Events in Essexville, MI

Open to both longtime mentors and newcomers, this mentor training takes place at The Castle Museum of Saginaw County History. RSVP is required. Refreshments will be provided. Returning mentors are encouraged to bring their Mentor Handbooks.

Now in its 20th year, the Hell's Half Mile Film & Music Festival brings filmmakers, musicians, and audiences together in downtown Bay City for a weekend of independent films, live music, and the distinctive creative energy the festival is known for. This milestone edition honors compelling storytelling, vibrant music, and the community that brings it to life.

Quality Jerry takes the stage at Kilkenny’s Bay City for a live performance.

Get peace of mind with free, confidential HIV testing at The Hearth Home. Testing is quick and stigma free, and walk-ins are accepted. Staff also provide safer sex supplies and up-to-date information about prevention options like PrEP and DoxyPEP. Results are ready in minutes. For questions, call 989-753-9011.

Enjoy weekly trivia at Lolobee’s Lounge. To reserve a table, sign up through the lounge’s website calendar.

The 5th Annual BWell Race Series brings the community together for health, movement, and wellness at the Saginaw YMCA, featuring a 10K run, a 5K run walk, and the 3K Turtles & Hares untimed run walk. The 10K and 5K are professionally timed and USATF sanctioned. Participants in these distances receive a BWell finisher medal, the option to add a race shirt during registration, awards for the top three male and top three female finishers, complimentary race-day photos to download and share, and access to all Turtles & Hares features. The 3K offers a relaxed, family friendly outing for all ages, with a race bib, a scenic route through the Saginaw Children’s Zoo, and a welcoming, noncompetitive atmosphere. The 3K is free, and advance registration is encouraged. All ages and abilities are welcome, and strollers, wheelchairs, and accommodations are supported. Both the 5K and 3K include a segment through the Saginaw Children’s Zoo. Registration for the 10K and 5K is 30 dollars with a shirt or 25 dollars without. Seniors 60 and older pay 25 dollars with a shirt or 20 dollars without. Children five and under are free, with no shirt or medal. Families registering three to ten people receive five dollars off per person by requesting a discount code at bwell@saginawcounty.com. The BWell Challenge for Change lets participants complete both the 10K and the 5K for 50 dollars with a shirt or 40 dollars without, with senior pricing at 40 dollars with a shirt or 30 dollars without. Packet pickup and late registration are available at the Saginaw YMCA.

Road course racing takes center stage with three qualifying rounds building to one main round. Pricing is set at $25 for the first class and $10 for each additional class.

This yearly pumpkin festival features the third running of the Beer & Donut Mile, with registration taking place before the race.

Celebrate the season at Saginaw’s largest fall arts and craft show, set at the SVSU Ryder Center on the Saginaw Valley State University campus. Explore 165 juried exhibitors offering fall, Halloween, Christmas, and everyday creations, including home decor, furniture, jewelry, candles, clothing, children’s items, games, soap, and more. Enjoy food, sweets, and snacks while browsing work from makers across Michigan. Admission is $4, and children 10 and under are free. The entrance remains the same, and there will be no upstairs vendors this year due to a swim meet. The venue provides ample parking and is stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Settle into a calm, reader-friendly atmosphere at Legacy Coffee House for a quiet gathering devoted to uninterrupted reading. Bring your current book, choose a comfortable seat, and enjoy the shared focus of fellow book lovers. There is no assigned title and no expectation to discuss, though light conversation is welcome before or after the quiet time. Attendees receive 10 percent off beverage purchases. The Asterix* prioritizes welcoming, affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ people, community members who are too often undervalued, and allies, and aims for its events to be inclusive of everyone.

Suit up for Saginaw Comic Con at the Market at SVRC Marketplace, a family friendly celebration of comics, cosplay, and gaming. Costumes are encouraged, and kids can take part in a colorful parade of superheroes. A mobile gaming trailer offers action packed, hero themed games. Special guests, including costumed characters and comic artists, will be available for meet and greets. Capture the fun at photo stations with props and large backdrops. Enjoy sweet and savory snacks, including hero inspired cupcakes, and look for additional activities and surprises throughout the event.

This casual community night brings players together for deck-based play with friends. Participation is free. Promos are available, limited to one per player while supplies last.

