Observer Editor
Events from this organizer
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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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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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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
Independence Lake Craft Show: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
MoreShow and sale of arts and crafts from over 50 area crafters for sale. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Independence Lake County Park, 3200 Jennings, Beach Center Pavilion, Whitmore Lake. Free admission, but $6 (nonresidents, $10) vehicle entry fee. (734) 449–4437, [email protected].
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Free
Observer Editor
Annual Webster Fall Festival: Webster Township Historical Society/Webster United Church of Christ
MorePopular country fair with hayrides (10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., $3 per adult, $1 per child under 12), old-time kids games and other activities, exhibits of antique cars and farm equipment, and trained sheepdog demonstrations (11 a.m., 1 p.m., & 3:30 p.m.). Also, wool spinning and blacksmithing demos, one-room schoolhouse sessions (11 a.m., 12:30, 2, & 4 p.m.), and a craft fair. Also, refreshments for sale, art displays, self-guided tours of the historical buildings, and an exhibition baseball game (1:30 p.m.) using 1860s-era rules between the Chelsea Monitors and the Dexter Union base ball clubs. Live music includes the Dexter Dulcimer Group (11 a.m.), old-time music by the local Stout Hearted String Band (noon), Celtic music from the Foxtree Folk Band (1:10 p.m.), and the veteran Ann Arbor bluegrass band the RFD Boys (4 p.m.). 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Webster Community Hall, 5583 Webster Church & Farrell Rds., Dexter. Free admission (donations accepted). (734) 368–0887, websterfallfestival.org.
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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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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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Observer Editor
Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
MoreEvery Sat. & Sun., except Sept. 19. A chance to view LSNC birds of prey and its Critter House animals, which include frogs, turtles, snakes, and other species native to Michigan. Noon–3 p.m., 1831 Traver. $5 suggested donation. (734) 997–1553, lesliesnc.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
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
MoreFri. Sept. 4 & 18 and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show some barnyard buddies, including a Highland cow, a chicken, a Flemish giant rabbit, and a miniature donkey at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. & Sun., staffers show the cow, chicken, and rabbit at 1 & 4 p.m., and the donkey at 2 & 3 p.m. All tickets include a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 7–9 p.m. (Fri.) and noon–5 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $15 (kids ages 2–12, $13; under age 2, free) cash or credit at the door only. (734) 929–9324, thecreatureconservancy.org.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Seed Swap”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAll invited to take seeds to grow at home, or bring their surplus seeds (in labeled envelopes) to share with others. Flowers, vegetables, herbs, and bulbs are welcome. 1–3 p.m., AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Free
Observer Editor
U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology Saturday Sampler
MoreSept. 12 & 26 (different times). Docent-led tours exploring “Daily Life in Ancient Rome” (Sept. 12), “All Things Egyptian” (Sept. 26, 11:15 a.m.), and “Highlights of the Kelsey” (Sept. 26, 2 p.m.). 11:15 a.m.–noon (Sept. 12 & 26) & 2–3 p.m. (Sept. 26), 434 S. State. Free. (734) 764–9304.
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Observer Editor
Drop-in Improv Games: Ypsi Improv
MoreSept. 1, 12, 19, & 26 (different locations). All age 16 & up invited to learn about and participate in improv games in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free setting. No experience necessary. The Sept. 19 meeting is followed by an hour-long skills session discussing and practicing a specific improv skill. 7–9 p.m. (Tues.) & 2–4 p.m. (Sat.), Riverside Arts Center (Sept. 1, 12, & 26), 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi; & Riverside Park, (Sept. 19), 5 W. Cross, Ypsi. Tickets $8 (Sept. 12, free; Sept. 19, $15) in advance via PayPal or Venmo linked from meetup.com/ypsi-improv or in cash at the door.
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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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Free
Observer Editor
“Ojibway/Anishinaabe Two-Spirit Identity”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreCecelia Rose LaPointe discusses her life as a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and Bad River Band of Lake Superior Ojibway, as well as her “two-spirit identity,” a term used in Indigenous communities to embrace individuals with diverse gender identities. 3–5 p.m., AADL Westgate. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Observer Editor
“Fall Festival”: Community Farm of Ann Arbor
MoreCommunity celebration with games and country dancing, with Drake Meadow calling to music by Nutshell. Also, cob oven pizza, and a potluck (bring a dish to share). 3–7 p.m., 1525 S. Fletcher, Chelsea. Suggested donation, $20/family at the gate. communityfarmofannarbor.com.
