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Events in April 2026
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April 9, 2026
“Spring Migration Thursdays at the Arb”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Mar. 26–May 28. All invited to join City of Ann Arbor ornithologist and WBNA past president Juliet Berger on a walk through the Arb to observe migrating birds making their way north. Binoculars provided if needed. 9–11 a.m., U-M Nichols Arboretum, meet at the Dow Prairie entrance at Riverview. Free. washtenawbna.org.
“Water@Michigan Symposium”: U-M School for Environment and Sustainability
Observer Editor
Daylong conference on how water systems and the energy transition are reshaping the Great Lakes region and beyond. Speakers include researchers, policymakers, and community leaders, including U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Bay Mills Indian Community president Whitney Gravelle, bestselling author of Planet Aqua Jeremy Rifkin, and others. 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Palmer Commons, 100 Washtenaw Ave. Free and open to all, but preregistration required at seas.umich.edu/events/watermichigan-2026-symposium.
“Cavanaugh Lake Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
“Diverse Dimensions of Art”: U-M Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Thursday Morning Lecture Series
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Mar. 12–Apr. 9. Series of 5 weekly talks.
Mar. 12: EMU art history professor Brendan Fay on “Photography Between Modern and Contemporary Art.”
Mar. 19: International Quilt Museum director Leslie C. Levy on “Art Quilts and the Fabric of Change.”
Mar. 26: U-M anthropology professor Lica Young discusses the provenance of a set of tablets with ancient writing discovered in Michigan 100 years ago in “Michigan’s Mystery Relics: Fact or Fraud?”
Apr. 2: U-M English professor Supriya M. Nair on “Tell Me What You Eat: Literary Perspectives on Food and Culture.”
Apr. 9: Huron High School English & film teacher R.J. Fox on “Screenwriting: The Hero’s Journey in 3 Acts.”
10–11:30 a.m., WCC Morris Lawrence Bldg., Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Preregistration required; create an account at olli-umich.org. $25 (members, $15); $120 (members, $70) for the 5-lecture series; membership, $50 a year. (734) 998–9351.
“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.
Carillon Concert Series: U-M School of Music
Observer Editor
Every Mon.–Fri. through Apr. 21 (different locations). Performances by U-M carillon faculty and students. The carillons are open to visitors during the recitals; earplugs recommended. For a complete schedule see smtd.umich.edu/events. Burton Tower (noon), 230 N. Ingalls; and Lurie Tower (1:20 p.m.), 1230 Murfin. Free. (734) 615–3204.
U-M Center for Japanese Studies Noon Lecture Series
Observer Editor
Apr. 2, 9, & 16. Talks by U-M & visiting scholars.
Apr. 2: “James Marshall Plumer’s Collecting Journey in War-torn Japan: Mingei Pottery, Folk Deities, and Ainu Art.” U-M Museum of Art curator Natsu Oyobe discusses this U-M professor who traveled around Japan to assess the condition of cultural properties, and collect artifacts, following WWII.
Apr. 9: “Powering Empire: Hydroelectricity and Highland Taiwan under Japanese Colonial Rule.” University of Pennsylvania history professor John Kanbayashi discusses how the Empire of Japan sought to use hydroelectricity to transform colonial Taiwan into an industrial hub in the 1930s & 40s.
Apr. 16: “A Queer Girl in Modern Japan: Yoshiya Nobuko.” Boston University world languages and literatures professor Sarah Frederick discusses the life and work of this popular Japanese writer known for her serialized fiction, modern fashion, and lifelong relationship with a same-sex partner.
Noon–1:30 p.m., 1010 Weiser Hall, 500 Church St. Free. (734) 764–6307.
Zingerman's Deli Pot Pies: BAKE! at Zingerman's Bakehouse
Community Listing
In this hands-on class, we'll teach you how to make the Zingerman's Delicatessen recipe for really great chicken pot pies from scratch, including mixing and rolling the flaky pie crust, cooking and assembling the aromatic filling, and shaping the pies. Join in the hands-on fun and learn to make a classic comfort food.
3723 Plaza Dr ,Ann Arbor. https://www.bakewithzing.com/class/zingermans-deli-pot-pies $135. [email protected] bakewithzing.com 734-761-7255.“Division Street Pipes”: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor Senior Center
Observer Editor
Every Mon. & Thurs. Play open to all skill levels age 18+, both non-sanctioned (Mon. 12:30–3:30 p.m.) and ACBL-sanctioned (Thurs., noon–3:30 p.m.). 12:30 p.m. (Mon.) & Noon (Thurs.), Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin. $5 (Mon.) & $9 (Thurs.); $1–$2 less for AASC members. (734) 794–6250, a2gov.org/senior, annarborbridge.com.
