Events
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Observer Editor
2026 Saline Community Fair
MoreSept. 2–6. Old-fashioned community fair featuring agricultural and craft exhibits, carnival rides every day (open at 4 p.m. weekdays, 1 p.m. weekends), and a variety of special events, including a dog of the year contest (winners announced 5:30 p.m. Fri.), touch a truck (10 a.m. Thurs.), an instrument petting zoo (11 a.m.–1 p.m. Thurs.) led by members of the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, a talent show (6:30 p.m. Fri.), a rodeo (7 p.m. Fri.), the USA Auto Cross Championship Derby (7 p.m. Sun.), livestock shows & auctions, tractor & draft horse pulls, a reptile show, a euchre tournament, and more. Live music includes popular Michigan-based a cappella comedy & music quartet Three Men and a Tenor (6 p.m. Sat.), renowned touring student fiddle ensemble the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic (3 p.m. Sun.), and more. See salinefair.org for complete schedule. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (Wed.–Sat.) & 10 a.m.–9 p.m. (Sun.), Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $5 (Wed.) & $10 (Thurs.–Sun.). Ride armbands $22–$25. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Nature Lab”: U-M Museum of Natural History
MoreEvery Tues.–Sun. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s labs to use scientific tools and museum specimens. The newest program lets participants try out simulated snake senses (sight, hearing, and smell) to experience the world as if they were a snake. No live snakes. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
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Observer Editor
Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
MoreEvery Sat. & Sun., except Sept. 19. 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.
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Observer Editor
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
MoreEvery Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. T. Rex (noon) describes the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history (includes scenes of dinosaur violence); 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 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., 1105 North University. $9 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
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Observer Editor
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
MoreFri. Sept. 4 & 18 and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show some barnyard buddies, including a Highland cow, a chicken, a Flemish giant rabbit, and a miniature donkey at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. & Sun., staffers show the cow, chicken, and rabbit at 1 & 4 p.m., and the donkey at 2 & 3 p.m. All tickets include a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 7–9 p.m. (Fri.) and 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.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Vintage Victors: Historic U-M Football Films at the Observatory”: U-M Bentley Historical Library
MoreAll invited to kick off the season by viewing some vintage U-M football films on the Observatory’s 14-foot video screen. Archivists on hand to answer questions. Also, a pop-up exhibit featuring some historic U-M football treasures. Noon–5 p.m., Detroit Observatory, 1398 E. Ann. Free. detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Hiveside Chat”: Community Farm of Ann Arbor
MoreBeekeeper Eileen Dickenson leads a hands-on introduction to biodynamic beekeeping. 1–3 p.m., 1525 S. Fletcher, Chelsea. Free. communityfarmofannarbor.com.
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Observer Editor
International Vulture Awareness Day Celebration: Leslie Science & Nature Center
MoreAll invited to learn about the important role vultures play in the ecosystem through talks and hands-on activities. Also, a “Bald Is Beautiful” photo booth, a vulture-themed relay race, vulture trivia, and a chance to meet a live turkey vulture. 1–4 p.m. 1831 Traver. Tickets (price TBA) in advance at discoverscienceandnature.org/calendars & at the door. (734) 997–1553.
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Free
Observer Editor
Museum Highlight Tours: U-M Museum of Natural History
MoreEvery Sat. Thirty-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., 1105 North University. Free. Limited capacity. Sign up at the welcome desk. (734) 764–0478.
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Observer Editor
“Anything Goes”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
MoreSept. 3–6. Megan Wright-Jones directs young local actors in grades 2–12 in Cole Porter, Guy Bolton, and P.G. Wodehouse’s 1934 madcap musical comedy set aboard an ocean liner and involving a nightclub singer, a lovestruck stowaway, and a zany cast of passengers. Featuring Cole Porter hits like “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and “Anything Goes.” 7 p.m. (Thurs., Fri., & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sat.), and noon (Sun.). Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $20–$30 in advance only at pytmi.com/tickets.
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Free
Observer Editor
Rumble of the Bumble
MoreStreet festival highlighting environmental issues and the plight of pollinators, featuring live outdoor wrestling matches (8–10 p.m.) on a stage on the street. Also, a puppet parade (2 p.m.), dancers, acrobats, and other street performers, games, vendor booths, interactive art installations, art for sale, and a kids area with activities. At the Freighthouse, live music TBA and a storytime. Food for sale. 2–10 p.m., Depot Town, E. Cross between N. River St. & N. Huron St., Ypsi. Free, donations welcome. For event details, go to rumbleofthebumble.org. m.
