Observer Editor
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Events in September 2025
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Looking for live music tonight?
Visit our Nightspots listing.
September 27, 2025
“Laser Queen”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Fri. & Sat. 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 day of the show.
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a2Tech360: Ann Arbor Spark
Observer Editor
Sept. 24–Oct. 3. Weeklong tech festival. Free highlights:
A2AC ArtLab Demonstration Derby (Sept. 26, 5–8 p.m., A2AC, 117 W. Liberty) demos of new tech in art includes CG animation, 3D scanners, 3D virtual reality sculpture, and more.
Venue Connect Lunch & Learn (Oct. 1, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Venue, 1919 South Industrial Hwy.), speakers TBA.
A2 Tech Trek (Oct. 3, 1–5 p.m., E. Liberty from S. Division to S. Fifth Ave.), a street party with tech demos, info booths, food, and live music TBA and an afterparty from 6-9 p.m. at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Also, the city’s annual “A2 Zero Green Fair” (see listing 19 Friday).
The week also includes ticketed business-oriented panel discussions, receptions, and pitch competitions (see a2tech360.com).
Various times & locations. A mix of free and ticketed events. a2tech360.com.
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U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. (except Sept. 1-5). 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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Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
Observer Editor
Every Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Sat. (different AARC locations). Runners of all abilities invited to join a 5K mapped route (Mon. & Thurs.), an interval-based training run (Tues.), or a beginner or advanced group run (Sat.). 6 p.m. (Mon.), Corner Brewery, 720 Norris, Ypsilanti; 6 p.m. (Tues.) & 7 a.m. (Sat.), AARC Downtown, 209 S. Ashley; & 6 p.m. (Thurs.), AARC Colonnade, 901 W. Eisenhower. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
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“Dexter/Chelsea Saturday Morning Breakfast Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Sat. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack something to eat or stop in Dexter or Chelsea for coffee or breakfast. Note: Riders should be prepared to take care of themselves on all AABTS rides. Carry a water bottle, a spare tire or tube, a pump, a cell phone, and snacks. See aabts.org for weather cancelations or delays. 8 a.m. sharp, meet at Barton Nature Area parking lot, W. Huron River Dr. near Bird Rd. Free. [email protected], (734) 649–9762.
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parkrun USA
Observer Editor
Every Sat. All invited to join a timed but noncompetitive 5K run/walk. 8 a.m., Lillie Park South at the northeast corner of the soccer fields, 4365 Platt. Free, but first-timers are requested to preregister at parkrun.us/lillie and arrive at 7:45 a.m. [email protected], facebook.com/lillieparkrun.
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“Fall River Roundup”: Huron River Watershed Council
Observer Editor
All invited to learn about and help collect macroinvertebrates—including insect larvae and crayfish—from Huron River tributaries to measure the river’s health. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult. Two start times. Rain or shine. 9 & 10:30 a.m., various places as assigned. Free. Preregistration required at hrwc.org/volunteer/roundup. (734) 769–5123, [email protected].
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“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. Wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes; bring leather work gloves. Tools and know-how provided. 10 a.m.–noon., Searles Nature Preserve; park along Bolla Rd., ¼ mile west of Stony Creek Rd. Free. washtenawbna.org.
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Annual Webster Fall Festival: Webster Township Historical Society/Webster United Church of Christ
Observer Editor
Popular country fair with hayrides (11 a.m.–4:30 p.m., $2 per adult, $1 per child under 12), old-time kids activities, a petting zoo, exhibits of antique cars & farm equipment, and trained sheepdog demonstrations. Also, wool spinning & blacksmithing demos, one-room schoolhouse sessions (11 a.m., 12:30 & 2 p.m.), and a craft fair. Also, pulled pork sandwiches & sides for sale (11 a.m. until gone), art displays and self-guided tours of the historical buildings, and an exhibition baseball game (1 p.m.) using 1860s-era rules between the Chelsea Monitors and the Dexter Union Base Ball Club. Live music includes the Dexter Dulcimer Group (11:30 a.m.), Celtic music from the Foxtree Folk Band (1:10 p.m.), old-time music by the local Stout Hearted String Band (noon), and the veteran Ann Arbor bluegrass band The RFD Boys (4 p.m.). 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Webster Community Hall, 5484 Webster Church Rd. and Farrell Rd., Dexter. Free admission (donations accepted). (734) 368–0887, websterfallfestival.org.