A grown-up book fair returns this fall to The Osgood in Bay City, offering an evening filled with literary charm, local authors, and shopping tailored to book lovers. Browse a thoughtfully selected mix of vendors featuring book-inspired goods, cozy lifestyle items, and paper treasures for readers and writers. Tickets are available, and the market welcomes both casual browsers and devoted bookworms. Vendor applications are closed for this edition. Accepted vendors are contacted by Jupiter Markets via email, so please be cautious of scams.

This free concert in the Dock Door Concert Series features The Letter at The Point. The band performs original music along with covers rooted in 90s and 00s melodic alt rock, wrapping up the series and saying goodbye to summer. Attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs and enjoy the music with friends. Food and drinks will be available for purchase during the performance. Details are subject to change or cancellation.

Daze of Glory makes its debut on the Shot Shack stage with a classic rock set. This cover band performs favorites from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

A multi-band tribute show featuring Tattered & Torn, a Slipknot tribute from Detroit, together with Domination Detroit honoring Pantera and Devil's Child honoring Judas Priest.

Waylon Hanel takes the stage at Kohl Farms with his full band for an open-air concert under the sky. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and settle in for an easygoing night of live music. The on-site bar, concession stand, and food service will be available throughout the event. Outside food, drinks, and coolers are not permitted. The setting emphasizes a relaxed, authentic, community feel, blending lively performances with the rustic charm of the countryside for an experience enjoyed by guests of all ages.

This weekly One Piece Trading Card Game event features a $5 entry fee. Each participant receives a One Piece booster pack with entry. Promotional prize packs are awarded based on final standings and overall attendance.

The Great Lakes Bay Death Cafe offers an open, informal space at Lolobee’s Lounge to talk about death and related topics. There is no set agenda or theme, just conversation and listening. Open to all, and the atmosphere is queer friendly. This gathering now recurs each month unless otherwise noted.

Weekly Heroclix play with a rotating format that changes from week to week. Entry is typically $5, with different pricing for sealed, battle royale, or other special formats. Prizing scales with attendance, adding one five-figure booster to the pool for every four players, rounded up, along with additional items from the promo box selected in order of final standings.

Karaoke at White’s Bar is hosted by Josh Jekel and welcomes singers of every style to take the mic and share favorite songs. Cheer on friends and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, laughter, and memorable moments. Expect drinks, familiar tunes, and friendly faces.

A community food giveaway offers boxed groceries with clear procedures to keep the line moving safely. A photo ID is required. Each vehicle may receive up to two boxes, and to collect for additional households in the same car, each household must either have a person present with matching identification or provide written permission along with ID. If someone is picking up for you because you are working, homebound, or unable to attend, they must bring a dated, signed permission letter that authorizes them to collect a food box for your household, states how many people are in your household and their ages, and is valid only that day, as well as a copy of your photo ID, which can be a photocopy or a clear photo on a phone. On arrival, follow the yard signs to text the posted number and receive a link to the sign-in form. Complete the form, acknowledge the instructions, then keep the confirmation screen with its date and time stamp and be ready to show a screenshot to staff in the parking lot. If you do not use a smartphone or prefer not to fill out the form online, staff can assist with check-in using a tablet. Sign in only on the day of the event, and if your confirmation does not display the current date, complete the sign-in again. Submit the form once, since multiple sign-ins will not increase the amount of food provided. For a smooth pickup, clear space in your trunk or cargo area, have the trunk open or doors unlocked for loading, avoid blocking driveways, and be prepared to move for emergency vehicles. Patience and cooperation help ensure safe and efficient service for everyone.

Queer and allied artisans gather at Lolobee’s Lounge for a relaxed evening of making and conversation. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own projects and preferred materials, though shared supplies such as spare yarn, pencils, paper, and coloring books will be available. The Asterix* focuses on creating supportive, affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ people and their allies, and this inclusive gathering is open to all.

Delve into clay over four evening sessions in the museum's ceramics studio, progressing from building to glazing. This adult class welcomes complete beginners and those with prior experience. New potters can focus on functional pieces such as plates, bowls, mugs, or cups, while experienced participants pursue individualized projects. Ceramics supervisor Jack Short provides instruction and support throughout. Glazes, tools, kiln firing, and 10 pounds of clay are included. The studio offers two pottery wheels available by sign-up and spacious tables for hand-building. Tuition is $120 for members and $125 for non-members. Enrollment is limited to eight participants and refunds are not available.

