• Observer Editor

    “The Transformers: The Movie”: Fathom Entertainment

    Various Times
    More

    (734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 3165500 (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. 17–23: “The Transformers: The Movie” (Nelson Shin, 1986). Animated sci-fi action based on the popular television series about a war between 2 robotic clans. Various times; see website.

  • Observer Editor

    Just Between Friends Sale

    Just Between Friends Sale
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    Sept. 16–19. Semi-annual consignment sale, eagerly anticipated by parents of young children, offering a chance to buy & sell used maternity items, baby & children’s clothes, toys, and baby gear. Prices drop Sat. at 2 p.m. Doors shut 30 minutes before closing. 3–9 p.m. (Wed., tickets required), noon–9 p.m. (Thurs.), 9 a.m.–7 p.m. (Fri.), and 9–11 a.m. & 2–7 p.m. (Sat.), Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free if reserved online, $3 at the door; $5–$25 early access. For preregistration, discounts, and to sell items, go to annarbor.jbfsale.com.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Nature Lab”: U-M Museum of Natural History

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    Every 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.

  • Observer Editor

    Country Fair: Wiard’s Orchards

    Country Fair: Wiard’s Orchards
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    Every Sat. & Sun., Sept. 12–Nov. 21; and Wed.–Fri., Sept. 16–Oct. 30. A carnival atmosphere with a variety of family-oriented fall activities on this family farm, including wagon rides, a petting farm, a corn maze, and more. For an extra charge on Sat. & Sun., an apple cannon, paintball, apple or pumpkin picking, and other activities available. Cider and donuts available. Also, on Sept. 12 & 13, the season opens with a food truck rally, and on Sept. 19 & 20, view classic cars at the Fall Car & Jeep Show. No pets. 11 a.m.–6 p.m., 5565 Merritt. (east of Carpenter), Ypsi. Weekend admission: $27.50 (babies under 2, free). Weekday admission: $18 (babies under 2, free) online only at wiards.com. (734) 482–7744.

  • Observer Editor

    U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater

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    Every 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Fix-It Friday”: Maker Works

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    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 Dr. Free. Preregistration required at maker-works.com/fixitfriday. (734) 222–4911. 

  • Community Listing
    Free

    Sonic the Hedgehog & Knuckles the Echidna: Vault of Midnight: Vault of Midnight

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    219 South Main Street, Ann Arbor

    Vault of Midnight comic book store hosts Ryan Drummond, original video game voice of Sonic the Hedgehog and Scott Dreier, voice of Knuckles the Echidna for an in-store appearance. Signings.

    https://www.vaultofmidnight.com/events-add/ryan-drummond-signing-event-the-voice-of-sonic-the-hedgehog-fgk8d-tef68

    https://www.vaultofmidnight.com

  • Observer Editor

    “New Munich Day Oktoberfest”: HOMES Campus

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    Oktoberfest beer release (4 p.m.), a steinholding competition (6 p.m.), a no-hands pretzel eating contest (7 p.m.), and a non-native speaker German spelling bee (8 p.m.). The steinholding and pretzel eating contests are divided into women’s, men’s, and kid’s categories. Lederhosen and dirndl attire encouraged. 4–10 p.m., 112 Jackson Plz. Free. homescampus.com/campusevents.

  • Community Listing

    Round Robin Ruckus Tournament: A2 Roller Derby

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    2751 Packard Rd, Ann Arbor

    Ann Arbor Roller Derby is hosting our very first tournament called the Round Robin Ruckus, September 18th-20th at Buhr Park Arena in Ann Arbor, MI!
    We will be hosting 9 games over the course of 3 days with 7 teams from across the country, from Texas to Pennsylvania, including coaches, support staff and more than 50 dedicated volunteers for exciting competition! There will be vendors and merch present and a silent auction, come with your best bird call!
    $18 Friday only
    $55 weekend pass

    www.a2rollerderby.com

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    A2Zero Green Fair: Office of the Mayor

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    Displays of alternative-fuel vehicles, renewable energy, green building materials, solar energy installations, and other energy conservation products and practices. Also, a clothing swap and kids activities. Local food vendors. 5–8 p.m., Main St., downtown Ann Arbor. Free. a2gov.org/greenfair.

  • Community Listing

    Friday Night Live Music at Lake Forest Golf Club: Lake Forest Golf Club

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    3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor

    🎶 FRIDAY NIGHT IN ANN ARBOR starts at Lake Forest!

    In town for football weekend? Or just ready to kick off your weekend a little early? Come join us this Friday, September 18 for Happy Hour, dinner and live music! Fire tables, lawn games, delicious food, best outdoor setting in Ann Arbor!

