Central Michigan 2024-25

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Restaurants

Bomber Restaurant

Mom-&-pop brunch diner adorned with model airplanes famous for an enormous breakfast platter.

306 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

Phone: (734) 482-0550 | Web: www.bomberrestaurant.net

Spencer

Hip, laid-back spot featuring seasonal locavore fare, plus curated wine & cheese lists & craft beer.

113 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Phone: (734) 369-3979 | Web: www.spencerannarbor.com

Aloha Cookin’

Family-run restaurant specializing in local-style Hawaii cuisine—a melting pot of flavors.

350 Albert St, East Lansing, MI 48823

Phone: (517) 657-7963 | Web: www.alohacookin.com

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Bellflower

Contemporary spot with a patio offering a seasonal, locally sourced dinner menu & cocktails.

209 Pearl St # 202, Ypsilanti, MI

The Chop House

Chophouse decorated with elegant gas lamps offers premium steak, wine & interactive tablet menus.

322 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI

Altu’s Ethiopian

Low-key, independently owned outpost for traditional Ethiopian fare & combo meals.

1312 E Michigan Avenue, East Lansing, MI

The People’s Kitchen

Creative comfort foods & craft cocktails served amid colorful industrial decor, plus weekend brunch.

2722 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI

La Torre Taqueria

Laid-back, family-owned operation serving classic Mexican fare such as tacos & burritos.

1525 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti, MI

Knight’s Steakhouse

Old-school outfit serving a variety of steaks, seafood & burgers in a comfy setting with a full bar.

2324 Dexter Ave, Ann Arbor, MI

Soup Spoon Café

Colorful & cozy cafe offers a diverse menu of home-style eats & regional beer.

1419 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI

Frita Batidos

Stark white space with picnic table seating serves colorful cuban street food & tropical cocktails. 117 W Washington Street, Ann Arbor, MI

Casablanca

Relaxed, halal mainstay preparing Moroccan & Middle Eastern recipes along with smoothies & desserts.

2333 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti, MI

Piazzano’s

Unfussy bar/eatery serving pizza & Italian fare, plus Mexican grub, sandwiches, burgers & breakfast. 1825 N Grand River Avenue, Lansing, MI

EVENTS 2024

Nov 16

Ann Arbor Orchid Festival

Welcome to the Ann Arbor Orchid Festival! Join us at the beautiful Matthaei Botanical Gardens for a day filled with stunning orchids. Whether you’re an orchid enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, this event is perfect for everyone. Explore a variety of orchid displays, learn from experts in orchid care, and shop for your own orchid to take home. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of orchids! Learn more and join us this year at eventbrite.com.

Nov 22

Holiday Greens & Winter Market

Come to the Holiday Greens Market to find what you need to get your home or business ready for the holiday season! There will be crafters, decorations, décor, live music, and of course, holiday greens! Shop to decorate or find that special gift to give. Learn more and come soak in the holiday spirit at eventbrite.com.

Nov 23 - Dec 23

Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo

Step into a real-life winter wonderland as thousands of sparkling lights transform the zoo into a magical holiday paradise. Wander through festively illuminated pathways, basking in the warm and inviting glow of twinkling lights that surround you. Listen to the soothing sounds of holiday music serenading you as you stroll, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. This is your opportunity to craft cherished family memories against the backdrop of breathtaking and dazzling light displays. Learn more and come see the lights at eventbrite.com.

Dec 7

HOLIDAYFEST 2024

Join us for community merriment and celebration during the holiday season! HOLIDAYFEST is a wintertime neighborhood celebration that features multiple activities including free food trucks, early-childhood

EVENTS 2024-25

crafts, give-a-aways, musical entertainment, and our annual NW

GOLDBERG HOLIDAY MARKET. The event shares traditions and experiences celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and more. The event is free, but registration is required. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Dec 13

Wassail Fest

Join us for a delightful evening at the Wassail Fest on Fri Dec 13, 2024! Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit as we celebrate the holiday season with a variety of wassail drinks. Located at Downtown Blissfield Michigan, our charming venue will be transformed into a winter wonderland, filled with twinkling lights and joyful decorations. Indulge in the delicious wassail concoctions crafted by local businesses and enjoy the warmth and cheer of the holiday season with friends and family. Learn more and join us at eventbrite.com.

Dec 15

Christmas at the Orchard at Freedom Winery

Santa Claus is coming to town to shop local! Welcome to Christmas at the Orchard at Freedom Winery! Join us on Sun, Dec 15, 2024 at 1:30 PM for a festive celebration at Freedom Winery located at 13011 Bethel Church Road, Manchester, MI, USA. Get ready for a day filled with holiday cheer, delicious adult cocktails, and fun activities for the whole family. Learn more and join us this year at eventbrite.com.

