Mark your calendar! Ypsilanti is full of exciting festivals and events happening all summer long. From community gatherings to large-scale annual celebrations, find it here. Check out our list of this summer's highly anticipated annual events in Ypsilanti, and start making your plans now!
1. John E Lawrence Summer Jazz Series | Through September 1
The John E Lawrence Summer Jazz Series returns to Ford Lake Park! Bring your own chairs and enjoy some of the finest jazz in the area every Friday at 7 PM. $5 parking; View the John E Lawrence Summer Jazz lineup here.
2. Fun Fest 3.0 | August 12
Attend this lively music event for a day of music, art, food, and vendors at the Frog Island Park ampitheater, hosted by Ypsilanti's own Fundamental Sound Co.. This event is free with suggested donations to go towards the participating artists. Head to Ziggy's for the official after party. Click here to learn more about Fun Fest 3.0.
3. Ypsi Vegan Fest | August 12
Stone & Spoon in partnership with The Newton of Ypsilanti proudly present the inaugural Ypsi Vegan Fest. This vibrant gathering embraces the plant-based lifestyle, promoting compassion, sustainability, and culinary creations. Expect food trucks, vendors, and non-profit organizations showcasing diverse offerings of the vegan world. Riverside Arts Center, 11 AM - 5 PM; $2 suggested donation. Click here to learn more about Ypsi Vegan Fest.
4. Thunder over Michigan | August 12-13
Here’s your chance to get up close inside and outside of historic aircraft. This year marks the event’s 25th anniversary. Attendees can expect dozens of aircraft, ride sign-ups, and interactive exhibits. Willow Run Airport. $99-285. Click here to purchase Thunder Over Michigan tickets.
5. Ypsilanti Jazz Festival | August 12, 19
On August 12th and 19th, head to Montibeller Park for the Ypsi Jazz Fest! This is the second park location to end the season, providing more accessible opportunities for visitors to enjoy live music. Each night brings a new theme and performer. Bring the whole family! 6-9 PM; Free. View the Ypsi Jazz Fest Lineup.
6. Ton-Up Motorcycle and Music Festival | August 13
Arbor Brewing Company hosts the annual Ton-Up Motorcycle and Music Festival bringing you bikes, bands, and vendors all day long! All ages are welcoming to this family friendly event. Browse motorcycles, custom bikes, mopeds, scooters, and more while attending. Expect contests, raffles, and prizes! Arbor Brewing Company, 12-7 PM; Free Find details about the Ton-Up Festival here.
7. Ypsilanti Bicentennial Celebration | August 19
Everyone with Ypsilanti ties is invited to Ypsilanti’s official bicentennial celebration! Celebrate 200 years among Ypsi community members and organizations. This event will celebrate Ypsi's vibrant arts, music, and community love, while highlighting music from the past 200 years, special speakers, commemorative merchandise, a beer tent serving local craft brews, and a day of fun. Riverside Park, 11 AM;; Free. Learn the Bicentenial Celebration details.
8. Parkridge Summerfest & Joe Dulin Community Day | August 26
Celebrate community at the Parkridge Summerfest & Joe Julin Community Day. Attendees can expect live music from popular musicians from Ypsilanti, plus dozens of vendors ranging from local food vendors to Ypsilanti organizations and local services. Enjoy a day feeling like family at this annual event. Free. Click here to learn more about Parkridge Summerfest.
9. Firetruck Muster | August 26
The Michigan Firehouse Museum presents the annual Firetruck Muster back at Riverside Park. All ages love this event allowing attendees to get up close to antique fire trucks, plus try hands-on activities to gain insider knowledge about how firefighters have distinguish fires over the years. 10 AM - 2 PM; Free. Click here to learn more about the Firetruck Muster.
10. First Fridays Ypsilanti | April - December
Join in for this monthly arts and culture self-guided tour with a new theme each month. Several Ypsilanti shops, restaurants, and community spaces offer free workshops, artist showcases, and artful experiences every first Friday through December. Don't miss the Festival of the Pollinators in September. 5 PM; Free. Click to learn more about First Fridays Ypsilanti.
There are many more special events and festivals happening throughout the year. Please click here to view our events calendar for more Ypsi fun.
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