Lawrence Bldg. Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Free (donations accepted). ypsiyouthorch.org.
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“Holiday Concert”: Ann Arbor Concert Band
Observer Editor
A variety of small brass and woodwind ensembles, with piano accompaniment, perform holiday classics. The finale, “Joy to the World,” features the church’s pipe organ. 4 p.m., Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1400 W. Stadium. Tickets $10 (age 4 & under, free) in advance at aaconcertband.square.site & (if available) at the door. (734) 478–7515, aaband.org.
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“In Silent Night”: The Willis Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale
Observer Editor
LaVonte L. Heard directs this popular local choir in Christmas spirituals, seasonal works by African American composers, and other holiday favorites. 4 p.m., Bethel AME Church, 900 John. A. Woods Dr. Free; donations accepted. (734) 769–4437.
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“Sounds of the Season”: Measure for Measure
Observer Editor
Pioneer High choir director Steven Lorenz leads this popular local men’s chorus in carol arrangements & classic holiday songs, including “Carol of the Bells” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Also, with choral music by contemporary American composers Elaine Hagenberg, Dan Forrest, and Howard Helvey. 4 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 120 S. State. $15 in advance at measure-for-measure.org, $20 at the door. (734) 649-7664.
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“The Glorious Sounds of Christmas Concert”: First Presbyterian Church
Observer Editor
The church’s chancel choir and Lemon Chapel Singers perform a festive program of Christmas music. Also, handbell tunes by the Sanctus and Joyful Ringers. 4 p.m., First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. Free. (734) 662–4466.
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Annual Holiday Concert: Dexter Community Orchestra
Observer Editor
DCO music director David Schultz leads this volunteer orchestra and 2 guest ensembles—the Dexter High School Chamber Orchestra and the Ann Arbor Civic Chorus—in Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Christmas Overture, Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” Handel’s “Hallelujah” chorus, selections from Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, Christmas carols, and other holiday favorites. 4–6 p.m., Dexter Center for the Performing Arts, Dexter High School, 2200 N. Parker, Dexter. Free; donations accepted. (734) 355–0725, dextercommunityorchestra.org.
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Grand Menorah Lighting & Parade: Ann Arbor Chabad House
Observer Editor
The first ever Grand Menorah Lighting & Parade put on by Ann Arbor Chabad House. The parade begins (4 p.m.) at Chabad House and ends at Liberty Plaza, where a lighting of the menorah (5:30 p.m.) is followed by latkes, doughnuts, music, and crafts. 4 p.m., 715 Hill St. Free. tinyurl.com/a2-chabad-menorah.
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“Dick Van Dyke 100th Celebration”: Fathom Entertainment
Observer Editor
(734) 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi.) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Dec. 13 & 14: “Dick Van Dyke 100th Celebration” (Steve Boettcher, 2025). Documentary about the life of this beloved actor, comedian, singer, and dancer. 4:15 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Ann Arbor 20 only.
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“Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence”: 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.
Dec. 14: “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence” (Nagisa Ōshima, 1983). In this World War II drama, a British soldier (David Bowie) is captured by Japanese forces and held in a prison camp in Java, where a British colonel (Tom Conti) tries to bridge the cultural divide. English & Japanese, subtitles. 5 p.m.
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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.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Intro to Archery”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Observer Editor
Hands-on demos for all age 8 & up. Archery equipment provided. No prior experience necessary. 5:30–7 p.m. (age 8 and up) & 7–8:30 p.m. (age 18 and up), Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center, 2960 Washtenaw. Free. Preregistration required at washtenaw.org/registerparks (event #821007). [email protected].
