Events
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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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Community Listing
Candle-Making Workshop: Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation
More701 W Ellsworth Rd, , Ann Arbor
An experience designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.
Join us for a relaxed candle-making workshop where beautiful scents, hands-on creation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere come together. Laugh, connect, and enjoy the process — no experience needed.
Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory).
✨ What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handcrafted candle
• A cozy, welcoming atmosphere to relax and connect✨ What to Expect
• 6:00–6:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in and get comfortable.
• 6:15–7:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle, infused with intention and your favorite scent.
• 7:15–7:30 – Connect & Play: While your candle begins to set, we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
• 7:30–8:00 – Candle Decoration: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours!✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• Slow down, laugh, and be present for a couple of hours
• Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory✨ Meet the Host
Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuffRenata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
✨ About the Space
Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation – https://pittsfield-mi.gov/This workshop will take place at Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation, a welcoming community destination in Pittsfield Township, Michigan. Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation offers a variety of recreational programs, community events, classes, activities, and opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, learn, and enjoy time together.
Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation is more than just a place for recreation — it’s a welcoming community space created to bring people together. Through its diverse programs, facilities, and community activities, the organization provides opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, explore new interests, and participate in meaningful experiences.
With its welcoming atmosphere and strong focus on community connection, Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation provides a wonderful backdrop for slowing down, getting creative, and connecting with others. We’re excited to gather in a space that celebrates community, creativity, connection, and enjoying new experiences together.
https://apps.daysmartrecreation.com/dash/x/pittsfield/activity-finder/programs/67/levels/448
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Observer Editor
JLC Book Sale
MoreSept. 23–26. Local family-run sale of over 30,000 used books, as well as DVDs, audiobooks, video games, puzzles, and board games. Also, a presale on Sept. 23 from 4–8 p.m. for teachers and homeschool families. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, bldg. A, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free admission. jlcbooksale.com.
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Observer Editor
“The 2026 Midterm Elections: Process, Policy & Consequences”: U-M Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Thursday Morning Lecture Series
MoreEvery Thurs., Sept. 17–Oct. 15. Series of 5 weekly talks.
Sept. 17: MSU political science professor Eric Gonzalez Juenke on “How to Think About Midterm Elections Like an Expert.”
Sept. 24: U-M communications professor Yanna Krupnikov on “The Impact of Social Media on U.S. Elections”
Oct. 1: MSU political science professor Matthew Grossmann on “Why Policymaking Success Leads to Electoral Failure.”
Oct. 8: U-M Dearborn political science professor Mitchel A. Sollenberger on “Presidential Power and Democratic Resilience: Institutional Change and the 2026 Midterms.”
Oct. 15: Oakland University political science professor David Dulio on “The 2026 Midterms: What the Data Tells Us.”
10–11:30 a.m., Washtenaw Community College Towsley Auditorium (Morris Lawrence Bldg.), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Preregistration required at olli-umich.org. $120 (members, $70) for the 5-lecture series. $25 per lecture (members, $15). Membership, $50 a year. (734) 998–9351.
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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
“Decorative Hand Lettering”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAll invited to practice 4 different styles of hand lettering, then decorate a bullet journal, poster, comics, grocery list, or correspondence. Noon–1 p.m., AADL Malletts Creek. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Body Camera Footage as Data”: U-M Institute for Social Research
MoreTalk by U-M organizational studies professor Nick Camp about police body-camera footage, the insights it can give into everyday realities of policing, as well as tools for more accountable and just law enforcement. Noon–1 p.m., 1430 ISR, 426 Thompson. Free. (734) 764–365.
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Community Listing
Ann Arbor Club Intro
MoreThe Ann Arbor Club, a historic downtown social club for professionals, is opening its doors for a casual, no-pressure lunch. Come meet like-minded people, swap ideas, and see firsthand what makes our community worth joining. RSVP required @ join.theannarborclub.com; space is limited.
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Free
Observer Editor
U-M Center for Japanese Studies Noon Lecture Series
MoreSept 17 & 24. Talks by visiting scholars.
Sept. 17: “Gathering Fading Voices: Endangered Dialect Research in Japan Today.” A talk by Shizuoka Institute of Science and Technology (Japan) informatics professor Joy Taniguchi.
