Community Calendar

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

The Packard Farmers Market returns for the 2026 season at the historic Packard Proving Grounds, bringing together local farmers, artisans, bakers, makers, and small businesses in a one-of-a-kind setting where history and community meet.

Formerly known as the Shelby Farmers Market, the newly rebranded Packard Farmers Market reflects its deep connection to the Packard Proving Grounds and its mission to support the preservation of this iconic historic site. The market runs Saturdays from May 16 through October 10, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on the expansive front lawn of the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site.

Each week, the market is arranged in neat rows across the lawn, offering a relaxed, walkable shopping experience. Vendors may park directly next to their booths, and the grass setting provides a cooler summer atmosphere ideal for tent setups. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. The market is supported by Packard Proving Grounds volunteers and local high school students earning community service hours.

The Packard Farmers Market is open on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and will be closed Saturday, July 4. Proceeds from the market directly benefit the ongoing restoration and preservation of the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, owned and operated by the Packard Motor Car Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Dates: Saturdays, May 16 – October 10, 2026 *closed July 4th

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, Shelby Township

More information and vendor details: packardprovinggrounds.org/farmersmarket

The Packard Farmers Market returns for the 2026 season at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site. Formerly the Shelby Farmers Market, the rebranded market runs Saturdays from May 16 through October 10, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Shop local farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers in a historic outdoor setting. The market is open on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and closed Saturday, July 4. Proceeds support the preservation of the Packard Proving Grounds.

More information and vendor details available at packardprovinggrounds.org/farmersmarket.

The Packard Farmers Market returns for the 2026 season at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site. Formerly the Shelby Farmers Market, the rebranded market runs Saturdays from May 16 through October 10, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Shop local farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers in a historic outdoor setting. The market is open on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and closed Saturday, July 4. Proceeds support the preservation of the Packard Proving Grounds.

More information and vendor details available at packardprovinggrounds.org/farmersmarket.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park welcomes back acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly. Experience art like never before through CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank. This highly anticipated exhibition transforms both our beautiful outdoor gardens and inviting indoor Sculpture Galleries with the world-renowned artwork of Chihuly. Stroll through the gardens and discover monumental sculptures, vibrant Reeds, and stunning site-specific installations that harmoniously blend art with nature, creating breathtaking moments around every corner.

About Dale Chihuly: Chihuly is an American artist who transforms a space with experiments in color, light, transparency, and form. He is known for his exhibitions and large-scale architectural installations around the world and for revolutionizing the studio glass movement. Chihuly works with a variety of media including glass, paint, charcoal, neon, ice, and Polyvitro, and his work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide.

Artisan at Delamar Hotel Traverse City will host a special summer weekend brunch series featuring celebrated Detroit chef Kate Williams, founder of the acclaimed Lady of the House, in collaboration with Executive Chef Sarah Bobier. Every Saturday and Sunday in July and August 2026, guests can enjoy a seasonal, ingredient-driven brunch menu that highlights Northern Michigan flavors alongside Williams’ soulful, modern cuisine.
The partnership brings together two distinct culinary voices — Chef Williams' celebrated approach to soulful, ingredient-driven cooking and Chef Bobier’s mastery of Northern Michigan's finest local and regional flavors, for a brunch offering that is as much an event as it is a meal.

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

Step into a powerful new exhibition celebrating the fearless women of the Greek Revolution.

#WeAreGreekWarriors brings the heroines of 1821 into today’s cultural conversation through bold contemporary art and modern storytelling. Fighters, strategists, and champions of freedom, these extraordinary women helped shape history, yet many of their names remain unknown.

Now, their stories come to life at the Hellenic Museum of Michigan in a groundbreaking exhibition featuring original campaign prints alongside stunning works by acclaimed contemporary artist Ramona Pintea. Reclaiming history through a fresh, fearless lens, the exhibit honors and highlights the women of the Greek Revolution while speaking directly to the women of today. Through dynamic programming, cultural events, and interactive experiences, it connects the strength of 1821 to the leadership, voices, and impact of women now.

Women of all backgrounds and generations are invited to experience this inspiring tribute and rediscover their own warrior spirit.

For more information, visit www.hellenicmi.org.

Opening Reception: Friday, July 17th, 2026 5-8pm
Gallery Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11am-6pm

Friends: Furry & Fictional celebrates the many ways humans connect with animals—from the comfort of our pets to the wonder of wildlife. Long present in our stories, cultures, and daily lives, animals continue to inspire care, curiosity, and creative expression, reminding us of our shared place in the world.

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