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Events in April 2026
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April 2, 2026
“Spring Migration Thursdays at the Arb”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Mar. 26–May 28. All invited to join City of Ann Arbor ornithologist and WBNA past president Juliet Berger on a walk through the Arb to observe migrating birds making their way north. Binoculars provided if needed. 9–11 a.m., U-M Nichols Arboretum, meet at the Dow Prairie entrance at Riverview. Free. washtenawbna.org.
“Cavanaugh Lake Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
“Diverse Dimensions of Art”: U-M Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Thursday Morning Lecture Series
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Mar. 12–Apr. 9. Series of 5 weekly talks.
Mar. 12: EMU art history professor Brendan Fay on “Photography Between Modern and Contemporary Art.”
Mar. 19: International Quilt Museum director Leslie C. Levy on “Art Quilts and the Fabric of Change.”
Mar. 26: U-M anthropology professor Lica Young discusses the provenance of a set of tablets with ancient writing discovered in Michigan 100 years ago in “Michigan’s Mystery Relics: Fact or Fraud?”
Apr. 2: U-M English professor Supriya M. Nair on “Tell Me What You Eat: Literary Perspectives on Food and Culture.”
Apr. 9: Huron High School English & film teacher R.J. Fox on “Screenwriting: The Hero’s Journey in 3 Acts.”
10–11:30 a.m., WCC Morris Lawrence Bldg., Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Preregistration required; create an account at olli-umich.org. $25 (members, $15); $120 (members, $70) for the 5-lecture series; membership, $50 a year. (734) 998–9351.
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun., except Apr. 11. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s labs to use scientific tools and museum specimens to answer questions and solve problems. The newest program examines how Michigan animals get along with each other—or don’t. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
Carillon Concert Series: U-M School of Music
Observer Editor
Every Mon.–Fri. through Apr. 21 (different locations). Performances by U-M carillon faculty and students. The carillons are open to visitors during the recitals; earplugs recommended. For a complete schedule see smtd.umich.edu/events. Burton Tower (noon), 230 N. Ingalls; and Lurie Tower (1:20 p.m.), 1230 Murfin. Free. (734) 615–3204.
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor Senior Center
Observer Editor
Every Mon. & Thurs. Play open to all skill levels age 18+, both non-sanctioned (Mon. 12:30–3:30 p.m.) and ACBL-sanctioned (Thurs., noon–3:30 p.m.). 12:30 p.m. (Mon.) & Noon (Thurs.), Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin. $5 (Mon.) & $9 (Thurs.); $1–$2 less for AASC members. (734) 794–6250, a2gov.org/senior, annarborbridge.com.
U-M Center for Japanese Studies Noon Lecture Series
Observer Editor
Apr. 2, 9, & 16. Talks by U-M & visiting scholars.
Apr. 2: “James Marshall Plumer’s Collecting Journey in War-torn Japan: Mingei Pottery, Folk Deities, and Ainu Art.” U-M Museum of Art curator Natsu Oyobe discusses this U-M professor who traveled around Japan to assess the condition of cultural properties, and collect artifacts, following WWII.
Apr. 9: “Powering Empire: Hydroelectricity and Highland Taiwan under Japanese Colonial Rule.” University of Pennsylvania history professor John Kanbayashi discusses how the Empire of Japan sought to use hydroelectricity to transform colonial Taiwan into an industrial hub in the 1930s & 40s.
Apr. 16: “A Queer Girl in Modern Japan: Yoshiya Nobuko.” Boston University world languages and literatures professor Sarah Frederick discusses the life and work of this popular Japanese writer known for her serialized fiction, modern fashion, and lifelong relationship with a same-sex partner.
Noon–1:30 p.m., 1010 Weiser Hall, 500 Church St. Free. (734) 764–6307.
“Division Street Pipes”: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Observer Editor
Every Thurs., Fri., & Tues. 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].