    🍷 Happy Hour | 3–5 PM
    Enjoy specials on wine, beer and some of your favorite appetizers.

    🎹 Live Music | NEW TIME: 5 PM
    This week, we welcome back Terry Farmer and Neil Donato for an evening of live music.

    Grab your friends, bring the family, settle in for dinner and drinks, and enjoy a relaxed Friday night just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor.

    No cover. Open to everyone.

    📍 Lake Forest Golf Club
    3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor
    📞 Reservations encouraged: 734-994-8580 ext. 2
    🍴 Menu: ellsworthannarbor.com

    #AnnArbor #AnnArborEvents #FridayNightMusic #LiveMusicAnnArbor #MichiganFootball #GoBlue #AnnArborFood #ThingsToDoInAnnArbor #LakeForestGolfClub

    www.lakeforestgc.com

    Free
  • Observer Editor

    21st Annual Oktoberfest: Saline Main Street

    21st Annual Oktoberfest: Saline Main Street
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    Sept. 18 & 19. This old-fashioned Oktoberfest kicks off with the annual “tapping of the golden keg” on Friday and features a beer garden with German brews and traditional German food, and live music TBA. Saturday’s events include wiener dog races, children’s activities and games, and live music TBA. 5–11 p.m. (Fri.) & noon–11 p.m. (Sat.), downtown Saline. $10 after 5 p.m. on Fri. and 3 p.m. on Sat. for those age 21 & over; free otherwise. Details at salinemainstreet.org/calendar.

  • Community Listing

    The Fallout Shelter 5 Year Anniversary – Day 3: The Regal Beagle

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    817 E. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti

    For 5 years running, the Fallout Shelter has brought some of the best DJs in the midwest and beyond to Ypsilanti and supported local talent from beginners to seasoned pros.

    Resident DJ, the Silent Ech0, has grown the event from humble beginnings to a community staple with the help of the Wax Kings collective.

    Ech0labs Light Industries and Wax Kings present 4 days of sets in a variety of genres including house, techno, bass, and other dance music.

    Friday September 18 – The Regal Beagle – $10
    12:00am – Moses
    11:00pm – J Garcia
    10:00pm – The Silent Ech0
    9:00pm – K-Lala B2B Juan Trevino
    8:00pm – Ti or Ted
    7:00pm – Mira
    6:00pm- Kaito Ian

    https://www.facebook.com/falloutshelterypsi

    $10
  • Nightspots

    Ditch Tea Steepers.

    More

    Indiana folk-rock & Americana ensemble that plays play old-time country and Tin Pan Alley standards, along with fiddle tunes from a variety of traditions. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Tony Pinnell: Argus Farm Stop Packard Cafe

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    Versatile local singer-guitarist with country-rock roots who plays an eclectic mix of acoustic rock, indie pop-folk, and world music covers. Featuring guest vocalist Lizzie Randolph. 5:30–7:30 p.m., 1200 Packard. Free; food & drink for sale. Tips welcome. (734) 997–5448, argusfarmstop.com/events-1.

  • Community Listing

    Drop-in Line Dancing: Pittsfield Recreation Center

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    701 W. Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor

    Enjoy Drop-in Line Dancing, Friday, September 18, 2026, 6pm-7:30pm at the Pittsfield Recreation Center, SW corner of Ellsworth and S. State Street, Ann Arbor. Adults and children (eight & up, if accompanied by parent or grandparent) are invited! Wear comfortable clothes, soft-soled shoes or boots. Learn three or more, “absolute,” beginner line dances. The price is $7 if pre-registered at: www.recreation.pittsfield-mi.gov or $10 at door. For questions or information, call the Pittsfield Recreation Center at: 734-822-2120.

    www.recreation-pittsfield-mi.gov

    $7 – $10
  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “A Journey through India with Classical Dance”: Rasa Festival/Ann Arbor District Library

    More

    Veteran local Indian classical dancer Sreyashi Dey is joined by members of the U-M classical Indian dance troupe Michigan Sahana for a lecture-demo on Northern Indian Kathak and Southern Indian Bharatanatyam dances. The Rasa Festival also includes a performance tomorrow at the Riverside Art Center (see 19 Saturday listing). 6–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.

  • Nightspots

    Eric Moore.: Sam Hill

    More
    Sam Hill 5827 Jackson Rd.

    Bluesy folk-rock singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist.  

  • Observer Editor

    D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory

    D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
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    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.

  • Observer Editor

    Candlelight Concerts: Kalkaska String Quartet

    More

    This Detroit-based ensemble presents 2 candlelight concerts tonight. “Tribute to Drake” (6:30 p.m.) features instrumental arrangements of music by the Canadian rapper, and “90s Hip-Hop on Strings” (8:45 p.m.) highlights instrumental arrangements of 90s hip-hop music. Age 8 & up. 6:30 & 8:45 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. $36–$56 per show. Preregistration required at feverup.com/en/ann-arbor/candlelight.

