Major Events & Festivals near Ann Arbor, Michigan

Save the date for these major festivals in 2026!

Ann Arbor and surrounding destinations like Chelsea, Manchester, Milan, and more host action-packed events for all ages and interests. Don't miss these upcoming events.

African American Downtown Festival
June 6

The 29th annual African American Downtown Festival brings an unforgettable lineup of performances. Bring your friends and family, and pack up your lawn chairs and head to downtown Ann Arbor for full day of fun. Food vendors and kid activities will be available. Free, downtown Ann Arbor: East Ann & North Main St.

Ann Arbor Summer Festival
June 12-28

With live music and entertainment, movies in the park after dark, a kids activity zone, and plenty of free ways to find fun, the Ann Arbor Summer Festival is right around the corner! Start planning your A2SF outing. Free, Ingalls Mall.

Michigan Celtic Festival
July 10-11

The Michigan Celtic Festival celebrates Celtic heritage and cultural connection to Sister City, Brecon, Wales through dance, food, crafts and all ages fun.  $5-$75, Washtenaw Council Farm Grounds. 

Ann Arbor Art Fair
July 16-18

The nation's largest juried art fair, the Ann Arbor Art Fair fills the streets of downtown Ann Arbor! We have you covered for what to know before you go. All ages welcome. Free, downtown Ann Arbor.

Manchester Chicken Broil - Manchester
July 18

Become part of a Manchester tradition at the 73rd  Manchester Chicken Broil, serving the best chicken dinners by caring volunteers. Expect on-site dining with live music, kids’ area, and more. Drive-thru pickup available. $15, Alumni Memorial Field, Manchester. 

Sounds & Sights Festival - Chelsea
July 24-25

Plan for the annual Sounds & Sights Festival nearby in Chelsea, Michigan! This weekend of family fun includes an art market, chalk art competition, farmers market, food court, and more all in a charming downtown. Free, The Social Commons, Chelsea. 

Ann Arbor Pride
August 1

Save the date! Ann Arbor Pride returns with live entertainment on two stages, 100+ LGBTQ-friendly vendors, and free activities. Free, Main & Liberty Street, Downtown Ann Arbor. 

Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival
August 10-15

Paint Dexter Plein Air is a full outdoor arts experience. Witness artists from all over the country visit Dexter for this annual arts event. With competitions, activities, receptions, and music, don't miss this unique, art-filled festival. Free, Downtown Dexter.

Live from Tolan Square
Fridays, June - September

Milan is a short drive from Ann Arbor and well worth the visit! Live from Tolan Square is a lively yet low-key, free summer music festival taking place in a brick plaza off of the beautiful Main Street. Explore before the show to make the most of your visit. Free, Main Street, Milan.