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Events in May 2026
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May 30, 2026
“The Little Mermaid Jr.”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
Observer Editor
May 22–25 & 29–31. Megan Wright-Jones directs local young actors grades 2–12 in a 60-minute version of the 2007 stage musical based on the 1989 animated Disney film and the original fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen about a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice in exchange for love. Music and lyrics by Doug Wright, Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Glenn Slater. 6 & 8 p.m. (today), & various times (May 23–25 & 29–31), Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $20–$30 in advance only at pytmi.square.site/home.
Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
Observer Editor
Every Sat., Mon., & Thurs. (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 Traver Village (7 a.m. Sat.), 2621 Plymouth Rd.; Corner Brewery (6 p.m. Mon.), 720 Norris, Ypsi.; and AARC Colonnade (6 p.m. Thurs.), 901 W. Eisenhower. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
parkrun USA
Observer Editor
Every Sat. All invited to join a timed but noncompetitive 5K run/walk. 8 a.m., Lillie Park South or North (depending on weather conditions, check facebook.com/lillieparkrun for location), 4365 Platt. Free, but first-timers are requested to preregister at parkrun.us/lillie and arrive at 7:45 a.m. [email protected].
“Bike & Bird Event”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance/Bicycle Alliance of Washtenaw
Observer Editor
All invited to go on a low-intensity bike ride on the B2B Trail along the Huron River, followed by a walk through Parker Mill County Park and the surrounding nature area to look for birds. Bring your bike, helmet, binoculars, and water. 9 a.m.–noon, meet at Mitchell Field (1900 Fuller). Free. washtenawbna.org.
“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 cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Barton Nature Area parking lot, W. Huron River Dr. near Bird Rd. Free. (734) 649–9762, [email protected].
“Ypsilanti and Woodlawn Cemetery Bus Tour": African American Cultural & Historical Museum of Washtenaw County.
Observer Editor
An AACHM representative leads a bus tour of Ypsilanti sites that are an important part of the history of the African American community, with a stop at Woodlawn cemetery, the only documented Black cemetery in the county. 10 a.m., starting location TBA. Free. Preregistration required at aachm.org/upcoming events.
Active Against ALS Chalk Art: Active Against ALS
Community Listing
Join us on May 30 for Chalk Art with Local Artist David Zinn!
May is ALS awareness month and Active Against ALS will partner with local street artist David Zinn to create fun chalk art on Saturday, May 30! All are welcome to join in the fun as we create a sidewalk display dedicated to raising awareness of ALS. This interactive event will be held outside near the Farmer's Market at the corner of Catherine and 4th Ave. in Ann Arbor, on Saturday, May 30 from 10:00am-12:00pm. All ages and all art abilities are welcome!
Corner of Catherine and 4th Ave. ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] ActiveAgainstALS.org 7347176448.Kids Run: 52nd Annual Dexter–Ann Arbor Run: Ann Arbor Track Club
Observer Editor
52nd Annual Dexter–Ann Arbor Run is preceded at 10 a.m. on May 30 by a Kids Run ($10, kids 2-12) at U-M Ferry Field, E. Hoover at S. State.
Since 1974, this race, the area’s biggest running event, draws thousands of runners from throughout Southeast Michigan. Includes a half-marathon (age 13 & up), 10K run (age 9 & up), and 5K run & fitness walk (age 6 & up). All races conclude on Main Street between Miller and Ann.
7:15 a.m. (10K), 220 N. Main; 8:30 a.m. (5K), 2060 Newport; & 8:30 a.m. (half-marathon), Creekside Intermediate School, 2615 Baker Rd., Dexter. Entry fees: 5K, $50 ($52 with stroller); 10K, $70; & half-marathon, $115. Registration in advance only at dxa2.com before 4 p.m. on May 30. Prices increase after enrollment reaches a predetermined limit. [email protected], (419) 356–4881. [7:15 a.m. time slot]
Scio Farms Arts and Crafts Fair: Scio Farms Community
Community Listing
Scio Farms Arts and Crafts Fair
6655 Jackson rd Scio Farms Clubhouse
May 30th 10am -7pm and May 31 10am - 7pm
Local artisan goods including jewelry, pottery, candles, baked goods, and toys
Show & Sale: 12 Acre Studio
Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops
Observer Editor
Every Fri., Sat., & Wed. 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.). Free. [email protected].
