Name: Midnight Maddness
Start: 2026-12-04
End: 2026-12-04

The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America, founded by George Manupelli in 1963. Internationally recognized as a premiere forum for independent filmmakers and artists, each year's festival engages audiences with remarkable cinematic experiences.

The six-day festival presents 40 programs with more than 180 films from over 20 countries of all lengths and genres, including experimental, animation, documentary, fiction, and performance-based works.

The Ann Arbor Film Festival receives more than 3,000 submissions annually from more than 65 countries and serves as one of only a handful of Academy Award®-qualifying festivals in the United States.

Thousands of influential filmmakers and artists have exhibited early work at the AAFF, including Kenneth Anger, Brian De Palma, Agnes Varda, Andy Warhol, Gus Van Sant, Barbara Hammer, George Lucas, Les Blank, Matthew Buckingham, and James Benning.

Ann Arbor Film Festival

The Stamps Gallery is a center for contemporary art and design in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. As a non-collecting institution, the Stamps Gallery functions as a kunsthalle dedicated to the development and presentation of research-based, experimental and critical exhibitions, publications and public programs.

University of Michigan Stamps Gallery

Ahmo's is a favorite lunch spot serving up its popular chicken gyro. Other menu items range from grilled cheese and hot dogs to creamy hummus, grape-leaf rolls, and freshly tossed fattoush.

Ahmo's Gyros and Deli

Light-filled cafe known for pour-over cups & colorful bakery fare and showcases of local art & musicians.

Serving traditional Japanese dishes, plus exciting and inventive ones. Constantly evolving menu and new specials daily. Unique blend of Japanese, Korean, culture and cuisine.

Umi Sushi

Combines living history with a singular dedication to the finest film and live entertainment available today!

Includes both the historic theater and the Screening Room. View the restored theater today and learn about its history and the Barton Theatre Pipe Organ, one of the only theater organs that is still played in its original home on a regular basis.

View their website to get the latest schedule of events now playing at the Michigan Theater.

Michigan Theater

Allen Rumsey is a retro take on familiar flavors of suppers long ago. Tableside preparations and locally sourced ingredients are the house specialty (cherries jubilee, please!). From communal tables to booth service, Allen Rumsey Supper Club shakes up the cocktails, conversation, and family style recipes that make for good times.

Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge

The State Street District has been a key player in creating a vibrant downtown community in Ann Arbor for over fifty years. Entrepreneurs, building owners, national chains, non-profit organizations, University staff, and residents have all worked together to build a strong, service-oriented organization.

The District has represented our neighborhood to various governmental bodies and worked closely with public agencies, the University of Michigan, the Downtown Development Authority, and other downtown associations in order to sustain an economically strong environment for area businesses.

State Street District

Mani Osteria is an independently owned, family friendly restaurant, specializing in artisanal pizzas and other creative Italian dishes prepared in wood-burning ovens. Their menu is composed of small plates that are designed to share. Their full bar focuses on regional craft beers, reasonably priced old and new world wines and specialty cocktails inspired by classic Italian and American spirits.

Mani Osteria & Bar

Ragstock specializes in trendy and affordable new and used clothing for men and women. The Ann Arbor store also features a selection of vintage clothing items.

Ragstock

Necto is a legendary nightclub / venue located in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan. With its state-of-the-art sound system, pulsating lights, and cutting-edge atmosphere, Necto is the ultimate destination for nightlife in Michigan. Their resident DJs spin the hottest tracks, ensuring that the dance floor is always packed. They offer an array of signature cocktails and premium drinks at their fully-stocked bar, served by the friendly and professional staff. Whether you're looking for a wild night out with friends or a more intimate experience in one of the VIP lounges, Necto has something for everyone. As one of the most popular clubs in Michigan, Necto draws in visitors from all over the state and beyond. So if you're looking for an unforgettable night of dancing, music, and fun, come and experience the magic of Necto.  
  
They also host private rentals for corporate events, parties, and more! With their state of the art sound system, video and lighting, full complement of staff, DJ’s, management, cleaning, private security and other amenities, they’re one of the best rental choices in Ann Arbor. [You can learn more about rentals here!](https://www.necto.com/private-event-night-club-rental.html)

Necto Nightclub

Sava’s began as a humble 23 seat café across from our current space on State Street. We started small, every year adding, changing, and engaging with our guests to achieve an atmosphere and menus that were unmatched in their authenticity and creativity. Sava’s has terroir. It is a local restaurant serving the best the region offers while pushing the conventional boundaries all along the way.

