Observer Editor
Community Listing
Online Event
Creative Washtenaw Event
Free Event
Donation Suggested
Hybrid Event
Events in July 2026
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Looking for live music tonight?
Visit our Nightspots listing.
July 17, 2026
“Joe’s Breakfast Club”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack a lunch or stop in Dexter. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Delhi Metro Park parking lot (left of the tollbooth), E. Delhi off Huron River Dr. Free. [email protected].
“Olson Park Gravel Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
The Ann Arbor Art Fair
Observer Editor
July 16–18. Our perennial multiday tent city within a city houses more than 1,000 artists from Michigan and around the nation in 3 separate fairs. Also, live music (see daily Art Fair Entertainment listings, beginning below), an art activity zone for kids, art making demos, a collaborative street chalk mural (Maynard & William), and chalk art demos by well-known street artist David Zinn with chalk available for participation by anyone. For a complete list of times & locations see theannarborartfair.com. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. (Thurs. & Fri.) & 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Sat.), downtown Ann Arbor. Free admission. (800) 888–9487.
“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 lets participants try out simulated snake senses to experience the world as if they were a snake. Also, models of snake brains available to examine, but no live snakes. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
Art Fair Entertainment
Observer Editor
See 16 Thursday. Today:
Ingalls Mall Fountain Stage (between E. Washington & North University): young Detroit-area pop-folk singer-songwriter Lily Bowen (11 a.m.), local alt-folk singer-songwriter Tom Alter (noon), veteran Detroit folk-rock singer-songwriter Mike Ward (1 p.m.), veteran local singer-guitarist John D. Lamb (2 p.m.), an energetic, sophisticated blend of danceable soul, blues, and rock by the Ralph McKee Blues Trio (3 p.m.), the local folk-rock singer-songwriter duo So Say We All (4 p.m.), the Detroit pop-folk singer-songwriter Michelle Held (5 p.m.), the Detroit folk-pop singer-songwriter Emily Rose (6 p.m.), and Misty Lyn & the Big Beautiful (8 p.m.), a veteran local country-inflected folk-rock quintet led by Misty Lyn Bergeron, a singer-songwriter known for her haunting melodies and poetically rich lyrics.
Music on Maynard (William & Maynard): lineup TBA.
The Ark Stage (Palio parking lot at E. William & S. Main): The Rupple Brothers (6 p.m.), a Saginaw-area acoustic pop-folk trio with an air of psychedelia, and Bobby Alu (7:30 p.m.), a Samoan-Australian singer-songwriter, drummer, and ukulele player whose music blends elements of tropical folk, roots reggae, and Polynesian rhythms. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Foodie Fridays: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
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. (Wed. & Fri.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Free. [email protected].
Outdoor Gallery and Sculpture Garden: Stephenson Ceramics
Community Listing
Explore the 2026 Outdoor Gallery & Sculpture Garden and be among the first to experience Visionaries, a special exhibit celebrating the history, artistry, and lasting impact of Susanne and John Stephenson. Tour the studio, peek inside the archives, and discover a lifetime of ceramic innovation from this dynamic duo. Open June 6 - Oct. 31, Thursday - Saturday, 12 - 4 PM. Private one-on-one art consultations available by appointment. Free group tours for 5 or more may be booked in advance. Noon-1 p.m., 4380 West Waters Rd., Free. (734) 395-1540, [email protected], https://www.stephensonceramicstudio.com/
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. We Are Stars (noon) explores the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins, connecting life on Earth to the evolution of the universe; 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.
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Fri., & Tues. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Fri. & Tues.) 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].
“Thunder Over Michigan”: Michigan Flight Museum
Observer Editor
July 17–19. One of the nation’s largest “warbird” events, this giant drive-up show of WWII-era and later vintage fighter aircraft includes everything from a squadron of P-51s to the immense C-17 Globemaster III. The program includes performances by the U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demo Team and the British Royal Air Force Red Arrows. Also, a chance to meet warbird pilots, a kidzone, and Huey helicopter rides ($125/person). 3–10 p.m. (flights begin at 6:30 p.m.), Willow Run Airport (off I-94), Ypsi. Tickets $75 & up (parking $35 per vehicle); kids 5 & under, free; tailgate parking $225 per vehicle (includes admission for all occupants) in advance at miflightmuseum.org & (if available) at the gate. (734) 483–4030.
“Fix-It Friday”: Maker Works
Observer Editor
All invited to bring anything that needs fixing—chairs, sweaters, radios, whatever. Maker Works members and staff on hand help with repairs. Handy people invited to assist. Repairs not guaranteed. Also, toy adaptations to make off-the-shelf toys more accessible for people with disabilities. 4–6 p.m., 3765 Plaza. Free. Preregistration required at maker-works.com/fixitfriday, (734) 222–4911.