Sept. 24: “Rivers and the Politics of Temporality in Ainu Mosir.” U-M postdoc Michael Ioannides discusses the crucial role that rivers play in the identity of the Indigenous Ainu people.
Noon–1:30 p.m., Weiser Hall (room TBA), 500 Church St. Free. (734) 764–6307.
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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
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
Regent Candidate Forum: U-M Faculty Senate Office
MoreThe 2026 candidates for the U-M Board of Regents present their qualifications, articulate their vision for the University, and respond to questions. 4-5:30 p.m., University Hall, Alexander Ruthven Building, 1109 Geddes. Also available via livestream. Free. Preregistration required at facultysenate.umich.edu/regent-candidate-forum-2026.
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Free
Observer Editor
Wildlife-Friendly Homes Kickoff: Humane Society of Huron Valley
MoreFamily-friendly event for attendees to learn and practice simple ways to create habitats for wildlife at home. Leashed and socialized dogs welcome. 4–6 p.m., Olson Park Pavilion, 1515 Dhu Varren. Preregistration required at hshv.org/event-calendar. Free, donations welcome.
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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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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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Observer Editor
“Clay Almanac”: Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation Adult Art & Nature
MoreAdults invited to work with air-dry clay and natural materials, shaping them into a wall piece using a circular frame. No experience necessary; all materials provided. 5–7 p.m., Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin. $5, preregistration required at tinyurl.com/a2parksrec or (734) 794–6250. [email protected].
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Observer Editor
“Gallery Night”
MoreShow and sale of art at Chris Nordin Studios, Cluster Museum, Gutman Gallery, WSG Gallery, and other local businesses, including TeaHaus, Thistle & Bess, and Found, all within walking distance of each other. Works are in all sorts of media by local artists, some of whom are on hand to answer questions, give short talks, and demonstrate techniques. Also, a group of Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra musicians performs chamber music (5–6:30 p.m.) at 230 N. Fourth Ave. in Sculpture Plaza. 5–8 p.m., 307 N. Main, 111 & 117 E. Ann, and 118, 204, 222, & 415 N. Fourth Ave. Free admission.
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Nightspots
Steff Kayser.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborFolk songs and originals by this singer-guitarist who recently moved to Ypsi from Arizona. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free.
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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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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
Bad Decisions Track Club
MoreEvery Thurs. Runners of all abilities invited to join this eclectic group of runners ranging from people training for their first 5K to ultramarathoners. Sessions are typically interval-based track workouts, followed by socializing at a nearby brewery. 6 p.m., Ferry Field, State at Hoover. May meet elsewhere if the weather is bad. Free. See walline.wixsite.com/bdtc to sign up for email updates on each week’s workout.
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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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Free
Observer Editor
“Thursday Evening Dirt”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
MoreEvery Thurs. Moderate-paced ride, 25 to 35 miles, along the less-traveled unpaved roads around Chelsea. Bring a chair and a beverage or snack for a postride tailgate. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 6 p.m. sharp, meet at Aberdeen Bike and Outdoors, 1101 Main, Chelsea. Email [email protected] for each week’s route. Free. (313) 980–5277.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Repairsday Thursday”: All Hands Active
MoreEvery Thurs. All invited to drop in with broken electronics, furniture, toys, or any other item they’d like to try to repair or repurpose with the help and guidance of AHA members. Repairs not guaranteed. 6–8 p.m., basement of 255 E. Liberty, ste. 225. Free; donations welcome. [email protected], meetup.com/allhandsactive/events.
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Nightspots
Fresh Berrys.: El Limon
MoreEl Limon 2709 PlymouthAn evening of jazz by guitarists Dan Denison and Austin Netherton, members of the local rock band Street Fiction.
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Observer Editor
“Changemakers’ Fall Fundraiser”: Ecology Center
MoreFood trucks, local craft beer, and live music TBA, along with a panel discussion on community and environmental justice. 6 p.m., HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plz. $75 (includes a meal & drink ticket) in advance only at ecocenter.org. (734) 369–9268.
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Community ListingFree
GriefShare: St. Luke Lutheran Church
More4205 Washtenaw Ave.