“From Inspiration to Publication: Editing for Poets”: Ann Arbor District Library
“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.
Spring Plant Sales: U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Observer Editor
May 9 & 10, 16 & 17, 30 & 31. Includes a “Mother’s Day Weekend Plant Sale” (May 9 & 10) of hanging baskets and container plants grown and designed by Matthaei staff and volunteers. Also, a “Kitchen Favorites Plant Sale” (May 16 & 17) of veggies, herbs, and other selections grown by U-M Campus Farm volunteers, and a “Native Plant Sale” (May 30 & 31) of native seedlings grown in Matthaei’s greenhouses. 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Sat.) & 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Sun.), 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. Free admission; metered parking. (734) 647–7600, mbgna.umich.edu/spring-plant-sales.
“10 Year Barniversary”: Barn Sanctuary Fundraiser
Observer Editor
Vegan food and tours of this local farm animal sanctuary. Also, for an additional fee of $7–$13, the chance to get up close and personal with goats (12:30 & 2:30 p.m.), and with potbellied pigs (1 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.). Noon–4 p.m., Barn Sanctuary, 20179 McKernan Dr., Chelsea. Tickets $34 (kids, $18; 2 & under, free) in advance at barnsanctuary.org. (734) 270–6845.
“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.
“Critters Up Close!”: Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Community Heart-Song Circle: Verapose Yoga House
Community Listing
Join Carol Bardenstein to connect in song and spirit, sharing heart-centered chants, simple songs and harmonies, to lift our voices and spirits together in song. In these times, more than ever, it can be such a lifeline to come together connecting in heart & song, to be steadied, nourished, & uplifted in singing our hearts out & in, in welcoming community!
*No prior singing experience needed, all are welcome!
*Register at this link: https://app.veraposeyoga.com/product/93877/about
Verapose Yoga House, 3173 Baker Road ,Dexter, Michigan. Buy tickets by registering here: https://app.veraposeyoga.com/product/93877/about, or in person at event. $10. [email protected] https://app.veraposeyoga.com/product/93877/aboutCritter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Open House: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
May 9 & 30 (different times). All invited to drop in and tour the historic building, view exhibits, participate in astronomy-related activities, and view the sun with the Observatory’s solar telescope (weather permitting). On May 30, the observatory is open late to observe the night sky with the 1857 Fitz telescope. Noon–5 p.m. (May 9) & noon–11 p.m. (May 30), 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free. (734) 763–2230, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. Sea Monsters (noon) follows an intrepid Dolichorhynchops osborni (an extinct species of marine reptile) as she travels through the most dangerous oceans in history; The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.) explores the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own; and T. Rex (2 p.m.) describes the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history (includes scenes of dinosaur violence). Noon, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., 1105 North University. $8 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego”: 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).
May 30 & June 3: “El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego.” Live (Sat.) & prerecorded (Wed.) broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera’s production of U-M alum Gabriela Lena Frank’s 2022 opera, a magical-realist portrait of Mexico’s painterly power couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Featuring a libretto by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Nilo Cruz, the story is a reversal of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth, with Frida leaving the underworld on the Day of the Dead and reuniting with Diego. The famously feuding pair briefly relive their tumultuous love, embracing both the passion and the pain before bidding the land of the living a final farewell. 1 p.m. $27 (Sun.) & $25 (Wed.).
“Ice Out Art Fair”: Washtenaw Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights Fundraiser
“Intermediate Bookbinding: Accordion Album”: Ann Arbor District Library
Walking Tour: Paths of Protest: Stories of Campus Activism at the University of Michigan: Judy and Stanley Frankel Detroit Observatory
Community Listing
The first teach-in. Lawsuits. Nazi resistance. U-M has long been home to activism, and this walking tour will visit historically significant locations where you will learn about protests on campus. We will cover women’s activism, the legacy of the Treaty of Fort Meigs, the Black Action Movement, anti-Vietnam War activism, and more.
