Blood drives

• The City of Troy is hosting American Red Cross Blood Drives, 1-7 p.m. Jan. 14, Jan. 20, and Jan. 21; at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy. Donation appointments can be scheduled by calling 313-300-9617 or visiting www.redcrossblood.org and entering zip code 48083. Photo ID or Red Cross Donor Card will be required. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Business/Education activities

• “Selling Your Home Made Simple” free event is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 14, at Hechtman Independent Living, 6690 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield Twp. Reservations are required, call Jackie Rosender at 248-444-2430 or email jrosender@jslmi.org.

• Bank of America is accepting applications for the 2025 Student Leaders summer internship program through Jan. 15. Students Leaders receive first-hand experience in serving their communities through a paid eight-week internship with local nonprofits. They also travel to Washington, D.C. for the national Student Leaders Summit. Students should apply at www.bankofamerica.com/studentleaders and submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, guidance counselor or school administrator.

• Main Street Pontiac is accepting applications for vendors through 5 p.m. Jan. 17, for the Saginaw Green Maker’s Village, at Saginaw Green Park (111 N. Saginaw Street) from March through December 2025. Cost is $150 per month, plus a $50 monthly fee for electricity and other shared amenities. Mandatory operating hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday. Eligible to Pontiac-based startups and small businesses without an existing storefront in Pontiac, mainstreetpontiac.org/saginaw-green-makers-village.

• Kevin’s Song 9th Annual Conference on Suicide is Jan. 23-25 at St. John’s Resort, 44045 Five Mile Road, Plymouth. Rate for the three-day conference is $450+ per person; and single day pricing is $225+ per person. Student rates are available. Faith-based training for the faith-based community is 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Jan. 24, register at https://kevinssong.org.

• Get published: Are you a writer? A photographer? An illustrator? A cartoonist? An artist of another kind? A creative person with your own style? If so, we’d like to showcase your work! Submit at t.ly/michcall

• Free Zoom Program – outlining Michigan’s new Power of Attorney Act for Caregiver, is 2-3 p.m. Jan. 14, register for the free virtual program, email Joanna Dorfman at jdorfman@jslmi.org or call 248-661-6390 ext. 1, with a presentation by estate planning attorney Howard Collens of Collens Estate Law PLLC in Huntington Woods.

• Introduction to Lakes Online, presented by MSU Extension of Oakland County, six-week online class taught via pre-recorded video lectures, topics include lake ecology, aquatic plants, and water law. Register by 5 p.m. Jan. 28, at www.canr.msu.edu/courses/introduction-to-lakes

Charitables/Fundraisers

• Party Palooza Fundraiser is 6-10 p.m. Jan. 17, at Pontiac Transportation Museum, 250 W. Pike St., Pontiac, cocktails, food, live entertainment, tickets are available at https://events.getlocalhop.com/pontiac-transportation-museum-pop/event/3AxmNbdcA5 or call 248-977-4410.

• Kroger shoppers will be greeted by Gleaners’ volunteers with donation lists of needed nutritious foods and personal items. Volunteers will collect customer donations on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Jan. 18-19 at Kroger locations in Oakland County.

• Gorman’s Home Furnishings and Interior Design is hosting its annual Charity Recliner Promotion. Customers who visit any of Gorman’s four Southeast Michigan showrooms (Farmington Hills, Novi, Southfield and Troy) from now through Jan. 20, and make a minimum donation of $50 to The Arc of Oakland County, will receive an extra $200 off the price of any leather recliner from Gorman’s 10 Best Brands or up to $400 off Stressless recliners, www.gormans.com/arc.

• The Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit is seeking donations of gently used furniture for families in need, especially smaller sofas, dining tables, and chairs that fit in modest-sized homes, items should be free of stains, rips, tears, and pet hair. Call 248-332-1300 to schedule a pick-up.

• Child Abuse Survivor and former NFL Player to speak at CARE House of Oakland County’s 2025 Circle of Friends Luncheon event to raise funds for child abuse treatment and prevention programs. The luncheon is Jan. 23, at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. CARE House will also host a preview party on Jan. 22. Ticket prices for the luncheon start at $125. Ticket packages and tickets for the preview party are also available to purchase. Call 248-332-7173 ext. 206 or visit www.carehouse.org.

