Warm nights, live music & endless festivals—your ultimate guide to summer fun in Ann Arbor, from outdoor concerts to waterfront escapes!
Summer in Ann Arbor hits different. The streets pulse with music, the parks transform into festival grounds, and every corner of town comes alive with energy. You’ll find locals spreading blankets for movies under the stars, dancing at street festivals, and soaking up every minute of Michigan’s sunniest season.
This guide maps out the can’t-miss summer events that give A2 its warmest memories – from riverside concerts to cultural celebrations that define the city’s liveliest months.
Outdoor Concerts and Music Magic
Ann Arbor Summer Festival (Top of the Park)
The Ann Arbor Summer Festival isn’t just another concert series—it’s the town’s living room on summer nights. Skip the weekend crowds and go on Tuesday evenings when local favorites test new material. The grass patch by the bell tower gives you perfect acoustics and dancing room. Bring cash for the tamale cart that shows up around sunset—they sell out fast.
The Ark’s Summer Concert Series
The Ark’s summer series turns their back patio into an intimate music haven. Thursday night showcases pair emerging songwriters with veteran performers, and the BYOB policy lets you bring your favorite local brews. Snag a spot by the fairy lights—the sound is crystal clear and you’ll catch the musicians hanging out between sets.
Live Music at Local Breweries
Arbor Brewing‘s beer garden transforms into a mini music festival every Friday. Local bands set up near the herb wall, and the acoustics bounce perfectly off the brick. The bartenders create drink specials inspired by each band’s name— like the “Indie Folk Sour” which became a surprise summer hit.
Summer Festival Scene
Ann Arbor Art Fair
The Ann Arbor Art Fair turns downtown into a creative wonderland. Start at the Original Fair on South U—that’s where emerging artists showcase their wildest ideas. The State Street section peaks around sunset when artists demo their techniques.
Pro tip: The secret food court behind Michigan Theater has half the lines and twice the local vendors.
Michigan Summer Beer Festival
The Michigan Summer Beer Festival might technically be in Ypsi, but it’s pure Ann Arbor spirit. Get there when gates open to catch the brewers’ special tappings. The shaded spots by the river bank offer perfect sampling territory, and food trucks rotate hourly. Join the pretzel necklace competition—locals take it seriously.
Ann Arbor’s Jazz Festival
The Jazz Festival brings New Orleans vibes to Liberty Street. The late-night jam sessions at Kerrytown Concert House often feature surprise guests from the main stage. Grab dinner at Spencer before the shows—they do special jazz-inspired small plates during the festival.
Taste of Ann Arbor
Taste of Ann Arbor turns Main Street into food paradise. Skip the obvious spots and head to the pop-up section where upcoming chefs test their concepts. The international food alley between Liberty and Washington serves dishes you won’t find anywhere else in Michigan.
Outdoor Recreation and Adventures
Hiking at Nichols Arboretum
The Arb transforms into a natural amphitheater in summer. The valley trail offers natural air conditioning on hot days, and the peony garden peaks in June with colors that’ll break your camera. Morning yoga groups welcome drop-ins—just bring your mat and good vibes.
Canoeing and Kayaking on the Huron River
Argo Cascades becomes Ann Arbor’s natural water park. Rent tubes before 11 AM to catch the best rapids, or kayak through the quiet morning mist. The secret beach halfway to Gallup Park is perfect for picnic breaks—look for the giant oak with a rope swing.
Biking on the Border-to-Border (B2B) Trail
The Border-to-Border Trail gives you a backstage pass to summer in A2. The stretch from Bandemeer to Argo shows off the city’s best riverside views. Rent e-bikes from local shops—they’ll mark their favorite ice cream stops on your trail map.
Swimming at Buhr Park or Gallup Park
Buhr Park’s pool scene feels like a neighborhood block party. The morning lap swim crowd shares training tips and local gossip, while afternoon splash hours turn into impromptu water volleyball tournaments. The snack bar’s secret menu includes frozen treats made by local ice cream artisans.
Market Adventures
Ann Arbor Farmers Market
Saturday mornings at the Farmers Market turn into a food treasure hunt. The mushroom foragers bring their best finds before 9 AM, and the flower vendors create custom bouquets if you ask nicely. Follow your nose to the breakfast sandwich station—the recipe hasn’t changed since 1982 for good reason.
Kerrytown Market & Shops
Kerrytown’s summer scene spills onto the streets. The courtyard hosts pop-up art shows between the shops, and local musicians turn lunch breaks into mini concerts. Don’t miss the Wednesday evening tastings where food artisans test their latest creations on lucky locals.
Local Outdoor Sports & Events
Ann Arbor Street Art Fair
The Original Fair anchors Ann Arbor’s biggest summer weekend, transforming the Burton Tower area into an outdoor gallery each July. You’ll find juried artists displaying everything from ceramics to digital art, while street performers add their own flair to the festivities. The oldest of A2’s four simultaneous art fairs, it sets the gold standard with carefully selected artists and unique demonstrations.
U-M Football Saturdays at the Big House
Pre-season football brings a different energy to the Big House. The evening practices are open to the public, and you’ll catch the marching band rehearsing their new shows. Local food trucks line up along Stadium Boulevard—follow the students to find the best deals.
Summer Sunsets & Chill
Sunset Views at Gallup Park
Gallup Park at golden hour is pure Michigan magic. The riverside trail leads to hidden sunset spots, and the evening air fills with the sound of local musicians practicing on the docks. Pack your hammock—the grove near the canoe livery has perfect trees for hanging and watching the sky change colors.
Picnic at Island Park
Island Park becomes Ann Arbor’s best dinner spot in summer. The upstream end offers quiet picnic spots with skyline views, and the community grills attract an eclectic mix of grill masters happy to share their secrets. Sunday evenings bring spontaneous acoustic sessions—all are welcome to join.
Wrapping Up
Pack your sunscreen, water bottle, and sense of adventure. Start your mornings at the Farmers Market, catch afternoon concerts at Top of the Park, and end with sunset picnics at Island Park. You’ll quickly learn why locals say summer in Ann Arbor isn’t just a season—it’s a lifestyle. Welcome to your new favorite time of year in your new favorite town.
