Events
-
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Community Listing
Candle-Making Event: The Universe Stuff
MoreHOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor
An afternoon designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and craft beer come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming brewery atmosphere — 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). Beer will be available for purchase (not included in the ticket).
What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handcrafted candle
o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
• A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphereWhat to Expect
• 3:00–3:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your beer, and get comfortable.
• 3:15–4:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
• 4:15–4:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your beer while your candle begins to set — we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
• 4:30–5:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours.Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Pair beer with hands-on creativity
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memoryMeet 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.
$45 -
Community Listing
Beer + Candle-Making: HOMES Campus - Beer Garden & Taproom
More112 Jackson Plaza,, Ann Arbor
An afternoon designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and craft beer come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming brewery atmosphere — 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). Beer will be available for purchase (not included in the ticket).
✨ What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handcrafted candle
o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
• A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere✨ What to Expect
• 3:00–3:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your beer, and get comfortable.
• 3:15–4:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
• 4:15–4:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your beer while your candle begins to set — we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
• 4:30–5:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours.✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Pair beer with hands-on creativity
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• 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
HOMES Campus – www.homescampus.comThis workshop will take place at HOMES Campus, a spacious gathering place and creative hub on the west side of Ann Arbor. Created as an extension of HOMES Brewery, the Campus brings together craft beverages, food, coffee, community events, and flexible gathering spaces in one lively and welcoming destination.
The property features a large indoor taproom, a sprawling outdoor beer garden, and dedicated event spaces designed for bringing people together. Its colorful, modern atmosphere feels energetic and creative while remaining casual and comfortable—making it an ideal setting for a hands-on experience with friends.
Guests can enjoy HOMES Brewery’s rotating selection of craft beers alongside other beverage options, including cider, wine, spirits, and low-ABV spritzes. HOMES Campus is also home to Campo Pizza and Dozer Coffee, giving visitors plenty of food and drink options to explore during their time at the venue.
With its unique mix of creativity, community, and local flavor, HOMES Campus is the perfect setting for a memorable candle-making experience—where guests can create something of their own while enjoying great drinks, delicious food, and the vibrant atmosphere of one of Ann Arbor’s most distinctive gathering spaces.
https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/beer-candle-making-workshop-homes-campus
$60 -
Nightspots
Phil Ogilvie’s Rhythm Kings.: Zal Gaz Grotto
MoreZal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann ArborLocal 10-piece big band led by tubaist Chris Smith that specializes in the old-time big band music of the late 1920s and early 1930s associated with Jelly Roll Morton and King Oliver.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
-
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.
-
Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
-
FreeObserver Editor
“Fall Migration in Nichols Arboretum”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
MoreEvery Thurs., Sept. 3–Oct. 29. WBNA members lead a hike through the Arb to look for fall warblers and other southbound migrants. Birders of all skill levels welcome. 8–11 a.m., meet in the cul-de-sac at the end of Riverview. (off Geddes near the east end of Dow Field). Free. washtenawbna.org.
-
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.
-
Community Listing
Scary Movies Trivia Night: HOMES Campus: HOMES Campus
MoreHOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor
Get in the Halloween spirit and join us for a scary movie themed Sporcle trivia night!
Trivia is free to attend and all ages are welcome. Enjoy food by Campo Pizza and beverages by HOMES Brewery (n/a options also available).
Free -
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 -
Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Nightspots
Open Mic.: Tap Room
MoreTap Room 201 W. Michigan, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiAll musicians invited. Hosted by singer-guitarist Brian Brickley.
