As summer winds down, August offers one last chance to make the most of the season with an exciting lineup of events throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and the surrounding communities. From vibrant art festivals and outdoor concerts to community celebrations, athletic competitions, and food-filled gatherings, the month is packed with opportunities to explore the region and connect with neighbors. Whether you’re interested in browsing local artwork, admiring classic cars, cheering on runners, celebrating local culture, or sampling everything from tacos to farm-fresh produce, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the warm weather. So, mark your calendar and gather your family and friends, because these August events showcase the creativity, energy, and community spirit that make southeast Michigan such a special place to spend the summer!

Arts + Culture

21st Annual LEGO Contest

The Michigan Room at the Sheraton Hotel, 3200 Boardwalk Dr, Ann Arbor
August 2nd, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Put your creativity on display at the 21st Annual LEGO Contest, hosted by the Ann Arbor District Library on Sunday, August 2nd, in the Michigan Room at the Sheraton Hotel. Open to participants of all ages, from preschoolers to adults, this beloved community event invites LEGO builders to showcase their original creations for a chance to win custom trophies, ribbons, and Bricks & Minifigs gift certificates. Projects are dropped off in the morning before a panel of LEGO enthusiasts judges entries across six age categories, as well as special awards recognizing creativity, engineering, robotics, architecture, vehicles, and more. Beginning at 4 p.m., the public is invited to browse the impressive displays, collect LEGO-themed game codes and badges, and admire the imagination and craftsmanship on display before the awards ceremony begins at 6 p.m. Whether you’re entering a masterpiece or simply stopping by to see the incredible builds, this free event offers an inspiring afternoon of hands-on creativity and family-friendly fun.

Fun Fest 2026

Frog Island Park, 699 Rice St, Ypsilanti
August 8th, 1–11:30 p.m.

Celebrate summer in Ypsilanti at Fun Fest 2026, a free community festival returning to Frog Island Park on Saturday, August 8th. Presented by Fundamental Sound Co., this all-day event brings together live music, local art, vendors, and plenty of positive energy from 1–11:30 p.m. The main stage lineup features performances from Gabriel Brass Band, Pajamas (with special guest Rik Strange), The Pherotones, Tikimen of Berlin, Blaine Luis, James Bourland & The Staches, and Sophiyah E. & The Sol Tribe, while the acoustic stage showcases talented artists including Adam Snyder, Skinned Knees, Maddy Ringo, and Carmel Liburdi. Although admission is free, attendees are encouraged to make a suggested $20 donation to help support the festival and keep this beloved annual event thriving. Whether you’re discovering new local musicians, browsing vendor booths, or simply enjoying a summer day by the river, Fun Fest offers a vibrant celebration of Ypsilanti’s creative spirit.

Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival

Dexter City Hall, 3515 Broad St, Dexter
August 10th–15th

Art lovers won’t want to miss the Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival, returning to Dexter from Monday, August 10th, through Saturday, August 15th. This free annual event draws more than 70 talented artists from across the country who spend the week capturing the beauty of Dexter’s parks, rivers, wetlands, historic landmarks, and charming downtown streetscapes. Hosted by the Dexter Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee, the festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to watch painters create their works in real time outdoors, providing an up-close look at the plein-air process. One of the week’s highlights is the Friday Quick Draw, when artists spread throughout downtown and local parks to complete a painting in just three hours. Beginning Friday afternoon, attendees can also browse and purchase hundreds of original works at the Tent Gallery, making it easy to bring home a one-of-a-kind piece inspired by the community. Whether you’re an avid art collector or simply enjoy creative experiences, this beloved festival showcases Dexter’s beauty through the eyes of talented artists.

Community Celebrations

29th Annual Milan Carfest

Wilson Park, 89 Wabash St, Milan
August 1st. Gates open at 9 a.m.