Swan Lake arrives in a grand staging by World Ballet Company, where Tchaikovsky’s score rises from a live orchestra and the story of fate and magic unfolds in the struggle between good and evil. A company of 50 international dancers brings hallmark moments to life, from the delicate Dance of the Little Swans to the Black Swan’s 32 fouettés, framed by handcrafted sets and more than 150 hand sewn costumes. The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20 minute intermission, and is intended for audiences ages 5 and up. World Ballet Company, based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, tours beloved classics to cities nationwide with artists representing over ten countries, having visited more than 300 cities and shared performances with over 500,000 audience members.

Sing your favorites at Lolobee’s Lounge during a casual karaoke session open to all. There is no fee to take part, and hot tea is $1 off. Song selections are available through the Karafun catalog, making it easy to find the track you want while you enjoy music and drinks.

A brand new stage comedy brings the Golden Girls back to the Dow Event Center. Sophia is out on bail after a run in with the DEA connected to a Shady Pines scheme, Blanche and Rose have launched CreakN, a booming dating app for seniors, and Dorothy works to keep everyone on track with help from a much younger, very amorous partner. Expect cheeky laughs and the enduring warmth of four friends who always have each other's backs. There will be a 20 minute intermission. This presentation is by Murray and Peter. Balcony seating is accessible only by stairs. For accessibility questions, the box office can be reached at 989-759-1330.

A friendly community meetup at Legacy Coffee House offers a casual space to connect over conversation. Organized by The Asterix*, it focuses on creating a welcoming and affirming environment for 2SLGBTQ+ people, strategically undervalued community members, and allies. Participants receive 10 percent off beverage purchases. The atmosphere is intended to be inclusive and open to everyone.

Explore handmade creations from local crafters, including girls hair bows, car freshies, knit and crochet items, porch signs, jewelry, door hangers, salt and sugar scrubs, scrubbies, fall crafts, custom fishing poles, baked goods, charcuterie boards, and more. Some sellers may not accept electronic payments, so bringing cash is recommended. Vendors interested in participating can reserve a 10x10 space for a $50 fee and must bring their own tables. To sign up, contact Melissa at (989) 450-6035.

The fourth annual gala celebrating Nouvel features dinner and dancing at Horizons Conference Center. The event shines a light on the qualities that make Nouvel special while raising funds for the school. Cocktail attire is suggested, and a touch of sparkle is encouraged. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Class reunions are welcome. For questions, email NouvelCelebrates@gmail.com.

Line dancing returns to the farm with beginner friendly instruction to get everyone moving, followed by an open dance floor all night. The bar will be serving favorite drinks. All experience levels are welcome, from seasoned dancers to those just starting out, and the barn is ready for plenty of partners and good energy.

Explore a maze by flashlight, navigating the paths in a low light setting. The Food Trough Trailer will be open, and concessions will also be available.

Junk in the Trunk at Kohl Farms blends a community flea market, farmers market and rummage sale in a casual setting for all ages. Browse a rotating mix of sellers offering household goods, clothing, shoes, electronics, furniture, jewelry and surprise finds. Admission and parking are free for shoppers. The Food Trough Trailer serves food, and the Watering Trough Bar offers drinks with live music. Stroll the farm and enjoy an easygoing atmosphere. Those interested in selling can reserve a parking spot for 15 dollars. Cars, trucks, SUVs and vans are welcome, and trailers are not permitted. Park, pop the trunk and sell directly from your vehicle. For updates, check the event page.

Chelsea Handler takes the stage at the historic Temple Theatre in Saginaw with incisive observational comedy that mixes candid personal stories with brisk riffs on relationships, culture, and the quirks of everyday life. Known for turning her own experiences into big, relatable laughs, she delivers it all in an intimate theater setting.

Chelsea Handler brings The High and Mighty Tour to the stage with the candid stand-up and sharp humor that have defined her voice in comedy and pop culture. Known for leading E!’s late-night series Chelsea Lately during a multi-year run in which she was the only woman hosting a show in that slot, she went on to create the documentary series Chelsea Does and the Netflix talk show Chelsea. She is the author of seven New York Times bestsellers, six of them reaching number one, including her most recent title I’ll Have What She’s Having. Her HBO Max special Evolution earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Comedy Album, she launched the iHeart Radio advice podcast Dear Chelsea, and her Vaccinated and Horny Tour spanned more than 90 cities with 115 shows across North America, earning The Comedy Act of 2021 at the People’s Choice Awards. She followed with the Netflix special The Feeling, returned as host of the Critics’ Choice Awards for three consecutive years, completed the European stand-up run An Abroad Broad, and appears in the Las Vegas residency Chelsea at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan, where she became the venue’s first female comedian to hold a residency.