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Independence Lake Craft Show: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Observer Editor
Show & sale of arts and crafts from over 50 area crafters for sale. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Independence Lake County Park, 3200 Jennings, Beach Center Pavilion, Whitmore Lake. Free admission, but $6 (nonresidents, $10) vehicle entry fee. (734) 449–4437. washtenaw.org/3803/Independence-Lake-Craft-Show.
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“Fall River Roundup”: Huron River Watershed Council
Observer Editor
All invited to learn about and help collect macroinvertebrates—including insect larvae and crayfish—from Huron River tributaries to measure the river’s health. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult. Two start times. Rain or shine. 9 & 10:30 a.m., various places as assigned. Free. Preregistration required at hrwc.org/volunteer/roundup. (734) 769–5123, [email protected].
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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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“Family Frightfest”: Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds
Observer Editor
This 3rd annual all-ages event features an indoor haunted maze. Also, hayrides & food vendors. Costumes encouraged, kids invited to bring a trick-or-treat bag. 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. $10 only at the door (kids 10 and under, free). [email protected].
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“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. All age 6 and 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.
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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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Bob Hoot: Ann Arbor Farmers Market
Observer Editor
Live music by this veteran alt-country and rock singer-songwriter, former leader of the regionally acclaimed Madison (WI) Americana band Tent Show Troubadours. 11 a.m., Farmers Market. Free admission. (734) 794-6255.
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Country Fair: Wiard’s Orchards
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun., Sept. 6–Oct. 26 and Wed.–Fri., Sept. 17–Oct. 31. 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. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.) & 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Wed.–Fri.), 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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Remodelers Home Tour: Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor
Observer Editor
Sept. 27 & 28. A chance to tour at least 10 newly remodeled Ann Arbor homes. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., various locations. $10 includes both days (age 16 & under, free), by cash or check at any of the tour houses listed. (734) 996–0100.
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Storytime with Local Author Lynn Baldwin: Schuler Books
Community Listing
Join us for a storytime with local author Lynn Baldwin! She’ll be reading her picture book, My Backyard Used to Be. This storytime is perfect for kids aged 4-8, but all are welcome to join!
Free, but RSVPs appreciated. https://events.humanitix.com/lynn-baldwin-sba2
About the Book:
My backyard is where we play and learn, but it wasn’t always my backyard…
Hit rewind on the view out your backdoor as this story zips back in time, showing readers how people, lifestyles, and land have changed over time. My Backyard Used to Be makes history feel current and accessible to young readers—and encourages them to discover what their own backyard used to
Schuler Books, 2513 Jackson Avenue ,Ann Arbor, MI 48103. https://events.humanitix.com/lynn-baldwin-sba2 Free.. [email protected]Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Storytime with Local Author Lynn Baldwin at Schuler Books: Schuler Books
Community Listing
Join us for a storytime with local author Lynn Baldwin! She’ll be reading her picture book, My Backyard Used to Be, which is loosely based here in Ann Arbor. This storytime is perfect for kids aged 4-8, but all are welcome to join!
We love seeing who is planning to join us! Your RSVP helps us prepare to host you. You can RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/lynn-baldwin-sba2
About the Book:
My backyard is where we play and learn, but it wasn’t always my backyard…
Hit rewind on the view out your backdoor as this story zips back in time, showing readers how people, lifestyles, and land have changed over time. My Backyard Used to Be makes history feel current and accessible to young readers—and encourages them to discover what their own backyard used to be.
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“Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun. Conservancy staffers show off some animals who have amazing “super-powers” (1 & 4 p.m.), including a Shire horse, a frilled dragon, and a three–banded armadillo. Also, an animal keeper talk about the African crested porcupine (2 & 3 p.m.), and a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. Noon–5 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $15 (kids ages 2–12, $13; under age 2, free) cash or credit at the door only (no longer available online). (734) 929–9324. thecreatureconservancy.org.
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8th Annual Harvest Fest: We the People Opportunity Farm
Observer Editor
Family-friendly day includes live music TBA, a petting zoo, arts and crafts, and more. Food and drink provided. Noon–3 p.m., Grace Fellowship Church, 1301 S. Harris, Ypsilanti. Free. wtpof.org/media.
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Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun. (except Sept. 14). 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. lesliesnc.org, (734) 997–1553.
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“Out of the Water and Back Again: A Whale’s Tale”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for ages 5 and up about the evolutionary history of whales and what the museum’s fossil whales and other related species reveal. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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Environmentalist Picnic: Sierra Club Huron Valley Group
Community Listing
Join local environmentalists for a POTLUCK picnic at Island Park to build connections and learn about the political lay of the land in Michigan!