47th Annual Festival: St. Joseph Church Dexter
Observer Editor
July 17–19. The festival begins tonight with a spaghetti dinner ($10; kids 10 & under, $5; families, $25) and live music by the Christian folk-rock band Everlight Worship. Also, additional music and events on Sat. & Sun. (see listings). 5–9 p.m. (Fri.), noon–10 p.m. (Sat.), & 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (Sun.), Mast at North Territorial, Dexter. Free admission. stjos.com/festival.
Snake Week: Searching for Snakes!: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Community Listing
We’ve been learning about snakes all week. Let’s go out again to search for slithery friends with our snake experts: Dr. Michael Hogan, Natasha Stepanova, and Dr. Hayley Crowell. This is a family-friendly hike. Closed-toe shoes required.
1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 ,Ann Arbor. Free. https://mbgna.umich.edu/event/snake-week-searching-snakesFriday Night Music: Lake Forest Golf Club
Community Listing
Join us Friday, July 17th at 5:30 PM for an evening of live music featuring veteran musicians and performers Terry Farmer and Neil Donato. The night features interesting and artistic covers, original songs and improvisation.
Come early and enjoy Happy Hour from 3–5 PM featuring food and drink specials before the music begins. Open to the public. Enjoy lawn games including corn toss, great food, beautiful sunsets, and of course a round of golf or a bucket on the range. Families, date night, special occasions - we provide the setting to make your evening special! Reservations encouraged!
📍 Ellsworth Food & Spirits at Lake Forest Golf Club
🗓 Friday, July 17th
⏰ Happy Hour: 3–5 PM | Live Music Starts: 5:30 PM
🎵 Live Music by Terry Farmer and Neil Donato
View the full menu online: https://ellsworthannarbor.com/menus/#specials
3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected]. www.lakeforestgc.com 734-994-8580.
3110 W. Ellsworth Road ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] www.lakeforestgc.com 734-994-8580."Commons Compute: Eco Mini Data Centers": Responsible AI
Community Listing
A Community Town Hall
… with “round table” breakout discussion groups followed by reporting from group facilitators. Hybrid participation with Miro virtual whiteboard.
Saline is about to get a hyperscale data center — a massive, energy-hungry facility that serves corporate profit while our grid strains and our water gets used for cooling. We don’t have to accept that as the only model.
What if we built something different, right next door?
Join us to explore a community-owned alternative: a solar-powered mini data center that keeps computing local, runs on clean energy, and is governed by the people who use it — not Wall Street. Think cooperative or municipal ownership, built to serve social impact startups, nonprofits, researchers, and civic tech — not to extract value from our region and send it somewhere else.
This is about who controls the digital infrastructure of our future. Ann Arbor has the talent, the values, and the organizing power to show what’s possible.
Come help us design it.
https://podcoin.ai/
Ann Arbor District Library, downtown 343 South Fifth Avenue ,Ann Arbor. https://townhall.community/event/commons-compute-eco-mini-data-centers/ Free. [email protected] https://townhall.community/collaborate/ 7342393836.
D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All invited to play the current official campaign of the popular Dungeons & Dragons tabletop role-playing game, using 5th-edition rules. Kids under 13 must have adult accompaniment. 6–10 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. $10. Space limited, preregistration strongly recommended. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
Live Q&A with TCG Artist Sam White + NFL Veteran Taybor Pepper: Ginza Marketplace
Community Listing
Starting July 17th, acclaimed trading card game artist Sam White will join Ginza Marketplace as Artist in Residence.
Visit Ginza Marketplace, located at 319 S Main Street, throughout the weekend to interact with Sam.
- Friday July 17th: live Q&S session between Ginza Marketplace founder and NFL veteran Taybor Pepper and Sam White, followed by an artist meet-and-greet beginning at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, July 18, White will return to the store for artwork sales and visitor meet-and-greets throughout the day.
319 S Main Street ,Ann Arbor, MI. n/a FREE. [email protected] ginzamkt.com 5177496803.Magic: The Gathering (MTG): Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Wed., Fri., & Sat. (except July 4). All invited to play both casual and tournament forms of the collectible card game MTG.
Wed. & Sat. (5 p.m.): “Commander.” A drop-in session of the most popular form of the game. Free.
Wed. (6 p.m.): “Pauper.” A fun and fast format for all skill levels, three rounds. $5.
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.
Music in the Park: Dexter Area Chamber of Commerce
Oberun 5K: Bell’s Beer
Observer Editor
A 5K race along a scenic route that ends at a beer garden serving Bell’s Oberon. Also, fire pits, sand volleyball, and cornhole. Bottle opener medals for finishers. Food trucks. Beer garden proceeds help finance the Border to Border Trail. Rain or shine. 6:30 p.m., Wiard’s Orchard, 5565 Merritt, Ypsi. $44 in advance only at runoberun5k.com until full (space limited). Virtual race option also available. (734) 929–9027, [email protected].