The Bay Area Community Foundation hosts a Faces of Philanthropy Celebration that highlights the power of giving and honors community members whose generosity creates lasting impact. This year pays tribute to Ellen Charlebois and Michael Hanisko for leadership, generosity, and dedication to strengthening the community. The gathering takes place at DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City - Riverfront in downtown Bay City. Registration is required to attend. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Begin the day with a pop-up from Eat 'Em Up Donuts at MyMichigan in Saginaw, MI, serving mini donuts made to order right from the truck. Choose from classic cinnamon sugar or explore featured flavors. Pair your picks with coffee and start the morning on a sweet note. Great for quick breakfasts, study breaks, or a casual treat with friends. All are welcome.

Enjoy an evening featuring hearty hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, plenty of time to network, and an awards program honoring chapter achievements in safety, training, leadership, and excellence. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, attendees are invited to wear red, white, or blue. Those seeking recognition can learn more and apply for Excellence in Construction, STEP, and other chapter awards on the chapter website. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and inquiries can be sent to cgeiger@abcgmc.org.

Greater Michigan Construction Academy brings its annual clay shoot to Freeland Conservation Club in Freeland, Michigan. The cost is $75 per person, and participants must provide their own gun and ammunition. For questions, contact Julia Armbruster at jarmbruster@gmcami.org.

Bangor Township Hall sets the scene for a Halloween-themed evening as the Great Lakes Bay Harvest Market presents the season’s last special gathering. Shoppers can explore autumn harvests from local farmers, discover handmade goods, and find seasonal treats to enjoy. Families will encounter child-friendly Halloween fun, and costumes are welcome to keep the mood lively. It is a festive farewell to the market season with a final opportunity to shop local and celebrate community.

A signature team golf showdown for the Great Lakes Bay Region brings a Ryder Cup inspired atmosphere to Bay Valley, built for all skill levels and balanced by handicaps to keep play fair. Members and guests are welcome. The format centers on team match play and features Foursomes, Four Ball, and Singles rounds over the course of the weekend. Participation is capped at 48 golfers with 24 players on each side. Off the course, the festivities begin with a pairings party and kickoff dinner, followed by nightly dinners and social gatherings. Expect a full slate of competitive matches that award prizes, deliver bragging rights, and crown the Bay Valley champions. Pricing is 100 dollars for members with a cart, 135 dollars for members without a cart, and 165 dollars for non members. Hotel rooms are available for 99 dollars per night.

Queer Game Night takes place at Dreams of Conquest in Bay City on the second Friday of each month. A selection of games will be available courtesy of Dreams of Conquest and The Asterix*, and attendees can also bring personal favorites to share with familiar faces and new friends. The Asterix* focuses on creating an affirming environment for 2SLGBTQ+ people, those in the community who are systematically undervalued, and allies, and the gathering is intended to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone.

Chase Murphy & The Backroads Band returns for a live performance. A new air guitar competition will take place during the band’s intermission, with on-site signups and prizes for best air guitar, best dressed air guitarist, and best overall combining costume and performance.

This food giveaway provides boxes of food with a simple process designed to keep the line moving safely. A photo ID is required, and walk-ups are accommodated. Each vehicle may receive two boxes, unless an additional person is physically present and matched to their own ID. If collecting for multiple households in one vehicle, each household must either be present or provide written permission along with identification. If someone is picking up for you because you are working, homebound, or otherwise unable to attend, prepare a permission letter that names you and the person collecting, states the number of people in your household and their ages, and is dated and signed for that day only. The person collecting on your behalf must also carry a copy or phone photo of your photo ID. To check in, follow the route signs to text the posted number, complete the online form you receive, and keep the confirmation on your phone to show staff in the parking lot. A screenshot is fine. If you do not use a smartphone or prefer not to fill out the form yourself, staff can assist with a tablet. Please sign in only once, since multiple submissions will not result in extra boxes. For a smooth pickup, clear space in your trunk or cargo area in advance, open the trunk or unlock doors for loading, do not block nearby driveways, and be ready to move if emergency vehicles need access. Thank you for your cooperation and patience, which helps everyone receive assistance safely and efficiently.

