Events in Saginaw County, MI

United European Ballet presents The Nutcracker at The Temple Theatre, bringing a beloved holiday classic to life with Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. The story follows Clara as a mysterious gift leads her into a magical Christmas adventure with shimmering snowflakes, a battle with the Mouse King, and a journey to the Land of Sweets. Presented by Classical Arts Entertainment, the production features an international ensemble from across Europe, including leading soloists from Ukraine. A Broadway inspired staging combines classical ballet with theatrical spectacle, complemented by more than 200 costumes and beautifully crafted sets. Highlights include 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 enhance an immersive, festive atmosphere. The performance is presented in two acts with one intermission and is family friendly, suitable for ages 3 and up.

Welcome the holidays with The Nutcracker, a ballet for all ages that sparks joy, wonder, and imagination. This staging unveils brand new sets painted by hand and more than 200 costumes, all moving to Tchaikovsky’s cherished score. Highlights include “Waltz of the Snowflakes”, “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”, and “Waltz of the Flowers”. A cast of ballet artists from 12 countries brings the tale to life, creating a salute to global talent and the timeless magic of the season.

Stop by The Hearth Home for free, confidential HIV testing in a judgment-free setting. Walk-ins are welcome, and results are available in minutes. The team also provides safer sex supplies and information about PrEP and DoxyPEP.

Take part in an open-play Commander gathering with new games starting as players are ready. Players are encouraged to choose opponents with decks of similar power levels when possible. The entry fee includes a booster pack of your choice priced at $4.95 or less, plus a promo.

Step into a playful whodunit where the classic board game springs to life in a tuneful caper. With a book by Peter DePietro, music by Galen Blum, Wayne Barker, and Vinnie Martucci, and lyrics by Tom Chiodo, the mystery of Mr. Boddy’s fate unfolds with audience participation at the center of the fun. Everyone receives deduction sheets to track clues revealed throughout the show, while three volunteers draw cards that determine the suspect, the weapon, and the room, creating 216 possible outcomes. A savvy, no-nonsense female detective guides the investigation from scene to scene as comedy, sharp wordplay, and an engaging score keep the intrigue lively. Even after a confession, a final surprise adds one more delight. This interactive favorite is created by the team behind Murder at Rutherford House and other participatory productions.

In honor of Veterans Day, local veterans and active-duty military can receive a free oil change as a gesture of appreciation. The offer includes Dexos1 full synthetic oil and an AC Delco filter, with a limit of one per household and proof of military service required. Call to reserve a spot.

The Women In Leadership Cookie Walk brings a simple, sweet experience to Saginaw Valley Church of the Nazarene. Guests pick up a container and single-use gloves, browse a selection of cookies, choose a dozen favorites, check out with a cashier, and head home with their treats. Proceeds support WIL Gives Back and its efforts in the community. Shopping does not require registration, and bakers and volunteers are welcome to help make the event a success.

Mid-Michigan Laser Combat is hosting a beta tournament mission test at Roethke Park to refine details for a possible competitive format. Participants select their own teams and weapons, and the test features two-person teams with at least six teams involved. Matches put six players on the field at a time, players may field six guns in their team color, and each player can appear on only one team roster. The focus is on playtesting missions and rules to shape future competition.

Haunted Saginaw returns to the big screen with a red carpet premiere at the historic and reportedly haunted Temple Theatre in Saginaw, Michigan. Filmmaker Steve Shippy and the Haunted Saginaw crew present A Haunting on the Saginaw River: The Gray Ghost, exploring long reported encounters aboard the massive naval destroyer known as the Gray Ghost. Accounts from staff and visitors describe apparitions, inexplicable shadows, and other strange activity on the ship. This chapter follows the team as they board after dark and move deep into its cold, labyrinthine steel passageways to investigate those claims firsthand. Tickets are available, including VIP options, by phone at 989-754-SHOW, at the venue box office, or online. Further premiere details will be shared as they become available.

