Friday, November 18
Downtown Jackson Christmas Parade. You’re invited to the 31st Annual Downtown Jackson Christmas Parade! 6 PM. The parade route starts at the corner of Michigan and Blackstone, travels east down Michigan Avenue and concludes at Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. Colorful, lighted floats, marchers, special characters, six marching bands and Santa and Mrs. Claus! Following the parade, join Santa and Mrs. Claus at Flagstar Bank (corner of West Michigan and Blackstone) for pictures, hot chocolate and snacks.
Friends of the Jackson District Library Holiday Open House Book and Bake Sale. 4 PM to 7 PM. Hot dog/hot chocolate on the lawn, bake and book sale inside along with lots of fun events and surprises! See you there! Book Sale: November 18 10am-6pm. November 19 10am-2pm. Bake Sale: November 18 4pm-6pm. Kids will receive a free book. Hot dogs and hot chocolate will also be available for $1 on the front lawn. 5pm.
HOME.fm‘s Free Christmas Movie: “A Christmas Story”. 8:30 PM. We would love to invite you to an evening of amazing fun, that includes TWO wonderful Free events! The Annual Downtown Jackson Christmas Parade, Followed afterward by 106.9 HOME.fm’s yearly FREE Christmas Movie! It all happens the Friday before Christmas! Gather your Blankets, Coats, Family & Friends for the Amazing, Annual Christmas Parade along the downtown streets of Jackson, then once the parade ends, make the short walk over to the Downtown YMCA for HOME.fm’s FREE Family Christmas Movie showing, featuring this year:, ‘A Christmas Story’! No need to even head back to the car after the parade. Just gather up your things, visit Santa and Flagstar, then walk on over and join in the fun! We’ll even have FREE Popcorn, and FREE MILO’s Tea and Lemonade! It all happens Friday evening, November 18th. The Downtown Jackson Christmas Parade, Santa at Flagstar, followed by HOME.fm’s FREE showing of ‘A Christmas Story’ at the YMCA! We can’t wait to see you there!
Pink Friday. All day, Downtown Jackson. This is one HUGE day to #shopsmallfirst – before Black Friday! This is a day to encourage shoppers like YOU to #shopsmallfirst, before the craziness at all the Walmarts and Targets on Black Friday. This year, many of the businesses in Jackson will have various specials to get your holiday shopping started. Mark your calendar! This will be a fun day! The Christmas Parade is that evening too, so you’ll be able to kick off your holiday season in the best way possible in Downtown Jackson, MI! *Each store will post its special at its own will and some may be surprises!
American 1 Fall Car Sale. 9 AM to 6 PM. Keeley Park. Join us for the American 1 Fall Car Sale, Wednesday, November 16, to Saturday, November 19, at the American 1 Event Center at Keeley Park! Sale hours are Friday from 9 am-6 pm, and Saturday from 10 am-5 pm. Participating dealerships include Avenue Auto, Huff Auto Group, Jackson Auto Co., And Seymour Ford Lincoln! Just for stopping by the sale, you can enter to win our daily prize drawing, and when you purchase a vehicle at the sale and finance with American 1, you will receive a $100 gas card from your dealership and the chance to spin our prize wheel!* We welcome trade-ins at our car sales! Simply bring the vehicle to the sale that you’d like to trade in, and one of our dealership partners will be happy to help you find your next ride. Interested in test driving a car? With our brand new You Drive, They Thrive promotion, American 1 will donate $3 per test drive toward the Henry Ford Hospice Home Lights of Love event.
Art Battle Jackson. Grab your best pals and join us for an amazing experience of live art! Artists have 20 minutes to take their canvases from blank to beautiful, battling not only the clock but each other as well in 3 rounds. Watch the paint fly before your eyes and help vote to determine the Winner of the night! All artwork created will also be available via silent auction. Be a part of the fun as a spectator, or participate as one of the featured artists by applying online at artbattle.com/artists! Art Battle® Jackson is an All Ages event with a 21+ bar. Doors @ 7:00 pm / Painting @ 8:00 pm. ART 634, 634 N. Mechanic St, Jackson. TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/…/art-battle-jackson…
Center Stage Jackson presents Something Rotten. 7 PM. Hope to see you there! Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” Something Rotten features large song and dance numbers and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. Something Rotten! officially opened on Broadway at the St. James Theatre in 2015. It was nominated for ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Its cast album received a nomination for the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. Michigan Theatre, Downtown Jackson. Tickets at the door and here.