“Research Showcase”: U-M Museum of Natural History
“Research Showcase”: U-M Museum of Natural History
“Murder on the Links”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Apr. 2–May 31. David Bendena directs Steven Dietz’s 2023 farce, based on an Agatha Christie whodunit, in which eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s newest client is discovered, dead, on a French golf course. A cast of 6 actors embody a plethora of suspects in this high-energy, comic adaptation. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 3 p.m. (Thurs., Sat., & Wed.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). PRT, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
“Rethinking Patriotism: Forging a New Civic Identity”: U-M Institute for Democracy & Civic Empowerment
Observer Editor
Panel discussion on the evolving meaning of patriotism and civic responsibility with Citizen University founder Eric Liu, U-M political science professor Jenna Dednar, and U-M Student Government president Eric Veal Jr. With a musical performance by Brad Phillips, a nationally renowned Saline-bred multi-instrumental string virtuoso who plays traditional music, popular covers, and originals. 5–6:30 p.m., Rackham Amphitheatre, 4th fl. Free. [email protected].
“Archiving the World: The Bentley Library and U-M’s International Aspirations”: U-M Bentley Historical Library Making Michigan Series
Observer Editor
Talk by former Bentley director Fran Blouin on how U-M archivists forged connections with China, Denmark, the Vatican, and other countries. Refreshments. 6–8 p.m., Detroit Observatory, 1398 E. Ann. Preregistration required at detroitobservatory.umich.edu. Livestream available. Free. (734) 764–3523.
“Hills of Ann Arbor”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. Fast-paced 30-mile ride focused on climbing the hills north and east of Ann Arbor. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 6 p.m. sharp, meet at WCC back parking lot no. 6A (near the pond), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. New riders text Tom Chettleburgh at (734) 552–1025. Free.
“Pocky Taste Test”: Ann Arbor District Library
“Project Hail Mary”: Fine Print Bookshop Book Club
“Repairsday Thursday”: All Hands Active
Observer Editor
Every 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. Livestream available at meetup.com/allhandsactive/events. Free; donations welcome. [email protected].
Annual Banquet: Huron Hills Lapidary & Mineral Society
Observer Editor
All invited to the club’s annual potluck banquet; bring a dish to pass and a wrapped lapidary-related door prize to exchange. The meal is followed by a talk by Livingston County Gem & Mineral Society member Jim Hansen on the Michigan minerals of copper and datolite. 6 p.m., West Side United Methodist Church social hall, 900 S. Seventh. Free. (734) 665–5574.
Bad Decisions Track Club
Observer Editor
Every 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.
Cocktail + Candle-Making Workshop: Water Tower Distilling Co
Community Listing
An evening 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 artisanal drinks come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming tasting room 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).
✨ 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)
• One complimentary cocktail or mocktail of your choice
• A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere
✨ What to Expect
• 6:00–6:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your drink, and get comfortable.
• 6:15–7:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
• 7:15–7:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your drink, games, and conversation while your candle finishes setting.
• 7:30–8:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate and personalize your candle with dried florals, herbs, or crystals for an extra special touch.
✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Pair artisanal drinks 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.stuff
Renata 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
Water Tower Distilling Co. – www.watertowerdistilling.com
This workshop will take place at Water Tower Distilling Co., a craft distillery rooted in the rich history and community spirit of Ypsilanti.
Known for its thoughtfully crafted lineup of spirits—from bold, barrel-aged whiskeys to botanical gins and clean, classic vodka—Water Tower Distilling Co. blends tradition, innovation, and a deep respect for quality. Each spirit reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and the idea that great drinks are meant to be shared.
Inspired by the strength and ingenuity of the iconic “Rosie the Riveter,” the distillery celebrates the hard work, resilience, and creativity that define the Ypsi community.
With its welcoming tasting room in the heart of downtown, Water Tower Distilling Co. offers the perfect setting for a relaxed and social candle-making experience—where craft spirits, creativity, and meaningful connections come together.