Sava's

The [Ann Arbor Sports Commission](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/ "Ann Arbor Sports Commission") works diligently to improve the quality of life through sports for all of Washtenaw County. The [Ann Arbor area](https://www.annarbor.org/ "Ann Arbor area") attracts both sports enthusiasts and participants alike. Thanks to its [easy accessibility](https://www.annarbor.org/plan/getting-here-getting-around/ "easy accessibility"), [wide range of facilities](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/facilities-venues/ "wide range of facilities") available and variety of [dining](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "dining") & [entertainment](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/ "entertainment") options, the Ann Arbor area is a favorite of sporting event organizations. The area has a rich sporting culture seeding in the history of two Division 1 athletic programs ([University of Michigan](https://www.annarbor.org/university-of-michigan/ "University of Michigan") and Eastern Michigan University) and several other small institutions. The Ann Arbor Sports was formed to attract amateur sporting events to the Ann Arbor region by assisting organizers every step of the way.

Ann Arbor is a dynamic mix of energy and charm—a bustling university town, a [foodie’s paradise](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "foodie's paradise"), and a cutting-edge tech hub, all wrapped in a [walkable downtown](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/downtown/ "walkable downtown") bursting with [world-class arts and culture](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/arts-culture/ "world-class arts and culture"). Located in Michigan’s southeast Lower Peninsula, Ann Arbor is the heartbeat of a vibrant network of [communities across Washtenaw County](https://www.annarbor.org/surrounding-destinations/ "communities across Washtenaw County"). With its creative spirit, diverse flavors, and unique neighborhoods, Ann Arbor shines as a exciting oasis.

Ann Arbor Sports Commission

**STORES OPEN LATE · HOLIDAY CHEER · SALES & SPECIALS · ENTERTAINMENT**

Don’t miss downtown Ann Arbor’s Holiday Season kick-off!

Experience the magic of the holidays with late-night shopping. Downtown businesses will stay open late, offering special discounts, festive treats, and unique gifts to help you check off your holiday list.

Savor the magic of the holidays with late-night dining. Downtown eateries will stay open late, serving special holiday menus, seasonal cocktails, and cozy treats to make your evening unforgettable.

Midnight Maddness

Flat Water is a Big Bear Tournaments ice hockey tournament in Ann Arbor, Michigan, running October 2–4, 2026. Sanctioned by USA Hockey, the event welcomes 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U teams at B, A and AA levels. Each team is guaranteed four games, with the final game serving as a championship or consolation contest, and game periods vary by age division.

Big Bear Tournaments Flat Water - Ann Arbor, MI

Our Mission: To host youth hockey tournaments throughout North America that provide competitive divisions to teams of all skill levels and create the best tournament experience at an exceptional value.

Big Bear Tournaments

The 9th Annual 5K Domestic Violence Awareness Run/Walk is an in-person community event at Frog Island Park in Ypsilanti, Michigan, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Participants can run or walk alongside friends and family while raising awareness and showing support for people affected by domestic violence. This approximately three-and-a-half-hour event offers a meaningful way for the community to come together in support of survivors.&#x20;

9th Annual 5K Domestic Violence Awareness Run/Walk

E-Race the Stigma with the Trinity Health Probility Ann Arbor Marathon! Supporting local mental health charities, participants run through the vibrant streets of downtown Ann Arbor, then wind their way through the panoramic University of Michigan campus. The marathon, half-marathon, and 10K courses also encompass stretches along the Huron River and Gallup Park and through Nichols Arboretum before returning to campus and downtown.

Probility Ann Arbor Marathon

The 2026 Women in Sports: ElevateHER Summit, presented by Michigan Athletics, brings together student-athletes, alumni, community members, coaches and attendees for an evening focused on opportunity, leadership and the future of women in sports. Held October 15 at Crisler Center, the event features networking with current and former student-athletes and coaches beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by a panel at 6 p.m. with Michigan alumnae and prominent sports-industry leaders including Andrea Joyce, Kate Johnson, Estee Portnoy, Casey E. Taylor and Li Li Leung. The summit offers storytelling, professional development, networking and mentorship.

Midnight Maddness

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