Events of Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Astronomical Observatory Viewing Night.  9 PM to 11 PM.  Students, employees, and community members are invited to enjoy an evening of stargazing through our campus telescope! Please call 517.990.1400 or visit the Astronomical Observatory web page before attending to confirm the event is still taking place, as it may be canceled due to weather conditions.  Jackson College Central Campus.

Line Dance Night at the Honky Tonk at Oak + Iron.  6:30 PM to 10 PM.  Join us for Line Dancing every Wednesday nights. Doors at 6:30 p.m. and lessons start at 7 p.m. at the Honky Tonk at Oak + Iron.  151 West Michigan Avenue, Downtown Jackson.

Pathways of Patriotism Exhibit. Pathways of Patriotism: Exploring Jackson County’s Revolutionary Roots is a signature initiative of the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society, created to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and highlight the community’s enduring commitment to the nation’s founding ideals. Although Jackson County was not yet settled during the Revolutionary War, its development was deeply shaped by veterans, reformers, and everyday citizens who carried the spirit of 1776 forward. The exhibit traces this generational journey, beginning with the Indigenous Potawatomi presence and the Revolutionary War veterans who later settled the region, establishing civic foundations rooted in community building, representative government, and basic rights.It also explores Jackson County’s role in major national movements, with particular focus on 1854, when Jackson became the birthplace of the Republican Party at the historic “Under the Oaks” convention, where leaders such as future Governor Austin Blair took a principled stand against the expansion of slavery. The exhibit continues through the Civil War era, industrial growth, immigration, and civil rights activism, illustrating how local actions contributed to America’s evolving democratic story. Free to the public through the generous support of America250MI, the exhibit is displayed at the historic Jackson Amtrak Station, 501 E. Michigan Avenue, and will remain on view through December 2026. Learn more about the Jackson County MI Historical Society here. 

Jackson Audubon Society presents Winter Birding.  3 PM to 5 PM. Curious about what birds can be seen at your feeder and beyond during the winter months? Join members of the Jackson Audubon Society from 3:00 to 4:00 PM for a discussion about Michigan Winter Birds.  This program will also review the different kinds of food that can be put out along with different types of feeders, and conclude with a brief discussion about winter bird migration. From 4:00 to 5:00 PM join us to make a simple DIY bird feeder.  Napoleon Branch, Jackson District Library.  Event page here.