Words Like Honey is a community poetry open mic hosted by The Asterix*, offering a welcoming place for creative expression and discovery. It is open to everyone and centers an affirming environment for 2SLGBTQ+ folks, strategically undervalued community members, and allies. Participants can share work, listen to diverse voices, and experience poetry together in an inclusive space where all are welcome.

Tracy Lawrence brings the No Alibis Tour to the Dow Event Center, spotlighting a career that boasts 13 million albums sold and 18 No. 1 hits. The CMA and ACM winner delivers a set filled with longtime favorites alongside new material, including songs from his latest Out Here In It EP. Presales are available through the artist, Peachtree, and the venue, followed by a public onsale. Please note that balcony seating is accessible only by stairs because there is no elevator. For questions or accessibility needs, contact the Box Office.

Calvary Baptist Academy presents its first Vision Dinner, an evening focused on celebrating God’s work at the school and sharing a vision for the future of Christian education in mid-Michigan. Attendees will hear stories of impact, learn about opportunities ahead, and be introduced to three priorities designed to strengthen the academy for today’s students and those to come: opening doors by expanding scholarships for families seeking a Christ centered education, transforming classrooms through investments in technology, resources, and learning environments, and securing tomorrow by growing the Endowment Fund toward a five-year goal of $1 million for long-term sustainability. This is a friendraising gathering, bringing together supporters who care about Christ centered education and want to understand the mission and what lies ahead. Seating is limited and the dinner is catered, so attendance is coordinated through designated table hosts rather than open public registration. For details about the evening or ways to attend and partner with the academy, please contact Tara Draves in the school office.

Teams go head to head in a lively trivia night with Dave LeMaster, putting their knowledge to the test for prizes and bragging rights. Friends who claim to know it all can team up and see who comes out on top.

Move to the music, sip your favorite drinks, and let loose late into the night at a high energy party. Friendly staff and a lively crowd set the tone for a spirited celebration from start to finish.

Find connection and support at a stroke support group focused on open discussion and mutual encouragement. Survivors, caregivers, and loved ones are welcome to share experiences, ask questions, and listen in a caring setting. Light refreshments are provided. The gathering takes place in the Hope Conference Room.

This is the season’s final free Thelen Open Jeep Track night, weather permitting. The Thelen Jeep Track opens for off-road driving where participants can hone their skills and connect with fellow Jeep enthusiasts. The course includes a variety of obstacles designed to challenge both drivers and vehicles. At the center is Freedom Hill, the largest Jeep hill in the Tri-City area, offering a demanding test of capability.

At Saginaw Moose Lodge, this event focuses on music and time on the dance floor. It offers a chance to listen and dance.

Celebrate the season with compact sessions at Saginaw Valley State University. The fee is $200 and includes an online gallery, a print release for making prints, and 10 to 12 edited images. A $50 deposit reserves a spot, with the remaining balance due on the day of the session.

Expecting a new baby? This community baby shower celebrates moms-to-be and one guest with a free luncheon and gifts for the baby, such as blankets, bibs, clothing, diapers, wipes, sleepers and more. Participants who arrive before the start will be entered to win a range of baby equipment prizes. Childcare is not available. Attendance is limited to Saginaw residents, a valid ID is required, and participants must be currently pregnant to qualify.

Local band 2nd Time Around, also known as Johnny & the Boys, brings live music to the event barn. Please note that outside food or beverages are not permitted.

MercyMe leads a large-scale night of contemporary Christian music at Dow Event Center with Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley. The setlist highlights singalong favorites such as "I Can Only Imagine" and "Even If," along with Jeremy Camp songs like "I Still Believe" and "Dead Man Walking." Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley open together, blending the drive of "Starts with Me" with the fresh sound of "Holding Onto Me." Set on a grand scale with crowd-wide choruses, this concert offers an uplifting atmosphere and shared moments.