Speakers:
- State Senators Jeff Irwin and Sue Shink, who will discuss what's up in Lansing
- Sierra Club Michigan Legislative and Political Director Tim Minotas, who will cover prospects for environmental legislation
- Activist Mike Buza, who will introduce ways to combat the disinformation campaign against renewables in rural areas
In the spirit of the occasion, this will be a ZERO-WASTE event, so be sure to bring your own reusable eating utensils, dishes and drink containers. We will have containers for your compostables – e.g., food scraps & napkins.
NO alcohol is permitted in Island Park for this event.
Schedule:
1:00 Lunch starts
2:15 Speakers with Q&A
3:15 Networking/Enjoy the park
Family and Friends Welcome!
Event will go on rain or shine
Where:
Island Park, Shelter B
1415 Island Dr, Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
NOTE. There is extra parking past Shelter B.
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Museum Highlight Tours: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Sat. 30-minute tour of the museum’s exhibits and galleries, as well as an introduction to some current U-M Biological Sciences research projects. 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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U-M Men’s Glee Club & Korgossarna: U-M Music School
Observer Editor
Joint performance by the popular U-M student a cappella ensemble and the Swedish all-male choir Korgossarna. The ensembles perform separate sets TBA, then come together to sing a few Scandinavian folk songs. 1:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 120 S. State. Free. (734) 764–0583.
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“Animals in the Kelsey”: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology Saturday Sampler
Observer Editor
Docent-led tour of notable objects depicting animals in the museum’s Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern collections. 2–3 p.m., Kelsey Museum, 434 S. State. Free. (734) 764–9304.
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A2 Jazz Fest
Observer Editor
Sept. 27 & 28. Two days of free jazz performances by local and national acts. Today: a jazz workshop (3 p.m.) aimed at teens that’s led by local drummer Sean Dobbins. Followed by performances by student jazz ensembles (4:30 p.m.), hard-driving bop-era swing by the Laura Simone Trio (5:30 p.m.), and the Rick Roe Trio (7 p.m.), a local jazz ensemble led by Roe, a pianist whose repertoire includes Disney songs, Star Wars themes, TV themes, classical pieces, and Thelonious Monk classics, along with wildly inventive originals. With late-night performances at the Ravens Club (see Nightspots listing). 2–8:30 p.m., First Congregational Church, 608 E. William. Free; donations accepted. (734) 769–2999, a2jazzfest.com.
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Artists Mixer: Neighborhood Theatre Group
Community Listing
For our upcoming Artists Mixer, local photographers Carolyn McCarthy and Jeff Bennett from JB Media will be offering a special artists price for headshots! Two images for only $99!
Whether you’re a photographer, painter, actor, designer, dancer, writer, musician, or a little bit of everything we hope you’ll join us! Artists Mixers are an opportunity for artists in the community to meet, connect, and collaborate. Light refreshments and drinks will be served.
Parking is free on the weekends.
13 N Washington St ,Ypsilanti. Free. [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/share/16ZzHCRjy1/ 734-315-0888.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Drop-In Improv Games: Ypsi Improv
Observer Editor
Every Sat. All age 16 and up invited to learn about and participate in improv games in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free setting. No experience necessary. 2–4 p.m., Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. Tickets $8–$10 (spectators, free) in advance via PayPal or Venmo linked from meetup.com/ypsi-improv or in cash at the door.
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“Out of the Water and Back Again: A Whale’s Tale”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Observer Editor
Every Sat. & Sun. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for ages 5 and up about the evolutionary history of whales and what the museum’s fossil whales and other related species reveal. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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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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"Oktoberfest: German Fare, Music, Games!": Lake Forest Golf Club
Community Listing
It's Oktoberfest at Lake Forest this Saturday!🍻
Join us for an afternoon of festive fun, featuring live music and our specialty Biergarten with seasonal favorites on tap. The festivities will begin at 3:00 PM.
To complete the celebration, we're rolling out a specialty menu packed with authentic German classics:
Bratwurst with Sauerkraut • $9
Sauerbraten: German pot roast with mashed potatoes • $16
Mushroom Spaetzle: Egg pasta with mushrooms & brown butter • $9
Bavarian Pretzel • $6
Apple Strudel • $6
Our daily menu will still be available during this event. Reservations are greatly appreciated, but not required. We look forward to seeing you! For reservations, please call: 734-994-8580, Ext. 2
3110 W. Ellsworth Road ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] www.Ellsworthannarbor.com 734-994-8580 Ext. 2.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Concert: Dexter Community Orchestra
Observer Editor
DCO music director David Schultz conducts this volunteer ensemble, in collaboration with Skyline and Saline High School Orchestras, in playing Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, Valerie Coleman’s “Umoja: Anthem of Unity,” and additional selections. Also, the orchestra is welcoming new members; those interested in joining can apply at dextercommunityorchestra.org/join. 3–4:30 p.m., Skyline High School, 2552 N. Maple Rd. Free. (734) 355–0725, dextercommunityorchestra.org.