Find hope and healing after the death of a loved one. You are encouraged to join us on any week. Sessions are self-contained.
The group meets on Thursdays starting at 6:30 PM for one-and-a-half hours, ending at 8:00 PM.
Each meeting consists of a video seminar, a discussion, and your personal workbook.
Each week you can expect to view a 30-minute video filled with helpful guidance, discuss grief-related issues, and gain personal recovery tips through your workbook.
Get more information and register here: https://find.griefshare.org/groups/297677
Questions? Contact: [email protected]
First meeting: Thurs., Sept. 10
Last meeting: Thurs., Dec. 10Free -
Community Listing
Cocktails: Garden to Glass: Tammy's Tastings
MoreDragonfly & Birch, 115 E Main St, Manchester, MI, United States
Celebrate the changing seasons with an evening of fresh, vibrant cocktails inspired by the late-summer harvest. In this hands-on class, we’ll explore how herbs, fruits, vegetables, and botanicals from the garden can be transformed into beautiful, balanced cocktails that capture the best flavors of September.
Each booking includes: pretzels, and nuts.
The class includes a combination of history and stories, technique instruction, and hands-on making of cocktails. Plus sampling, of course! Total consumption is equivalent to around 2 cocktails per person over the 2 hour class. Please anticipate working with other groups, sharing ingredients, and doing a mix of sitting or standing throughout the class.
Please note that we have a restricted table layout and use communal seating. Parties of two will almost always be seated with at least one other party of two. Groups of four or more will usually have their own table. You may request a private table in the “seat with” section of the booking form, and we will attempt to honor your request, but there is no guarantee that one will be available.
Sale ends 3:00pm 09/22/2026
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Observer Editor
“Mental Health Isn’t Funny”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
MoreSept. 24, 26, & 27 (different times). Educational sketch comedy show about mental health issues, written by mental health professionals who are also improv performers. 7–8 p.m. (Sept. 24 & 26), & 4–5 p.m. (Sept. 27), 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door.
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Free
Observer Editor
Live Trivia: Bløm Mead + Cider
MoreEvery Thurs. Bløm staffers lead 2 rounds of trivia. Teams or single players welcome. Prizes. 7 & 8 p.m., 100 S. Fourth Ave. Free, but purchase of food & drink encouraged. (734) 548–9729, drinkblom.com/events.
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Observer Editor
U-M Women’s Soccer
MoreMatch vs. Georgia Southern. The U-M also has home games this month against Washington (Sept. 24, 7 p.m.) and Nebraska (Sept. 27, 1 p.m., $9–$11). 7 p.m., U-M Soccer Stadium, 2250 S. State. $2–$6 (groups of 10 or more, $3 per person; kids 5 & under, free). Exhibition games, free. (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com.
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Nightspots
Nate Topo Group.: Blue LLama
MoreBlue LLama 314 S. Main, Ann ArborDetroit jazz-funk ensemble led by the young saxophonist Nate Topolewski.
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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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Nightspots
Deer & Elk Duo.: The Ranch
MoreThe Ranch 122 W. Washington, Ann ArborClassic country, western swing, and hillbilly boogie covers by the Lansing-area duo of Jason Lantrip and Jeffery Gower.
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Observer Editor
“Comedy Jamm”: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
MoreSept. 17 & 24. Performances by up to 12 aspiring and established area stand-up comics. 7:15 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $5 in advance at aacomedy.com & $6 at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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Observer Editor
Ypsilanti Community Choir Rehearsal
MoreEvery Thurs., except Sept. 3 & 10. All invited to join this independent 50+ member community chorus to sing an eclectic program of choral works, Broadway show tunes, seasonal music, pop, and more. Weekly rehearsals, semiannual concerts. Ariel Toews Ricotta directs. 7 p.m. registration. 7:30 p.m., Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 201 N. River St., Ypsi. Free to visitors ($40 to join). ypsicommchoir.org.