Community events

• Traditional Ice Harvesting Open House is 1-4 p.m. Jan. 12, at Orchard Lake Museum, 3951 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake Village, free admission, donations welcome. Another open house will be held the following Sunday, from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 19, exhibits of local area history and culture, www.gwbhs.org.

• The League of Women Voters Oakland Area is hosting a public presentation featuring Casandra Ulbrich, Chancellor for Institutional Advancement at the University of Michigan-Dearborn at 1 p.m. Jan. 15, at Bloomfield Township Public Library, 1099 Lone Pine Road, Bloomfield Township. The event is free and open to the public. RSVP to Geri Rinchler at LWVOAMI@gmail.com, https://my.lwv.org/michigan/oakland-area.

• Anthony Grupido “Magic of Hope” is 7-8:30 p.m. Jan. 23, at Groves High School Auditorium, 20500 W 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, addressing mental health awareness and suicide prevention with magic, humor and storytelling, www.birminghamyouthassistance.org, free admission.

Expos/Festivals

• Detroit Auto Show is Jan. 11-20, at Huntington Place, One Washington Blvd., https://detroitautoshow.com, ticket prices vary.

• Detroit Model Railroad Club Open House Shows are noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 11-12, Jan. 25-26, March 1-2 and March 15-16, at 104 North Saginaw St. Holly, 248-634-5811, dmrrc.org, $5 gen adm., $2 for ages 5-17 and $2 for younger than 5.

• The City of Rochester Hills invites the community to enjoy holiday lights at Innovation Hills Park, 2800 W. Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, 5-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 5-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday, through Jan. 15, www.rochesterhills.org/news_detail_T9_R385.php.

• Rochester Hills Public Library to host “Winter Wonder Library,” 6-8 p.m. Jan. 17, outside at the library’s garden, 500 Olde Towne Road, Rochester. An after-hours event packed with crafts, hot cocoa and cookies, dancing and seasonal fun for all ages, open to the public, no registration required. For information, visit calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.

• Downtown Rochester’s Frost Festival is 5-9 p.m. Jan. 17 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 18. Frozen in Time-themed ice sculptures, Frost Fest BINGO. Map of ice sculptures is online and a physical map is at Rochester DDA’s Downtown Collaboration Studio, 431 Main Street. Ice carving competition is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 18, on W. 4th Street. Lions’ Club warming station on E. 3rd Street to feature a warm fire, marshmallow roasting, and ice corn hole, downtownrochestermi.com/frost-festival.

• The Big, Bright Light Show: 5 p.m.-midnight, nightly through Jan. 19, downtown Rochester, www.downtownrochestermi.com/the-big-bright-light-show.

Library activities

• Expedition Quartet with Ralph Koziarski will perform at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15, at the Southfield Library, 26300 Evergreen Road. Southfield, www.kozimusic.com, 248-701-4888, $7 cover charge.

• Rochester Hills Public Library presents “Resources & Guidance for the 2025 Tax Filing Season” at 7 p.m. Jan. 16, at the library, 500 Olde Towne Road, Rochester, open to the public, registration is required at calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.

• Tinker Tuesday, Mo Willems’ Pigeon Books maker event is 6 p.m. Jan. 21, at The Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W 13 Mile Road, Madison Heights. Register at: https://secure.rec1.com/MI/madison-heights-mi/catalog, 248-588-7763, ages 5+, free.

• Math and Science tutoring for middle and high school students is 1-4 p.m. every other Saturday at Pontiac Library, 60 E Pike St., Pontiac, registration required by email at pont@pontiaclibrary.org.

Parks/Outdoor activities

• Winter Park at Bowers School Farm, 1219 E Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, is open through Feb. 23, family-friendly 200-foot tubing hill, designed for fun in any weather, no snow needed, night display of neon lights, farm animals, bonfires, farm and kitchen store, food to purchase. Hours are 4-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m., Saturday and noon-9 p.m. Sunday, tickets are $17 each, www.schoolfarm.org/winter-activities.

• The Rink at Royal Oak is open daily through Feb. 17, at Centennial Commons Park, Royal Oak, festive lights, royaloakholidays.com, admission is $10-$12, skate rental if needed is $5, weather permitting.

