MICHIGAN ARTS FESTIVAL | OCTOBER 1–31, 2026

About

Why a festival?

The Michigan Arts Festival is both a celebration of the arts across U-M’s campuses and a month-long campaign to increase exposure, attendance, and participation in the arts. By spotlighting the vibrant university arts scene, the festival serves as a broad invitation for students, faculty, staff, and the public to engage with the arts at Michigan—our museums, theaters, and concert halls (usually for free)—to celebrate and expand the role of the arts in research, learning, and community life.

When and where does the festival take place?

The festival runs October 1–31, 2026, across U-M’s Ann Arbor, Dearborn Detroit, and Flint campuses and at select community venues. Signature events will take place at the Michigan Theater, Hill Auditorium, Taubman College, UMMA, Stamps Gallery, North Campus Diag, among others.

Who is the festival for?

The festival is open to all—U-M students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the public.

Is there a cost?

While some events are ticketed, many if not most events are accessible free of charge.

Is there funding available for my event?

No, the 2026 Michigan Arts Festival spotlights existing events, it does not offer funding.

How can I get my arts event listed?

By posting to the Happening@Michigan calendar. Learn more on our Get Involved page.

Where can I get this year’s festival t-shirt?

T-shirts were given out at Artscapade 2026, and will be given out again on October 2 during the Student Arts Org Fair on the Diag.

What is the U-M Arts Initiative?

U-M’s Arts Initiative is a university-wide effort to amplify the value of the arts and creativity in research, learning, and public life. Through funding, convening, and cross-campus partnerships, the Initiative supports bold, interdisciplinary work that positions the Michigan Arts ecosystem as essential to learning and discovery.