Guided walking tour led by student docents. Duration: 1.25 hours; 1.25 miles.
Meet outside the Michigan League entrance on Ingalls Mall (facing the fountain).
Tour will take place in rain or snow, but will be cancelled for severe weather (registrants will be notified via email).
Registration required.
911 N University Ave ,Ann Arbor. Register: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/n38dcqc Free. [email protected] https://detroitobservatory.umich.edu/ 734-763-2230.Museum Highlight Tours: U-M Museum of Natural History
Drop-in Improv Games: Ypsi Improv
Observer Editor
May 5, 9, 16, 23, & 30. All age 16 & up invited to learn about and participate in improv games in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free setting. No experience necessary. The May 16 & 23 meetings are followed by an hour-long skills session discussing and practicing a specific improv skill. 7–9 p.m. (Tues.) & 2–4 p.m. (Sat.), Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $8 (with skills session, $15) in advance via PayPal or Venmo linked from meetup.com/ypsi-improv or in cash at the door.
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“Much Ado About Nothing”: Brevity Shakespeare
Observer Editor
May 22–24 & 29–31. This local acting company performs a 90-minute abridged production of Shakespeare’s high-spirited, sharp-tongued comedy about 2 pairs of young lovers. One couple, both disdainful of love, are tricked into acknowledging each other, while the other couple’s love is nearly ruined by deception and suspicion. The play is best known for its charged sexual banter and for the penetrating wit and dark cast of its humor. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2:30 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Ypsilanti Performance Space, 218 N. Adams, Ypsi. Tickets $15 (students & seniors, $10). Limited capacity; reservations recommended at brevityshakespeare.org.
“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.
“The Last Wide Open”: Theatre Nova
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun., May 22–June 14. Diane Hill directs the Michigan premiere of Audrey Cefaly’s “love song in three movements,” a multiverse musical about the romance between a weary waitress and an immigrant dishwasher/musician playing out in several different parallel universes. The time-bending plot asks: what if love is less about destiny and more about timing? 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat., except May 23), and 2 p.m. (Sun.). Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Tickets $30 (age 65 and older, $25; students with ID, $15 at the door) in advance at theatrenova.org/season11 & (if available) at the door. (734) 635–8450.
Ann Arbor 5Rhythms Intro Series Class 1: A2 yoga
Community Listing
A conscious movement meditation/dance practice where you're guided to move through 5 distinct rhythms. Intro Class; all abilities welcome.
Ready to dive into the world of 5Rhythms? Join us in person for the first step of an exciting journey! 5Rhythms is a facilitated creative dance practice: there are no steps to follow and no way you can get it wrong. If you're looking to increase your joy and wellbeing in a simple way, this is it! Lucine has taught 5Rhythms for over 10 years internationally and this is the first class of its kind in Ann Arbor.
Comic Drawing: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
Comic book artist Kamron Reynolds shows adults and kids age 5 & up how to create a character, illustrate character action, sequence stories, and more. Followed by an all-ages hip-hop concert by Reynolds’ rapping alter ego Kool Ade Kam. 3–4 p.m., AADL Pittsfield. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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 Osborn. Spectators welcome. 4–5 p.m., Oz’s Music Environment, 1922 Packard. Free; donations accepted. (734) 662–8283.
Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Tues., Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play both casual and tournament forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering (MTG).
Tues. (6:30 p.m.): “Pauper.” A fun and fast format for all skill levels, three rounds. $5.
Wed. & Sat. (5 p.m.): “Commander.” A drop-in session of the most popular form of the game. Free.
Wed. (6:30 p.m.): “Standard.” Three rounds, with competitive tournament rules, prizes of store credit. $10.
Fri. (6:30 p.m.): “Friday Night Draft.” Cost and format vary.
Various times, 2459 W. Stadium. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
“Ballads of Shorevania: An Interactive D&D Musical Performance”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
Local DJ and vocal looper Kyler Wilkins presents his original musical theater show—inspired by the question “what if an a cappella ensemble played a game of Dungeons & Dragons?”—in which performers act out a fantasy story, sing original songs, and interact with members of the audience. 6–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.
