FoolMoon & FestiFools: Two Ann Arbor Festivals, One Epic Weekend

Two epic events, one art-filled weekend! 

April 10 & 12, 2026
 

YOU are invited to join in Ann Arbor's annual art tradition and magical parades, FoolMoon and FestiFools! This weekend of moving art experiences returns to downtown Ann Arbor with glowing art, creative experiences, and foolish fun. 

Whether you want to create your own luminary or puppet, or simply prefer to watch the parade, everyone is welcome. 

Here's what you can expect:
 

FoolMoon
April 10, 2026

Theme: Fools of a Feather
Location: Downtown Ann Arbor
Time: 7:30 PM - Midnight

What to Know about FoolMoon

FoolMoon is fun for all ages. This year's theme, Fools of a Feather, invites winged creatures of all kinds to light up Ann Arbor’s streets! Dress in creative costumes and bring your luminaries. 

• Constellation stations: 
  Start at these stations to join the nighttime parade. Processions leave at 8 PM sharp!
  • Front lawn of the U-M Museum of Art  
  • Kerrytown / Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market 
  • Slauson Middle School Parking Lot 
     
• Ending location: 
  March to Washington & Ashley Street, perfectly placed between Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, Cuban-inspired Frita Batidos, and Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea. The party continues with live music, dancing, light shows, and artful experiences. 

Before the event: "Fool U" Free FoolMoon Workshops

Attend free luminary-making workshops on Sundays through March 29 at Hathaway’s Hideaway. Artists and makers will assist in the process of creating a luminary from wire, tape, tissue paper, glue, LED lights, and your imagination. 

• View upcoming FoolMoon workshops.

Visit the FestiFools Studio Facebook page for the latest updates.
 

FestiFools
April 12, 2026

Theme: Back to the FOOLture!
Location: Main Street, downtown Ann Arbor  
Time: 4-5 PM

What to Know about FestiFools

Celebrate 20 years of the FOOL in all of us. This year's theme: Back to the FOOLture! 

Build and bring a giant puppet, or make a costume, or be a spectator! No matter your style, you'll have fun becoming part of FestiFools, a larger-than-life, monumental moving art display. The parade begins at 4 PM sharp.

FestiFools Studio Volunteer Saturdays

Want to be involved? Ahead of the event, attend free Saturday workshops and help with paper mache application, building drums, and other fun activities. All ages are welcome.

Visit the FestiFools Studio Facebook page for more info.

Plan Your Weekend Visit
 

Nearby Hotels

Stay the weekend at downtown favorites like The Bell Tower Hotel, The Graduate and Residence Inn, all close to the action. Stay near highway I-94 at The Kensington or EVEN Hotel for easy driving access.

Downtown Parking

Parking options include above and below-ground structures, free and metered street parking, and designated paved lots nearby. View an interactive downtown parking map. 

Getting Here & Around 

For traveling around A2, take TheRide, the area's top-notch public transit bus system. Private transportation services are offered by Golden Limousine, or go with rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

FestiFools began in 2007 by Mark Tucker, Art Director leading Lloyd Scholars for Writing and the Arts (LSA) students to create larger-than-life puppets, creating the ultimate puppet extravaganza. Learn more about FoolMoon and FestiFools.

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