Welcome to your weekend plans.

This week’s highlights include music festivals across the state, as well as an event serving up bull testicles as the main course (yes, really), and a parade in Detroit to banish an evil red dwarf.

As always, I’d love to hear your suggestions! If you know of an upcoming event you’d like me to highlight,
please send me a note here (suggestions should be submitted at least one week before the event).

Whitmer declares state of emergency following blizzard (WCMU): Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency across seven northern Michigan counties after a severe blizzard and ice storm left more than 100,000 residents without power. Officials say restoration efforts are ongoing.

Child vaccination rates drop sharply in Michigan (Reuters): Vaccination rates among young children in Michigan dropped sharply in 2025, raising concerns among public health officials about growing vulnerability to preventable diseases. Experts say the decline may be linked to rising vaccine hesitancy from shifting federal messaging from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

GOP-led proof-of-citizenship voting bill advances (Michigan Advance): A bill that would require proof of US citizenship to register to vote is moving through the Michigan legislature after a party-line committee vote. While Republicans say it strengthens election integrity, Democrats are warning that it would create barriers for eligible voters. It’s unlikely to pass the Democratic-led Senate.

Local news is essential for democracy.

Our reporting cuts through false narratives, documents what’s actually happening in our communities, and provides voters with the clear, factual information they need—especially when the stakes are high.

Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)

West Michigan

1. Mountain Bike Spring Kick Off Party

Friday, March 20, 6-9 p.m.

Rockford Bike Shop (7740 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford)

“Let’s kick off spring riding season with a bang. Call it a party—or just a great excuse to gather with your riding friends—this is your spring bike celebration! Hosted by Rockford Bike Shop, the night will be packed with good vibes and even better company.”

2. Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival

March 20-21

Kalamazoo Valley Museum (230 N Rose St., Kalamazoo)

“The Fretboard Festival is a celebration of Kalamazoo’s stringed-instrument legacy and musical heritage.”

3. Maple Row Sugarhouse Festival

March 21-22, 28-29

Maple Row Sugarhouse (12646 Born Street, Jones)

“Get ready for the sweetest spring celebration in Southwest Michigan! Join us at the Michigan Maple Festival at Maple Row Sugarhouse in Jones, Michigan — a family‑friendly weekend full of maple magic, tasty treats, and farm fun.”

4. Groove for Good

Saturday, March 21, 5-10 p.m.

Old Dog Tavern (402 E Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo)

“[Groove for Good] brings together local musicians, community members, and climate justice advocates for an evening that blends live music, conversation, and community connection in a welcoming and accessible setting.”

5. Grand Rapids Whiskey Festival

Saturday, March 21, 6-10 p.m.

DeVos Place (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)

“All around the world, this gorgeous amber spirit has captivated humans for centuries. Fermented grain is the starting point that all the types of whiskey have in common – aside from the fact that they are adored the world over. And while flavor can range from smokey and earthy to bold and spicy, it is beloved as a drink served neat, but easily just as appreciated with your favorite mixer or in a new cocktail. Whiskey Fest aims to explore all of these options, and to help lead you to your new favorite way to imbibe!”

Northern Michigan/UP

6. NMU Jazz Festival

March 19-20

Northern Michigan University (1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette)

“The 2026 NMU Jazz Festival will be held on the beautiful campus of Northern Michigan University on Thursday and Friday, March 19-20. This year’s festival will feature The Westerlies, a Grammy-nominated New York-based brass quartet.”

Mid/South Michigan

7. Fenner Nature Center’s Maple Syrup Festival

March 21-22

Fenner Nature Center (2020 E Mt Hope Ave., Lansing)

“This spring, join us for a sweet day full of maple-flavored food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and environmental education amongst the woods.”

Southeast Michigan/Thumb

8. Motor City Blues Festival

Saturday, March 21, beginning at 7 p.m.

Fox Theatre (2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit)

“The 18th Annual Motor City Blues Festival returns this Spring 2026 with a sound that’s different than the rest and with a soul that remains the same.”

9. 25th Deerfield American Legion Testicle Festival

Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Deerfield American Legion Post 392 (105 W River St., Deerfield)

“This Saturday 10am Doors open, for the 25th Deerfield American Legion Testicle Festival!”

10. Marche du Nain Rouge

Sunday, March 22, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Canfield and Second, Detroit

“The Nain Rouge is Detroit’s oldest legend, going all the way back to Detroit’s founding. Each year we hold a tongue in cheek parade in the Cass Corridor with the Nain, wearing our wonderful and terrible costumes.”

11. Ann Arbor Film Festival

March 24-29

Ann Arbor

“The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America, founded by George Manupelli in 1963. Internationally recognized as a premiere forum for independent filmmakers and artists, each year’s festival engages audiences with remarkable cinematic experiences.”

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Brook Bolen.

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