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Michaelmas Festival: Great Lakes Branch of the Anthroposophical Society in America
Observer Editor
All invited for a group reading of a Rudolf Steiner lecture appropriate to the occasion. Followed by games, a potluck dinner, contra dancing, and live music by the local traditional Celtic ensemble Nutshell. 3 p.m., Community Farm of Ann Arbor, 1236 Fletcher Rd. Chelsea. Free. [email protected], [email protected].
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“Spider-Man 2”: 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, Ypsilanti) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Sept. 27: “Spider-Man 2” (Sam Raimi, 2004). The second installment in Raimi’s trilogy in which the urban superhero is torn between his crimefighting role and getting the girl. 4:15 & 7:15 p.m. (Ann Arbor 20) and 4 & 7:15 p.m. (Emagine).
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Know Obstacles Open Mic & Comedy Hour: Oz’s Music Environment
Observer Editor
Performers of all abilities invited to play instruments, sing songs, and tell jokes with members of this band comprised of kids and adults with special needs. Hosted by Oz’s owner Steve Oz. Spectators welcome. 4–5 p.m., Oz’s Music Environment, 1922 Packard. Free; donations accepted. (734) 662–8283.
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“Spider-Man 2”: 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, Ypsilanti) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Sept. 27: “Spider-Man 2” (Sam Raimi, 2004). The second installment in Raimi’s trilogy in which the urban superhero is torn between his crimefighting role and getting the girl. 4:15 & 7:15 p.m. (Ann Arbor 20) and 4 & 7:15 p.m. (Emagine).
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Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan Hosts Inspiring Conversation with Don Triveline: Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan
Community Listing
Join the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan’s WAKE (Working Adults Kicking Epilepsy) group on Saturday, September 27 at 5:00 PM at the DoubleTree Hotel Restaurant (Arbor Tree Lounge, 3600 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor). Guest speaker Don Triveline, an Ann Arbor resident living with epilepsy, will share his journey from athletics and leadership roles at the University of Michigan to a successful career in business and investment. RSVP to Renee Roederer at [email protected].
3600 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] (248) 809-4790.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
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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“The Great Gatsby Ballet”: World Ballet Company
Observer Editor
This L.A.-based dance company presents a new ballet based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic American novel, with a jazz score by film & TV composer Anna Drubich and choreography by Ilya Zhivoy, a former Mariinsky Ballet (St. Petersburg, Russia) dancer-choreographer. Billed as a “Broadway-style ballet,” the work integrates live singing with acrobatics and other theatrical elements into the narrative. Ages 8 and up. 6 p.m., Michigan Theater. $40–$95 in advance at tinyurl.com/gatsby-ballet-mi.
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Live Punk & Hardcore Music: Friday Soft Goods
Community Listing
Peformances by Rawhide, a Michigan fuzz-punk duo formerly called Rawhide Girlfight. Also, Lord Centipede, a local hardcore-metal band and the Michigan acoustic punk-folk band The Defiance Campaign. This is the last event ever at Friday Soft Goods. 6 p.m., Friday Soft Goods, 21 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. Cover is pay-what-you-want at the door.
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Comedy Mystery Dinner Show: The Dinner Detective Ann Arbor
Observer Editor
Sept. 6 & 27. Dinner served while actors masquerading as fellow diners enact a comical murder mystery in which actual audience members may find themselves a prime suspect. 6:30–9 p.m., Ann Arbor Marriott, 1275 S. Huron St., Ypsilanti. $70 includes gratuity; preregistration required at thedinnerdetective.com. (866) 496–0535.
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Zach Bryan & John Mayer: Michigan Stadium
Observer Editor
The first concert ever held at the stadium features the youthful country-rock star Bryan and veteran folk-rock singer-songwriter Mayer. They perform together and separately. Fireworks show to follow. 6:30 p.m., Michigan Stadium. Sold out; some tickets available on resale sites.