Late Night Friday at Sandhill Crane Vineyards. 4 PM to 8 PM. A recent guest at Sandhill, welcome new musician, Andrew Nichols! Bring family or friends visiting for the holidays for this special night of jazz music! Andrew Nichols is a professional saxophonist from Metro Detroit. He has performed with artists such as Hugh Jackman, The Who, and Aretha Franklin. We’re looking forward to this night of mulled wine, jazz music, & friends! 4724 Walz Road, Jackson.
Cadillac Finn Live at Ironbark.. 7 PM to 10 PM. Join us for an evening of Americana and Blues with the acoustic duo, Cadillac Finn! Ironbark Brewing Company, 2610 Kibby Road, Jackson.
Horizon Exhibit. The Ella Sharp Museum is thrilled to be the premier location for this amazing new traveling exhibition from the Museum of Special Art (MOSA). The Horizon Exhibition features an eclectic collection of realistic, modern and abstract works from 18 different artists from across the U.S., Spain, and Canada. This exhibition is one that will truly leave you inspired as our community celebrates the gifts and talents of artists of differing abilities. The Ella Sharp Museum is dedicated to embracing and sharing artwork from all individuals. This exhibition is an example of the inclusivity of work from a variety of artists of all ages with various experiences and abilities. Open during museum hours.
Saturday, November 19
St. Demetrius Orthodox Church Bake Sale. 9 AM to 3 PM. The time has come to open the doors to one of the best bake sales in the Jackson county area. Once again, the sweet and savory offerings from the Sisterhood of St. Demetrius Orthodox Church will be available at their open and on-site bake sale takes place from 9 to 3 the Saturday before Thanksgiving, on November 19th. Delectable ethnic and old-fashioned home-baked pastries, cookies, pies, breads and more will be waiting for you at this open to the public sale at St. Demetrius, 3043 Seymour Road in Jackson, Michigan. The popular hand-made Zelnic/Spanikopeta (cheese, leek or spinach pie), sweet and delicious home-made baklava and other baked goods will be available, as well as home-made “Avgolemono Chicken Soup”… the Greek-Macedonian style chicken soup with lemon and egg, sold in quarts. Bake sale goers will also find cakes, breads, candies, cookies and delectable “sample boxes” as well as the church’s “Taste of Tradition” cookbook. Lunch will also be available featuring Coney Island hot dogs. Cash and checks are accepted. St. Demetrius Orthodox Church is a unique gem in Jackson and tours of the church will be taking place during bake sale hours and visitors will be able to see the frescoes and icons that adorn the church. For information on the bake sale, call 517-784-0116 or visit www.stdemetrius.com.
American 1 Fall Car Sale. 9 AM to 6 PM. Keeley Park. Join us for the American 1 Fall Car Sale, Wednesday, November 16, to Saturday, November 19, at the American 1 Event Center at Keeley Park! Sale hours Saturday from 10am-5pm. Participating dealerships include Avenue Auto, Huff Auto Group, Jackson Auto Co., And Seymour Ford Lincoln! Just for stopping by the sale, you can enter to win our daily prize drawing, and when you purchase a vehicle at the sale and finance with American 1, you will receive a $100 gas card from your dealership and the chance to spin our prize wheel!* We welcome trade-ins at our car sales! Simply bring the vehicle to the sale that you’d like to trade in, and one of our dealership partners will be happy to help you find your next ride. Interested in test driving a car? With our brand new You Drive, They Thrive promotion, American 1 will donate $3 per test drive toward the Henry Ford Hospice Home Lights of Love event.
Jackson County Access Fair. 11 AM to 1 PM. Visit the Jackson County Child Care Access Fair to connect with our Child Care partners to learn how to start or expand your career in Child Care.Fair participants will include Child Care Licensing Bureau, City of Jackson, Mi Registry, FCF, Local Health Department, Food Program, Child Care Network, Michigan Works, and more. Jackson City Hall, 2nd Floor (Council Chambers).
Building Ogma: One Year Event. Starting at 12 PM. Join us for a special day of gratitude as we reflect on our first year at Ogma! The day will include: Insane food & beer deals as a “thank you” for your support, The “Building Ogma, 2017-2021” photography series exhibition (15 framed pieces) An open “fireside” chat w/ owners, staff, and friends (2 pm & 8 pm) Hardcover photobook gallery of Ogma’s resilient 4-year buildout to check out (65 photos) . Merch + Ogma gift card giveaways throughout the day. We are stoked to spend the day w/ all of you to reflect on and give thanks for an incredible year that we will not soon forget. All the love. 129 E. Michigan Avenue, Downtown Jackson.
