This weekend in Kalamazoo, MI

Region 5 Dan Camp welcomes Blue belts and higher to an intensive two-day training experience at The Courthouse Athletic Center of Kalamazoo. Attendance on both days is required for the camp to count, and participation is part of the path toward higher black belt rank. Special guest Master Leslie Salinas will be featured. Check-in includes team assignments, the camp schedule, and a T-shirt, and pre-test candidates will complete a physical test before the full group bows in. The first day closes after training, and the second day begins with a group bow in and ends with a formal bow out. The camp fee is $145 and includes lunch and dinner on the first day as well as a T-shirt. Lunch will be a boxed meal from Ample Pantry with a sandwich, apple, chips, cookie, and water. Dinner will be catered by Maggie’s Catering in Kalamazoo with three entree choices and sides that include bread, fresh green beans, red potatoes, salad, dessert, and a beverage. Meal choices are determined by the selections submitted with registration, changes are not available on site, and wristbands reflecting those selections are required at meal service. Participants with food allergies may wish to bring their own options. Black pants can be pre-ordered by the stated deadline. Plan to bring a white dobahk, belt, weapons, gear, a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray in case training moves outdoors. Specific gear guidance and other details will be provided in advance. Lodging options include SpringHill Suites at $189 per night, Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalamazoo-Portage at $179 to $199 per night, Delta Hotel by Marriott at $144 per night, and Fairfield Inn & Suites at $149 to $179 per night.

Stop by the Kalamazoo Farmers Market for a Saturday of fresh local produce and other market finds. The market runs from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Celebrate summer at the farm while marking a 75th anniversary with a free community event that features tethered hot air balloon rides that require a ticket, blueberry donuts, the Floatin’ Franks hot dog cart, live music from Coconut Riot, and wagon rides along with other activities.

D&R Sports Center hosts the inaugural Waterfowl Weekend for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Expect big savings on waterfowl gear, on-site expertise from GK World Championship Calls to help match duck or goose calls, and no-cost calling contests that award prizes and bragging rights. The event also features waterfowl seminars with tips from experienced hunters, plus opportunities to check out new equipment and get expert advice ahead of the season. It is geared to both longtime waterfowlers and those just getting started.

Build a strong understanding of concealed carry responsibilities in this 8-hour combined Michigan Concealed Pistol License, Florida Concealed Weapons Firearm License, and Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit class at Sportsman's Warehouse Kalamazoo. The training covers laws and regulations for carrying concealed firearms, the use of force, firearm safety, and proper handling and secure storage. It also explains the requirements for obtaining these permits and key state-specific rules to support safe and lawful carry. Class details are subject to change, so confirm the latest information with the organizer.

This event at Riverside Cemetery in Kalamazoo focuses on cleaning. Supplies will be available, and participants receive instruction on proper cleaning technique.

Sips In The Zoo offers a relaxed daytime stroll through Downtown Kalamazoo centered on sipping, shopping, and enjoying summer. Meander through the Zoo, browse area shops, and take advantage of beverage specials along the route. Choices run from matcha and creamy ice cream shakes to chilled coffee or a spicier sip, creating an easygoing August outing in the heart of downtown.

Fallen but not Forgotten Military, Operation Heaven Sent, and The OHS 2nd Hand Store present The Circus Tent, offering classic concessions in support of a cause that gives back. Enjoy chili dogs, nachos, chili cheese nachos, popcorn, and cotton candy. Proceeds help provide free flag ceremonies honoring fallen service members, deployed troops, and active duty military.

Experience living history at Kalamazoo Air Zoo with a scenic ride in the B-25 “Rosie’s Reply”, a genuine World War II aircraft. This is a true flight in a historic bomber, not a simulator or a static exhibit. Hear the engines come to life, feel the power as you lift off, and enjoy wide-open views from the sky. It is well suited for first-time flyers, aviation enthusiasts, and history fans looking to create a lasting memory.

This family-friendly session at the Kalamazoo Nature Center is part of a monthly story time featuring nature-inspired picture books. This installment highlights The Wild by Yuval Zommer, followed by a relaxed walk on the trails if the weather cooperates. Please meet in the Clubhouse inside the Visitor Center. Entry is covered by regular KNC admission, and members attend at no cost. Dress warmly in case the walk proceeds.

Led by instructor Rachel Stickney, this hands-on workshop focuses on creating a hardbound book finished with a special closure. Learn how closures keep a book or folio securely shut for easy carrying, then practice measuring, planning the closure style that fits your project, and executing this polished finishing touch. All materials are provided. Suitable for teens and adults at any skill level. The fee is $135.

