This week’s list is shorter than usual. If I were to take a guess, it’s at least partly due to a lot of attention on the statewide No Kings protests slated for this weekend.

Regardless, there’s still plenty of fun to be had this weekend, with highlights including a family-centered festival in Grand Rapids and a board gaming convention in Detroit.

On the note of No Kings, The ’Gander’s Abby Deatrick has put together a list of all of the events taking place across Michigan, which you can find here.

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).

Rights groups warn of increased ICE presence at medical facilities (Bridge Michigan): Health care providers and advocacy groups in Michigan are reporting increased immigration enforcement activity near medical facilities. They warn the trend is creating a “chilling effect,” with fewer patients seeking care and heightened fear among both patients and health care workers.

Coalition of attorneys general, including Nessel, win transgender youth healthcare court order (ABC 12): Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and a coalition of state AGs won a federal court order blocking the Trump administration from penalizing health care providers who offer treatments to transgender youth.

Severe thunderstorms possible in Michigan Thursday (MLive): Warmer, spring-like temperatures this week will give way to severe storms Thursday evening. The National Weather Service warns of large hail, strong winds, and a chance of tornadoes, especially south of I-96 between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. Colder air will follow, bringing a sharp temperature drop and possible wintry mix in northern parts of the state.

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

West Michigan

1. The Allegan Folklife Music/Art Festival

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Allegan High School (1560 M-40, Allegan)

“One day festival celebrating the arts. Bands, workshops, art and craft show.”

2. be nice. Family Fun Fest

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

“The be nice. Family Fun Fest is a reimagined experience for families—combining high-energy fun with meaningful moments that support mental health and family wellbeing.”

3. Starkbierfest!

Saturday, March 28, 3-9 p.m.

Cedar Springs Brewing Company (95 N. Main St. NE, Cedar Springs)

“Cedar Springs Brewing Company is proud to host the fifth annual STARKBIERFEST! Raise a toast in our heated tent with live music, limited beer release, and #SAUSAGEPARTY. Rain or shine, this strong beer adventure is sure to be your spring break highlight.”

Northern Michigan/UP

4. Freighter Festival of Races

Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m.

Downtown Sault Ste. Marie

“Celebrate the opening weekend of the Freighters passing through the Soo Locks for the beginning of the shipping season! Yooper Running Company is hosting the 2nd Annual Freighter Festival of Races in downtown Sault Sainte Marie! There will be a 5K Run, 5K Walk, and Half Marathon Run.”

Mid/South Michigan

5. Bavarian Easter Celebration

Through April 19

Frankenmuth

“In many places, Easter traditions mean a visit from that beloved bunny and a basket chock-full of chocolates. But in Frankenmuth, it’s so much more. Here in Frankenmuth, each year at Easter, we celebrate the true and timeless German tradition known only as Osterbrunnen. And we welcome you to take in all the sights, sounds, (and sweets!) with us this spring during our Bavarian Easter Celebration, right here in Pure Michigan!”

Southeast Michigan/Thumb

6. Nerdfest 2026

March 27-29

Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel (21111 Haggerty Road, Novi)

“Nerdfest is an annual boardgaming convention meant for anyone who loves to play games and have a good time. Our primary focus is to create a space for like-minded people to get together and socialize while doing what we all love most, playing boardgames! We will have a number of great vendors in attendance, as well as some local designers, and there are plenty of events for you to partake in and prizes to win!”

7. Brewsology Beer Fest Detroit

Saturday, March 28

Detroit Historical Museum (5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit)

“The Brewsology Beer Fest is the boozy hybrid of your middle school museum field trip. Taking over the Detroit Historical Museum, the event will feature dozens of local craft breweries and cideries and will give attendees access throughout the museum including exhibits and access to brewery reps.”

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 Paula Solis.

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