Observer Editor
Events for July 26, 2026
Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
Every Wed., Sun., & Tues. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different locations. Rain or shine. Fleet Feet (7 p.m. Wed.), 123 E. Liberty, (734) 769–5016. Dozer Coffee (8 a.m. Sun. & 7 a.m. Tues.), 112 Jackson Plz., (734) 929–9022. Free. fleetfeetsemichigan.com.
5K Fundraiser: Stomp Out Sarcoma
Family-friendly 5K noncompetitive walk/run and a kids 50-yard dash (8:50 a.m.) to raise funds for sarcoma research. Also, face painting, a photo booth, a butterfly release ceremony, snacks, a raffle, and more. 9 a.m. (registration 8–9 a.m.), Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 North Territorial, Dexter. $20 (kids under 18, $15), plus $10 vehicle entry fee and self-set fundraising goal. Preregistration required at michiganmedicine.donordrive.com/events/816.
CANCELLED: Elemental Ecstatic Dance
This event does not meet on July 26.
Every Sun. Dancers of all ages and abilities invited for free-form dancing to a variety of recorded music, from EDM to classical and ambient to world music. Wear loose clothes; barefoot or stocking feet. 10:45 a.m.–1 p.m. A2 Yoga, 2030 Commerce. $20 (age 11 and under, free) cash or Venmo (@andjru) at the door only. tinyurl.com/ecstatic-dance-a2.
“New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF) 2026: Little Kid Flicks”: Michigan Theater
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 26: “New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF) 2026: Little Kid Flicks.” Collection of the festival’s best animated, live-action, and documentary short films from around the world for kids ages 7 & under. 11 a.m.
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
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.
Sunday Artisan Market
Every Sun. Juried market of local handmade arts and crafts, now in its 35th year. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Kerrytown Farmers Market pavilion. Free admission. (734) 913–9622.
H.A.C. Ultimate
Every Sun. All invited to a relaxed pickup game of this spirited team sport played with a flying disc. Note: Overly competitive players are politely asked to leave. 11:15 a.m., Fuller Park, just west of the pool & parking lot (or occasionally across the street). Free. (734) 846–9418, [email protected].
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
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.
Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Every Sat. & Sun. A chance to view LSNC birds of prey and its Critter House animals, which include frogs, turtles, snakes, and other species native to Michigan. Noon–3 p.m., 1831 Traver. $5 suggested donation. (734) 997–1553, lesliesnc.org.
“Critters Up Close!”: Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
July 25 & 26. Leslie Science & Nature Center staff show live animals TBA. Also, animal-oriented hands-on activities for all ages. Noon–3 p.m., 220 E. Ann. $16 museum admission (babies under 2, free). (734) 995–9439, discoverscienceandnature.org/aahom.
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
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.
Open Board Games: Sylvan Factory
Every Sun. All invited to play one of a wide variety of board games in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Instruction provided. Also, on July 5, game playtesting with Michigame Design Lab (2 p.m.), during which players are invited to try out new board and card games from local designers Bruce Bielawa & Joe Hopkins and provide feedback. Noon–6 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. Free. sylvanfactory.com.
“Megafauna Mystery”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Every Sat. & Sun., except July 5. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for kids age 5 & up that uses museum specimens to explore paleontology and what can be learned from giant bones and fossils. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
“NYICFF 2026: Big Kid Flicks”: Michigan Theater
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 26: “NYICFF 2026: Big Kid Flicks.” Collection of the festival’s best short films for kids ages 8 & up. 12:30 p.m.
“Simple Basket Weaving”: Ann Arbor District Library
A chance for adults and kids grade 3 & up to weave a small basket using string or yarn. 1–2 p.m., AADL Pittsfield. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“Ecological Restoration Workday”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
All invited to help improve bird habitats by maintaining trails and clearing invasive shrubs at the WBNA Searles Nature Preserve. Dress for the weather; bring leather work gloves and water. Tools and know-how provided; bring your own tools, if you’d like. 1–3 p.m., Searles Nature Preserve; park along Bolla Rd., ¼ mile west of Stony Creek Rd., Ypsi. Free. washtenawbna.org.
Letterpress Open Lab: Ann Arbor District Library
July 10, 15, 21, & 26 (different times). A chance for adults to learn the basics of printing with movable type. 5–7 p.m. (July 10, 15, & 21) & 1–3 p.m. (July 26), AADL Downtown, Secret Lab. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“Pokébattle Sunday”: Ann Arbor District Library
Adults and kids ages 8 & up invited to compete in the popular Pokémon Nintendo Switch game. Participants may bring their own Switch handheld console or borrow one from the library. 1–4 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“Walking with Whales Tour”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Every Sun., except July 5. Thirty-minute tour that uses the museum’s specimens to tell the story of prehistoric whales and dolphins, who had 4 limbs and walked on land. 1:30 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. Limited capacity. Sign up at the welcome desk. (734) 764–0478.
