Calendar of Events
There’s always something to celebrate here! Whether you’re into out-there extravaganzas like Bringin’ Back the 80’s or the Linwood Pickle Festival, or some of Michigan’s oldest and most traditional festivals like Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival and Chesaning Showboat Music Festival, one thing’s for sure—Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region knows how to keep the good times rolling. Already know when you’re visiting? Just select your dates to see what’s happening while you’re here!
JAZZ at the Y
Attend Jazz at the Y on Wednesday, May 22 from 6-9pm on the lawn of the YMCA of Saginaw, 1915 Fordney Street. For only $5/person you will be entertained by the soothing sound of Jazz from Robert Lee Revue as well as Brush Street featuring Julie Mulady. Ages 8 and under are free. Purchase tickets at the Y or on-line saginawymca.org
"Howard Ben Tré, The Lightness of Being, New Sculpture" exhibition
The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum will host the "Howard Ben Tré, The Lightness of Being, New Sculpture" exhibition from April 13 to June 29, 2013.
Saginaw Township Annual State of the Arts Exhibition
Annual Event - mixed media statewide competition - juried art show
The Saginaw Township State of the Arts 2013 Art Exhibition Reception & Awards presentation is Sunday April 21, 2-5pm (awards at 3pm). This is a juried exhibition of Michign Artists with cash prizes and awards. Monday through Friday 8am-5pm. Closed on weekends. Admission is Free!
Military Appreciation Month
Show Your ID and Save!
Birch Run Premium Outlets would like to show our appreciation for Military personnel for all that they do for our country by allowing them to show their Military/Work ID in the month of May and receive a complimentary VIP Coupon Book at our Information Center.
Join the VIP Shopper Club for free online access to the VIP Lounge exclusive online coupons, Deals Around Town, Insider Info from your favorite brands, email updates and much more!
Healthcare Workers Appreciation Month
Birch Run Premium Outlets would like to take the time to show appreciation for those who work in Healthcare. Just come into the Information Center and show you Healthcare ID and receive a FREE VIP Coupon Book $5 value. In the month of May.
Join the VIP Shopper Club for free online access to the VIP Lounge exclusive online coupons, Deals Around Town, Insider Info from your favorite brands, email updates and much more!
www.premiumoutlets.com/birchrun
East Bank Market
Join us Saturdays, 10a-4p, and the first Thursday evening, 5p-9p, of each month, May-October in beautiful Downtown Bay City!!
Enjoy live music, fresh foods, artisan goods, and a variety of unique, locally crafted items. Admission is free.
Situated in adorable, privately owned Unity Park, located on historic Center Avenue in charming Downtown Bay City, across from the Delta Planetarium. EBM is central to the area's shopping and dining district, within the walking loop.
East Bank Market.. Cool Stuff, Cool People, Cool Ideas!! See you there!
Folk Music Sundays

Folk Music Sundays
Sundays May 4, June 2, July 7, and August 4 from 4-6 p.m.
Toe-tappin' music by musicians from the Folk Music Socitiety of Midland will fill the air as you stroll through the Dow Gardens.
Farmer's Market

Enjoy fresh produce, beautiful flowers, local honey, home-made baked goods and so much more at the Midland Farmers Market Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through October.
The Farmers Market is located at the foot of Ashman Street near the Tridge in Downtown Midland and is open from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm, May thru October.
Interested in being a Farmers Market vendor? Contact the Midland Area Chamber of Commerce at (989) 839-9901.
Studio 23 "66th Annual Michigan Watercolor Society" Exhibit
Midland Camera Club Nature Photography Exhibit

The majority of these photos of plants, wildlife and scenery were taken in the local area. For over 65 years, the Midland Camera Club has been helping local photographers in Midland, Michigan become better at capturing images. Club members' interests range from simple basic techniques, such as off-set subjects, to more difficult issues on lighting and composition, and strives to help every photographer focus on improving. The club meets September through May. For details go to midlandcameraclub.tripod.com.
Free Admission
8th ANNUAL STUDENT SHOW