“Crafting the Sky”: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
All invited to learn how photographers, artists, and scientists work together to create visual images of the universe. Then, create your own 3D models from images taken through Observatory telescopes. 7–9 p.m., 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free. (734) 763–2230, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
Fri. July 3 & 17 and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers present and give insights into some local animals, including a woodchuck, skunk, and a common snapping turtle at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. and Sun., conservancy staffers present the first three animals at 1 & 4 p.m., and an animal keeper shows an opossum 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.
“Fiddler on the Roof”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Thurs.–Sun., June 4–July 19. Dan Cooney directs this local professional company in the 1964 musical, an adaptation of stories by celebrated Yiddish writer Sholem Aleichem with a book by Joseph Stein and Sheldon Harnick and music by Jerry Bock. The plot concerns life in a 1905 Jewish Ukrainian shtetl before a pogrom forces an exodus. Starring Broadway veteran Daniel Friedman as Tevye. 7 p.m. (some Thurs., Fri., & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (some Thurs., Sat., & 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.
“Music Discovery Night”: All Hands Active
Observer Editor
July 3, 17, & 31. All invited to play a favorite recorded song, describe why you like it, and discuss it with the group. Songs must be available on streaming platforms or stored on a flash drive or device you bring. Computer, speakers, and a big screen for lyrics provided. 7–9 p.m., basement of 255 E. Liberty, ste. 225. Preregistration required at meetup.com/allhandsactive/events. Free; donations welcome. [email protected].
"Light in the Canyon" Author Event: Book Love Bar
Community Listing
Author event: A conversation with Darren Cools and Brooke Black
A thrilling debut young adult novel from Ypsilanti author Darren Cools, steeped in mystery, spooky science, and magic. Multi-layered and twisty, this fast-paced, big-hearted coming of age adventure is a startling exploration of grief, courage, gender, and self-acceptance.
A year has passed and Halley's mom died, but she still feels like she's falling to pieces. Dad talks her into joining him at her uncle Gill's house for yet another homemade science experiment (something to do with black holes and cosmic rays), but to their horror, his machine explodes in a flash of blue light.
Jamie finds himself increasingly isolated now that his brother Ash left for college- not long after his father left for forever. Out for a walk, he's thinking about the book that Raina, the neighborhood librarian, gave him when there's a sudden explosion down the street...
A few houses away, the blast hits Raina too. She's joined by Halley's dad, who can't find his daughter-or his brother. Their search leads them first to Gill's wrecked machine, then to a secluded farmhouse where a yound girl died many years ago. On their journey together, strangers meet, identities are mistaken, and secrets will be revealed.
This astonishing debut novel for young adults and readers of all ages-in the spirit of beloved writers like Madeleine L' Engle and Maile Meloy — is by turns chilling, tender, and profound. A story of loss and courage, Light in the Canyon explores how change can help us discover who we're truly meant to be.
110 W. Michigan Avenue ,Ypsilanti. [email protected] https://darrencools.com 5092511968.Student Chamber Music Concerts: U-M Center Stage Strings
“New Moon Hike”: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Observer Editor
LSNC staff lead a family-friendly hike through Black Pond Woods to enjoy the nighttime darkness and do some science experiments on the trail. Followed by moon-themed stories & poems around a campfire. 7:30 p.m., 1831 Traver. $5 (under age 2, free). Preregistration required at lesliesnc.org or (734) 997–1553.
“The Rise and Fall of an Astronomical Fact”: University Lowbrow Astronomers Monthly Meeting
Music Benefit for the Cuban People: Michigan Action for Cuba Committee
Community Listing
We will be raising funds for the Centenary of Fidel brigade in August — to ensure working class people can get to Cuba and to continue the International fight for No War on Cuba. DJ Bimbo Revival, Elephant Koi, Vanessa Rodriguez and Diont’e Visible will be performing! TICKETS: $10 (suggested, no one will be turned away)
9 S. Washington St. ,Ypsilanti. Tickets at the door only 10.00. [email protected] 8134669697.Party of the Summer: RHYTA
Community Listing
RHYTA has one party of the summer and this is it. Get ready for an unforgettable night of hype Balkan Brass. Limited admission to 50 guests. Pre tickets only. Reserve your spot now! RhytaMusik.com
Partying at Ravine Records, a uniquely dope independent music studio by artist/producer Darrin James. Street parking. Hope to see you there!
Friday July 17, 2026
Ravine Records
111 Felch St, Ann Arbor MI
7:30 Dance Workshop
8-10 RHYTA
Party of the Summer: Rhyta Musik
Community Listing
RHYTA has one party of the summer and this is it. Get ready for an unforgettable night of hype Balkan Brass. Limited admission to 50 guests. Pre tickets only. Reserve your spot now! RhytaMusik.com
Partying at Ravine Records, a uniquely dope independent music studio by artist/producer Darrin James. Street parking. Hope to see you there!
