The Ypsi in October initiative, now in its third year, showcases Ypsilanti as Southeast Michigan’s premier Halloween destination. This year’s lineup of events invites both community members and visitors to explore Ypsilanti’s unique culture through a variety of exciting festivals and spooky celebrations throughout October.
The festivities kick off with the Odd-tober Weekend, October 4-6, featuring some of Ypsilanti’s most anticipated Halloween events, including:
- First Fridays Ypsilanti (October 4): A free self-guided arts and culture tour with several local businesses hosting Halloween-themed activities. The evening wraps up with a screening of Night of the Living Dead (1968) at Frog Island Park.
- Holy Bones Festival (October 4-5): The sixth annual festival features over 80 local artisans, live performances, and the Holy Bones Drag Hour. This event is rated PG-13, showcasing mature-themed art and entertainment.
- Highland Cemetery Evening Lantern Tours (October 4-5): Explore the historic Highland Cemetery with local historian James Mann, who will guide tours by lantern light and share stories of former Ypsilanti residents. Tickets are $10, cash only, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Ypsi Freak Fest (October 4-6): A three-day music festival held across multiple venues in Ypsilanti, including Wyrd Bird, Ziggy’s, and Riverside Park.
The fun continues later in the month with more thrilling events:
- Neighborhood Theatre Group Presents: Ghoulita Graves Presents… It’s Alive! A Black Cat B-Movie Parody (October 18-20 and 24-26): This brand new, original musical production by the Neighborhood Theatre Group is a must-see for fans of quirky, spooky performances.
“We're excited to celebrate Ypsi this October! Event organizers have come together to create a uniquely Ypsi Halloween and fall destination,” said Sarah Miller, President and CEO at Destination Ann Arbor. “We welcome everyone who loves the unusual to experience our one-of-a-kind festivals and seasonal events!”
To increase awareness of Ypsi in October, Destination Ann Arbor has partnered with Atlas Obscura, a global brand known for uncovering hidden wonders and extraordinary destinations around the world. This collaboration aims to shine a spotlight on Ypsilanti as an essential stop for Halloween enthusiasts.
Full Calendar and Additional Events
Events are continuously added to the Ypsi in October calendar. For a complete list of events and details, visit YpsiReal.com/YpsiOctober.
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Destination Ann Arbor is a 501 (c)6 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to elevate economic vitality and connect our communities through the power of travel. Through its Ypsi Real brand, Destination Ann Arbor showcases the unique culture, events and attractions in Ypsilanti, offering visitors a vibrant experience of the area.
CONTACT:
Chad Wiebesick, Director of Public Affairs
(734) 995-7281
cwiebesick@annarbor.org