Derek Richards: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 29 & 30. Detroit native now living in Florida who often performs in Las Vegas, known for his fast-paced observational comedy about everything from how to get out of a DUI to what safety in the NFL really means. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
“Much Ado About Nothing”: Brevity Shakespeare
Observer Editor
May 22–24 & 29–31. This local acting company performs a 90-minute abridged production of Shakespeare’s high-spirited, sharp-tongued comedy about 2 pairs of young lovers. One couple, both disdainful of love, are tricked into acknowledging each other, while the other couple’s love is nearly ruined by deception and suspicion. The play is best known for its charged sexual banter and for the penetrating wit and dark cast of its humor. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2:30 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Ypsilanti Performance Space, 218 N. Adams, Ypsi. Tickets $15 (students & seniors, $10). Limited capacity; reservations recommended at brevityshakespeare.org.
Saturday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Every Sat. House team Destination Unknown improvises based on a scenario suggested by the audience. Two guest troupes open. Also, on May 2, Love Fools, an improvised dating show with a lineup of strange characters (7:30 p.m., $10; $20 double-header with 8:30 p.m. show). 8:30–9:45 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events, $18 (if available) at the door.
“Blue Moon Campfire”: Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy
Observer Editor
All invited to enjoy a family-oriented campfire celebrating the only “blue moon” (i.e., the second full moon in a single month) of 2026. Bring blankets, chairs, and campfire refreshments; locally cut firewood appreciated. No pets. Come early to walk the trails if you like. 8–11 p.m., Conservancy Farm, 8383 Vreeland Rd, Superior Twp. Free, donations to support the Conservancy welcome. (734) 484–6565, [email protected], smlcland.org.
“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.
“The Last Wide Open”: Theatre Nova
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun., May 22–June 14. Diane Hill directs the Michigan premiere of Audrey Cefaly’s “love song in three movements,” a multiverse musical about the romance between a weary waitress and an immigrant dishwasher/musician playing out in several different parallel universes. The time-bending plot asks: what if love is less about destiny and more about timing? 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat., except May 23), and 2 p.m. (Sun.). Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Tickets $30 (age 65 and older, $25; students with ID, $15 at the door) in advance at theatrenova.org/season11 & (if available) at the door. (734) 635–8450.
All Your Friends: All Your Friends
Community Listing
An indie dance party for the ones who still romanticize a scratched iPod, American Spirits, and a blurry night soundtracked by bloghouse and post-punk revival. All Your Friends is at The Blind Pig on 30 May 2026 , bringing the sweat, synths, and nostalgia of the early 2010’s house party. This is your basement-floor flashback to tight jeans, smudged eyeliner, and nights that felt like a house show turned afterparty. Expect a high-energy dance floor fueled by indie sleaze classics and remixes you forgot you loved, from LCD Soundsystem and The Rapture to Foals, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, TV on the Radio, MGMT, Crystal Castles, and more. No frills, just bodies in motion. Whether you never left the Lower East Side or just miss the chaos of that era, All Your Friends is a night dedicated to bad decisions, blown speakers, and the soundtrack of your favorite forgotten memories. Come ready for the sweat, the noise, and the party your Tumblr warned you about at The Blind Pig.
The Blind Pig 208 South 1st St ,Ann Arbor MI 48104-1306. https://eventvesta.com/events/143128/t/tickets $25. [email protected] https://eventvesta.com/events/143128/t/tickets 734-996-8555.Dave Sharp Worlds Quartet: Rancho Tranquilico
Observer Editor
Local composer-bassist Sharp leads this world music–based jazz ensemble that explores traditions from Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and India. With violinist Henrik Karapetyan, percussionist Mike List, and oud player Igor Houwat. 8 p.m. (gate opens at 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: @Dave-Sharp-4 or CashApp: $DaveSharp4. Preregistration required, space limited. (734) 223–2321, [email protected].
Derek Richards: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 29 & 30. Detroit native now living in Florida who often performs in Las Vegas, known for his fast-paced observational comedy about everything from how to get out of a DUI to what safety in the NFL really means. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.