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
$60 -
Observer Editor
U-M Football vs. Iowa
Time TBAMoreSold out. Time TBA, Michigan Stadium. (734) 764–0247, mgoblue.com/sports/football.
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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
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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Observer Editor
“Flight to 25”: Telling It Fundraiser
MoreLive music, expressive arts activities TBA, a video screening, and a silent auction. Also, refreshments and a cash bar. Funds raised support this nonprofit that helps Washtenaw County kids build social-emotional skills through expressive arts. 7–10 p.m., Michigan Union Rogell Ballroom. $35 (students, $20) at myumi.ch/QM6ew. (734) 649–3118, [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
“Full Moon Campfire”: Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy
MoreAll invited to enjoy a family-oriented campfire (the final one of the season) in one of the largest conservancy-owned nature preserves in southeast Michigan. Bring blankets, chairs, and campfire refreshments; locally cut firewood appreciated. No pets. Come early to walk the trails if you like. 7–10 p.m., LeFurge Woods, 2452 N. Prospect (½ mile north of Geddes), Superior Twp. Free, donations welcome. (734) 484–6565, [email protected].
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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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Community Listing
Alt Rock Concert with Cinema Hearts, Wanted Alien, Nic Stevens, Birds From Dinosaurs: The Arboretum
More984 E Michigan Ave, Saline, MI 48176
It’s a night of alt rock at The Arboretum! Cinema Hearts, from Washington, DC, and Wanted Alien, from Ohio, come to Saline to play with local bands Birds From Dinosaurs and Nic Stevens. For fans of grunge, indie rock, psych rock, and 1960s rock. Tickets $10-15.
$10 – $15 -
Observer Editor
“Night Terrors”: Wiard’s Orchards
MoreSept. 19, 25, & 26. A haunted hayride, an asylum, and three more scary attractions, all bristling with scores of costumed monsters. Refreshments available from the Wiard’s Country Store. Recommended for ages 12 & up. 7:15–11:30 p.m., 5565 Merritt, Ypsi. Tickets $36–$65 in advance only at hauntedhousemichigan.com. (734) 390–9212.
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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
Jive Colossus: Rancho Tranquilico
MoreTwo sets of Afro-Caribbean, funk, rock, and blues dance music by this local 10-piece ensemble with a killer horn section. “Trumpet, sax, and trombone surge and sail over guitars, bass and drums to create music that is intent on movement, celebration, and dance,” writes the Detroit News. BYOB and a chair. No tobacco products or pets. 8 p.m. (doors, 7:30 p.m.), 11300 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. Parking is in neighboring Ruhlig’s Country Market driveway. $25 payable via Venmo: @jivecolossus or PayPal: @khan431. (734) 223–2321, [email protected].
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Nightspots
Wanted Alien.: The Arboretum
MoreThe Arboretum 984 E. Michigan Ave., SalineOhio-based jam-oriented instrumental funk-rock band.
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Nightspots
Ron Pope.: Ark
MoreArk 316 S. Main, Ann ArborRootsy pop-rock by this NYC-based, Georgia-bred singer-songwriter & multi-instrumentalist whose music ranges from guitar-fueled anthems to introspective ballads. Lonesome Highway calls him a “a terrific guitar and keyboard player, and a natural storyteller, with an ease that endears him immediately to the audience.” $40.
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Nightspots
Jay Frydenlund.: Mash (Ypsilanti)
MoreMash (Ypsilanti) 400 W. River, YpsilantiChirp singer-guitarist who plays rock ’n’ roll, blues, and folk covers and originals.
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Nightspots
Salmagundi.: Zal Gaz Grotto
MoreZal Gaz Grotto 2070 W. Stadium, Ann ArborLocal horn-powered Motown/Memphis soul tribute band featuring vocalist Sheila Rhodes.
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Nightspots
Levona.: Ziggy’s
MoreZiggy’s 206 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti, YpsilantiYpsi pop-rock band. Openers: the new local soul and R&B band Rose Tones and the Macomb country indie rock band Ricochet The Kid.
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Nightspots
Codex.: Ann Arbor Funhouse
MoreAnn Arbor Funhouse 207 E. Washington., Ann ArborToledo electronic artist. Openers: fellow area electronic acts Maxine, Naomi Lou, and Paradise Day.
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Nightspots
Sub Urban.: Blind Pig
MoreBlind Pig 208 S. First St., Ann ArborAll ages. Dark alt-pop with a glitchy electronic edge by this NYC singer-songwriter known for his theatrical live shows, androgynous stage presence, and powerful vocals. Opener: Golden Cats, a NYC alt-pop duo. $30.
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Observer Editor
Josh Adams: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
MoreSept. 25 & 26. Highly versatile, nationally touring Detroit comedian known for his clever observational humor, crowdwork, and storytelling abilities, a winner of the prestigious Showtime at the Apollo competition. Opening act TBA. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $20 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.