“A Life’s Work in Boxes: Poet Perspectives on Archival Collecting and Research”: U-M Library
Observer Editor
Retired U-M poetry professor Ken Mikolowski and poet Rebecca Kosick, a U-M grad, discuss an archive of materials from The Alternative Press, an out-of-print local publication that Mikolowski and his wife, Ann, founded in 1969. 1–2:30 p.m., Hatcher Library, 1st fl. gallery, enter from the Diag. Free. (734) 936–2309.
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Fri., & Tues. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Tues. & Fri.) and a 499er game (Thurs.) for players with no more than 499 ACBL master points. 1–4 p.m. (arrive by 12:45 p.m.), 1830 Washtenaw Ave. $9 per person. If you plan to come without a partner, email [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.
Challenges in Trial Design for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies: University of Michigan Medical School Michigan Psychedelic Center
Community Listing
Fueled by positive findings from clinical trials, psychedelic research has returned to mainstream psychiatry and neuroscience, with a growing number of studies examining a wide range of conditions. However, expectancy effects and effective condition blinding have been raised as critical limitations to the interpretability of this research.
In this talk, Jacob Aday, PhD, will review the many methodological challenges of conducting psychedelic clinical trials and provide recommendations for improving the rigor of future research.
This talk is part of the Michigan Psychedelic Center's 2026 Seminar Series: Psychedelics — From Cells to Society.
https://umich.zoom.us/j/97773094165 ,Online. Free. https://michmed.org/rwYjRU-M Center for Polish Studies Lecture Series
Observer Editor
Apr. 9 & 13. Talks by visiting scholars.
Apr. 9: “The Trauma of Serfdom: The Psychological Legacy of Unfree Labor in Poland.” University of Warsaw social anthropology professor Kacper Pobłocki discusses how Polish peasant culture emerged as a creative response to systemic oppression.
Apr. 13: “East of the Atlantic. Black and White (But Not Quite).” African Polish writer Oliwia Bosomtwe discusses the stories of Polish people of African descent and what it means to be Black in a predominantly white society.
5–6:30 p.m., 555 Weiser Hall, 500 Church. Free. (734) 764–0351.
“Chip Carving Basics”: Ann Arbor District Library
“Creating in the Age of Everything”: U-M School of Art & Design Penny Stamps Speaker Series
Observer Editor
Animator and writer Lisa Hanawalt discusses her work and practice of storytelling. She is best known as the production designer and producer of the acclaimed Netflix tragicomic animated series BoJack Horseman, about a washed-up anthropomorphic horse actor attempting a comeback as he struggles with depression and alcoholism. 5:30–7 p.m., Michigan Theater. Free. Livestream available. stamps.umich.edu, (734) 936–0671.
“Diabetes 101: What to Eat for Good Sleep”: Ann Arbor District Library
“Hills of Ann Arbor”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. Fast-paced 30-mile ride focused on climbing the hills north and east of Ann Arbor. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 6 p.m. sharp, meet at WCC back parking lot no. 6A (near the pond), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. New riders text Tom Chettleburgh at (734) 552–1025. Free.
“Let’s Be Friends: Board Games”: Ann Arbor District Library
“Living Line: Legacies of Islamic Calligraphy and Illumination”: U-M Library
Observer Editor
Panel discussion with Detroit-area master calligrapher Nihad Dukhan, Madrid-based calligrapher Khalid Casado, and NYC-based Turkish illumination artist Behnaz Karjoo. Followed by a guided tour of items from the library’s Islamic manuscripts collection. 6–8 p.m., Hatcher Library, 1st fl. gallery, enter from the Diag. Free. (734) 936–2309.
“Repairsday Thursday”: All Hands Active
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. All invited to drop in with broken electronics, furniture, toys, or any other item they’d like to try to repair or repurpose with the help and guidance of AHA members. Repairs not guaranteed. 6–8 p.m., basement of 255 E. Liberty, ste. 225. Livestream available at meetup.com/allhandsactive/events. Free; donations welcome. [email protected].
“Secret Garden Gala”: Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Fundraiser
Observer Editor
Amidst lush floral decor, a plated dinner with cocktails and speakers TBA. Music spun by DJ Myint, who is the official DJ for the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings. Raffle. Proceeds benefit the orchestra’s learning & community programs. 6–10 p.m., Ann Arbor City Club, 1830 Washtenaw. Tickets $250 (drink tickets, $20) at a2so.org/secret-garden-gala or (734) 994-4801.
Bad Decisions Track Club
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. Runners of all abilities invited to join this eclectic group of runners ranging from people training for their first 5K to ultramarathoners. Sessions are typically interval-based track workouts, followed by socializing at a nearby brewery. 6 p.m., Ferry Field, State at Hoover. May meet elsewhere if the weather is bad. Free. See walline.wixsite.com/bdtc to sign up for email updates on each week’s workout.
Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
Observer Editor
Every Mon., Thurs., & Sat. (different AARC locations). Runners of all abilities invited to join a 5K mapped route (Mon. & Thurs.) or either a beginner or advanced group run (Sat.). AARC Colonnade (6 p.m. Thurs.), 901 W. Eisenhower; AARC Traver Village (7 a.m. Sat.), 2621 Plymouth Rd.; and Corner Brewery (6 p.m. Mon.), 720 Norris, Ypsi. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
“Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling”: Literati Bookstore
Observer Editor
North Carolina–based journalist Danny Funt is joined by U-M public policy professor Justin Wolfers to discuss his new book about how online sports betting companies like FanDuel & DraftKings employ unethical strategies to bleed gamblers dry. 6:30 p.m., 124 E. Washington. Free. (734) 585–5567.
“Bluebird Bluebird”: Booksweet Thursday Murder Mystery Book Club
“Nerd Nite”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
Adults age 21 & up invited to this popular monthly event featuring three speakers TBA (at annarbor.nerdnite.com) who give fun yet informative 20-minute talks about things that interest them, anything from the complicated history of George Washington’s dentures to whether we can predict the behavior of fluids. 7–9 p.m., Live, 102 S. First St. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“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.
“Singing for Comfort”: Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth
Concert4aCause: Northside Community Church
Detroit Irish Music Association Seisiún
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. All invited to join members of this local chapter of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for an informal evening playing traditional Irish music on various instruments. Lessons offered. 7–9 p.m., Grace Church main bldg., 3150 Glazier Way. Free. [email protected], detroitirishmusic.org.
James McMurtry: The Ark/University Musical Society Ypsilanti Freighthouse Residency
Observer Editor
This acclaimed veteran singer-songwriter from Texas specializes in laconic, fully realized country-rock tales about cracks in the surface of the American Dream and the ordinary people who fall through them. His deadpan delivery and minimalist melodicism often provoke comparisons to Lou Reed. Tonight, he draws from his 2025 release, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, an album that “finds him at the peak of his powers—wiser, wearier, and unflinchingly honest,” according to Americana Highways. 7 & 9:30 p.m. (2 shows), Ypsilanti Freighthouse, 100 Market Pl., Ypsi. $15–$25 suggested (pay what you wish). Preregistration required at tickets.ums.org or (734) 764–2538.
Alex Price: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
Apr. 9–11. This six-foot-nine Indiana native’s profane, self-deprecating jokes have earned him opening spots for Dave Attell, Brian Posehn, and Hannibal Buress, as well as appearances at festivals across the country. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 (Thurs., $15) at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
“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.
Thursday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Apr. 2 & 9. Two structured improv events. Spectators welcome. Apr. 2: Draft Line. Improv students are selected to perform a set with one of the house teams. Apr. 9: Duoplicity. Experienced improvisers are invited to be randomly paired up to perform a 6-minute scene. 7:30–8:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $7.50 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & (if available) at the door. [email protected].
“Across the Universe”: 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. 9: “Across the Universe” (Julie Taymor, 2007). Romantic drama jukebox musical centered on songs of the Beatles. 8 p.m.
“The MacAdo”: U-M Gilbert & Sullivan Society
Observer Editor
Apr. 9–12. This accomplished town-and-gown company performs a retelling of Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado, an 1885 operetta spoof of Victorian England’s craze for all things Japanese. The adaptation sets the action in the Scottish Highlands where the ruling king’s son, disguised as a wandering minstrel, agrees to be beheaded if he can spend a month married to a woman who is betrothed to another man. The witty score features “Three Little Maids from School Are We,” “Willow, Tit-Willow,” and “Behold the Lord High Executioner.” 8 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, Michigan League. Tickets $30 (seniors, $27; students with ID, $10) in advance at the Michigan League ticket office, mutotix.umich.edu, and at the door. (734) 763–8587.
Jazz Ensemble: U-M Music School
Observer Editor
Ellen Rowe directs this group of music majors in a program of jazz standards, along with new compositions and arrangements, including the premiere of a piece by acclaimed bandleader Seulah Noh. Tonight they are joined by a pair of veteran NYC players—trumpeter Ingrid Jensen and pianist Michael Holober. 8 p.m., Rackham Auditorium. Free. (734) 615–3204.
“Long-Form Improv Jam”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
All improvisers with some experience are invited to be randomly assigned to a team; each group performs a 10–15 minute set. Spectators welcome. 8:30–10 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. Pay what you can at heardotsay.com/events and at the door. [email protected].
James McMurtry: The Ark/University Musical Society Ypsilanti Freighthouse Residency
Observer Editor
This acclaimed veteran singer-songwriter from Texas specializes in laconic, fully realized country-rock tales about cracks in the surface of the American Dream and the ordinary people who fall through them. His deadpan delivery and minimalist melodicism often provoke comparisons to Lou Reed. Tonight, he draws from his 2025 release, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, an album that “finds him at the peak of his powers—wiser, wearier, and unflinchingly honest,” according to Americana Highways. 7 & 9:30 p.m. (2 shows), Ypsilanti Freighthouse, 100 Market Pl., Ypsi. $15–$25 suggested (pay what you wish). Preregistration required at tickets.ums.org or (734) 764–2538.