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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Free
Observer Editor
“Independence Lake Gravel Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
MoreEvery Mon. Slow/moderate-paced 23-mile ride to Independence Lake on mostly dirt roads. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Old St. Patrick Catholic Church, 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd. Free. (412) 302–9960.
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Free
Observer Editor
Weekly Rehearsal: Washtenaw Women’s Community Chorus
MoreEvery Mon., except Sept. 7. All invited to join this independent local women’s chorus to sing an eclectic program, including classical, folk, Broadway, pop, and jazz. Joshua Marzan directs. 9:30–11:30 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, rear ground level, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. Free to visitors ($175 per semester for those who join; partial scholarships available). [email protected].
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Observer Editor
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor Senior Center
MoreEvery Thurs. & Mon., except Sept. 7. Play open to all skill levels age 18 & up, both ACBL-sanctioned (Thurs.) and non-sanctioned (Mon.). Noon–3:30 p.m. (Thurs., $9) & 12:30–3:30 p.m. (Mon., $5); $1–$2 less for AASC members. 1320 Baldwin. (734) 794–6250, a2gov.org/senior, annarborbridge.com.
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Observer Editor
High Holidays Observance: Ann Arbor Jewish Cultural Society
MoreAll invited to this secular celebration of Rosh Hashanah, with readings, meditation, and music. Also, a free Tashlich observance (Sept. 12, 4 p.m., Gallup Park Maas Shelter) features a secular ceremony celebrating the Jewish New Year with participants encouraged to “let go of shortcomings” by tossing flower petals into the river. The Kol Nidre observance (Sept. 20, 7 p.m., JCC) includes time for reflection on the Day of Atonement while listening to haunting melodies. Yom Kippur observance (Sept. 21, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m., JCC) brings the Jewish New Year to a close with a ceremony and potluck breaking of the fast. 7 p.m., 2935 Birch Hollow. $10 (family, $25) suggested donation per observance for nonmembers; no one is turned away because of inability to pay. Registration required at jewishculturalsociety.org. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
Michigan Marching Band Practice
MoreEvery Mon.–Thurs. (except Sept. 7). The U-M’s highly disciplined 200+ member marching band or sections thereof can be seen and heard practicing on the new Elbel field, across the street from the old Elbel field. All welcome to find a spot in the bleachers and get a sneak preview of upcoming halftime shows. Rehearsals usually last 1–2 hours. 4:45 p.m., new Elbel Field, Hill at Fifth Ave. Free. (734) 764–0582.
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Free
Observer Editor
Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
MoreEvery Thurs., Sat., & Mon. (different AARC locations). Runners of all abilities invited to join a 5K mapped route (Thurs. & Mon.) or either a beginner or advanced group run (Sat.). AARC Colonnade (6 p.m. Thurs.), 2621 Plymouth Rd.; AARC Traver Village (7 a.m. Sat.), 901 W. Eisenhower; and Corner Brewery (6 p.m. Mon.), 720 Norris, Ypsi. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
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Observer Editor
High Holidays Observance: Ann Arbor Jewish Cultural Society
MoreAll invited to this secular celebration of Rosh Hashanah, with readings, meditation, and music. Also, a free Tashlich observance (Sept. 12, 4 p.m., Gallup Park Maas Shelter) features a secular ceremony celebrating the Jewish New Year with participants encouraged to “let go of shortcomings” by tossing flower petals into the river. The Kol Nidre observance (Sept. 20, 7 p.m., JCC) includes time for reflection on the Day of Atonement while listening to haunting melodies. Yom Kippur observance (Sept. 21, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m., JCC) brings the Jewish New Year to a close with a ceremony and potluck breaking of the fast. 7 p.m., 2935 Birch Hollow. $10 (family, $25) suggested donation per observance for nonmembers; no one is turned away because of inability to pay. Registration required at jewishculturalsociety.org. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Beginner Needle Felting”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreSept. 21 & 29 (different branch locations). Adults and teens invited to learn the basics of needle felting with wool, then make a small sheep (Sept. 21) or ghost (Sept. 29). 6–7 p.m., AADL Pittsfield (Sept. 21) & AADL Downtown (Sept. 29). Free. (734) 327–8301.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Introductory Home Plumbing: Sink Traps”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAdults and teens invited to learn how under-sink traps work, identify the parts, watch one being taken apart, and get some hands-on experience fixing simple problems. 6–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, Secret Lab. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
Group Ride: Ann Arbor Velo Club
MoreEvery Mon. Moderate-paced 20-mile ride to Dexter and back, often with a rest stop along the way. Riders must wear a helmet and bring water and supplies to fix a flat tire. 6 p.m. (nonmembers must come 10 minutes early to sign a club waiver), Barton Nature Area, 1010 W. Huron River Dr. Free. annarborveloclub.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
Drop-in Knitting: Spun
MoreEvery Sun.–Thurs. (different times). All invited to work on their knitting, crochet, weaving, and embroidery projects. 6–8 p.m. (Mon.–Thurs.) & 1–3 p.m. (Sun.), 401 N. Fourth Ave. Free. (734) 780–7867.