Rev up your August with the 29th Annual Milan Carfest, a longtime community tradition that brings automotive enthusiasts together at Wilson Park on Saturday, August 1st. Open to all makes, models, and ages of vehicles, this participant-judged car show invites owners to showcase their prized rides. At the same time, visitors enjoy an impressive display of classic, custom, and modern automobiles. Gates open at 9 a.m., with the official show kicking off at noon following the National Anthem. Beyond the cars, attendees can take advantage of the park’s family-friendly amenities, including a splash pad, playground, and shaded pavilion, making it a fun outing for all ages. The day concludes with award presentations at 3:30 p.m., celebrating standout vehicles from across the show field. Whether you’re a dedicated gearhead or simply enjoy a festive community gathering, Milan Carfest offers a great way to spend a summer Saturday.

Ann Arbor Pride

Downtown Ann Arbor along W Liberty St & S Main St
August 1st, 12–9 p.m.

Join thousands of community members for Ann Arbor Pride on Saturday, August 1st, a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ identities, allyship, and inclusion taking place throughout downtown Ann Arbor. Hosted by the Jim Toy Community Center, this beloved event dates back to 1995 and has grown into one of the region’s largest Pride celebrations, drawing more than 20,000 attendees in recent years. From noon to 9 p.m., visitors can enjoy live entertainment across multiple stages, browse hundreds of vendor booths, connect with local organizations, and experience the welcoming spirit that defines the event. Families are encouraged to attend, with family-friendly entertainment available through 6 p.m. and a dedicated Kids Zone offering activities for younger guests. Free and open to all, Ann Arbor Pride celebrates the city’s longstanding commitment to diversity while honoring the legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Jim Toy and the community he helped build.

The Ton-Up Ypsilanti Motorcycle & Music Festival

Arbor Brewing Company – Corner Brewery, 720 Norris St, Ypsilanti
August 9th, 12–7 p.m.

Motorcycle enthusiasts and music lovers alike can head to Ypsilanti on Sunday, August 9th, for the 16th Annual Ton-Up Ypsilanti Motorcycle & Music Festival at Arbor Brewing Company’s Corner Brewery. This free, all-ages event celebrates motorcycle culture with an impressive bike show featuring everything from vintage classics and custom builds to imports, scooters, and mopeds. Throughout the day, attendees can browse unique vendor booths, enjoy live performances from Michigan bands, participate in raffles and contests, and admire handcrafted trophy-worthy motorcycles competing in a variety of categories. Even those who don’t ride can enjoy the festival’s lively atmosphere, complete with craft beverages and delicious food from Corner Brewery. Rain or shine, The Ton-Up offers a fun-filled afternoon of music, community, and some of the most interesting two-wheeled creations you’ll find anywhere in southeast Michigan.

Sports

2026 HEMI’nsanity & Dream Cruise Lot

Milan Dragway, 10860 Plank Rd, Milan & St George Greek Orthodox Church, 43816 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Township
August 13th, gates open at 12 p.m., & August 14th & 15th, gates open at 8 a.m.

Gear up for a high-octane weekend at the 2026 HEMI’nsanity & Dream Cruise Lot, a multi-day celebration of performance vehicles and racing taking place from Thursday, August 13th to Saturday, August 15th. The action begins at Milan Dragway, where drivers and spectators can experience the excitement of the Modern Street HEMI Shootout, featuring qualifying rounds, eliminations, and head-to-head competition among powerful HEMI-powered machines. Gates open at noon on Thursday, August 13th, for a pre-event track-rental session ahead of a full day of racing on Friday, August 14th. The festivities then shift to Bloomfield Township on Saturday, August 15th, for the Woodward Dream Cruise, where attendees can gather at the event’s exclusive lot at St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Along with the LX & Beyond Nationals car show, visitors can enjoy vehicle displays, judging competitions, awards presentations, and a community lunch. Combining drag racing, classic cruise culture, and impressive automotive showcases, HEMI’nsanity & Dream Cruise Lot is a must-attend event for car enthusiasts across southeast Michigan. Please click here to purchase tickets.

Summer Sizzler

Rolling Hills Water Park, 7660 Stony Creek Rd, Ypsilanti
August 29th, 7–10 a.m.

