Free events in Central Michigan, MI

Standish Farmers Market is seeking vendors, with direct marketers and handmade crafters encouraged to participate. Shoppers can explore a changing selection of locally grown vegetables and fruits, fresh flowers and plants, baked goods, meats, dairy products, and prepared foods that serve residents and visitors of the Saginaw Bay Region. The market highlights the work of local growers and gives travelers a taste of what the community produces, and it has earned strong support since it began. It is a summertime staple for the area. For vendor information or questions, contact Market Manager Ray Koroleski at 989-313-7696 or the Depot at 989-718-3021.

Free dinner is served at Bad Boys Garage Toys, also known as the old Muffler Man. This weekly gathering runs every Friday night throughout the year and features hot dogs, brats, Coney dogs, and chips with plenty of toppings. The meal is provided at no cost.

Begin at the Visitor Center to pick up an activity booklet, then explore learning stations throughout the park to discover more about Michigan’s forests. Every participant receives a goodie bag, and once the booklet is completed you can return to the Visitor Center to collect a prize. This event is free, but a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for park entry. For more information, call the Visitor Center at 989-348-2537.

Shop for fresh produce, crafts, and local goods at the Grayling Farmers Market at Grayling City Park. Vendors include farmers and makers, plus food and music. The market runs weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays during the season, and this date features hours from late morning into the afternoon.

At Grayling City Park, the market runs on Thursdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend into mid October. Browse a mix of vendors and crafters, with food, music, clothing, and more creating a welcoming, community-focused shopping experience. For vendor inquiries, contact graylingfarmersmarket1@gmail.com.

CCN Car Show hosts a monthly cruise-in at the Last Chance Garage, where car enthusiasts gather to enjoy a free dinner and spend time with fellow fans. Attendees can bring a classic to display or come to browse the cars and talk shop.

Sweet Copper Sodas brings ice cold, Michigan-made refreshments to Northern Michigan farmers markets this summer. The lineup features classic Sarsaparilla alongside the Cherry Bomb flavor, all made with real ingredients. Visitors can pick up single bottles or a six-pack and fold these sodas into their regular market routine.

Adults are invited to an open art studio session in the Creativity Center inside the original gallery at AuSable Artisan Village. There is no fee and no registration, just show up. Bring your own supplies and materials, and create whatever you’d like. While there isn’t an instructor, Pam Meland will be there to help facilitate. Donations are welcome.

Let's Discuss Book Club meets on the second Thursday of each month in the WBDL community room. This month's book is "Orange is the New Black" by Piper Kerman. Copies are available at the library for checkout.

Standish Historic Depot hosts a free summer concert series featuring live music, with dancing welcome throughout. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy performances with family and friends. The schedule highlights acts such as the Rhett Yocom Blues Band, The Rivermen, The Reliks, an Elvis tribute by Bryan Elzie Dixon, The Bentleys, Kowalski Brothers Band, Hale Creek Band, and High 5 Band, with one appearance by The Rivermen taking place in Omer City. Concessions include hot popcorn and beverages available for purchase. Voluntary donations that support the Depot’s year-round operations can be placed in candy cane collection containers. Event sound is provided by Wilk Entertainment.

Kilcare Feud returns with a fresh round of team-based fun. Form a crew and put your smarts to work in a playful showdown for prizes awarded to the three highest scoring teams. There is no entry fee, and the event is open to participants of any age. Food and beverages are available throughout. You can reserve a table by calling in advance, since space is limited. More feud nights are on the schedule.

Thursdays in the City features live music from The Sauce Cats at Riverwalk Place. This free community event, sponsored by the Gladwin Business & Professionals Association, is open to everyone. Expect an energetic mix of rock, blues, funk, and well known favorites from a lively, skilled band. Bring lawn chairs, gather friends and family, and settle into Riverwalk Place’s backyard for an evening of music, dancing, and a relaxed vibe. Dinner and drinks are available from Riverwalk Place for those who want to make a night of it. If it rains, the show will be moved indoors.