Jan 25 2025

The ReVamp Clothing Swap Festival

We’re hosting a Clothing Swap Festival and everyone is invited!! Picture this, 400 of your best friends all clear out their closets and you get to take their unwanted things. While doing that, you get to enjoy amazing local musicians, meet new friends, and upcycle clothing. At the end, all of the left over items are donated to local non-profits in Detroit! Welcome to The ReVamp Clothing Swap Festival. You’re in the right place! Learn more and join us this year eventbrite.com.

EVENTS 2025

Feb 1 2025

Black History Month Film Festival

Welcome to the Black History Month Film Festival! Join us at the Silver Lake Church Of The Nazarene for a celebration of African American culture through cinema. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a selection of powerful films that highlight the rich history and contributions of the Black community. Get ready for a cinematic experience like no other as we come together to honor and recognize the achievements of African Americans throughout history. Don’t miss out on this special event! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Feb 8 2025

Blood Bash 2025

Blood Bash 2025 is the 8th iteration of MeggaXP’s International Horror Film Festival & Convention! It is Jackson, Michigan’s biggest day for horror, and YES, it’s in February because there’s not much else to do in Jackson in the winter time! Friday is our film festivals BONUS NIGHT - where more than 20 semi-finalist films will be screened for your viewing pleasure! Blood Bash After Dark is back for 2025 - and this time we are bringing back the traditional after party! The Game Room will still be open for people to play games in BUT we are adding a LIVE CONCERT from “Tattered and Torn - Detroit’s Slipknot Tribute Band”. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Feb 22 2025

WHISKEY FEST 2025 - Royal

Oak

Connecting Whiskey Lovers with great whiskey and building relationships with top whiskey brands while creating memories with friends sampling Kentucky bourbon, Rye whisky, American whisky, Canadian whisky, Irish whisky, Scotch whisky, Blended whisky and even Japanese whisky! Commercial distilleries began introducing whiskey made from wheat and rye in the late 18th century. All around the world, this gorgeous amber spirit has captivated humans for centuries.Whiskey Fest aims to explore all of these options, and to help lead you to your new favorite way to imbibe! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar 11 2025

THE IRISH COMEDY TOUR Clare’s 50th Irish Festival

Join us at the Doherty Hotel for some great food and beverages before the show, and get ready for an event, of which the likes of, has never been to Clare before. The Irish Comedy Tour takes the party atmosphere of a Dublin pub and combines it with a boisterous, belly-laugh band of hooligans The group’s comedians and musicians, whose ancestors hail from the Emerald Isle, include Detroit native Derek Richards; Ohio’s Michael Malone; Nova Scotia’s Damon Leibert; and from Inchicore, a suburb of Dublin, Ireland Derrick Keane. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Mar 15 2025

2025 Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival

The festival will consist of a keynote, 4 sessions, with 7 breakout options per session, and an Authors Alley book signing session. Each attendee will have the option to have lunch (provided by the festival for free) during one of their sessions. The event concludes with a book signing session where participants can get their books signed by the authors! The Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival is a volunteer organization made up of lovers of literature, who have come together to create a fantastic opportunity for students from Northwest Ohio and the surrounding area to meet their favorite authors and discover new authors. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Apr 5 2025

Seusstival!

Join us at Silver Lake Church Of The Nazarene for a whimsical celebration inspired by the beloved works of Dr. Seuss. Dive into a world of imagination and fun with activities for all ages. From storytelling to crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come dressed as your favorite Seuss character and let your creativity shine! Don’t miss out on this exciting event full of laughter and joy. Learn more about this event and join us at eventbrite.com.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~

In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~

Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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EVENTS 2025

May 3-4 2025

Spring Davisburg Antique Festival Dealer Registration 2025

If you are a dealer of antiques and collectibles, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to participate in the upcoming Michigan Antique Festivals. The Michigan Antique Festival is always incredibly popular, with thousands of people attending to browse the wide variety of treasures on offer. As a dealer, you’ll have the chance to showcase your unique items to a large and enthusiastic audience, making it a great opportunity to make some money. Sign up today to reserve your spot at the festival! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

May 10 2025

Rustic Revival Craft Fair & Market

Join us for a fantastic day of shopping, eating, and fun at the Rustic Revival Craft Fair & Market! This exciting event will be held at the Shiawassee County Fair where you can explore a wide variety of unique crafts, handmade goodies, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Whether you’re looking for home decor, jewelry, clothing, or delicious treats, our talented vendors have got you covered. With live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jun 7 2025