Brunch at HighDive Kitchen + Bar features a mix of sweet plates, savory favorites, and brunch cocktails. Look for slow cooked corned beef with eggs and a Bananas Foster French toast finished with house made butter rum caramel. The bar offers Espresso Martinis made with fresh pulled espresso, a Mimosa Mix Up menu with 10 creative variations, and Bloody Mary cocktails. No reservations are required, and the regular menu is available during brunch as well.

Bring a favorite hat, blazer, jeans, or a canvas bag to the Black Arts & Cultural Center and personalize it with patches that reflect your style. Early arrival is recommended for the best selection. General admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children under 10. Admission includes music and a friendly atmosphere, finger foods and beverages, one patch, and application to your own or a purchased item using a heat press or glue. Upgrade options are available. Bundle 1 is $25 and includes your choice of four filler patches, two small patches, and one medium patch, with application included. Bundle 2 is $40 and includes three filler patches, two small patches, two medium patches, and one large DTF transfer or patch, with application included. Bundle 3 is $70 and includes five filler patches, three small patches, three medium patches, and two large DTF transfers or patches, with application included. Individual patches will also be for sale, with more details shared at the event. Only patches acquired at the event, whether purchased or given away, will be applied on site by heat press or glue. Other patches or items cannot be attached during the event. A preview of available designs will be shared the day before. If you need something to decorate, additional patchable pieces will be available to buy, including vintage camo jackets, blazers and jackets, bags, and ties. Sewing services are offered for an extra fee with later shipment, delivery, or pickup. All sales are final. Every garment is handled with care, but heat transfer and DTF processes involve inherent risk and outcomes can vary by fabric type, condition, and care history. Participation acknowledges that the organizers are not responsible for damage to customer owned items. Applications are performed at the customer’s own risk, and replacements or refunds are not available.

Get ready for the first-ever Food Explosion Festival in Kalamazoo, an end-of-summer celebration packed with great food, live entertainment, community vendors, and exciting prizes. Vendor booth rentals are available, and vendor booths are set for the full event window from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Returnable bottles and cans can make a real difference for Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. Contributions provide steady funding and help cover medical care so cats and dogs adopted from the rescue are healthy and ready for their new homes. Donations are welcome through the organization’s year-round bottle and can program. Please only donate containers that qualify for Michigan’s 10-cent deposit under the state’s Bottle Deposit Law.

Word lovers of all skill levels gather for the 15th annual Kalamazoo Scrabble Fest, a community tournament presented by Town & Country Supermarket. The event serves as the largest fundraiser, with all proceeds directed to KLC’s free adult literacy programs. Players can choose the Just For Fun track or enter the Competitive division for a chance at a trophy. A rapid-fire Cage Match, a fan favorite, offers an additional opportunity to win a prize basket. A $25 entry includes a keepsake T-shirt, snacks, and parking. Businesses can participate by sponsoring a four-person team for $200.

This weekly story hour at the Storytime Stage features favorite tales, both timeless and new. Attendees are encouraged to use their imaginations to dream up worlds together.

Knit Happens offers a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ adults 18 and older to knit or crochet together. Each meetup includes an optional project with all materials provided, and participants can also bring their own works in progress. All skill levels are welcome. Sessions take place at OutFront Kalamazoo.

Peel season brings a chance to correct and refresh skin after summer. This event focuses on beginning a fall reset with Leigh and working toward an honor roll glow.

Build a character, roll dice, and craft a shared story in a welcoming series of standalone, single-session tabletop RPG adventures. Designed for LGBTQIA+ players and allies, this all-ages gathering is open to newcomers and longtime gamers alike. Sessions span a wide range of genres, including superheroes, towering mechs, classic high fantasy, cozy slice-of-life quests, and more. Those interested in serving as a Game Master are encouraged to get involved.

Learn to draw favorite cartoon characters in a relaxed, hands-on session. Devon will be there to help. The cost is $30 per session or $100 for four sessions. No registration is required, and walk-ins are welcome.

Enjoy an evening that includes a friendly horseshoe tournament, a barbecue meal available for purchase, and a fireworks finale after dark. The meal costs $10 for one person or $20 for a family.

Experience a night of lively progressive bluegrass at Latitude 42 in Portage. The venue offers food and drinks to complement the music.