Enjoy a Sunday brunch buffet at Bavarian Inn Lodge, featuring signature Bavarian Inn and seasonal dishes, pasta, carved meats, an egg station, and more in the indoor courtyard. Coffee, tea, and juice are included, with Bloody Marys and mimosas also available.

Dixon brings his boundary-pushing electric violin to Fischer Hall for a live concert that blends innovation and emotion. Performing on a five string electric violin, he builds layered soundscapes in real time with a looping setup he created, shaping a solo symphonic experience that intertwines with reflections from his personal journey from technology leader and symphony player to full-time artist. His track record spans more than a thousand concerts across North America, multiple TED talks and performances, over a decade at Burning Man and Electric Forest, and appearances on radio, television, and film. Audiences have responded with standing ovations and praise that highlights the dreamlike, powerful, and moving nature of the music. This indoor, seated show offers advance general admission at $32, student admission at $12, and tickets for children 12 and under at $7, all including fees. If available, tickets at the door are $40.

Learn the cold process method in a hands-on soapmaking class guided by an instructor with more than 30 years of experience. Participants create a peppermint scented soap with a candy cane theme and make their own 2.25 pound batch, which yields about nine bars. Classes are kept small for individual attention and are limited to eight participants. Everyone receives a recipe sheet to recreate the soap at home. Finished soap remains at the studio for cutting and will be ready for pickup in about four to seven days. Attendees must be at least 16, sign a waiver and hold harmless agreement, and wear long pants, closed toe shoes, and a long sleeve shirt. All other protective gear is provided. Observers are not permitted and each person present must have a paid seat. Please note that any sample image shown is AI generated and will be updated when a real sample is available. The session runs for approximately an hour and a half.

Cook the Book is a Wickson Library book club that brings cooking and reading together through a shared potluck. As part of the 2026 schedule, Michelle selects a featured cookbook before each meeting and places it at the circulation desk. Participants browse the book, choose a recipe, add their name to the registration form, then prepare the dish and bring it to share at the potluck. The current cookbook selection is posted in the event’s Discussion tab and also available at the circulation desk.

The ABC Merit Mixer brings together Joe Stewart of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), his team, and ABC members for an evening centered on networking and conversation. Appetizers and refreshments will be available throughout the event. The gathering will be held at Uptown North Main. Admission is free, and advance registration is required.

Open pickup games welcome individuals, so there is no need to arrive with a group and it is a chance to meet new people. The event begins with a 20 minute overview of the rules and equipment, followed by a 40 minute battle to learn the system. After that, teams take on at least two semi-random missions and work together to secure a win for their side. The cost is $25. This event takes place at Roethke Park.

Saginaw Spirit face the London Knights at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw, MI. The venue operates cashless for all events, so only credit and debit cards are accepted at every point of purchase, including parking. A clear bag policy is in place. Small clutches up to 4.5 x 6.5 x 2 inches or clear bags 12 x 12 x 6 inches or smaller are allowed. No bags, backpacks, or purses are permitted except those needed for medical or parenting purposes, and these will go through additional security screening. Guests using cash can buy Dow Bucks at the box office in $5 increments to use at concession stands managed by Legends. Twenty dollars in cash equals twenty dollars in Dow Bucks, there is no per-guest limit, and they are available only in USD. Visa gift cards are offered in $20 increments with a $2 processing fee per card, with a standard limit of two per guest while supplies last. Exceptions may be made for higher-value purchases, and these cards are available only in USD.

Roy Insurance Group and Gera Tavern present the return of the Eagle/Rocket Deer Pole, bringing a community tradition back to Gera Tavern. Look forward to another year of camaraderie, with details about prizes, raffles, and other activities to be announced as the event approaches. Raffle proceeds will support a local charity each year, and this year they will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. More updates will be shared as plans are finalized.