Ann Arbor African American Festival Sat. June

7th 2025

Welcome to the Ann Arbor African American Festival happening on Sat. June 7th 2025! Join us for a day filled with music, food, art, and culture celebrating the African American community in Ann Arbor. The event happens one block from Kerrytown/A2 Farmers Market at the corner of E. Ann St/4th Ave and E. Ann St./Main located behind the Washtenaw County Courthouse in what is formerly known as the Historical Black Business District in the 1950s, 60s & 70s. Enjoy live performances, delicious food vendors, local artists, and more. Learn more online at eventbrite.com.

cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

OZONE HOUSE

Ozone House helps youth lead safe, healthy, and productive lives. We are the only agency in Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and the surrounding areas) that provides free, confidential, and voluntary shelter and support services to homeless youth including runaways and high-risk youth ages 10-20 and their families. Web: ozonehouse.org

YPSI PRIDE

Ypsi Pride aspires to unite the people of Ypsilanti through a celebration of LGBTQ+ Culture by reaffirming our visibility and inclusivity across this community. Web: www.facebook.com/YpsiPride

SALUS CENTER

Salus Center serves Lansing’s LGBTQIA+ communities as a gathering space and information hub. We advocate for the rights of our community members by honoring and affirming the interconnectedness of oppression. Web: saluscenter.org

PFLAG

The mission of PFLAG is to build on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQIA+ people and allies who support one another and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value, and affirm LGBTQIA+ people. GreaterLansingPFLAG@gmail.com

STAND WITH TRANS

Stand with Trans is a 501(c)3 whose mission is to provide the tools needed by transgender youth so they will be empowered, supported, and validated as they transition to their authentic life. Web: standwithtrans.org

QUEERING MEDICINE

Queering Medicine is a grassroots advocacy organization made up of queer people working to improve health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ people in the greater Lansing area using science-informed knowledge and practice. Web: www.queeringmedicine.com

TENDER HEART GARDENS

Founded in 2017, the Queer and Trans Growing Collective has evolved into a queer and trans-led microfarm focused on community engagement and education. Weekly work days during the growing season are on Sundays at 10:00 am. Web: tenderheartgardens.com

EVENTS 2025

Jun 21 2025

1st Annual Michigan Food Truck & Beer Festival at Ionia Fairgrounds Food Truck Festivals of America is bringing the 1st Annual Michigan Food Truck & Beer Festival to Ionia Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 21st, from Noon to 5 PM (VIP hour 11 AM to Noon). This 2025 festival will be a weekend of beer, great food, lawn games, music, and fun for the whole family. Most importantly - bring your friends and family, lawn chairs, blankets, and soak in the sun! Learn more and join us this year at eventbrite.com.

Jul 24 2025

Rhythm and Vibe Fest

Get ready to groove and feel the good vibes at Rhythm and Vibe Fest - a day full of music, dance, and positive energy! A four-day festival featuring music, classes, teachers, amazing Drum Circles, community activities, parade, art, love, and Good vibes. The event is seeking volunteers for various roles such as drummers, gate people, children’s area staff, security, fire, and more. Learn more and join us this year at eventbrite.com.

Aug 30 2025

2nd Annual Peachy Keen Craft Fair 2025

The 2nd Annual Peachy Keen Craft Fair will take place on August 30, 31, and September 1, 2025. (Saturday-Monday) The hours will be 10a6p each day. We once again will be located in the parking lot of Summit Entertainment Center at 66600 Van Dyke, Washington, MI, 48095. Our first year was a lot of fun, and we had a fairly steady flow, but the second year is going to be even BIGGER and BETTER! We hope to see all of you back for year 2! Learn more details and join us this year at eventbrite.com.

Sep 27 2025

Fall Midland Festival Dealer Registration 2025

The Michigan Antique Festivals is a Michigan Tradition, for over 55 years it’s been Michigan’s largest indoor/outdoor market! Don’t miss this

EVENTS 2025

weekend at the Midland County Fairgrounds. Featuring hundreds of dealers, live music, vintage market, classic car show, DIY primitives, great fair foods, unique finds, kids friendly, and so much more. All ages welcome. Kids 11 and under free. Rescue a piece of History! Learn more online at eventbrite.com.

Oct 1 2025

T-Shirt Painting Fun

A self-guided T-shirt painting experience to self-express and de-stress in a therapeutic artistic way while listening to enjoyable music. Come create some memories with family and friends and unleash your creative side T-shirt painting at Party with a Tee! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

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