“Funny Girl”: Michigan Theater
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 26: “Funny Girl” (William Wyler, 1968). Barbra Streisand stars in her Oscar-winning film debut as Fanny Brice, the rags-to-riches 1920s comedienne with a tragic private life. Omar Sharif. 1:30 p.m.
“Emma’s Wedding(s)”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
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.
Sunday Drop-in Tour: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
Every Sun. Docent-led tours exploring “Highlights of the Kelsey” (July 5 & 12), “Ancient Medicine” (July 19), and “At Leisure: Life Beyond Work in the Ancient World” (July 26). 2–3 p.m., 434 S. State. Free. (734) 764–9304.
“Athena”: Theatre Nova
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.
“Sean Forbes: Deaf & Loud”: Ann Arbor District Library
This nationally recognized deaf rapper and activist performs a family-friendly program of hip-hop music that blends lyricism and sign language to explore themes of identity, accessibility, and resilience. 2–3 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“Playing Around: Festival of New & Original Works”: Forge Theater
See 23 Thursday. Today: Short plays by area playwrights Ann Stofflet, Josephine Rood, Keith Hood, Nathan Corliss, & Roger Kerson. 2 p.m.
Ann Arbor Storytellers’ Guild
All invited to listen to guild members swap stories or bring their own to tell. 2–4 p.m., Schuler Books, Westgate. Free. annarborstorytelling.org.
“Megafauna Mystery”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
Every Sat. & Sun., except July 5. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demo for kids age 5 & up that uses museum specimens to explore paleontology and what can be learned from giant bones and fossils. 12:30 & 2:30 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
“NYICFF 2026: ¡Hola Cine!”: Michigan Theater
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 26: “NYICFF 2026: ¡Hola Cine!” Collection of the festival’s best Spanish-language short films. 2:30 p.m.
“What Is the American Dream Today?” Ice Cream Social: Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County
All welcome to this community discussion about being good neighbors and building connection. Free ice cream. 3–5 p.m., County Farm Park Medford Pavilion, entrance near Manchester Rd. Free. Preregistration requested at givebutter.com/irt-ice-cream-social4.
“The Fifth Element”: Fathom Entertainment
(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events & at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
July 26 & 27: “The Fifth Element” (Luc Besson, 1997). Humorous sci-fi adventure set in 23rd-century NYC, where a cab driver and a naive “Supreme Being” must save the world from impending evil. Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman. 4 p.m. (Sun.) & 7 p.m. (Mon.).
“New York International Children’s Film Festival 2026: Pride”: Michigan Theater
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 26: “New York International Children’s Film Festival 2026: Pride.” Collection of the festival’s best LGBTQ+-themed short films for kids ages 10 & up. 4:30 p.m.
Ann Arbor Go Club
Every Sun. Players of all skill levels invited to play this challenging strategy board game. Game materials provided. 5:45 p.m. until whenever, Bill’s Beer Garden, 218 S. Ashley, or the Heidelberg, 215 N. Main (in case of rain). Free. For more info, email Drew at [email protected] or check tinyurl.com/a2goclub.
Ann Arbor Morris
Every Sun., except July 12. All invited to try this boisterous, jingly English ceremonial dance thought to be descended from the 15th-century Spanish morisca. Wear athletic shoes. 6–8 p.m., email [email protected] for location. Free.
“Mic Drop”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Experienced improvisers compete by improvising songs with live accompaniment. Followed at 7:30 p.m. by a pay-what-you-want Musical Improv Jam: All invited to sing or move in musical/comical improv games and exercises, led by a facilitator and accompanist. No experience required. Spectators welcome. 6:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door.
Traditional Irish Session: Conor O’Neill’s
Every Sun. All invited to join or listen to an instrumental jam session. 7–9 p.m., 318 S. Main. Free. (734) 665–2968.
Ballroom Dance Club at the U-M
Every Sun. Ballroom dancing to recorded music, including foxtrots, waltzes, cha-chas, rumbas, tangos, swing, and more. No partner necessary. Preceded at 6 p.m. by beginning lessons and practice. 7–9 p.m., Michigan Union Ballroom. $5 ($10 includes lessons). (734) 763–6984.