  • Nightspots

    Saints of Soul.: Live

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    Live 102 S. First St., Ann Arbor

    Detroit R&B, soul, and funk septet fronted by vocalist Sorilbran Stone.

  • Observer Editor

    Magic: The Gathering (MTG): Sylvan Factory

    Magic: The Gathering (MTG): Sylvan Factory
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    Every 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Ann Arbor Kirtan

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    All invited to try kirtan, an ancient yogic spiritual practice that involves singing and chanting. Accompanied by live music on tabla, harmonium, bass, sarangi, and finger cymbals. The program ends with silent meditation and homemade chai tea. 7 p.m., Prana Yoga Studio, 5060 Jackson Rd. Free; donations accepted. (734) 476-2621.

  • Observer Editor

    “Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy

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    Fri. 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.

  • Nightspots

    Saahnjoo.: Water Tower Distilling Co.

    More
    Water Tower Distilling Co. 23 N. Washington,, Ypsilanti

    Detroit-based ambient-pop artist who layers field recordings with synth, voice, and other instruments.

  • Nightspots

    The Non-Prophits.: Ypsi Alehouse

    More
    Ypsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti

    Blues-inflected Southern rock ensemble.

  • Nightspots

    Ray Bonneville.: JD’s Stage

    More
    JD’s Stage 117 ½ S. Main, Chelsea, Michigan, United States

    Veteran blues and country-rock guitarist and harmonica player from Montreal known for his raspy, laid-back vocals.

  • Community Listing

    Oktoberfest: The Circ Bar

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    210 South 1st Street, Ann Arbor

    Oktoberfest at Circ is back. Grab your lederhosen and dirndls (prizes for best dressed) and join us for an evening of steins, strings, and spirited tradition. We’ll have German Polka, Oktoberfest beer samplings from local breweries, and a courtyard alive with music, laughter, and a little Bavarian magic. Come raise a glass, stay for the celebration.

    thecircbar.com

    Free admittance
  • Observer Editor

    Oktoberfest: The Circ Bar

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    Celebration featuring live polka music by the Meridian Band, German food and drink specials, beer samples, themed games including Hammerschlagen (a traditional game involving driving nails into a large log) and steinholding contests, and prizes for best dressed (in traditional Alpine garb like lederhosen and dirndls). 7–10 p.m., 210 S. First St. Free admission. thecircbar.com.

  • Nightspots

    Rick Burgess Trio.: Earle

    Rick Burgess Trio.
    More
    Earle 121 W. Washington, Ann Arbor

    Jazz ensemble, named after the late jazz pianist and Earle cofounder Burgess, featuring drummer Robert Warren and a rotating roster of bassists and pianists.

     

  • Observer Editor

    “Sofa Stories: Stories on Stage and Screen”: University Musical Society Ypsi Freighthouse Residency

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    Performances of original monologues and screenings of short films from the Detroit-based Sofa Stories Project about the experiences of young people impacted by housing insecurity. Age 14 & up. 7:30 p.m., 100 Market Pl., Ypsi. Tickets $5 (additional donation appreciated) in advance at ums.org/season/2026-27-season & (if available) at the door. (734) 764–2538.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “The Road Less Traveled By: A Tribute to H. Robert Reynolds”: U-M Symphony Band

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    Jason Fettig and guest conductors lead this music student ensemble in works by Grainger, Holst, Bach, William Bolcom, and others. The program honors Reynolds, the longtime U-M director of bands who passed away earlier this year, and includes the premiere of Elegy, a new work by contemporary American composer Giovanni Santos featuring saxophone soloist Timothy McAllister. 8 p.m., Hill Auditorium. Free. (734) 764–0583.

  • Nightspots

    Ladyship Warship.: The Arboretum

    More
    The Arboretum 984 E. Michigan Ave., Saline

    Detroit hard-rock duo of singer-guitarist EZ Myers and singer-drummer Kristin Lyn.

  • Nightspots

    David Nail.: Ark

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    Ark 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor

    Veteran Nashville country singer-songwriter from Missouri known for his raw & direct lyrics and powerful voice. “Nail’s robust, resonant tenor just might be country’s most limber and soulful this side of Ronnie Dunn,” writes The Washington Post. Tonight he plays songs from his extensive catalog, along with new tunes from an album set to be released later this year. $40.

  • Nightspots

    Shelby & Jake.: Mash (Ypsilanti)

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    Mash (Ypsilanti) 400 W. River, Ypsilanti

    Lansing wife-and-husband duo of acoustic country-pop singer-guitarists.