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Nightspots
Troubadour Sweethearts.: El Limon
MoreEl Limon 2709 PlymouthLocal piano and vocal duo.
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Free
Observer Editor
Fiber Arts Drop-in: Dzanc House
MoreSept. 7 & 21. All invited to join in crocheting, knitting, embroidering, etc. 6–9 p.m., 402 S. Huron St., Ypsi. Free. dzanchouse.org.
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Observer Editor
“Barkskins”: Literati Bookstore Eco Book Club
MoreAll invited to join a discussion about Annie Proulx’s 2017 family saga set among descendants of 17th-century fur trappers, led by local poet and WMU environmental studies professor Alison Swan. 6:30 p.m., 124 E. Washington. Tickets $5 (can be redeemed for store credit) in advance only at literatibookstore.com. (734) 585–5567.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Navigating from Crisis to Recovery”: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
MorePresentation by members of the NAMI advocacy committee about how it’s possible to move from crisis to stability and recovery in a time of instability in mental health funding and services. 6:30–7:45 p.m., AADL Pittsfield. Free.
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Free
Observer Editor
Group Runs: A2 Runners
MoreEvery Wed. & Mon. Runners of all abilities invited to join a beginner or advanced 3- to 5-mile group run, followed by socializing at a downtown coffee shop. 6:30 p.m., meet at the Kerrytown Clock Tower. Preregistration requested at meetup.com/a2runners. Free. [email protected].
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Ann Arbor Embroiderers’ Guild Meeting
MoreWest Side Methodist Church, 900 S 7th Street, Ann Arbor
Love to stitch or want to learn? Come join our embroidery guild. Meet friendly, creative people and be part of a welcoming community. Learn new techniques, join group projects, or just bring your own. We gather monthly to share tips, get inspired, and socialize. Everyone is welcome! All skills, ages, and backgrounds. We would love to meet you! Please contact Sian Owen-Cruise 734-846-2095 or [email protected] for more information or our website https://www.ega-glr.org/chapters/ann-arbor/
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Nightspots
Paul Keller Orchestra.: Zal Gaz Grotto
MoreZal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann ArborAward-winning 14-piece big band led by bassist Keller and featuring vocalist Sarah D’Angelo and occasional guest vocalists. Also, each week features a middle set by a guest college or high school student ensemble.
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Observer Editor
Ann Arbor Stamp Club
MorePlanning and preparation for the Ann Arbor Stamp Show and Exhibition Nov. 6 & 7. Also, a mini stamp auction. Visitors welcome. 7:30 p.m., Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1500 Scio Church Rd. Free. (734) 761–5859, [email protected], annarborstampclub.org.
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Observer Editor
Tartan and Thistle Scottish Country Dancers
MoreEvery Mon., except Sept. 7. Learn to dance jigs, reels, and strathspeys. All dances taught. Usually with live music by Susie Lorand, Josh Burdick, and friends. 7:30–9:30 p.m., Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $10 suggested donation (first-timers free). (734) 474–7299, (734) 274–0773.
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Free
Observer Editor
Comedy Show: The Blind Pig
MoreEvery Mon. Performances from up to 15 aspiring stand-up comics from around the state. Local comics emcee. Age 21 & up only. Free candy. 8–9:30 p.m., 208 S. First St. Free. (734) 996–8555.
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Nightspots
Palmyra.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborYoung contemporary bluegrass trio from Virginia whose songs on such unconventional themes a gender dysphoria flirt with soul, post-rock, and even emo. “Palmyra makes you believe they’ve been singing together for decades, their harmonies are so electric and full of life,” writes The Bluegrass Situation. $29.
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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
a2Tech360: Ann Arbor Spark
MoreSept. 22–Oct. 2. Almost 2-week-long tech festival, with pitch competitions, a hackathon (two days of intensive coding), talks, panel discussions, a career fair, start-up demos, workshops, networking events, and more. Various times & locations. A mix of free and ticketed events. See full schedule at a2tech360.com.
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Free
Observer Editor
Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
MoreEvery Sun., Tues., & Wed. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different locations. Rain or shine. Dozer Coffee (7 a.m. Tues. & 8 a.m. Sun.), 112 Jackson Plz., (734) 929–9022 & Fleet Feet (7 p.m. Wed.), 123 E. Liberty, (734) 769–5016. Free. fleetfeetsemichigan.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
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
Ann Arbor Area Scrabble Club
MoreEvery Tues. All invited to play the classic word game, using the 5th-edition Scrabble dictionary. Bring your own set, if you like. 3:30–8 p.m., Arbor Brewing Company Corner Brewery, 720 Norris, Ypsi. Free. [email protected], meetup.com/ann-arbor-scrabble-meetup.