MI Bride Guide presents Pumpkins & Proposals, an autumn themed wedding expo at The River View at Frankenmuth Brewery in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Explore wedding planning ideas, connect with a wide range of vendors, and enjoy seasonal sips and samples from local culinary professionals. Admission is $10, cash at the door, and 10 percent of door proceeds supports Midland’s Open Door. Pre-registered brides receive free admission. A $500 cash grand prize, courtesy of Team Titus Events, will be awarded, and attendees must be present to win. Wearing flannel doubles the chance to win, and the first 50 brides receive extra entries. The event also features plinko, spin to win games, and autumn themed door prizes.

Pinball tournaments welcome participants of all ages. Entry is free, though players need to purchase a game card to play. The main tournament uses target match play across seven pinball machines, with randomly assigned groups and points awarded each round. The first half of players to reach nine points advance to group-play playoffs, where the top two in each group move on. A mini side tournament runs during the finals and is open to anyone on site, including those who did not qualify for the main tournament. Multiple giveaways and prizes are available to winners. The Family Fun Center has more than 180 high-end games, and food and drinks are available at the Ratskeller Cafe.

Enjoy quiet time with your own book in the company of fellow book lovers. The gathering includes time to settle in, an hour of silent reading, and an opportunity afterward to chat about books or keep reading. Book-themed freebies will also be available to take home.

A holiday adventure unfolds at the Dow Event Center as a cherished reading of A Visit from Saint Nicholas sends Isabella and her father into a snowstorm that separates them, turning a tradition she thought she had outgrown into a fantastical journey through a sparkling winter world where the poem comes alive. Created for families, the production showcases Cirque du Soleil’s hallmark artistry with a mesmerizing aerial straps duet, daring hoop diving, gravity-defying hair suspension, and high-energy dancing. A cast of 26 artists from around the globe brings lovable characters to the stage, set to a soundtrack of reimagined Christmas favorites. Presented by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, a world leader in live entertainment that has spent more than four decades expanding creative frontiers across shows, multimedia, music, immersive experiences, and special events, with audiences exceeding 400 million across six continents and 86 countries, and a team of nearly 4,000 employees including about 1,200 artists representing over 80 nationalities. Tickets are available in person at the Dow Event Center Box Office. The Applied Innovation Theatre requires stairs to reach most seats, so for accessible seating, contact the Box Office. All ages must have a ticket.

Get into the spirit at the Merry and Bright holiday market inside Harvey Kern Pavilion. Shop for distinctive gifts, seasonal decorations, and tasty treats from a variety of vendors, and enjoy festive food and drinks throughout the day. Families can capture complimentary photos with Santa, and children and pets are welcome in the picture. A small number of vendor spaces remain, processed on a first come, first served basis. For vending inquiries, text (213) 218-5017 or email vfapply@gmail.com.

Harvey Kern Pavilion becomes a festive marketplace featuring many vendors with unique presents, seasonal décor, and tasty treats. Enjoy holiday food and beverages while taking in the cheerful atmosphere. Complimentary photos with Santa are available, and families can include children and pets in the picture. It offers a warm way for friends and families to start the holiday season in Frankenmuth.

Costaki Economopoulos brings an evening of stand-up to Old Town Wonder in Historic Old Town Saginaw. Known as the football joke guy from All Pro Lines, the Bob & Tom Show, the NFL Network, and Sirius/XM, he has spent three decades performing as a full-time comedian. His writing credits include material for Bette Midler, Jay Leno, MTV, and BET, and his work has reached audiences on Showtime and the NFL Network, with many listeners recognizing him from his regular appearances on the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Radio Show. Come hungry, because Wonder Burger will be serving food, and Old Town Distillery will have the drinks covered. Presale tickets are $25, with admission at $30 at the door. No printed tickets are required, as purchases will be noted and names will be checked at the door. Presented by Hudson Entertainment and WILZ Wheelz 104.5.