23 N Washington St ,Ypsilanti. https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/cocktail-candle-making-workshop $60. [email protected] https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/cocktail-candle-making-workshop 248-979-4561.Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
Observer Editor
Every Mon., Thurs., & Sat. (different AARC locations). Runners of all abilities invited to join a 5K mapped route (Mon. & Thurs.) or either a beginner or advanced group run (Sat.). AARC Colonnade (6 p.m. Thurs.), 901 W. Eisenhower; AARC Traver Village (7 a.m. Sat.), 2621 Plymouth Rd.; and Corner Brewery (6 p.m. Mon.), 720 Norris, Ypsi. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
“Good Morning”: State Theatre
Observer Editor
Film screenings every Wed.–Sun. Tickets $10.50 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $8.50; members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. (734) 668–8397. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Apr. 2: “Good Morning” (Yasujirõ Ozu, 1959). This lighthearted take on Ozu’s perennial theme of intergenerational relationships tells the story of two young boys who stop speaking in protest after their parents refuse to buy a television set. Sponsored by the U-M Center for Japanese Studies. Japanese, subtitles. FREE. 7 p.m.
“Take Back the Night”: Take a Stand Against Sexual Violence
Observer Editor
This annual rally against rape features a keynote speech by Jeffrey Epstein survivor Jena-Lisa Jones, who is now an advocate for sexual assault survivors. Also, performances by Detroit Music Award–winning singer-songwriter Audra Kubat, spoken word poet Ber-Henda Williams, burlesque performer Sophia VonStardust, and U-M student dance troupe Ballet Folklorico de Metztli. Followed by a march through campus and downtown. Material could be triggering and may not be appropriate for children. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m., U-M Michigan Union Ballroom. Free. Preregistration requested, and livestream available, at tbtnannarbor.org/events/rally.
Detroit Irish Music Association Seisiún
Observer Editor
Every Thurs. All invited to join members of this local chapter of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for an informal evening playing traditional Irish music on various instruments. Lessons offered. 7–9 p.m., Grace Church main bldg., 3150 Glazier Way. Free. [email protected], detroitirishmusic.org.
“Jokes on You Comedy”: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
“Murder on the Links”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Apr. 2–May 31. David Bendena directs Steven Dietz’s 2023 farce, based on an Agatha Christie whodunit, in which eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s newest client is discovered, dead, on a French golf course. A cast of 6 actors embody a plethora of suspects in this high-energy, comic adaptation. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 3 p.m. (Thurs., Sat., & Wed.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). PRT, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
“Uncle Vanya”: U-M Theatre Department
Observer Editor
Every Thurs.–Sun., Apr. 2–12. Dan Cantor directs drama students in Anton Chekhov’s 1897 masterpiece, a richly varied ensemble tale about the search for happiness—from love, achievement, or nature—as told through the lives and discontents of an upper–middle class family in rural 19th-century Russia. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin. Tickets $35 (students, $16) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.
Thursday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Apr. 2 & 9. Two structured improv events. Spectators welcome. Apr. 2: Draft Line. Improv students are selected to perform a set with one of the house teams. Apr. 9: Duoplicity. Experienced improvisers are invited to be randomly paired up to perform a 6-minute scene. 7:30–8:30 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $7.50 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & (if available) at the door. [email protected].
“Fantastic Planet”: Michigan Theater
Observer Editor
Film screenings every Wed.–Sun. Tickets $10.50 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $8.50; members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. (734) 668–8397. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Apr. 2: “Fantastic Planet” (René Laloux, 1973). Surrealist adult animated sci-fi art film set on a planet dominated by giant aliens who consider the humans living there to be animals. 8 p.m.
“Improv Jam”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Short-form improv games with a brief long-form set at the end. No experience required. Spectators welcome. 8:30–10 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. Pay what you can at heardotsay.com/events and at the door. [email protected].