8th ANNUAL STUDENT ART SHOW
May 13 - June 30, 2013
Reception for the Artists:
Thursday,May 23, 3 - 5 pm
University Art Gallery on the campus of SVSU (location map: http://www.svsu.edu/visit/campusmaps/ )
(All receptions and exhibits are free and open to the public)
This exhibit will feature works from all medium areas of current SVSU Department of Art students. More information on this exhibit visit the gallery webpage at www.svsu.edu/artgallery or call the Department of Art 989-964-4159.
Adult Gardening Classes
Tuesday Evenings
May 7th through June 4th
5:30-6:30pm
Shooting Range
Public times include Rifle Range, Pistol Range and Archery Range. Please note that a Daily release must be signed by the individual.
Sponsored by the Auburn-Williams Recreation Board
Frankenmuth Farmers Market
With the mission to entertain, enrich, and educate growers and consumers, the Frankenmuth Farmers Market runs 8 am-2 pm Saturdays May 18 to October 19, next to Harvest Coffeehouse, 626 S. Main Street, Frankenmuth. Free parking is behind the Market, near Cass and Main Streets.
Vendors may change each week, bringing a variety of locally grown products. The Farmers Market accepts debit, credit and Bridge cards.
Henna- Artistry and Beauty
Darlene Cyr, who has been "slinging” henna for 5 years, will introduce you to the ancient art of henna: its sources, its use through the ages, and design variations from different traditions. You will practice techniques, and then create beautiful intricate designs on yourself. Please pre-register 4 days before each class for supply requisition.
Mon. May 20 / Tues. June 25 / Thurs. July 25 / Mon. Aug. 19
With cash discount: $22/$20 members each class, plus $8 material fee
Pages of History Book Club
With partners Public Libraries of Saginaw and the Historical Society of Saginaw County. This month’s selection is Detroit City is the Place to Be by Mark Binelli.
History Hike

Join Dennis Pilaske for an evening walk of sharing the stories and songs of the people who used to live on this land over a hundred years ago. We'll hike along the River Trail and through the Homestead, all the while exploring some of the historic features at the Nature Center.
Free Admission
Apps & Ales

This event highlights all of Downtown’s delicious eateries and pubs. Enjoy a night full of great appetizers and specialty brews!
So You Want to Publish Your Book
So You Want to Publish Your Book? With Betty Meyette and Mike Somers
Authors Betty Meyette (Love’s Destiny and Love’s Spirit) and Mike Somers (Starved) will discuss their journeys to publication and offer suggestions that have helped them along the way. Included in this presentation will be tips for writing a query letter and a synopsis, resources available to writers, finding an agent, and the pros and cons of self-publishing. They will also discuss what agents/editors look for in the first few pages of a book, how to maintain point of view, and steps to writing effective dialogue.
With cash discount: $28/$25 members
Rivers of our Watershed
The Saginaw Bay Watershed has over 7,000 miles of river, and there are dedicated groups working to provide recreational access and cleaner water all over the region. Join us as we provide you with the insight and tools you’ll need to start an epic paddling career right here at home in scenic rivers like the Shiawassee, the Rifle, and the Cass!
All in the Timing Performance
All in the Timing - a collection of one-act plays by American playwright David Ives. The short comic plays focus on language, wordplay, existentialist perspectives on life and meaning, and the complications involved in romantic relationships. The evening of one acts will consist of “Sure Thing”, “Words, Words, Words”, “ The Universal Language”, “The Philadelphia” and “Variations on the Death of Trotsky”.
Performance Dates: May 22-24, 2013 @ 2013
Ticket Prices: General Admission $10.00, Students & Senior Citizens (60+) $7.00
Native Plant Sale