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“A Boychoir Christmas”: Boychoir of Ann Arbor
Observer Editor
Dec. 13 & 14 (different locations). Boychoir music director John Boonenberg leads this local ensemble of boys ages 7–18, accompanied by organist Naki Sung-Kripfgans, in its 39th annual Christmas concert. The program opens with the traditional processional “Once in Royal David’s City,” with the first verse sung by a solo boy soprano, and concludes with John Gardner’s “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day.” The program also features 2 works by contemporary composers—Toby Young’s rhythmically intricate “Come and Dance” and Steve Parsons’ soaring Magnificat—and 20th-century American composer Carolyn Jennings’ beloved “Climb to the Top of the Highest Mountain.” Also, sing-alongs of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” are kicked off with a soaring Boychoir descant verse. These concerts usually sell out. 3 p.m. (Sat.), St. Paul Lutheran Church, 420 Liberty, & 6 p.m. (Sun.), First Presbyterian Church of Ypsilanti, 300 N. Washington, Ypsi. Tickets $20 (youths 17 & under, free) in advance at boychoir-of-ann-arbor.square.site & [email protected], and (if available) at the door. (734) 663–5377.
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“A Drive-Thru Christmas Experience”: Ann Arbor Baptist Church
Observer Editor
Dec. 11–14. Carside entertainment featuring a decorated 25-foot Christmas tree and a live Nativity scene. Also, carolers and the screening of a 5-minute drive-in movie about Christmas. Take-home cookies and hot chocolate (or eat them in the car, if you like). The entire circuit takes 20 minutes. 6–8 p.m., Ann Arbor Baptist Church, 2150 S. Wagner. Free. (734) 995–5144.
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“Christmas at the Mansion”: Dexter Area Historical Society
Observer Editor
Dec. 5–7, 12, 14. Seasonal events at lavishly decorated Gordon Hall, the 19th-century mansion built by Dexter founder Judge Samuel Dexter.
Dec. 5: “Timeless Toys and Traditions” (6:30 p.m.), a Gordon Hall fundraiser featuring strolling hors d’oeuvres, spirits, desserts, and display of the Christmas Village Collection, Milt Campbell’s huge assemblage of the collectible holiday buildings and figures, on display for the final time. $80 per attendee, preregistration required.
Dec. 6: Santa (10 a.m.–3 p.m.) is on hand to visit with kids, who also can make their own gingerbread house (9 a.m.–5 p.m.). $5 suggested donation.
Dec. 7: Christmas Tea (1 & 4 p.m.), a light lunch with tea sandwiches and desserts. Space limited, preregistration required. $30 per person (kids age 12 & under, $15).
Dec. 12 & 14: Open house (6–8 p.m.) to view the Christmas Village Collection. $5 suggested donation.
Various times, Gordon Hall, 8311 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. Various costs. (734) 395–4106, dexterhistory.org.
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Ann Arbor Morris
Observer Editor
Every Sun., except Dec. 28. 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 Dr. Free. [email protected].
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Open Mic Night: Jewel Heart Buddhist Center
Observer Editor
All acoustic musicians, storytellers, poets, and spoken word artists invited. Sign-up starts at 5:30 p.m. Bring your own nonalcoholic beverages. Tea, coffee, and water available. 6–9 p.m., Jewel Heart, 1129 Oak Valley. Free. [email protected], jewelheart.org.
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“Dick Van Dyke 100th Celebration”: Fathom Entertainment
Observer Editor
(734) 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi.) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Dec. 13 & 14: “Dick Van Dyke 100th Celebration” (Steve Boettcher, 2025). Documentary about the life of this beloved actor, comedian, singer, and dancer. 4:15 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Ann Arbor 20 only.
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“Christina Aguilera: Christmas in Paris”: Fathom Entertainment
Observer Editor
(734) 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi.) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Dec. 14: “Christina Aguilera: Christmas in Paris” (Sam Wrench, 2025). Concert film of a Christmas performance held in front of the Eiffel Tower by this pop superstar. 6:45 p.m. Ann Arbor 20 only. $15.
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Ballroom Dance Club at the U-M
Observer Editor
Every Sun., except Dec. 28. Ballroom dancing to recorded music, including foxtrots, waltzes, cha-chas, rumbas, tangos, swing, and more. No partner necessary. Preceded at 6 p.m. by beginning lessons and practice. 7–9 p.m., Michigan Union Ballroom. $5 ($10 includes lessons). (734) 763–6984.
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Improv Jam: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Dec. 14 & 21. All invited to participate in short-form improv games or long-form improv. No experience required. Spectators welcome. 7:30–9:30 p.m., HSBT, 2350 W. Liberty. Pay what you want. [email protected], heardotsay.com/events.
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