A food giveaway provides boxed groceries with a straightforward check-in process. Bring a photo ID. Each vehicle may receive up to two boxes, and any additional boxes require the recipients to be physically present with matching identification. If picking up for multiple households in the same vehicle, each household must either be present or provide written permission along with ID. If someone is picking up for you because you are working, homebound, or otherwise unable to attend, prepare a dated and signed permission letter that names the person authorized to collect a box for your household, states how many people are in your household with their ages, and indicates it is for a food box from The Salvation Army. The person picking up must also carry a copy of your photo ID, which can be a photocopy or a photo on their phone. For check-in, follow the yard signs along the route, text the posted number to receive a link to an online sign-in form, complete it, acknowledge the instructions, then keep the confirmation with its timestamp as a screenshot to show staff in the parking lot. Only sign in on the day of the event. If the confirmation does not display the current date, sign in again. Sign in once only, since multiple submissions will not increase the number of boxes. Please leave space in your trunk or cargo area for loading and have the trunk open or doors unlocked. Do not block driveways and be ready to move to allow emergency access. Walk-up service opens partway through the event. Patience and cooperation help everyone be served safely and efficiently.

Learn the foundations of quilting in a three part class created for beginners. Explore how to choose fabrics and read a pattern, then practice rotary cutting, sewing a precise quarter inch seam, pressing, piecing, and finishing with binding. You will gain the core techniques needed to approach your first quilt with confidence and enjoy the process from start to finish.

Celebrate spooky season with a Halloween-themed cookie class at Zilwaukee Community Hall. All materials are provided at the event, so there is no pickup required. Registration is open. Zilwaukee residents can call the Township office to receive a coupon code for a class discount. This class sold out quickly last year.

Enjoy a Halloween-themed race on the newest section of the Great Lakes Bay Regional Trail, starting from Hayes Park in Freeland. Participants can choose professionally timed 5K run and 5K run walk options, along with an untimed 1 mile fun run for youth. New for 2026, a casual, untimed 5K category is available for those who are not focused on finish times and want to save on registration. Start times have been shifted earlier to accommodate trick-or-treating, and the field is capped at 500 participants.

At MMCM, a kid-friendly Halloween celebration features spooky fun, hands-on crafts, and themed activities. Attendees are encouraged to wear family-friendly costumes and enjoy a playful atmosphere tailored to children.

United European Ballet brings The Nutcracker to The Temple Theatre in a production presented by Classical Arts Entertainment. Set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the ballet follows Clara as a mysterious gift leads her into a Christmas adventure filled with shimmering snowflakes, a clash with the Mouse King, and a visit to the Land of Sweets. An international cast from across Europe, including leading soloists from Ukraine, performs in a visually rich staging that blends classical technique with theatrical storytelling. More than 200 costumes and elaborately crafted sets support iconic moments such as the Snow Scene, the Waltz of the Flowers, and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Hand painted scenery by Ukrainian artists and costumes created by European designers contribute to an immersive and festive atmosphere for audiences of all ages. The performance is presented in two acts with one intermission and is family friendly, suitable for ages 3 and up.

The Western Bazaar is back, offering a lively marketplace with more than 80 vendors and crafters for a full day of local shopping. Vendor spots are filled and no additional contracts are being accepted. Payments are not being collected through Venmo or PayPal, and there are reports of scammers attempting to contact interested vendors, so disregard messages asking for electronic payments or direct messages for more information.

At First Presbyterian Church of Bay City, this yearly bazaar and craft showcase spotlights handmade creations and home-based enterprises, with as many as 40 vendor tables to explore. The Country Store bake sale offers sweet treats, and the Poke About Shop invites browsing for one-of-a-kind discoveries ready for a new home. Lunch will be available.

Mid-Michigan Laser Combat is running a beta tournament mission test to fine tune a potential competitive format for laser combat, allowing participants to choose their own teams and weapons. It is limited to six or more two-person teams. Matches use six players on the field, players may field six guns in their team color, and each participant can appear on only one team roster.

Willew Lounge hosts a Double Jack party with food and beverages available.

Kick off the Christmas season on the farm with an opening day centered on outdoor decor and gift ideas. Explore a seasonal selection that includes wreaths, garlands, memorial pieces for graves, hanging decorations, and porch pots to brighten porches and pathways or share with loved ones. The retail barn is open every day throughout the season. Food service from the Food Trough trailer and the concession stand is available during select farm events, and the Watering Trough Bar operates on Saturdays when events are scheduled.