Here's your chance to purchase ferns, trees, shrubs, vines and wildflowers that are native to Michigan. Plants that are propagated from native genotypes are easier to establish in your home landscape than non-native plants. We will have some of the most sought after species that are not readily available from local retailers. Come early for the best selection!
Great Lakes Regional & Michigan State Balloon Championship

Come watch professional balloon pilots as they challenge each other in various competitions, scheduled flights, and the Balloon Glow event where pilots tether and illuminate their balloons in the evening hours. This FREE Family event takes place Memorial Day weekend at the Frankenmuth River Place Shops!
Don't "Fry" Day
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention invites families to learn about sun-safe behaviors with activities and giveaways. Regular admission, Members Free.
Chesaning Town-wide Attic Sales
Michigan's largest community-wide garage and yard sales- over 85 sites in a square mile! Shop downtown merchants sidewalk sales for close-out, discontinued, slightly damaged and personal items.
Memorial Weekend Entertainment at Tri-City Motor Speedway
Jump start Memorial weekend in the Great Lakes Bay Region at Tri-City Motor Speedway. Friday night you’ll be hanging on the edge of your seat with 18 laps of Figure 8 action. Saturday enjoy a dazzling firework display and let’s not forget about the two days of the racing action on the dirt.
Bring the family out for Friday night fun to the newly renovated Tri-City Motor Speedway for stock car racing. The 3/8 mile clay oval track provides on the edge of your seat action for fans of all ages. The season opens April 19th and runs through September 7, 2013. TCMS also has the privilege to host the Sprints on Dirt Season Championship race on Saturday, September 21st.
General admission $14, age 55 & better $13, kids 7-13 $8, and 6 and under are always FREE. Food available for purchase, coolers welcome, NO GLASS. Friday - Gates open at 5:00, hot laps 6:30-7:15; Beat the Track Record at 7:15 and green flag drops (races start) at 7:55 pm.
Memorial Day Sidewalk Sale
Enjoy extra savings in addition to the every day low prices at over 145 outlet stores. Go to www.premiumoutlets.com/birchrun to join the VIP Shopper Club for free online access to the VIP Lounge exclusive online coupons, Where you can print off a coupon to redeem for a free coupon book ($5 Value), Deals Around Town, Insider Info from your favorite brands, email updates and much more!
Downtown Saginaw Farmer's Market
Find the best variety of locally grown fresh produce, plants, baked goods, handmade soaps & lotions, gourmet chocolates & candy, certified organic produce, specialty cupcakes, beeswax candles, entertainment & food vendors. Open every Mon., Wed., & Fri. 10 am-3 pm, Saturdays beginning July 6, 9 am-1 pm.
Dahlia Hill Society Tuber Sale
DAHLIA HILL SOCIETY TUBER SALE
Come to the Dahlia Hill Society & buy outstanding dahlia tubers grown in the Dahlia Hill garden. Hundreds of varieties available at below retail cost - $2 each or 6 for $10. Easy to grow - treat them as annuals to make your life easier. Expert volunteers are on hand to answer your questions. Open from 8am to 4pm. The Dahlia Hill Society of Midland, 2809 Orchard Dr, Midland (989)631-0100 or www.dahliahill.org
Opening Day Kick Off
We will kick off the season this year by unveiling a new gon car. It is the William & Lillian Stenger memorial car. William & Lillian both passed away in 2012. Bill was the designer, builder and owner of Junction Valley Railroad and Lillian was his faithful wife of 51 years who worked tirelessly by his side to help hime fulfill his dream. "We" the family will continue to operate this dream for many years to come. Along with the unveiling of the memorial car we will release butterflies in their memory. This will all take place at 10:30am.. The first train will depart shortly there after.
For the Birds!
Do your part to feed the birds in your neighborhood by crafting a take-home pinecone bird feeder. Watch the birds flock to your yard! Play bird bingo and win a prize.
With regular paid admission. MMCM members are free.
Samantha’s Sing-Along!
Join Samantha McKenzie as she introduces upbeat family-friendly tunes that will guarantee to get you on your feet! With regular paid admission. MMCM members are free.
Tour de Frankenmuth 2013
Das Tour de Frankenmuth Race 8am, Bike Expo May 25th, and Gran Fondo di Thumb May 26th.
Dog Bowl 2013

