• 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Weekly Rehearsal: Washtenaw Women’s Community Chorus

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    Every 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].

  • Observer Editor

    Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor Senior Center

    Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor Senior Center
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    Every 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.

  • Observer Editor

    High Holidays Observance: Ann Arbor Jewish Cultural Society

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    All 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].

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Michigan Marching Band Practice

    Michigan Marching Band Practice
    More

    Every 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 12 hours. 4:45 p.m., new Elbel Field, Hill at Fifth Ave. Free. (734) 764–0582.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)

    More

    Every 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. 

  • Observer Editor

    High Holidays Observance: Ann Arbor Jewish Cultural Society

    More

    All 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].

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Group Ride: Ann Arbor Velo Club

    Group Ride: Ann Arbor Velo Club
    More

    Every 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.  

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Drop-in Knitting: Spun

    Drop-in Knitting: Spun
    More

    Every 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.

  • Observer Editor

    “Barkskins”: Literati Bookstore Eco Book Club

    More

    All 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Group Runs: A2 Runners

    Group Runs: A2 Runners
    More

    Every 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] 

  • Ann Arbor Embroiderers’ Guild Meeting

    More

    West 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/

    https://www.ega-glr.org/chapters/ann-arbor/

    Free
  • Nightspots

    Paul Keller Orchestra.: Zal Gaz Grotto

    Paul Keller Orchestra.
    More
    Zal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann Arbor

    Award-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.

  • Observer Editor

    Ann Arbor Stamp Club

    More

    Planning 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Comedy Show: The Blind Pig

    Comedy Show: The Blind Pig
    More

    Every 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.

  • Nightspots

    Palmyra.: Ark

    More
    Ark 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor

    Young 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.

  • 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

    a2Tech360: Ann Arbor Spark

    More

    Sept. 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet

    Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet
    More

    Every 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

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

    More

    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

    “Meet the Maestro”: Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

    More

    Music 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. 

    https://a2so.org

  • Community Listing
    Free

    Tech HomeComing Career Fair: A2Tech360

    More

    1919 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.

    https://a2tech360.com/

    Free
  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Michigan Marching Band Practice

    Michigan Marching Band Practice
    More

    Every 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 12 hours. 4:45 p.m., new Elbel Field, Hill at Fifth Ave. Free. (734) 764–0582.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Game Night: Sylvan Factory

    Game Night: Sylvan Factory
    More

    Every 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Stitched Postcards”: Ann Arbor District Library

    More

    Adults 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. 

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Drop-in Knitting: Spun

    Drop-in Knitting: Spun
    More

    Every 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.

  • Observer Editor

    “The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government”: Ann Arbor City Club Dine & Discover

    More

    U-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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Witches of the Wheel”: Literati Bookstore

    More

    Michigan-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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor
    Online

    Skazat! Poetry Series

    More

    Reading (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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Huron Valley Harmonizers Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society

    More

    Every 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.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    Shape Note Singing: Ypsi Shape Note Group

    Shape Note Singing: Ypsi Shape Note Group
    More

    Sept. 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.

  • Observer Editor

    Autumnal Equinox Celebration: Michigan Friends Center

    More

    Bonfire 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].

  • Observer Editor

    Tuesday English Country Dance: Ann Arbor Community of Traditional Music and Dance

    More

    Every 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.

  • Observer Editor

    “Swan Lake”: World Ballet Company

    More

    This 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.

  • Observer Editor

    The Jeff Hamilton Trio: Kerrytown Concert House

    More

    This 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.

  • Nightspots

    Cousin Curtiss.: Ark

    More
    Ark 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor

    Exuberant, 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.