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Observer Editor
“Bastard”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
MoreEvery Wed.–Sun., Sept. 24–Dec. 20. Rhiannon Ragland directs retired Detroit newscaster and playwright Devin Scillian’s family comedy-drama about a conflict between brothers—an aging country rocker and a buttoned-down finance guy—after their mother’s death. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.), & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Wed.). 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org, (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
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Observer Editor
“Classic Meets Cool”: Kerrytown Concert House
MoreTulsa (OK) pianist and composer Barron Ryan performs a repertoire that stretches from classical to jazz to pop to his own compositions, which are influenced by soul, funk, and country. Tonight’s program includes the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back,” Debussy’s “Suite Bergamesque,” Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” Oscar Peterson’s “Blues Etude,” and others. 7:30 p.m., 415 N. Fourth Ave. Tickets $32–$42 (students, $20–$30) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com & at the door. (734) 769–2999.
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Observer Editor
“Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping”: Michigan Theater
MoreFilm screenings every day. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, and U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Sept. 24: “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping” (Akiva Schaffer & Jorma Taccone, 2016). Mockumentary musical comedy by the SNL-associated Lonely Island trio about the breakup of a pop rap group called the Style Boyz. Andy Samberg. 8 p.m.
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Nightspots
Paula Cole.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborSold out.
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Nightspots
The Velvet Walrus.: Zal Gaz Grotto
MoreZal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann ArborLocal dance band with a huge repertoire of classic, New Wave, and modern rock hits.
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Nightspots
James Bourland & His Ex-Husbands.: Ziggy’s
MoreZiggy’s 206 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti, YpsilantiRock ensemble led by versatile local singer-guitarist Bourland. Tonight they celebrate the 35th anniversary of the release of Nirvana’s Nevermind by playing the album in its entirety. Opener: Gregory Stovetop, a veteran Chelsea singer-songwriter whose influences range from Elvis and Johnny Cash to Soundgarden and The Replacements.
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Nightspots
Catzap.: Ann Arbor Funhouse
MoreAnn Arbor Funhouse 207 E. Washington., Ann ArborKalamazoo indie psych-rock and bedroom-pop instrumentalist who specializes in live digital loops. Opener: the East Lansing psych-rock and emo trio Tequila Mockingbird, the East Lansing rock quartet Final Boss Fight, and the Detroit-area pop-punk and emo band Team Cabin.
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Nightspots
My Salamander.: Blind Pig
MoreBlind Pig 208 S. First St., Ann ArborEclectic young local indie rock band. Openers: the Grand Haven indie rock singer-songwriter Stephen Lubera, the local indie alt-country-rock-flavored power-pop band Petalwave, and Toadally.
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Nightspots
The Pherotones.: Last Word
MoreLast Word 301 W. Huron, Ann ArborA wide range of jazz and jazzed-up popular music, from the 1920s to the present, by this all-star local quintet. With trumpeter Ross Huff, pianist Giancarlo Aversa, bassist Brennan Andes, violinist Jordan Adema, and drummer Wes Fritzemeier.
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Nightspots
Open Mic.: Tap Room
MoreTap Room 201 W. Michigan, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiAll musicians invited. Hosted by singer-guitarist Brian Brickley.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Joe’s Breakfast Club”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
MoreEvery Fri. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack a lunch or stop in Dexter. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Delhi Metro Park parking lot (left of the tollbooth), E. Delhi off Huron River Dr. Free. [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Olson Park Gravel Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
MoreEvery Fri. Slow/moderate-paced 18-mile gravel road ride with a rest stop at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Olson Park, 1515 Dhu Varren. Free. (412) 302–9960.
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Observer Editor
JLC Book Sale
MoreSept. 23–26. Local family-run sale of over 30,000 used books, as well as DVDs, audiobooks, video games, puzzles, and board games. Also, a presale on Sept. 23 from 4–8 p.m. for teachers and homeschool families. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, bldg. A, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free admission. jlcbooksale.com.
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Free
Observer Editor
“The Slow Time of Rumination”: U-M English Department Heberle Lecture
MoreBrown University humanities professor Amanda Anderson discusses the importance of slow and persistent processing of moral shocks such as profound loss, grief, regret, and loss of status. 10:30 a.m.–noon, 3222 Angel Hall, 435 S. State. Free. (734) 764–6330.