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Fusion Connection: Rhizome Roots Studio
Community Listing
Sept. 26-28. Michigan's largest annual fusion dance weekender. Three days and nights of dancing you don't want to miss! The only event in Michigan that blends Brazilian Zouk, West Coast Swing, Blues, and Fusion. Improve connection, creativity, and skill through classes ranging from beginner to advance levels for everyone. No partner or experience needed, and all beginners are welcome. Social dancing in the evenings to recorded music.
Passes on sale now. Event details at https://www.facebook.com/events/concourse-dr-ann-arbor-mi-48108-united-states/mi-fusion-connection-dance-weekender-2025/891822096341166/
All Rhizome Roots events are LGBTQIA+ safe spaces and neurodivergent friendly. Cost a concern, or want to give back - signup to volunteer HERE https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E45A9A828A5FEC07-54835489-volunteer#/
4350 Concourse Dr ,Ann Arbor, MI. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fusion-connection-mi-2025-tickets-1545122706609?aff=ebdsshcopyurl&utm-source=cp&utm-term=listing&utm-campaign=social&utm-medium=discovery&utm-content=attendeeshare $20-$250. Single session and full weekend passes available at the door. Discounts for preregistration.. [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/events/891822096341166/ 217-299-3803.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Spider-Man 2”: 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, Ypsilanti) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), various times.
Sept. 27: “Spider-Man 2” (Sam Raimi, 2004). The second installment in Raimi’s trilogy in which the urban superhero is torn between his crimefighting role and getting the girl. 4:15 & 7:15 p.m. (Ann Arbor 20) and 4 & 7:15 p.m. (Emagine).
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Tracey MacDonald: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
Sept. 26 & 27. Canadian comic known for her alternatingly acerbic and self-deprecating observational humor about her life in L.A. Opening act TBA. Alcohol served. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $21 at aacomedy.com and (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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“Three Mirrors: Excursions in Collaboration”: University Musical Society Ypsilanti Freighthouse Residency
Observer Editor
Nationally prominent Ypsilanti-born postpunk indie rock singer-songwriter Fred Thomas hosts a night of collaborative soundscapes by multidisciplinary sound artists Alvin Hill, Dick Texas, Emily Roll, OMO, and Shells. Presented in 3 acts. Alcohol for sale. 7:30 p.m., Ypsilanti Freighthouse, 100 Market Pl., Ypsilanti. Pay what you wish. Preregistration required at (734) 764–2538 or ums.org/season.
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“Gloria”: U-M Theatre Department
Observer Editor
Sept. 25–28 & Oct. 2–5. Judith Moreland directs drama students in award-winning African American playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ 2015 comedy-drama about a group of low-level employees at a glitzy Manhattan magazine competing to succeed in a publishing industry where opportunities for traditional writers and editors are increasingly rare. New York Times theater critic Ben Brantley calls the play a “whip-smart satire of fear and loathing in a beleaguered industry under siege.” Recommended for ages 16 & older. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin, North Campus. Tickets $35 (students, $16) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.
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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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Billy King and Friends: Rancho Tranquilico
Observer Editor
Danceable original pop-folk with roots-rock and country-swing flavors, along with some tasty covers by an ensemble led by this talented veteran local singer-songwriter & guitarist. BYOB and a chair. No tobacco products or pets. 8 p.m. (doors, 7:30 p.m.), Rancho Tranquilico barn, 11300 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. Parking is in neighboring Ruhlig’s Country Market driveway. $25 payable via Venmo: @William-King-673 & PayPal: @[email protected]. Preregistration required; space limited. [email protected], (734) 223–2321.
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Svetozar Ivanov: U-M Music School
Observer Editor
This University of South Florida piano professor, a U-M grad, performs a series of 12 musical vignettes by contemporary composers to accompany audio recordings of poetry by Sappho, Apollinaire, Lorca, Poe, and others. 8 p.m., U-M Moore Bldg. Britton Recital Hall, 1100 Baits. Free. (734) 764–0583.
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Saturday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Every Sat. A House Team creates characters and a scenario suggested by the audience. 8:30 p.m., HSBT, 2350 W. Liberty. $10–$15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events or $12–$18 (if available) at the door for one show. $20 ($22 at the door) for both shows. [email protected].
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“Best in Show”: Michigan Theater
Observer Editor
Michigan Theater. 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.
Sept. 27: “Best in Show” (Christopher Guest, 2000). Clever, very funny satire about dog lovers bound for a dog show. 9:30 p.m.
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Tracey MacDonald: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
Sept. 26 & 27. Canadian comic known for her alternatingly acerbic and self-deprecating observational humor about her life in L.A. Opening act TBA. Alcohol served. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $21 at aacomedy.com and (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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