• The Rink at Stine Community Park is open daily through March 16, at 241 Town Center, at the City of Troy Civic Center Campus, free admission, skate rentals are $3 residents, $5 non-residents, https://rec.troymi.gov/parks___facilities/the_rink/index.php, weather permitting.

• Riley Park Ice Rink is open daily through February, at 23600 Liberty St., Farmington, open daily, weather permitting, free admission, bring skates, https://farmgov.com/Community/Parks-and-Recreation/Riley-Park-Ice-Rink.

• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.

• Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne, metroparks.com. Park entrance fees apply. Annual vehicle passes are $40 for residents ($29 for seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for seniors 62+).

• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.

Support activities/Resources

• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.

• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.

• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.

• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.

Submit community events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.

Blood drives

• Gardner White to host American Red Cross Blood Drives at area stores. In Oakland County, blood drives will be held 11 a.m.- 4:45 p.m. at the Waterford Twp. store on Tuesday, Jan. 7, and the Auburn Hills and Novi stores on Thursday, Jan. 9. All blood drive participants receive $50 off next purchase at Gardner White and additional offers. Appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome, visit Gardner-white.com.

• The City of Farmington Hills to host an American Red Cross, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 8, at Costick Activities Center, 28600 W. Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills. Donors will be entered for a chance to win Super Bowl LIX tickets for two, including travel to New Orleans, hotel, a $1,000 gift card and more. Visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment using sponsor code “costickcenter” or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

• The City of Troy is hosting American Red Cross Blood Drives, 1-7 p.m. Jan. 14, Jan. 20, and Jan. 21; at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy. Donation appointments can be scheduled by calling 313-300-9617 or visiting www.redcrossblood.org and entering zip code 48083. Photo ID or Red Cross Donor Card will be required. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Business/Education activities

• Women to Work, a free four-week program helping women find jobs, with an information class, 9-11 a.m. Jan. 9 at Gesher Human Services, 29699 Southfield Road, Southfield, www.geshermi.org/events, Register with Judy Richmond at 248-233-4232 or email her at jrichmond@geshermi.org. Classes are 9 a.m. to noon, Tuesday and Thursday, Jan. 14-Feb. 6, also participants can participate in computer training.

• “Selling Your Home Made Simple” free event is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 14, at Hechtman Independent Living, 6690 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield Twp. Reservations are required, call Jackie Rosender at 248-444-2430 or email jrosender@jslmi.org.

• Bank of America is accepting applications for the 2025 Student Leaders summer internship program through Jan. 15. Students Leaders receive first-hand experience in serving their communities through a paid eight-week internship with local nonprofits. They also travel to Washington, D.C. for the national Student Leaders Summit. Students should apply at www.bankofamerica.com/studentleaders and submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, guidance counselor or school administrator.

• Main Street Pontiac is accepting applications for vendors through 5 p.m. Jan. 17, for the Saginaw Green Maker’s Village, at Saginaw Green Park (111 N. Saginaw Street) from March through December 2025. Cost is $150 per month, plus a $50 monthly fee for electricity and other shared amenities. Mandatory operating hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday. Eligible to Pontiac-based startups and small businesses without an existing storefront in Pontiac, mainstreetpontiac.org/saginaw-green-makers-village.

• Kevin’s Song 9th Annual Conference on Suicide is Jan. 23-25 at St. John’s Resort, 44045 Five Mile Road, Plymouth. Rate for the three-day conference is $450+ per person; and single day pricing is $225+ per person. Student rates are available. Faith-based training for the faith-based community is 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Jan. 24, register at https://kevinssong.org.

Community events

• “Symphony Of The Holocaust” documentary film screening followed by Q&A and dessert reception, is 7-8:30 p.m. Jan. 9, Zekelman Holocaust Center, 28123 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills, https://holocaustcenter.org/events, $10+.

• Traditional Ice Harvesting Open House is 1-4 p.m. Jan. 12, at Orchard Lake Museum, 3951 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake Village, free admission, donations welcome. Another open house will be held the following Sunday, from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 19, exhibits of local area history and culture, www.gwbhs.org.