Embark on a tabletop inspired bar crawl that plays out like a campaign through Downtown Kalamazoo. Participants check in to receive a character sheet defining their role and stats, with bonus stats for arriving in costume. Parties travel between participating bars to take on quests and explore themed dungeons, and successful adventurers earn loot. Tickets are available through online ordering.

Canned Champagne brings a lively night of improv comedy to Dormouse Theatre, delivering quick-witted scenes shaped by audience suggestions so no two shows are alike. The group blends short-form games with long-form storytelling, filling the stage with playful antics, distinctive characters, and new worlds created on the spot. Material may occasionally stretch beyond PG-13, and the cast prioritizes audience comfort and inclusion while handling sensitive topics with care. Formed in 2022 through Kalamazoo’s Crawlspace Comedy Theatre improv program, this six-member ensemble has performed at venues across Michigan and claimed the Lip Sync Assassins title at Dormouse Theatre’s first Lip Sync Battle, later defending that crown. The lineup features Kristine Schomisch, Mike O’Donoghue, Julia Humenik, Christianna Lessley, Luis Barbosa, and Kate Wilen, each contributing a unique sparkle, from confident leadership and creative versatility, to sharp comedic turns, buoyant energy, a playful blend of sensitivity and machismo, and a whirlwind of wit. Expect a spirited, down-to-earth evening that fizzes with laughter and leaves the crowd smiling.

So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience starring Robert Neary is coming to Warner Vineyards for an evening show with special guest Resurrection Blues Band. Doors open at 6:00 PM and the performance starts at 7:30 PM. The event is all ages, rain or shine.

As summer twilight fades, a public stargazing session at the Kalamazoo Nature Center explores the night sky. KAS will feature the Super Summer Star Clusters. If skies are mostly cloudy or overcast, the session will be canceled. Check for cancellation updates on the day of the session and contact the organizers with any questions.

Spend a few hours caring for the woods with hands-on conservation tasks that include removing invasive brush, planting wildflowers, hauling cut material, maintaining trails, and collecting litter. Dress for the weather, and bring work gloves and small hand tools if you have them.

A community-focused series of five gatherings centers on chanting, meditation, and reflection in a comfortable, unhurried environment. Led by Judah Gesmundo, each meeting pairs foundational teachings with hands-on practice, presenting chanting and meditation as approachable supports for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Chants draw on sound, rhythm, and repetition to settle the mind and warm the heart, followed by both guided and silent meditation. Every session wraps up with space for reflection, journaling, and meaningful connection, encouraging an inner sense of ease and joy.

Pride Recovery offers twelve-step support for LGBTQIA+ adults, 18 and over, who have been impacted by substance use. The group meets each week at OutFront Kalamazoo.

Riftbound Nexus Night tailors its format to turnout, most often focusing on 1v1 play. Depending on attendance, matches may shift to 2v2, free-for-all, or other setups. The focus is constructed play for regular sessions, while Prerelease events are run separately from the usual weekly schedule. The entry fee is $8. Participants receive a promo pack and a Booster pack while supplies last. New to Riftbound? These gatherings offer a welcoming way to learn the game and jump into matches.

At Horse Time Center for Equine Collaboration, Caleb leads a welcoming session centered on mindful dialogue. Drawing on experience as an elite competitive gamer, a USMC combat veteran, a holistic lifestyle coach, and a yoga teacher, with a practice rooted in unconditional love, Caleb guides participants to reimagine how they connect with themselves, with others, and with the wider community. The class blends guided meditation and breathwork with opportunities to practice calm, sincere conversation during the session and afterward, creating space for deeper connection and clearer communication.

Transforming Parents is a peer-led group for parents of trans and gender-expansive people of all ages. It provides a space to build community and support one another throughout their parenting journeys.

This weekly Magic event takes the place of FNM and features an ever-changing lineup. This edition focuses on Casual Commander Night with promo participation packs. Matches can be 1v1 or organized into 4-player pods, depending on turnout. Entry is $5. The prize pool is WPN approved and will be determined by participation. An event code is provided at check-in.

Celebrate the 5th summer of park yoga with a 60-minute vinyasa practice held near the Flesher Field Gazebo. A team of talented instructors guides the session in a welcoming, outdoor setting. Advance signups are appreciated for planning, but drop-ins are welcome. All ages and experience levels can participate. Please bring your own yoga mat or a blanket. The cost is $10, and it is free for unlimited members, with payment accepted by cash or credit card only.

Xtreme Karaoke hosts karaoke every Tuesday and Sunday night.