A high energy event that showcases dogs running, jumping, diving, and retrieving! Located in Frankenmuth River Place. Lots of great events: Best Costume Contest, 50 yrd. Doggie Fun Run, Fashion Show, Disc Dog Competitions, Wiener Dog Races, Pet Retail Vendors, Dog Bowl 2013 King and Queen, Dog Breeds of the World Show, Annual Canine Cruise of the Bavarian Belle River Boat, DockDogs Competition and Hot Air Balloons.
Great Lakes Loons vs. Dayton Dragons

Catch baseball at the Dow Diamond when the Great Lakes Loons (Dodgers) host the Dayton Dragons (Reds), admission:
Saturday, May 25: 7:05 pm, Fireworks Night,
Sunday, May 26: 3:05 pm,
Monday, May 27: 3:05 pm
Coleman Veterans Memorial 3rd Annual "United by Sacrifice" Concert
The 3rd Annual Coleman Veterans Memorial “United by Sacrifice” concert will be taking place Sunday, May 26 at 12:00 noon at the Coleman Veterans Memorial in Coleman, MI. This year will feature country music recording artist John Michael Montgomery, with special guests, Bobby Niemi and the Beef Cakes, Mandi Layne and the Lost Highway, Bullhonky Deluxe & Steve Armstrong and the 25 Cent Beer Band. Concert tickets are $25 up to a week in advance, $30 at the gate. You can get yours by visiting StarTickets.com or by calling 800.585.3737. Tickets are non-refundable and the concert will take place rain or shine. Seating is general admission lawn seating, so bring your chair or a blanket. We will also have a Rib Cook-off contest, Beverages, Beer Tent and Vendors on-site.
Homestead Sunday

Take a break from your busy schedule and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Homestead Farm. Staff and volunteers will be on hand at our log cabin and one-room schoolhouse to answer your questions, give tours of the farm and teach lessons from long ago. Kids of all ages can help with chores, play traditional games and visit the farm animals. The Homestead and Schoolhouse will be open Sundays, May 26-September 1.
Free Admission
Memorial Day Parade

Come to Downtown Midland to remember our heroes and enjoy the Memorial Day parade, beginning at 10 am. Start your day with a breakfast at a Downtown eatery and after the parade enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of our many restaurants. Shop, dine and play in Downtown Midland.
Coleman Memorial Day Ceremony and Dedication
Following the Coleman Memorial Day Parade, we will be hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony to remember and honor those soldiers who have been lost in battle for the United States Armed Forces. We will also be unveiling and dedicating a new statue to the Coleman Veterans Memorial, a Female Combat Soldier. She is the first full scale statue of her kind in the United States. With the unveiling of the Female Combat Soldier we have created a theme for this year surrounding Women of the Military. There will be women representing the different branches of the military to raise the flags at noon as well as speaking throughout the ceremony. Please come join us for this historic event.
Lunch & Learn: Through the Eyes of Lucy Burrows Morley: an exhibition of photography
Join Chris Thomson, great-grandson of Lucy Burrows Morley, as he talks about finding these once hidden images and how he came to rescue and restore these remarkable photos.
the Photography of Lucy Burrows Morley

This exhibit features the photography of Saginaw native, and co-founder of the Morley Foundation, Lucy Burrows Morley. Even though Morley was an amateur photographer, she had a remarkable sense of composition and photographed her subjects in more candid moments. There will be approximately thirty pieces in the exhibit located in Centennial Hall.
Chesley B. Sullenberger