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Free
Observer Editor
Pittsfield Open Band: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance
MoreSept. 5 & 19. Jam session open to all musicians interested in working on jigs, reels, and waltzes to have fun, learn tunes, and develop contra dance music skills. All instruments welcome. Bring the Ruffwater Fakebook, the Portland Collection, and the Waltz Books if you have them. The band also hosts a workshop this month, Contra Play for Acoustic Musicians (Sept. 6, 7 p.m., Gretchen’s House 2340 Oak Valley Dr., $15) with the band Raven and Goose (Corwin and Grace). 3–5 p.m., Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Masking optional. Free. (734) 709–8748, [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“The Side Questers”: Ann Arbor District Library Author Event
MoreLocal author J.J. Kochmanski reads from & discusses his debut sci-fi fantasy about a pair of video game side characters who team up to prove to themselves—and their creators—that they can be heroes too. Signing. 4–5:30 p.m., AADL Traverwood. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
A2 Summer Streets Music Series: Main Street Area Association
MoreEvery Thurs.–Sun., June 4–Sept. 28. Local musicians TBA perform at several locations along Main St. downtown. Rain cancels. 4 p.m. Thurs.–Sun., S. Main between E. Washington & W. William. For the complete lineup, go to mainstreetannarbor.org/a2-summer-streets.
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Nightspots
Rounding Third.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiLocal folk-rock quartet with bluegrass & Irish music flavors whose instrumentation features guitars, banjo, flute, and keyboard. 4:30–6:30 p.m.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Let’s Be Friends: Cycling & Mountain Biking”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAll invited to meet with others interested in bicycle riding. 5–6 p.m., AADL Westgate. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Nightspots
Keegan Jacko.: The Ranch
MoreThe Ranch 122 W. Washington, Ann ArborMainstream country covers, and some originals, by a band led by this Detroit-area singer-guitarist. 5 p.m.
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Observer Editor
Magic: The Gathering (MTG): Sylvan Factory
MoreEvery Wed., Fri., & Sat. 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.
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Nightspots
Fred & Dan.: Sam Hill
MoreSam Hill 5827 Jackson Rd.Duo that plays cover songs from a variety of genres.
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Nightspots
Joshua Elwood & Friends.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborYoung jazz ensemble led by West Michigan saxophonist Elwood. $18.
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Observer Editor
“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt. 1”: Fathom Entertainment
More(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).
Sept. 5: “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt. 1” (Francis Lawrence, 2014). The third installment in the Hunger Games series. 6:30 p.m. (Cinemark) & 7 p.m. (Emagine).
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Observer Editor
“Saturday Night Improv: Double Header”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
MoreEvery Sat., except Sept. 26. Rotating lineup of two local improv troupes. On Sept. 5, the show is followed by Tony & Friends (8:30–9:30 p.m.), featuring Hear.Say owner Tony DeRosa and other improv comics TBA performing long-form comedy. 7–8 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door.
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Nightspots
Isis Damil.: Blue LLama
MoreBlue LLama 314 S. Main, Ann ArborJazz ensemble led by this Detroit singer-songwriter with a sultry, soulful mezzo voice whose jazzy R&B songs seamlessly blend spirituality and sensuality.
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Nightspots
Paul Sprawl.: Moonwinks Tavern
MoreMoonwinks Tavern 5151 Plymouth Rd. (734) 994-5151.Rootsy blues- and folk-style singer-songwriter from California known for his wry, quirky lyrics and inventive guitar style that incorporates lots of alternate tunings and rhythmic tapping.
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Nightspots
Nikki D & The Sisters of Thunder.: JD’s Stage
MoreJD’s Stage 117 ½ S. Main, Chelsea, Michigan, United States7-piece multi-generational sacred steel family band from Toledo with a sound the Toledo Blade describes as “crisp, harmonious perfection, a mixture of church-ready gospel music and down home, gritty blues.” Sacred steel is a style of gospel music built around the steel guitar.
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Observer Editor
“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt. 1”: Fathom Entertainment
More(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).
Sept. 5: “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt. 1” (Francis Lawrence, 2014). The third installment in the Hunger Games series. 6:30 p.m. (Cinemark) & 7 p.m. (Emagine).
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Observer Editor
“Anything Goes”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
MoreSept. 3–6. Megan Wright-Jones directs young local actors in grades 2–12 in Cole Porter, Guy Bolton, and P.G. Wodehouse’s 1934 madcap musical comedy set aboard an ocean liner and involving a nightclub singer, a lovestruck stowaway, and a zany cast of passengers. Featuring Cole Porter hits like “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and “Anything Goes.” 7 p.m. (Thurs., Fri., & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sat.), and noon (Sun.). Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $20–$30 in advance only at pytmi.com/tickets.
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Nightspots
Rick Burgess Trio.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborJazz ensemble, named after the late jazz pianist and Earle cofounder Burgess, featuring drummer Robert Warren and a rotating roster of bassists and pianists.
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Observer Editor
Tam White: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
MoreSept. 4 & 5. Rising Detroit-area stand-up comic, improv performer, and host of the comedy hip-hop show “Hip-Prov” shares her thoughts on everything from marriage to her inability to twerk. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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Observer Editor
First Saturday Contra Dance: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance
MoreJason Little calls to music by the Pittsfield Open Band. Bring clean shoes for dancing. Beginner’s introduction 7 p.m. 7:30–10:30 p.m., Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $10–$15 suggested donation. (734) 274–0773, aactmad.org.
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Observer Editor
U-M Football vs. WMU
MoreSold out. 7:30 p.m., Michigan Stadium. (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com/sports/football.