Friday July 17, 2026
Ravine Records
111 Felch St, Ann Arbor MI
7:30 Dance Workshop
8-10 Rhyta Music performance
“Athena”: Theatre Nova
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun., July 17–Aug. 9. Shelby R. Seeley directs Gracie Gardner’s play about two competitive teenage girl fencers training for the Junior Olympics. As they spar and navigate a tricky new friendship, each grows in both athletic ability and self-confidence. The New York Times called it “hugely appealing and stealthily moving.” 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), 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.
“Emma’s Wedding(s)”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., June 25–Aug. 30. Kate Thomsen directs longtime Purple Rose resident playwright Carey Crim’s comedy-drama about a group of old friends gathered to celebrate their friend Emma’s fourth wedding. Together, they revisit their memories of each of her previous three weddings to “the one.” 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.). 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org, (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
“Femme Feedback” Comedy Night: Bløm Mead + Cider
“KissME”: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance/Riverside Swings/Friday Night Swing
Observer Editor
July 17–19 (different programs & locations). Swing and blues dancing to live and recorded music spread out over 3 days, culminating in an outdoor dance at Island Park. Tonight: Dancing to the award-winning Detroit-area big band Planet D Nonet, a self-styled “space-age swing band” founded by drummer RJ Spangler and trumpeter James O’Donnell. Followed at midnight by dancing to a DJ. 8 p.m.–midnight and beyond, Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse. $30 in advance at kissmeinannarbor.com & at the door. Weekend pass: $85 (students & AACTMAD members, $75). [email protected], kissmeinannarbor.com.
"Gelato" Release Party: Ziggy's & the Family 734
Community Listing
Josie G celebrates the release of her new EP, Gelato, with a live release party at Ziggy’s in Ypsilanti on Friday, July 17, 8:00–11:30 PM. The night brings Afrovibes, pop, and R&B to the stage with a full live band, pairing high-energy grooves with soulful vocals and intimate storytelling.
Recently voted 2026 Midwest Best Female R&B Artist of the Year, Josie G will perform songs from Gelato alongside select fan favorites for a feel-good, dance-ready set and a hometown-style celebration.
206 W Michigan Ave ,Ypsi. www.josiegmusic.com $10. [email protected] www.josiegmusic.com 2693579844.Tumbao Bravo: Rancho Tranquilico
Observer Editor
Barn concert by this veteran local Afro-Cuban jazz band led by multi-instrumental reeds player Paul Vornhagen. BYOB. No tobacco products or pets. 8 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.), 11300 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. Parking is in neighboring Ruhlig's Country Market driveway. $25 in advance only (space limited) via Venmo: @paul-vornhagen or PayPal: @[email protected]. (734) 223–2321, [email protected].
“Telescope Observing”: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All invited to drop in to use the Observatory’s 1857 Fitz telescope and other modern instruments. Exhibits are also open regardless of viewing conditions. Last visitors admitted 30 minutes prior to closing. 9–11 p.m., 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free, no registration required. (734) 763–2230, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
Broadway Rave: The Blind Pig
Community Listing
🎤 Oh Ann Arbor, have you done your vocal warmups yet?
🎭 Calling all Musical Theatre nerds, drama geeks, actors, actresses, theatre lovers, and more! Welcome to Broadway Rave, a Broadway Dance Party celebrating the best in show-tunes and musical theatre. Come sing along to all of your favorite Broadway hits while dressed up as your favorite character. We’ll have surprise guests from some of your favorite Broadway stars! Live out your Broadway fantasies at Broadway Rave — the most POPULAR Broadway Dance party around.
🪄 Don’t be Wicked, meet us on the dance floor at The Blind Pig on 17 July 2026!
The Blind Pig 208 South 1st St ,Ann Arbor, MI 48104-1306. https://eventvesta.com/events/151911/t/tickets $21.91. [email protected] https://eventvesta.com/events/151911/t/tickets 734-996-8555.Riverside Swings: Riverside Arts Center
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Swing dancing to recorded music. No partner or experience required. Wear comfortable low-grip/tread shoes. Preceded at 7 and 8 p.m. by hour-long lessons. Followed by a “late-night blues-&-fusion” dance. The 1st Friday of each month is free, and the 3rd Friday includes a Charleston lesson. 9–11 p.m., 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. $5 (students, $4). riversidearts.org/riverside-swings.
“The Descent”: Michigan Theater
Observer Editor
Film screenings every day. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
July 17: “The Descent” (Neil Marshall, 2005). In this British horror film, 6 women enter an uncharted cave system, discover monstrous creatures, and must fight them to survive. 9:30 p.m.