Community Calendar

Sponsored by the Gogebic Community College Foundation, in memory of Alex Marciniak.

From June 27 through August 22, visitors are invited to wander the 1.2-mile Aurora Loop and discover large-scale installations nestled among towering pines, winding trails, and the rugged beauty of the Northwoods. Created by artists from across the region, this year’s exhibition reflects Emberlight’s 2026 theme, New Ways to Dream — exploring imagination, transformation, memory, identity, and the power of collective creativity.

Alongside this year’s juried installations, Emberlight proudly unveils two major community-centered projects through Art For All. A new collaborative installation invites audiences themselves to become part of the artistic process, while a second large-scale work — created in partnership with students from five regional schools — draws inspiration from Ojibwe doodems, reflecting themes of kinship, ancestry, and connection to the natural world through the voices and creativity of the next generation. Supported through funding from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, the project places young artists at the heart of the festival in a powerful new way.

https://emberlight.org/event/art-in-the-park-2026/

Free event

Friends of the Cadillac Wexford Public Library USED BOOK SALE Fundraiser during the Cadillac Festival of the Arts. LOTS of Great Books for you summer reading for $2.00 or less
Thursday 7/16 from 9 to 6, Friday 7/17 from 9 to 5, Saturday 7/18 from 10 to 12 with a $5 Bag Sale.

Inspired by the Bicentennial Freedom Train, the Freedom Plane National Tour will make original documents fundamental to America's founding accessible to Americans across the country as part of the commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, July 9th-26th.

The Henry Ford is honored to be one of eight institutions in the U.S. hosting The National Archives and Records Administration traveling exhibition.

Visit Tips: As you prepare for your visit to Documents That Forged a Nation, please be aware that these rare national treasures have special display needs. Lighting may be lower than usual in this exhibit to preserve the documents. Food and beverages are welcome while guests are in line, but will not be allowed in the display gallery. Reservations are required. Dates are selling out quickly, reserve your free tickets now.

Schedule Note: On July 23 only, this traveling exhibition will remain open until 8 p.m. for a special evening viewing.

Make the Observatory part of your weekend! Tour the historic building, view our exhibits, participate in astronomy activities, and view the sun with our solar telescope (weather dependent). Families welcome, admission is always free. Registration not required.

Expanded programming hours every 4th saturday with a focus on family-friendly activities and fun

Astronomical images are science—and art. Learn how photographers, artists, and scientists work together to interpret the universe. Then, create your own 3D models from images taken through Observatory telescopes. Part of the Imagining the Cosmos series. Free, open to all.

Guided tours exploring Greektown's history, culture, public art, and evolving streetscape

Join us to observe the night sky with the 1857 Fitz telescope and our collection of modern instruments.

Located on Central Campus next to Alice Lloyd Hall and Couzens Hall. Free admission; no registration required.

The Observatory will be open for exploration even if the weather does not permit telescope observing. We strive to always have interesting things for you to do!

This annual exhibition transforms moments both grand and intimate into works of visual storytelling. Featuring the work of Emberlight’s acclaimed photography team and guest artists, these images form a vivid portrait not only of a region, but of the artists who continue to interpret it through their own unique lenses.

https://emberlight.org/event/emberlight-photographers-2026/

Free event

Sponsored by the Gogebic Community College Foundation, in memory of Alex Marciniak.

From June 27 through August 22, visitors are invited to wander the 1.2-mile Aurora Loop and discover large-scale installations nestled among towering pines, winding trails, and the rugged beauty of the Northwoods. Created by artists from across the region, this year’s exhibition reflects Emberlight’s 2026 theme, New Ways to Dream — exploring imagination, transformation, memory, identity, and the power of collective creativity.

Alongside this year’s juried installations, Emberlight proudly unveils two major community-centered projects through Art For All. A new collaborative installation invites audiences themselves to become part of the artistic process, while a second large-scale work — created in partnership with students from five regional schools — draws inspiration from Ojibwe doodems, reflecting themes of kinship, ancestry, and connection to the natural world through the voices and creativity of the next generation. Supported through funding from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, the project places young artists at the heart of the festival in a powerful new way.

https://emberlight.org/event/art-in-the-park-2026/

Free event