For those who don’t usually open my Wednesday newsletter, today’s edition probably looks a lot different than what you’re used to.
On Wednesdays, I give readers a rundown of the best events going on this weekend across Michigan, but because of election coverage, we had to push that back.
So, for those who love this list already and for newcomers alike, here are 12 events you should have on your radar, with highlights including holiday markets, film festivals, and more.
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This election season, The ’Gander journalists were on the ground across Michigan. We knocked on doors, attended town halls, tracked down candidates, and worked late nights to keep you informed. From social media and newsletters to live blogs, we brought you the latest wherever you followed the news.
The election is over, but our work isn’t. We’ll keep covering the issues that matter to Michiganders and holding elected leaders accountable.
That work is possible because of you. Can you chip in $25, or any amount, to support the journalists behind our reporting?
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Newborn deaths in Flint plummeted following launch of Rx Kids (Vox): A cash assistance program for pregnant women in Flint is helping save newborn lives. A new study found neonatal deaths fell nearly 50%, from 9.4 to 5.1 per 1,000 births, after families began receiving payments through Rx Kids. The money helped cover essentials like baby supplies, rent, and food. The program is now expanding to more than 60 locations across Michigan.
Nuclear plant workers feared raising concerns, inspectors find (MLive): Federal regulators say workers at Michigan’s Palisades nuclear plant feared retaliation or termination for raising safety concerns, particularly in departments responsible for equipment procurement and quality assurance. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission found no significant plant safety violations during its workplace review, but ordered owner Holtec to address the concerns.
Michigan sees record midterm voter turnout (Freep): More than 4.8 million Michigan voters cast ballots in the 2026 midterms, setting a new record and topping the 4.5 million who voted in 2022. Turnout surged in places like Dearborn and Detroit, with early analysis suggesting the growth was concentrated in Democratic-leaning areas, though Republicans also showed up in strong numbers.
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Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)
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🍷 Art Coast Food & Wine Festival
Nov. 5-7
Saugatuck/Douglas
“Join us for three days of exceptional dining and memorable experiences celebrating the flavor, craft and creativity of the Saugatuck/Douglas region while surrounded by brilliant fall color.”
💃 Cultural Heritage Festival 2026
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Grand Rapids Public Museum (272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids)
“The City of Grand Rapids and the surrounding region have a long-standing history of diversity and various cultural traditions dating back from early explorers and fur traders, to modern day cultural rituals from new residents of the region. To celebrate this heritage, the Grand Rapids Public Museum hosts the annual Cultural Heritage Festival.”
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🎞️ 41 North Film Festival
Nov. 6-8
Rozsa Center For The Performing Arts (1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton)
“The 41 North Film Festival showcases award-winning independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country, and world. Its mission is to provide Michigan Tech students and the surrounding community with an opportunity to see new films that are currently in distribution and under discussion, as well as the chance to interact with filmmakers, producers, and other industry professionals about the art and business of cinematic storytelling. The festival is free and open to the public.”
🚴♂️ Bell’s Iceman Cometh Challenge
Saturday, Nov. 7
Traverse City
“Every November, thousands of riders, spectators, and adventure seekers descend on northern Michigan for the legendary Iceman Cometh Challenge—a grueling, 30-mile off-road bike race through the scenic, rugged trails between Kalkaska and Traverse City. As the largest point-to-point mountain bike race in the country, the Iceman is a celebration of endurance, camaraderie, and Michigan’s love for the outdoors, attracting elite athletes and amateur riders alike.“
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🎁 Holiday Outdoor Market
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
119 North Bridge St., DeWitt
“A pre-holiday outdoor market featuring more than 35 local makers, food trucks, seasonal drinks, and all-ages activities in downtown DeWitt. Grab a friend, start checking a few gifts off your list, grab something good to eat plenty for some pre-holiday shopping and fun!”
🚂 Lansing Model Train Show and Sale
Sunday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
4301 Farm Lane, Lansing
“All aboard Michigan’s largest model train show held at the Farm Bureau Pavilion at Michigan State University (MSU) (formerly named MSU Pavilion) with over 500 tables of new models, toy trains, tools, artwork, collectibles, DVDs, books, railroad artifacts, postcards, and much more. It is a premier show as vendors come from all over the Midwest, including Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois to sell their trains. On track will be model trains running along various-sized modular displays. Learn from the experts on how to build a model railroad empire of your dreams.”
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🗣️ Michigan Bright Water Storytelling Festival
Saturday, Nov. 7, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
123 West Grand River Road, Howell
“Are you a storyteller or a story lover? The 4th annual Michigan Bright Water Storytelling Festival is the home you’ve been waiting for. This day-long festival at the Howell Opera House will satisfy your inner storyteller with 3 workshops, 2 open mics, an evening storytelling concert, and the company of our storytelling community.”
🎁 All Things Detroit: Holiday Experience
Sunday, Nov. 8, doors open at 12 p.m.
2934 Russell St. Sheds 3, 4 & 5, Detroit
“Kickstart your holiday shopping with exclusive access to 200 small businesses, featuring local artists, handmade gifts, craft goods, and unique one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Savor the season with delectable food trucks, Detroit DJs spinning in every shed, and photo ops with Santa—it’s a full day of festive fun for the whole family.”
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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?
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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.
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