• Anthony Grupido “Magic of Hope” is 7-8:30 p.m. Jan. 23, at Groves High School Auditorium, 20500 W 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, addressing mental health awareness and suicide prevention with magic, humor and storytelling, www.birminghamyouthassistance.org, free admission.

Expos/Festivals

• Annual Ultimate Fishing Show–Detroit is Jan. 9-12, at Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi. Gen. adm.-$12 adults, $5 children 6 to 14, free for children 5 and under. On-site parking is $10, www.UltimateFishingShow.com.

• Annual Winterfest is 5-8 p.m. Jan. 11, on the Pontiac City Hall grounds, 47450 Woodward Ave., Pontiac, presented by Pontiac Youth Recreation and Enrichment, music, ice skating, games, food trucks, shopping with local vendors and more, www.pontiac.mi.us.

• Detroit Auto Show is Jan. 11-20, at Huntington Place, One Washington Blvd., Detroit. Charity Preview is Jan. 10, https://detroitautoshow.com, ticket prices vary.

• Detroit Model Railroad Club Open House Shows are noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 11-12, Jan. 25-26, March 1-2 and March 15-16, at 104 North Saginaw St. Holly, 248-634-5811, dmrrc.org, $5 gen adm., $2 for ages 5-17 and $2 for younger than 5.

• Downtown Rochester’s Frost Festival is 5-9 p.m. Jan. 17 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 18. Frozen in Time-themed ice sculptures, Frost Fest BINGO. Map of ice sculptures is online and a physical map is at Rochester DDA’s Downtown Collaboration Studio, 431 Main Street. Ice carving competition is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 18, on W. 4th Street. Lions’ Club warming station on E. 3rd Street to feature a warm fire, marshmallow roasting, and ice corn hole, downtownrochestermi.com/frost-festival.

Fundraisers

• Party Palooza Fundraiser is 6-10 p.m. Jan. 17, at Pontiac Transportation Museum, 250 W. Pike St., Pontiac, cocktails, food, live entertainment, tickets are available at https://events.getlocalhop.com/pontiac-transportation-museum-pop/event/3AxmNbdcA5 or call 248-977-4410.

Library activities

• Paranormal Pages Book Club is 7-8 p.m. Jan. 6, at Salem-South Lyon District Library, 9800 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, registration required at https://ssldl.info, 248-437-6431.

• The Ortonville Lions Club will be conducting free children’s eye tests, 6-7 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Brandon Township Library, 304 South St., Ortonville. Children will be able to read to a Leader Dog for the Blind puppy. Registration is required at www.brandonlibrary.org or call the library 248-627-1460,  free event.

• Holiday Lights Recycling Fundraiser for Furry Friends Rescue is through Jan. 11. Drop off your non-working holiday lights at Salem-South Lyon District Library, 9800 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, https://ssldl.info, 248-437-6431.

• Expedition Quartet with Ralph Koziarski will perform at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15, at the Southfield Library, 26300 Evergreen Road. Southfield, www.kozimusic.com, 248-701-4888, $7 cover charge.

• Rochester Hills Public Library presents “Resources & Guidance for the 2025 Tax Filing Season” at 7 p.m.  Jan. 16, at the library, 500 Olde Towne Road, Rochester, open to the public, registration is required at calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.

• Rochester Hills Public Library to host “Winter Wonder Library,” 6-8 p.m. Jan. 17, outside at the library’s garden, 500 Olde Towne Road, Rochester. An after-hours event packed with crafts, hot cocoa and cookies, dancing and seasonal fun for all ages, open to the public, no registration required. For information, visit calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations

• Huron Valley MLK Day Committee presents several events. “A Place for All People” Smithsonian poster exhibit opening from 4-6 p.m. Jan. 12, at The SHAC, 125 S. Main, Milford, featuring music, food, cash bar. “Me-The “Other” documentary film screening is at 7 p.m. Jan. 13, at Milford Independent Cinema, donation admission. March on Main Street is 1 p.m. Jan. 19, (line up at 12:30 p.m.), Prospect Hill Shopping Center, 512 Highland Ave, Milford, hvmlk.org. The concluding ceremony with meal assembly and bag decorating is 5-8 p.m. Jan. 20. Non-perishable food donations are sought Jan. 1-20 at Community Sharing in Highland Twp., www.community-sharing.org/donate.

