October is starting off with a bang in Michigan with loads of fall fun across the state this weekend.
Highlights include fall celebrations, fudge Up North, and even a zombie walk in our capital.
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).
|
|
|
MI Libertarians distance themselves from own candidate (The Detroit News): Michigan’s Libertarian Party has disavowed its gubernatorial nominee Anthony Hudson after he publicly disparaged the party and used an anti-gay slur. The split comes just five weeks before Election Day, with Hudson still on the ballot despite the party cutting off its support.
U of M pauses grade-covering pilot program (Freep): The University of Michigan has paused a planned pilot program that would have kept first-semester grades off the external transcripts and GPAs of thousands of first-year College of Literature, Science, and the Arts students. University leaders said they want more time for input and analysis after the proposal drew criticism.
Some Michigan Counties seeing absentee ballot delays (Votebeat): Several Michigan communities missed the Sept. 24 deadline to mail absentee ballots for the 2026 midterms, leaving voters in Antrim and Presque Isle counties still waiting as of Tuesday. Election officials said missed deadlines aren’t unheard of and stressed that most ballots were mailed on time or are being sent as quickly as possible.
|
|
|
Local news is disappearing. The pressure on the newsrooms that remain is growing.
It’s the last day of our fall fundraiser, and we need your support to help us reach our goal. No amount is too small. Your contribution helps us keep The ’Gander free for all Michiganders.
Support our work.
|
|
|
Click the map to explore each location. (Google My Maps)
|
🍂 Downtown Holland Fall Fest
Oct. 2-3
Downtown Holland
“With two days packed full of fall-themed activities for the entire family in beautiful Downtown Holland, Fall Fest is one fall festival you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars and read on for more details, including the complete schedule of events below!”
🍺 Beer City Brewers Festival 2026
Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-8 p.m.
Calder Plaza (300 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)
“Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 19th for an incredible day packed with vibrant energy, delicious food, and the best atmosphere in town as the Hispanic Fiesta returns to Grand Haven.”
|
🍁 Canal Colors Festival
Oct. 1-4
Downtown Houghton
“Canal Colors Festival hits downtown Houghton October 1-4, and it’s all about that U.P. fall vibe — flannels, good beer, fresh air, and a reason to celebrate the season. This weekend mash-up pulls together Brew Street, Plaidurday, the Color Run, and Houghton’s Fall Fest into one big celebration along the waterfront.”
🍫 Mackinac Island Fall Fudge Festival
Oct. 2-3
Mackinac Island
“Experience the magic of autumn at the Fall Fudge Festival on Mackinac Island! This festival blends the island’s iconic fudge with fall-themed festivities sure to delight the biggest fall and fudge fanatics. Wander the charming streets lined with fall decor, enjoy scenic bike rides through vibrant foliage, and savor the sweet flavors that make Mackinac Island famous.”
|
🎶 Handmade Music Festival
Oct. 2-3
Showboat Park (805 S. Front St., Chesaning)
“Created by and for the love of music and community, we bring the highest-caliber musicianship to Mid-Michigan — a family-friendly weekend of handpicked bluegrass, psychedelic folk, Americana, and soul. A portion of every festival’s proceeds is donated to a local charity.”
🧟 Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk
Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-5:30 p.m.
200 Museum Drive, Lansing
“Join the unstoppable undead takeover of the Capital City once more for the 17th Annual Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk! Whether you are a seasoned stumbler or a freshly bitten beginner, you’ll fit right in with our rotten crowd. Gather with us for a frightfully fun time where Zombies ‘Feed Folks, NOT Eat Folks!’”
|
🪦 Elmwood Alight
Oct. 1-3
Elmwood Cemetery (1200 Elmwood St., Detroit)
“Elmwood Alight, the awe-inspiring after-dark experience, returns October 1-3, illuminating Detroit’s historic Elmwood Cemetery with light, sound, and art, all designed to evoke reflection and wonder. Walk the grounds as night descends and experience this 180-year-old landmark in a new light.”
🍂 Detroit Harvest Fest
Oct. 3-4
Ralph Wilson Park (1801 W. Jefferson Ave., Detroit)
“Bring your family and friends and enjoy live entertainment, delicious food, local vendors, seasonal activities and plenty of opportunities to make memories together. Kids and families can enjoy trick-or-treating, fall-themed activities, and opportunities to play and explore throughout the park. Adults can find grown-up fun with live entertainment, brand activations, full bars with adult beverages and dozens of food trucks to satisfy every craving.”
|
|
|
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?
|
|
|
Are you enjoying this newsletter?
|
|
|
Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Crystal Niforos.
The ’Gander is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.
|
|
|
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.
Our mailing address is:
The ’Gander / COURIER Newsroom
3229 Greenpoint Ave., PMB 532
Long Island City, New York 11101
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or from this list.
|
|
|
|