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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
“Salute to Bach”: First Baptist Church Ad Libitum Concert Series
MoreThe church’s organist Shin-Ae Chun performs a program of organ music by J.S. Bach, including Prelude and Fugue in D Major, Trio Sonata in C Minor, Concerto in D Minor, and Fantasy and Fugue in G Minor. Noon–1 p.m., 517 E. Washington (handicap access on Washington entrance). Free. (734) 663–9376, fbca2.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
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
“Corporate Persons in Human Law: Reproduction, Kinship, Jurisdiction”: U-M Anthropology Department Roy A. Rappaport Lecture
MoreU-M anthropology professor Matthew Hull discusses the unmanaged ecologically disastrous side-effects of banana-growing in the southern Philippines. First in a series of 4 monthly lectures on the role corporations play in Anglo-American governance. 3–4:30 p.m., 411 West Hall, 1085 South University. Free. (734) 764–7274.
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Community Listing
Oktoberfest, Music and Fun: Lake Forest Golf Club
More3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor
OKTOBERFEST AT LAKE FOREST! 🇩🇪
This Friday, September 25, we’re giving Friday night a Bavarian twist!Join us for an evening of house-made German favorites from Chef Blake Reetz, live music, a Biergarten, firepits & games — all right here at Lake Forest.
OKTOBERFEST MENU
🌭 Bratwurst with Sauerkraut • $11
🍽️ Sauerbraten • $19.50
🥘 Mushroom Spaetzle • $9.50
🥨 Bavarian Pretzel • $8
🍎 Apple Strudel • $6🍻 Happy Hour | 3–5 PM
🎹 Live Music | Louis Johnson & David Stearns
🔥 Founders Firepits & Games
🍺 BiergartenGrab your friends, bring the family and come hungry. This isn’t our typical Friday night at Lake Forest — it’s Oktoberfest!
📍 3110 W. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor
📞 Reservations encouraged: 734-994-8580 ext. 2
🌐 ellsworthannarbor.com -
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
“Fall Tree & Native Plant Marketplace”: Washtenaw County Conservation District
MoreShow and sale of over 100 native plant species and trees. Preorders (pick up 1-6 p.m.) encouraged at store.washtenawcd.org/collections/fall-tree-native-plant-sale. 5-6 p.m., Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Free admission. (734) 302–8715.
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Nightspots
Jeff McNiven.: The Ranch
MoreThe Ranch 122 W. Washington, Ann ArborVeteran Michigan acoustic roots rock and alt-country singer-songwriter. 5 p.m.
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Observer Editor
Blast Corn Maze: Nixon Farms
MoreEvery Fri.–Sun., Sept. 19–Nov. 1. A large corn maze with 3.5 miles of trails and 3 exits to allow for routes of various lengths. Also, a U-Pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, pedal cars, straw maze, and yard games. On Sept. 27, Family Fun Day (11 a.m.–3 p.m.) features ice cream, balloon art, kids activities, and live music from the Saline Fiddlers. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (Sat.), 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (Sun.), & 5–9 p.m. (Fri.), 6175 Daly, Dexter. $16 (ages 5–12, $13; age 4 & under, free with adult admission). blastcornmaze.com.
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Nightspots
Blockhouse Valley.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborPop & indie rock covers by the Detroit-area duo of vocalist Ashleigh Glass and guitarist Cody Cooper. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free.
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Free
Observer Editor
“World Famous Trivia”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAADL staffers lead 2 rounds of trivia aimed at adults. Prizes. 5:30–7:30 p.m., AADL Westgate. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
“History of Trees in Ann Arbor”: Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations/Leslie Science & Nature Center
MorePresentation by city staff on the history of forests in southeast Michigan, followed by a (weather permitting) guided walk to look at evidence of previous forests. 6–7:30 p.m., 1831 Traver. Free.
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Free
Observer Editor
Chinese Clay Fish Decoration: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAdults and teens invited to drop in and decorate an air-dry clay fish figurine, then set it inside a provided picture frame. Led by local artist Lyla Wang. 6–7:30 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Nightspots
Shaun Garth Walker.: Sam Hill
MoreSam Hill 5827 Jackson Rd.Local blues-oriented singer-guitarist with an eclectic, wide-ranging repertoire.