Experience a full day of community, connection, and uplifting energy at the Fall Holistic Fair at the Bay County Community Center. Explore readers, shopping, crafts, food, and energy work, with even more to discover throughout the day. Admission is free. Voluntary non-perishable donations will be accepted for the 3rd Annual Feelin’ Good Turkey Drive, and donors will be entered for a chance to win a gift basket and a $50 Visa gift card. The first 50 attendees will also receive a complimentary special gift.

These open pickup games are a friendly way to meet new people, and you do not need to bring a group. The experience begins with a 20-minute overview of the rules and equipment, continues with a 40-minute battle to get comfortable with the system, then wraps with two or more semi-random missions where teams coordinate to claim victory. Cost: 25$.

Cirque du Soleil presents a holiday adventure that begins with a family tradition. Isabella once loved reading A Visit from Saint Nicholas with her father, but now feels she has moved past it. When the beloved poem springs to life and a sudden snowstorm separates them, both are whisked into a whimsical winter world that turns their night into a fantastical journey. Created with families in mind, the production blends endearing characters and reimagined Christmas favorites with Cirque’s signature spectacle. Look for an aerial straps duet, precision hoop diving, hair suspension that appears to defy gravity, and energetic dance, all brought to life by 26 artists from around the globe. The show is produced by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, a Canadian company that has shaped live entertainment for four decades, reaching more than 400 million people across six continents and 86 countries, and employing nearly 4,000 team members, including 1,200 artists representing over 80 nationalities. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or at The Dow Event Center box office. Most seats in the Applied Innovation Theatre require stairs, so contact the box office for accessible options. All attendees must have a ticket.

Back for round two at Bangor Township Hall, the second year of Merry Market presents a craft show with a fresh spin. Details for vendors will be announced soon.

Presented by the Saginaw River Marine Historical Society, an all volunteer group focused on the maritime history of the Saginaw River and its connecting waters, this free program features historian Thomas Trombley, Vice President and Chief Historian of the Castle Museum of Saginaw County. He explores the period when houseboats were a familiar sight on the Saginaw River, tracing their stories from the years after the Civil War through the 1960s. The program includes a brief intermission with light refreshments. Open to all.

Oval racing includes three rounds of qualifying and a single main event. After each round, Legend King competitions run, building to a 100 lap feature race that crowns the Fall Legend King. Pricing is $25 for the first class and $10 for each additional class.

Santa and Mrs Claus will be on hand for photo opportunities inside the Kohl Farms Event Barn. Their visit coincides with the Christkndl Mrkt and Small Business Saturday annual event, creating a festive setting for memorable pictures.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are set to make a special appearance at the farm during Hope in Lights. Visitors can see the holiday duo in person as part of this on-the-farm celebration.

A festive evening on the farm celebrates light, joy, and generosity. Admission is one nonperishable food item per person, with all donations benefiting a local food pantry. Attendees can enjoy free hot chocolate or choose a drink from the Watering Trough Bar, then warm up by the fire on the patio. Explore the grounds to take in the light displays, see the animals, and enjoy farm activities. Santa makes a special appearance to add extra holiday cheer.

Experience a bustling vendor and craft marketplace in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, featuring more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, including an added building for 2026. Browse handmade creations from Nova Scotian artisans and makers, from pottery, woodworking, and glass art to textiles, home decor, jewelry, and more. Enjoy live music, outdoor tents, and the flavors of the region. Food trucks are on site both days, along with baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, beverages, and local wines. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are permitted inside buildings. Cash is recommended. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.

Lights of Hope on the Farm celebrates the season with joy and generosity. Entry is one nonperishable food item per person, and all donations support a local food pantry. Explore the farm to admire sparkling lights, see the animals, and take part in farm activities. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate or choose a warm beverage from the Watering Trough Bar, then gather by the patio fire to get cozy. Santa will be on site for part of the event, adding a festive highlight to the night.

Justin Rose is welcomed to Kohl Farms with a live appearance in the Event Barn.

Enjoy a free Christmas party filled with activity stations for children in preschool through sixth grade. Kids can make their way through the stations, take part in fun activities, and enjoy cake. By visiting the stations, each child will receive one gift... a new sled, a snowman decorating kit, or a cookie decorating kit. One gift is available per child who is present, while supplies last. Every child must be accompanied by an adult.

Enjoy cocoa and cookies, try a craft, and warm up by the bonfire. See live reindeer and take photos with Santa, with other activities also available.