One of the most captivating American heroes of this century – the courageous pilot who in January 2009 emergency landed US Airways Flight 1549 safely in the Hudson River – explores what it takes to lead and inspire. In his latest book, Making a Difference, the bestselling author engages some of the most accomplished individuals around the world, inspiring conversations on true leadership. “Sully” discusses what makes it possible for individuals to find the strength, skills and direction to lead others through crises – inspiring audiences to not only survive a crisis, but to thrive in the face of challenges. TICKETS ON SALE APRIL 15
Exploring CNC Trails Series: Wetlands Area

Chippewa Nature Center has over 15 miles of trails, and each one provides unique opportunities to traverse different ecosystems. Join Tom Lenon, Director of Land and Facilities, as he leads a series of hikes to some of the outer trails of the property that many people never even get to.
During the first of three hikes in the series, at the Wetlands Area, aquatic life will be the focus. This area also has a large open field of warm season grasses and wetland forested areas. During each of these hikes, Tom will also point out how these areas are being managed and what makes the areas special.
Additional Exploring CNC Trails Series hikes: June 26 and July 31
Free Admission
The Midtown Men

They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all time, and now they’re together again in a one-of-a-kind concert experience celebrating the music that defined the 60s! Don’t miss the top-shelf choreography, incredible harmonies and legendary onstage chemistry of these 4 stars from the original cast of Jersey Boys! Backed by an equally explosive live band, the foursome’s jump-to-your-feet show features top hits from Motown, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Four Seasons and more. TICKETS ON SALE APRIL 15
Fare & Feature Classic Film Series - "Kramer Vs. Kramer"
Film: Kramer Vs. Kramer
Starring: Meryl Streep & Dustin Hoffman
Time: 12:30 pm / Doors: 10:30 pm / Lunch: 11:30 pm
Menu For The Day: Potato Salad, Smoked Turkey Croissant with Swiss Cheese and Herb Mayo, & Cheesecake with Mixed Berries
Series Subscription (Includes 3 Gourmet Lunches & 3 Films): Just $65
Film Only Tickets Price: $7 for adults & $5 for Seniors
FILM SUMMARY:
(1979) Ted Kramer is a career man for whom his work comes before his family. His wife Joanna cannot take this anymore, so she decides to leave him. Ted is now faced with the tasks of housekeeping and taking care of himself and their young son Billy. When he has learned to adjust his life to these new responsibilities, Joanna resurfaces and wants Billy back. Ted, however, refuses to give him up, so they go to court to fight for the custody of their son.
Paddleboarding

Join staff from Buckley’s Mountainside Canoe to learn the art of Stand Up Paddleboarding. Pre-registration is required by calling our office at 989-790-5280. Cost for the event is $10/person.
Night Lighting for Wildlife

What animals will you see when the sun goes down? Bring your flashlight and join CNC Educator Michelle Fournier to find out. We’ll be using flashlights along our hike to look for the glittery eyes of our nocturnal creatures both big and small.
Festival of the Senses

Festival of the Senses
Friday, May 31, 2013
Save the date --and get your tickets early! Michigan wineries and breweries from all over the state will be in the Dow Gardens -where you can enjoy sampling their products right in a beautiful garden setting. Tickets will be available on-line and at the Visitor Center in the spring.
Five Dollar Friday

School Bus Figure Eights, Bombers Twin 20's, Legends Cars, Race Car Figure Eights, 4x4 Tug-A-Wars and Spectator Drags. All this auto racing for just $5!
Great Lakes Loons vs. Lansing Lugnuts

The Great Lakes Loons (Dodgers) host the Lansing Lugnuts (Blue Jays) for exciting baseball at the Dow Diamond, admission:
Friday, May 31: 7:05 pm,
Saturday, June 1: 7:05 pm, Fireworks night,
Sunday: June 2: 3:05 pm,
Monday, June 3: 7:05 pm
T-ball, A-ball, AA-ball
Players will be taught the fundamentals of
baseball, sportsmanship, and team work.
Tuesday & Thursday evenings