Lace up your running shoes for the Summer Sizzler at Rolling Hills Water Park on Saturday, August 29th, a family-friendly race event designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Beginning with a Kids Dash just before the 7 a.m. start, the event offers a variety of race options, including 1-mile, 5K, 10K, and 15K distances, making it easy for everyone from first-time runners to seasoned racers to get involved. Participants will receive a custom race bib, designer event shirt, finisher medal, and access to free race photos, while chip timing provides live results and awards throughout the morning. Young runners can join the fun with the untimed Kids Dash, and everyone can celebrate their accomplishment with complimentary Kona Ice at the finish line. With its welcoming atmosphere, affordable youth pricing, and emphasis on fun over competition, the Summer Sizzler is a great way to stay active and close out the summer season. To register for the race, please click here.

Food + Drink

Ann Arbor Taco Fest

Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd, Ann Arbor
July 31st, 5–10 p.m., August 1st, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., & August 2nd, 12–7 p.m.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1594681385111420

Bring your appetite to the Ann Arbor Taco Fest, a three-day celebration of food, music, and culture taking over the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds from Friday, July 31st, through Sunday, August 2nd. Featuring more than 30 taco trucks serving a wide variety of flavors, this popular festival invites visitors to sample everything from traditional favorites to creative culinary twists while enjoying margaritas, Mexican beer, and other refreshing beverages. Beyond the food, attendees can enjoy live Latin music, colorful folklórico dance performances, thrilling Lucha Libre wrestling matches, family-friendly yard games, and a bustling marketplace featuring local vendors. Competitive eaters can test their skills in taco- and hot pepper-eating contests, while pet lovers can cheer on contestants in the cutest dog competition. With activities spread across multiple stages and a dedicated Kids Zone, Ann Arbor Taco Fest offers a lively and flavorful weekend celebrating Mexican-American cuisine and Hispanic culture in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Please click here to purchase tickets in advance.

Tomato Bonanza with Chef Keegan Rodgers

Ann Arbor District Library: Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor
August 25th, 6–7 p.m.

Make the most of tomato season at the Tomato Bonanza with Chef Keegan Rodgers event on Tuesday, August 25th, at the Ann Arbor District Library‘s Malletts Creek Branch. This free, hands-on class invites attendees to explore the flavors and versatility of summer’s signature crop, with a focus on heirloom tomato varieties, simple preparations, and creative ways to use an abundant August harvest. Led by Chef Rodgers from The Lakehouse Bakery, whose passion for baking and cooking was inspired by family traditions and has grown into a career centered on sharing food with the community, the event offers practical tips and culinary inspiration for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a dedicated gardener with more tomatoes than you know what to do with or simply a fan of fresh seasonal ingredients, this engaging workshop is a great opportunity to learn, taste, and celebrate one of Michigan’s favorite summer foods.

Ann Arbor Local Food Festival

Ann Arbor Farmers Market, 315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor
August 27th, 5–8 p.m.

Celebrate the flavors of Southeast Michigan at the Ann Arbor Local Food Festival on Thursday, August 27th, at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. This free community event shines a spotlight on the farmers, food makers, and organizations that help build a thriving local food system, giving visitors the chance to connect directly with the people behind their food. Throughout the evening, attendees can sample seasonal produce, explore educational exhibits, enjoy live music, and purchase locally sourced meals from food trucks and vendors. The festival also features chef demonstrations showcasing creative ways to prepare Michigan-grown ingredients, as well as storytelling and skill-sharing sessions that highlight the value of sustainable agriculture. Whether you’re a dedicated locavore or simply looking to discover new flavors, the Ann Arbor Local Food Festival offers a fun and informative way to experience the region’s rich agricultural community.

Happy August!

With so many exciting events happening throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and beyond, August is the perfect time to get out and experience everything the region has to offer. Whether you’re spending a day at a community festival, discovering local artists, enjoying live music, sampling seasonal food, or participating in a race or sporting event, there are countless opportunities to make lasting summer memories. Many of these events are family-friendly and affordable, making them great options for residents and visitors alike. As the season begins its gradual transition toward fall, take advantage of the warm days, vibrant community spirit, and unique experiences that make Southeast Michigan such a wonderful place to live, work, and explore. We wish you a fun-filled, memorable, and happy August!