Events
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Observer Editor
“The Transformers: The Movie”: Fathom Entertainment
Various TimesMore(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. 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.
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Observer Editor
Just Between Friends Sale
MoreSept. 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.
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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
Country Fair: Wiard’s Orchards
MoreEvery 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.
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Free
Observer Editor
Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops
MoreEvery 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. 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.) & noon–12:30 p.m. (Wed. & Fri.). Free. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Want To Help? Local Volunteer Opportunities”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAll invited to meet representatives from local nonprofits and learn about their services and volunteer opportunities. Noon–1 p.m., AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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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
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
MoreEvery Tues., Thurs., & Fri. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Tues. & Fri.) 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].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Fix-It Friday”: Maker Works
MoreAll 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.
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Community ListingFree
Sonic the Hedgehog & Knuckles the Echidna: Vault of Midnight: Vault of Midnight
More219 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
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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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Observer Editor
“New Munich Day Oktoberfest”: HOMES Campus
MoreOktoberfest 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.
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Nightspots
Billy Brandt & Elaine Schoendorf.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiDuo of veteran Detroit country-flavored psychedelic folk-rock singer-songwriters. 4:30–6:30 p.m.
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Community Listing
Round Robin Ruckus Tournament: A2 Roller Derby
More2751 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 -
Free
Observer Editor
A2Zero Green Fair: Office of the Mayor
MoreDisplays 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.
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Community Listing
Friday Night Live Music at Lake Forest Golf Club: Lake Forest Golf Club
More3110 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
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Observer Editor
21st Annual Oktoberfest: Saline Main Street
MoreSept. 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.
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Community Listing
The Fallout Shelter 5 Year Anniversary – Day 3: The Regal Beagle
More817 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$10 -
Nightspots
Ditch Tea Steepers.
MoreIndiana 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.
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Free
Observer Editor
Tony Pinnell: Argus Farm Stop Packard Cafe
MoreVersatile 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.
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Community Listing
Rumi Storytime: Starbright Entertainment LLC and Recess Cafe
More208 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor
Kpop Demon Hunters fans will enjoy movement games, stories, dancing, and more in this interactive storytime! Get ready to dance to “Golden” and sing along to a live song performance of “What It Sounds Like”! There will also be time for photo ops with Rumi, so costumes are encouraged!
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Community Listing
Drop-in Line Dancing: Pittsfield Recreation Center
More701 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.
$7 – $10 -
Free
Observer Editor
“A Journey through India with Classical Dance”: Rasa Festival/Ann Arbor District Library
MoreVeteran 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.
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Nightspots
Eric Moore.: Sam Hill
MoreSam Hill 5827 Jackson Rd.Bluesy folk-rock singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist.
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Observer Editor
D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
MoreEvery 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.
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Observer Editor
Candlelight Concerts: Kalkaska String Quartet
MoreThis 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.
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Nightspots
Saints of Soul.: Live
MoreLive 102 S. First St., Ann ArborDetroit R&B, soul, and funk septet fronted by vocalist Sorilbran Stone.
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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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Pontiac Trail Blazers.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborLocal bluegrass quartet known for its beautiful vocal harmonies and instrumental prowess.
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Free
Observer Editor
Ann Arbor Kirtan
MoreAll 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.
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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
“A Celebration of 250 Years of American Organ Music”: American Guild of Organists
MoreLocal organists perform works TBA. 7 p.m., Zion Lutheran Church, 1501 Liberty. Free. annarborago.com.
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Nightspots
Vincent Chandler Experience.: Blue LLama
MoreBlue LLama 314 S. Main, Ann ArborEnsemble led by veteran Detroit trombonist Chandler, a U-M jazz studies grad.
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Nightspots
Saahnjoo.: Water Tower Distilling Co.
MoreWater Tower Distilling Co. 23 N. Washington,, YpsilantiDetroit-based ambient-pop artist who layers field recordings with synth, voice, and other instruments.
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Nightspots
The Non-Prophits.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiBlues-inflected Southern rock ensemble.
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Nightspots
Ray Bonneville.: JD’s Stage
MoreJD’s Stage 117 ½ S. Main, Chelsea, Michigan, United StatesVeteran blues and country-rock guitarist and harmonica player from Montreal known for his raspy, laid-back vocals.
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Community Listing
Oktoberfest: The Circ Bar
More210 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.
Free admittance -
Observer Editor
Oktoberfest: The Circ Bar
MoreCelebration 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.
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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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Free
Observer Editor
Grad Student Dance Concerts: U-M Dance Department
MoreSept. 15, 18, & 19. Second-year dance grad students Olga Rabetskaya (Sept. 15) and Lauren Blair Smith (Sept. 18 & 19) perform their original choreography. 7:30 p.m., Dance Performance Studio, 1000 Baits. Free. Limited capacity; arrive early. (734) 764–0583.
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Observer Editor
“Sofa Stories: Stories on Stage and Screen”: University Musical Society Ypsi Freighthouse Residency
MorePerformances 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.
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Observer Editor
Friday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
MoreEvery Fri. Performance by 11 Non-Blondes, a house team of experienced improvisers. 8–9:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door.
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Observer Editor
Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass: The Ark
MoreSold out. 8 p.m., Michigan Theater. (734) 761–1451, theark.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
“The Road Less Traveled By: A Tribute to H. Robert Reynolds”: U-M Symphony Band
MoreJason 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.
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Nightspots
Ladyship Warship.: The Arboretum
MoreThe Arboretum 984 E. Michigan Ave., SalineDetroit hard-rock duo of singer-guitarist EZ Myers and singer-drummer Kristin Lyn.
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Nightspots
David Nail.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborVeteran 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.
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Nightspots
Shelby & Jake.: Mash (Ypsilanti)
MoreMash (Ypsilanti) 400 W. River, YpsilantiLansing wife-and-husband duo of acoustic country-pop singer-guitarists.