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Observer Editor
“Meet the Maestro”: Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra
MoreMusic Director Earl Lee’s contract with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra has been extended through June 2030. His tenure will include the orchestra’s 100th anniversary in 2028.
Join Earl and the A2SO staff on Tuesday, September 22, from 4 to 6 PM for a happy hour at HOMES Campus. This special event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy drinks, grab some food, and connect directly with the artistic visionary who brings it all to life on the podium.
September 22, 2026
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
No reservation required! Parking is available at HOMES Campus.
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Community ListingFree
Tech HomeComing Career Fair: A2Tech360
More1919 S Industrial Hwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Career Fair
Looking to land your next tech gig — or bring your talent back home? Tech Homecoming is the ultimate networking event for job seekers, featuring top local tech companies, free headshots, door prizes, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere with food and drinks. Whether you’re a recent grad or a seasoned pro, come see why Ann Arbor is the place to grow your career.
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Free
Observer Editor
Michigan Marching Band Practice
MoreEvery Mon.–Thurs. (except Sept. 7). The U-M’s highly disciplined 200+ member marching band or sections thereof can be seen and heard practicing on the new Elbel field, across the street from the old Elbel field. All welcome to find a spot in the bleachers and get a sneak preview of upcoming halftime shows. Rehearsals usually last 1–2 hours. 4:45 p.m., new Elbel Field, Hill at Fifth Ave. Free. (734) 764–0582.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Dog and Suds Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
MoreEvery Tues. Moderate-paced ride, 20 to 30 miles, along the less-traveled roads west and north of Chelsea. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 5 p.m. sharp, meet at Aberdeen Bike and Outdoors, 1101 Main, Chelsea. Start location occasionally changes. Free. (734) 662–0205.
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Free
Observer Editor
Letterpress Open Lab: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreSept. 2, 6, 19, & 22 (different times). A chance for adults to learn the basics of printing with movable type. 5–7 p.m. (Sept. 2 & 22), 2–4 p.m. (Sept. 6), and noon–2 p.m. (Sept. 19), AADL Downtown, Secret Lab. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Nightspots
Easy Street Jazz Band.: Zal Gaz Grotto
MoreZal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann ArborEarly jazz classics from Scott Joplin and Bessie Smith to Louis Armstrong and beyond by this veteran local septet led by trombonist Terry Kimura.
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Free
Observer Editor
Game Night: Sylvan Factory
MoreEvery Tues. All invited to play board games, assemble a puzzle, paint miniatures, or try a tabletop role-playing game, all in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Also, at 6 p.m., RPG One Shots, introductory games of different tabletop role-playing games perfect for beginners, finished after one session (see website for this week’s game, preregistration strongly encouraged at sylvanfactory.square.site). 5 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. Free. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Honolulu Blues: How Loving a Losing Football Team Created a Winning Man”: Ann Arbor District Library Author Event
MoreDetroit-born stand-up comic and writer Joel Walkowski discusses his new book about how rooting for the ever-disappointing Detroit Lions has improved his life. Signing. 6–7 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Stitched Postcards”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAdults and teens invited to learn basic embroidery techniques to decorate vintage postcards. No embroidery experience required. 6–7 p.m., AADL Pittsfield. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
Touch Rugby: U-M Rugby Football Club
MoreEvery Tues. & Thurs. All invited to play a low-contact version of rugby. Beginners welcome. 6–7:30 p.m., Riverside Park, 1000 Canal St. Free. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
Drop-in Knitting: Spun
MoreEvery Sun.–Thurs. (different times). All invited to work on their knitting, crochet, weaving, and embroidery projects. 6–8 p.m. (Mon.–Thurs.) & 1–3 p.m. (Sun.), 401 N. Fourth Ave. Free. (734) 780–7867.
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Observer Editor
“The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government”: Ann Arbor City Club Dine & Discover
MoreU-M law professor Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney and author of the 2025 bestseller Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America, discusses her new book. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. 6 p.m., 1830 Washtenaw Ave. $15 lecture only; with dinner, $40 (members, $35). Preregistration required by Sept. 18. (734) 662–3279, [email protected], annarborcityclub.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Intermediate Bookbinding: Designing Your Own Book Projects”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAdults and teens invited to learn bookbinding techniques and make a handmade book. 6:30–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Witches of the Wheel”: Literati Bookstore
MoreMichigan-based queer feminist writer Lindsay Merbaum discusses her new metaphysical mystery set in a literally underground lesbian bar that hosts a weekly gathering of a group of eccentric witches. 6:30 p.m., 124 E. Washington. Free. (734) 585–5567.