Enjoy a paint-and-sip session at Biggby Coffee in Frankenmuth, where participants follow a step-by-step tutorial and paint on a board of their choice. Tickets are $40 per seat and include all painting supplies. Prepayment is required unless otherwise arranged, and selecting “Going” does not reserve a place in the class. Photos may be taken during the event for memories and advertising.

A festive holiday craft bazaar will fill the parish hall at St. Peter Parish in Chesaning, featuring several vendors and free admission. This indoor gathering includes a raffle where a donation offers a chance to win a door prize. The organizer is seeking additional vendors who sell items such as soap, candles, handmade jewelry, and packaged treats like chocolate dipped pretzels. For vendor applications and details, contact St. Peter Parish at 989-845-1794 and ask for Kris. Do not send vendor fees online; obtain payment instructions directly from the church, and be cautious of scammers.

Celebrate the holiday season with a Christmas craft show featuring vendors, handmade treasures, festive décor, and unique gifts for holiday shopping. The show takes place at two school locations and includes Kids Zones with seating, baby-changing and breastfeeding areas, Christmas movies, and light crafts for children. Child care is not provided. Large strollers are not permitted, though umbrella strollers are welcome. Proceeds support music education in the Chesaning community.

Create and personalize a ceramic Christmas tree in this beginner-friendly painting workshop led by Great Lakes Crafting. Paints, painting supplies, lights, finishing pieces, and step-by-step instruction are included. No artistic experience is needed, and there is room to choose colors and styles to suit your holiday décor. Your finished tree can become a festive decoration or a handmade gift.

Savor a Zehnder’s holiday lunch or dinner, then enjoy a lively seasonal performance from Three Men and a Tenor that blends laugh-out-loud moments with touching highlights. The group has opened for Jay Leno, Chuck Berry, and The Beach Boys and has been featured in a national PBS-TV special seen from Los Angeles to Nashville. Lunch shows are $63 per person and dinner shows are $70 per person, and pricing includes the meal, tax, tip, and entertainment. Reservations are required.

Enjoy a paint and sip at Frankenmuth Kaffee Haus where participants are guided step by step while creating a piece on a board of their choice. Tickets are 38 dollars per seat and include all painting supplies. Prepayment is required unless other arrangements are made. Secure a spot by purchasing through the event’s ticket link, scanning the QR code on the flyer, or pre-registering with cash by contacting Jordan at 988-484-7044. Selecting the Going button on the event page does not reserve a seat, so please complete the ticket purchase in advance. Photos may be taken during the event for memories and promotional use.

Jennifer Starke and Laura Kopplin are the trusted contacts for this event. Please park in the school lot, and additional parking is available at the church across the road.

Enjoy a festive outing with Grinch-themed carriage rides from H&H Acres and Carriage Service. Step into a Christmas-decorated carriage for a 20 to 25 minute ride through Frankenmuth with plenty of playful holiday moments. Each ride includes a Grinch-themed horseshoe, candy canes, photo opportunities with the Grinch, and a tour in a beautifully adorned carriage. Rides are offered on select dates. The cost is $120 per carriage and accommodates up to six guests, though six adults may be less comfortable. Pricing is per carriage, not per person. Unlike standard Frankenmuth carriage rides, these can be reserved in advance, and reservations are prepaid and nonrefundable. Regular carriage rides will still be available for walk-ups on those dates. Availability is limited, and booking ahead is recommended. For details or to reserve, text 810-358-3547 or email haylee.hhacres@gmail.com.

Enjoy a guided paint-and-sip session at Gera Tavern, where participants follow a step-by-step tutorial and choose the board they would like to paint. A ticket includes all painting supplies. Payment must be made in advance unless another arrangement has been made.

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.