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Free
Observer Editor
Know Obstacles Open Mic & Comedy Hour: Oz’s Music Environment
MorePerformers of all abilities invited to play instruments, sing songs, and tell jokes with members of this band comprised of kids and adults with special needs. Hosted by Oz’s owner Steve Osborn. Spectators welcome. 4–5 p.m., 1922 Packard. Free; donations accepted. (734) 662–8283.
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Free
Observer Editor
“Patchwork Visible Mending”: Ann Arbor District Library
MoreAdults & teens invited to learn some tricks to repair garments with patches, followed by a chance to patch a worn item from home with provided supplies. 4–5 p.m., AADL Malletts Creek. Free. (734) 327–4200.
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Nightspots
Wind, Wood, & Steel.
MoreJazzy folk-rock covers and originals by Mark Clevey, Jeremy Seligman, and Bill Connnors, a local trio whose instrumentation includes guitars, flute, mandola (the ancestor of the mandolin), and keyboard.
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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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Nightspots
Vicalely & The Non Music Majors.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiLocal acoustic rock cover band. 4:30–6:30 p.m.
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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
A2 Jazz Fest
MoreNow in its 10th year, this showcase of local and regional jazz acts features free concerts Saturday and Sunday. Also, on Saturday at 2 p.m., a free jazz improv workshop aimed at teens (sign up at a2jazzfest.com). Tonight: Noah Hogan Quartet (5:30 p.m., outdoors), an ensemble led by this local guitarist, a U-M grad currently pursuing a degree in jazz performance at NYU. Tariq Gardner & the Evening Star (7 p.m., outdoors), Afro-futuristic jazz ensemble led by Detroit drummer Gardner, a recent U-M music school grad whose music also draws on elements of hip-hop and neo-soul. Zekkereya El-magharbel Trio (7 p.m., indoors), a free jazz acoustic ensemble led by composer-trombonist El-magharbel, a recent U-M jazz studies grad. Sean Dobbins Organ Trio (8 p.m., indoors), a local jazz ensemble led by drummer Dobbins. 5:30–9 p.m. Rabbit Hole (Sat.), 608 E. William, & Ravens Club (Sun.), 207 S. Main. Tickets $50 (Fri.) & free (Sat. & Sun.). Donations accepted. (734) 769–2999, a2jazzfest.com.
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Observer Editor
Comedy Mystery Dinner Show: The Dinner Detective Ann Arbor
MoreSept. 12 & 26. Dinner served while actors masquerading as fellow diners enact a comical murder mystery in which audience members may find themselves prime suspects. 6–9 p.m., Ann Arbor Marriott, 1275 S. Huron St., Ypsi. $75 includes gratuity. Preregistration required at thedinnerdetective.com. (866) 496–0535.
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Nightspots
Jake Manzi & Anne Erlewine.: North Star Lounge
MoreNorth Star Lounge 301 N. Fifth Ave., Ann ArborDouble bill. Manzi is an L.A.–based pop-rock singer-songwriter whose music is influenced by Marshall Crenshaw, Tom Petty, and Bruce Springsteen, among others. Erlewine is a local pop-folk singer-songwriter whose songs are known for their delicate lyrics. 6:30–7:45 p.m. $12.
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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. All proceeds benefit the suicide-prevention nonprofit Garrett’s Space. 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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Nightspots
The Slouches.: Moonwinks Tavern
MoreMoonwinks Tavern 5151 Plymouth Rd. (734) 994-5151.Local indie punk-polka band.
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Nightspots
David Goyette Band.: Ypsi Alehouse
MoreYpsi Alehouse 124 Pearl, #100, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiDetroit-area alt-rock band.
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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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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.
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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
Dames Brown: University Musical Society Ypsi Freighthouse Residency
MoreLive music by this Detroit funk group fronted by three women vocalists that specializes in classic soul and R&B-inflected vocals over pulse-pounding music. Age 12 & up. 7:30 p.m., 100 Market Pl., Ypsi. Tickets $5 (additional donation appreciated) in advance at ums.org/season/2026-27-season & (if available) at the door. (734) 764–2538.
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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.