119. Art Birmingham – May 9, 2015 – Birmingham, MI

Here’s something that’s worth checking out when it comes around again next year: Art Birmingham, an awesome little art fair held in Shain Park near downtown Birmingham. It’s like Arts Beats and Eats without the crushing crowds – and the beats (well, there was one guy playing what looked like a xylophone), and nowhere near as extensive the variety of eats (though there was some delicious kettle corn). Ok, so maybe it isn’t too comparable to Arts Beats and Eats, but this year’s lineup showcased an impressive variety of artists, and while I couldn’t quite afford most of the gorgeous wares being offered there, it was free and very lovely to window-shop. And I got my first sunburn of the season! That’s not exactly something to be proud of, but it just feels phenomenal to finally be here at this wonderful time of year in Michigan where we are able to experience sunburn.

In Shain Park

151 Martin St.

Birmingham, MI 48009

http://bbartcenter.org/bbac/art-birmingham/

62. Festival of the Senses – September 21, 2014 – Clinton Township, MI

On a weekend in late September every year for the last five years, Clinton Township has held an event called the Festival of the Senses, with food, live music, activities for kids, and local vendors selling all kinds of cool wares (honey, rustic birdhouses, and handcrafted jewelry were just a few of the offerings I saw). I’ve wanted to go for the last few years but have always had work or something else going on. And this year I arrived in the late afternoon on Sunday just as it was starting to rain – so they weren’t exactly favorable conditions in which to visit. Still, it seemed pretty cool, and I’m always encouraged by any event that supports local vendors and gives them a chance to connect with a community.

Held at the Clinton Twp. Civic Center
40700 Romeo Plank Rd.
Clinton Twp., MI 48038

http://www.ctfestivalofthesenses.com