Celebrate the season with a festive lunch featuring Santa at Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark. Enjoy a kid friendly meal that includes a fruit cup, chicken tenders, mashed potatoes with gravy, a Christmas cookie, and a beverage. Expect heartwarming stories and a small gift from Santa. Tickets are $30 per person, with children under 3 free. Each child age 11 and younger receives a complimentary day pass to the waterpark. A minimum of one adult ticket purchase is required. For questions or to reserve, call (989) 652-0450.

Friendly competition takes center stage at Bear Den BBQ with a Jack and Jill Scotch Doubles tournament. The format is both sides, best two out of three, and the cost is $45 per team. Teams pair up and put their skills to the test.

Stroke survivors, caregivers, and loved ones are welcome to gather for conversation and encouragement at this support group. Light refreshments are provided.

World Ballet Company brings The Nutcracker to the Dow Event Center with the added richness of a live orchestra. The production showcases 40 accomplished dancers, more than 150 shimmering hand-sewn costumes, and opulent hand-crafted sets to create a festive spectacle for all ages. Follow Marie as her cherished Nutcracker awakens on Christmas Eve and leads her from a cozy celebration into a wintry dream, past a daring clash with mischievous mice, and into a sweetly enchanting realm. The performance runs about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is suitable for ages 2 and up. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours beloved classics to cities nationwide, guided by the belief that ballet is for everyone. The ensemble features renowned artists representing more than ten countries and has visited over 300 cities, delighting an audience of more than 500,000 people. Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more.

At SVRC Marketplace in Saginaw, Secret Santa Shoppe 2026 creates a cheerful holiday shopping experience designed for children. Young shoppers can practice responsible budgeting while choosing presents from local businesses, with gifts priced at $15 or less. Holiday helpers offer free gift wrapping so surprises are ready to share. Vendor opportunities are available for small businesses that offer items under $15.

Bluey’s Big Play brings the lovable Heeler family to the stage at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw, transforming the Emmy-winning television series into a live theater experience. Dad may be hoping for a quiet afternoon, but Bluey and Bingo spring into action with playful schemes to get him off the bean bag. Expect imaginative puppetry, an original story from series creator Joe Brumm, and new music by composer Joff Bush. Presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co, with Nederlander National Markets. Tickets are available at the Dow Event Center Box Office. A limited VIP meet and greet add-on is offered, which includes an exclusive event lanyard, a Bluey souvenir for children, and a post-show photo opportunity with Bluey. Each attendee must have a VIP add-on, and children must be accompanied by an adult. A group photo will be taken with friends and family after the show. Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more through the box office. Balcony seating requires stairs, and there is no elevator. For accessibility needs or questions, contact the box office.

Enjoy music and dancing at this event.

Engagements & Evergreens brings a cheerful, winter inspired wedding expo to the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, presented by MI Bride Guide. Expect seasonal ambiance, interactive games, and plenty of ideas to shape your celebration. A $500 cash grand prize, sponsored by Team Titus Events, will be awarded. Brides who arrive in an ugly Christmas sweater receive double entries toward that prize, and must be present to win. Enjoy playful activities like a prize wheel and Plinko, along with door prize drawings throughout the event. Sample holiday themed treats from local vendors while meeting venues, caterers, photographers, DJs, and other wedding professionals under one roof. Admission is $10 in cash at the door, and brides who pre-register receive free entry.

Learn to sew in a welcoming, beginner-focused class guided by Diane. This hands-on session covers the basics and helps you get comfortable using a sewing machine, whether you are brand new or looking to build confidence. Sewing machines and fabric are provided, and you may bring your own machine if you prefer to practice on the one you use at home. The class is held at Creative Passions Quilt Shop 2 in Chesaning, Michigan. The cost is $20 per participant, and capacity is limited.

The Harlem Globetrotters take on the Washington Generals and a new lineup of rivals in a show featuring fresh challenges and stars who bring flair to every possession. The experience includes audience participation, with opportunities to help shape the action, get on the court, join the squad, and appear on the jumbotron. A free pre-game tip-off party offers surprises for longtime fans and first-time families.