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Observer Editor
Tuesday Night Workouts: Ann Arbor Track Club
MoreEvery Tues. Runners of all skill levels age 14 & up invited to participate in short, intense interval workouts. Arrive at 6:20 p.m. to warm up. 6:30 p.m., Ferry Field, 1150 S. State. Visitors free; $30/year membership for regular participants. Preregistration required at aatrackclub.org/interval-workouts.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Tree Town Uke Drop-in”: Oz’s Music Environment
MoreMusicians of all levels invited to play ukulele with members of Michigan’s oldest ukulele club. 7 p.m., 1922 Packard. Free. (734) 662–8283.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Platanthera leucophaea (Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid)”: Michigan Botanical Society
MoreTalk by Huron-Clinton Metroparks natural resources coordinator Julie McLaughlin on this endangered orchid species. Q&A. 7 p.m., U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens Auditorium, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. Free; metered parking. michiganbotanicalsociety.org/huron-valley-chapter.
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Free
Observer Editor
OnlineSkazat! Poetry Series
MoreReading (via Zoom) by poet Marcus Wicker, author of Dear Mothership (Echo, 2026). Preceded by open mic. 7–8:30 p.m., for URL preregister at facebook.com/skazat. Free. (734) 223–3165.
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Free
Observer Editor
Huron Valley Harmonizers Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society
MoreEvery Tues. Singers of all ages and genders invited to join rehearsals of this award-winning a cappella chorus. 7–8:45 p.m., First Unitarian Universalist Church, 4001 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free to visitors; call ahead or check website (dues for those who join). (734) 796–7467, [email protected], hvharmonizers.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
Shape Note Singing: Ypsi Shape Note Group
MoreSept. 8 & 22. All invited to join an evening of this early American form of hymn singing that uses musical notation with distinct shapes to make learning easier. Songbooks available. No experience required. 7–9 p.m., Riverside Arts Center, Off Center Bldg., 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Free. (734) 480–2787, riversidearts.org/shape-note-singing-ypsilanti.
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Observer Editor
Autumnal Equinox Celebration: Michigan Friends Center
MoreBonfire with singing, storytelling, and discussion. Bring a favorite verse, story, song, or bit of seasonal lore to share. Also bring a flashlight, wear long sleeves, and dress for the weather. Potluck 5:30–6:45 p.m. (bring food to share and your own place setting). 7–9 p.m., 1000 Long Lake Rd., Chelsea. Donations welcome. Preregistration requested at [email protected].
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Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
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Free
Observer Editor
Women’s A Cappella Chorus Rehearsal: Voices in Harmony
MoreEvery Tues. Women singers invited to join a rehearsal of this local 40-member a cappella barbershop harmony chorus. 7–9:30 p.m., UAW Local 898, 8975 Textile, Ypsi. Free to visitors (dues for those who join). (734) 765–3611, [email protected], voicesinharmonychorus.org.
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Observer Editor
Tuesday English Country Dance: Ann Arbor Community of Traditional Music and Dance
MoreEvery Tues. Historical and traditional English dancing to live music. All dances taught and prompted; no complicated steps, and no partner or experience needed. Bring clean, flat, nonslip shoes. First-timers asked to arrive at 6:45 p.m. 7–9:30 p.m., Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse. Suggested donation $8–$12 (students, $4; kids age 13 & under with caregiver, free). (734) 665–7704, aactmad.org/english-country.
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Observer Editor
“Swan Lake”: World Ballet Company
MoreThis L.A.–based company presents Tchaikovsky’s beloved tragic ballet about a prince who falls in love with a swan-maiden in a production highlighted by 50 dancers, over 150 costumes, and elaborate, hand-painted sets. Age 5 & up. 7 p.m., Michigan Theater. $40–$107 in advance at marquee-arts.org/calendar.
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Observer Editor
The Jeff Hamilton Trio: Kerrytown Concert House
MoreThis celebrated L.A.–based jazz percussionist is known for his unusually melodic drumming and for the crisp swing and drive of his rhythms. His new trio—with pianist Tadataka Unno and bassist Jon Hamar—just released A New Chapter, a live album of standards and originals that Jazz Weekly calls “lyrical and tasty,” with “timeless time keeping.” 7:30 p.m., 415 N. Fourth Ave. Tickets $35–$80 (students, $25–$40) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com & at the door. (734) 769–2999.
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Nightspots
Cousin Curtiss.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborExuberant, vibrant blues- and folk-style songs about small-town life by this Northern Michigan singer-songwriter who accompanies himself on guitar and harmonica, with splashes of kazoo, beat-boxing, and scat singing. Free; nonperishable donations for Food Gatherers accepted.