Start the season with fun, food, and festivals this September

Although summer has come to an end, there is still plenty of fun, food, and festivals to enjoy across Midland. Start Fall off by attending an event to celebrate the change in seasons!

The Commons music series
The Commons music series continues through the end of September. Every Friday and Saturday night, downtown comes alive with music from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Pedestrian Plaza Stage at the intersection of McDonald St. & Main St. Visit their website for a full band schedule.
City of MidlandPups enjoy Plymouth Pool
Pooches at the pool.
Plymouth Pool has gone to the dogs on Saturday, Sept 7. At the close of the summer pool season, owners can bring their furry friends for a swim. With a zero-depth entry and a deep well, the pool is perfect for dogs of all sizes. 
 
Each dog gets 30 minutes of pool time, rain or shine, and owners aged 8 and older are welcome to join (though it's not recommended). Want to extend the fun? Dogs can register for multiple sessions. The first session costs $10 per dog, with additional sessions at $5 each. Plus, every pup will receive a doggie swag bag!  

Taste of Downtown
On Thursday, September 12, Downtown Midland will host the anticipated Taste of Downtown Midland event, inviting guests to enjoy an evening of delicious bites from local retailers and restaurants.

From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., participants will stroll through the downtown area, sampling food and drinks from 17 participating businesses. Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m. Each $34 ticket includes an event passport granting access to exclusive tastings.

This is a 21+ event. Tickets are nonrefundable. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Downtown Midland website.

Dow GardensMake a Mandala at Dow GardensCreate your own Mandala
Join Dow Gardens on Tuesday, Sept 17 for a peaceful and creative experience as you craft a Mandala using natural materials and botanicals in a strolling workshop. As you wander through the gardens, you'll gather colors and textures that resonate with your personality, mood, and preferences. No prior experience is needed to participate.

Since Mandalas cannot be taken home, be sure to bring a camera to capture your unique creation. Please note that this event involves walking up to one mile on uneven terrain and may not be suitable for all guests.

The cost is $10 per person, plus garden admission. Reservations are required due to limited capacity.

Rhythm and Brews
The Midland Morning Rotary Club is inviting the community to its annual Rhythm & Brews Festiva on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. The event will be held at the end of Ashman Street near the Tridge in Downtown Midland.

Festival-goers will enjoy a performance by the AKFM Trio, featuring Erik Ryden, with dinner catered by the West Midland Family Center. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door, each providing attendees with 10 tastings, dinner, and live music. Over 25 craft beers, ciders, and wines will be available for tasting, with additional tasting tickets available for purchase at the event.

Proceeds from the festival will go toward Early Childhood Education Scholarships and support various community and international programs led by the Midland Morning Rotary Club.

Tickets can be purchased online via Eventbrite or in person at Eastman Party Store at 5205 Eastman Ave
EventbriteMichigan Antique FestivalMichigan Antique Festival
The Michigan Antique Festival returns for two days of excitement and discovery on Sept. 21-22 at the Midland Fairgrounds. With over 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor vendor space, attendees can browse a wide selection of antiques, including furniture, home decor, rare books, and vintage clothing. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for a unique find, there's something for everyone.

As Michigan's largest antique market, the Midland Antique Festival also hosts Mid-Michigan's biggest classic car show and swap meet, making it a must-see event for antique and car enthusiasts.

Admission is $10 per person for a weekend pass, with free entry for children 11 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the gate, and parking is free. 

Whiting Forest Fall Walk
Embrace the enchantment of autumn at Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens with an evening stroll Friday, Sept 27. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the season with live music and seasonal drinks available for purchase at the Café.

Admission is included with a general ticket or an annual admission card, though registration is required. Guests will access the event via the orange event bridge located next to the Grace A. Dow Library.

For those with accessibility needs wishing to park at the Education Center, reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance by calling 989-631-2677. Limited parking spaces are available.


 
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Read more articles by Misty Barron.

Misty Barron is a Mid-Michigan native who has proudly called Midland her home for the past six years. She served as Editor-in-Chief for the Delta Collegiate, where she earned various awards for her writing, including Journalist of the Year in 2023 from the Michigan Community College Press Association. In her free time, Misty enjoys spending time with family and friends and enjoying all our beautiful state has to offer.