2nd Annual Christmas at the Bee Barn. 8 AM – 4 PM. MX6 Ranch & Honey Bee Yards. We would love for you to join us for the 2nd Annual Christmas at the Bee Barn. The Bee Barn will be filled with delicious honey and beautiful beeswax candles to shop from. Be sure to check out our soap, balms and wax wraps too! We have something to fill everyone’s stockings for the Holidays. 8221 Territorial Road, Munith.
Nite Lites 8th Annual 5K Fun Run. Michigan International Speedway, 12626 US Hwy 12, Brooklyn. 6:00 PM. Runners will begin 1/2 hour before walkers. This course is contained within Michigan International Speedway and is paved. Please wear appropriate footwear for these conditions. Details are available here.
Music on Tap. Join us on November 19th for Music on Tap’s first R&B Night with Brandon Rose and Soul Therapy. Opening the concert is local favorite, B!G L and CODE BlÜ at 8:00 pm. The protégé of legends Marcus Miller and Rodney Whitaker, contemporary jazz musician Brandon Rose harnesses his gospel roots to create rhythm and blues, and soul-inspired compositions. His music seamlessly and effortlessly incorporates elements of jazz, funk, hip hop, and R&B into a full-bodied sonic experience. This concert is perfect for date night or a fun evening with friends.
Center Stage Jackson presents Something Rotten. 7 PM. Hope to see you there! Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” Something Rotten features large song and dance numbers and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. Something Rotten! officially opened on Broadway at the St. James Theatre in 2015. It was nominated for ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Its cast album received a nomination for the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. Michigan Theatre, Downtown Jackson. Michigan Theatre, Downtown Jackson. Tickets at the door and here.
Van Helsteam’s Monster Hunter Bash. 6 PM to 10 PM.Grand River Brewery – Jackson. TICKET: $10. Van Helsteam’s Monster Hunter Bash returns! Join us Nov. 19 in the barrel room of Grand River Brewery in Jackson. The perfect venue to grab a bite, enjoy some drinks, and listen to music with other steampunk enthusiasts. Plus, a chance to win some fun prizes, AND attendees will be the first to hear some big upcoming steampunk news! Join in the fun! Attendees are encouraged to dress steampunk, so breakout the steampunk monster hunter accessories or be your own monster – it’s all about having a good time. Make sure to stop by the photo booth to preserve the moment. Details and tickets here.
Flannual Fest. 7 PM. Flannual Fest was an idea originally hatched between a few patrons and a bartender ten years ago. In a passionate discussion about the love of flannels and the need for a yearly nod of admiration, the Annual Flannel Fest (aka Flannual) was hatched. First taking place at The Found Barn, the fest has always been farmside or in the woods among close friends. After a short life hiatus and all things covid, The Annual Flannual will be re-emerging at Art 634! Put on your finest flannel, and bring a friend! Doors open at 6:30p, music at 7p. Ahhh, Yes!, LVRS, Paper Lanterns, and The Orbiters will be performing. Cash Bar and Hoagies on Wheels Food Truck. Tickets are $10 in advance at: https://square.link/u/1N0xQp32 or you can also purchase at the door for $15. ART 634, 634 N. Mechanic Street, Jackson.
Sunday, November 20
Jackson Community Concert Band. 3 PM. Enjoy a musical double feature of sorts when the Jackson Community Concert Band presents “Michigan Roots and Music of the Southwest,” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 in Harold Sheffer Music Hall, Potter Center. This free concert features works by Michigan composers and Southwestern favorites. Selections include an original work by band member and composer Chris Evan Hass (Il Nostro Ragazzo Dolce). Two band members will perform solos with band accompaniment, including Dustin Moeckel, trombone (Variations on Barnacle Bill) and Tianna Gillis, flute (Fantasie). Guest conductors will include retired JC faculty member Ron Douglass (Danzon #2), and Napoleon School Music Director Trevor Trudeau (Variations on Barnacle Bill). And, the arrangement of “Be Thou My Vision” is by another Michigan composer with Jackson roots, David Gillingham. The concert is free, and all are welcome. The 70-plus-member Jackson Community Concert Band is comprised of both college students and community members, under the leadership of director Dan Bickel. The College has a variety of musical ensembles for students and community members. Learn more here… jccmi.edu/program/music/.
Center Stage Jackson presents Something Rotten. Matinee at 3 PM. Hope to see you there! Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” Something Rotten features large song and dance numbers and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. Something Rotten! officially opened on Broadway at the St. James Theatre in 2015. It was nominated for ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Its cast album received a nomination for the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. Tickets at the door and here.
Board Game Sundays. Come to the Carnegie Library Quiet Reading Room to play some board games or do puzzles every Sunday from 1:30-4:30 PM, starting September 4. The library will provide the games, you provide the fun! This program is open to all ages.