Parks/Outdoor activities

• Winter Park is Jan. 4-Feb. 23, at Bowers School Farm, 1219 E Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, weather permitting, snow tubing, farm animals, bonfires, farm and kitchen store, food to purchase, www.schoolfarm.org, www.facebook.com/BowersSchoolFarm.

• The Rink at Royal Oak is open daily through Feb. 17, at Centennial Commons Park, Royal Oak, festive lights, royaloakholidays.com, admission is $10-$12, skate rental if needed is $5, weather permitting.

• The Rink at Stine Community Park is open daily through March 16, at 241 Town Center, at the corner of Town Center and Civic Center Drive at the City of Troy Civic Center Campus. Hours are noon-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon-9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, free admission, skate rentals are $3 residents, $5 non-residents, https://rec.troymi.gov/parks___facilities/the_rink/index.php, weather permitting.

• Riley Park Ice Rink is open daily through February, at 23600 Liberty St., Farmington, open daily, weather permitting, free admission, bring skates, https://farmgov.com/Community/Parks-and-Recreation/Riley-Park-Ice-Rink.

• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.

• Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne, metroparks.com. Park entrance fees apply. Annual vehicle passes are $40 for residents ($29 for seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for seniors 62+).

• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.

Support activities/Resources

• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.

• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.

• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.

• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.

Submit community events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.

Beats

• Imposters In Effect: The Beastie Boys Tribute-Dec. 27, The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, www.themagicbag.com, doors at 7 p.m., all ages, $16+ adv.

• Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers: 7 p.m. Dec. 28, The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac, https://thecrofoot.com/events, $25+.

• Turner Porter, Libby DeCamp: Dec. 28, The Loving Touch, 22634 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-820-5596, thelovingtouchferndale.com, all ages, doors at 7 p.m., ACLU fundraiser, $10+.

• Crossroads Ceili: 8 p.m. Dec. 28, The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, https://theark.org/event, $25+.

• Trans-Siberian Orchestra: 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 28, “The Lost Christmas Eve”, Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, 313Presents.com, ticket prices vary.

• SPONGE: 8 p.m. Dec. 28, The Roxy, 401 Walnut Blvd., Rochester, 248-453-5285, www.theroxyrochester.com, doors at 6 p.m., ages 21+, $40+.

The Killer Flamingos: 9 p.m. Dec. 28, Blind Owl, 511 South Main Street, Royal Oak, cover charge.

• MJ Live, Michael Jackson tribute: 7:30 p.m., Dec. 29, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Detroit, 313Presents.com, ticket prices vary.

• Lloyd: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Detroit, 313Presents.com, ticket prices vary.

• George Michael Reborn tribute: Dec. 31, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, 7096 E. 14 Mile Road, Warren, New Year’s Eve dinner party, doors open for dinner guests at 8 p.m., andiamoshowroom.com, $99 tickets include dinner stations, $69 tickets for the show only, both include a champagne toast at midnight.

• The Crasherz: 9 p.m. Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve party, Younger’s Showroom, 120 S. Main, Romeo, www.youngersromeo.com, $50+.

• New Year’s Eve Bash! 90s vs 80s: Dec. 31, The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, www.themagicbag.com, doors at 8 p.m., ages 21+, $30+ adv.

• NYE Party-Sunset Blvd.: Dec. 31, District 142, 142 Maple St., Wyandotte, doors at 7 p.m., ages 21+, district142live.com, $12.50+.

• Joe Stanley Trio: 9 p.m. Dec. 31, Blue Goose Inn, 28911 Jefferson Ave., Saint Clair Shores, www.facebook.com/tthebluegoose2023.

• Mike Leslie Band, DeeJay Gene: 9 p.m. – 3 a.m. Dec. 31, Blind Owl Royal Oak, 511 S. Main St., cover $25+. To ensure seats, call for reservations at 248-216-1112, www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563477175520.

Comedy

• One Night Stans: Dave Landau- Dec. 26-28; NYE with Dave Landau-Dec. 31; Melvin Bender-Jan. 2-4; at 4761 Highland Road, Waterford Twp., www.onenightstans.club, 248-249-1321, ages 18+, ticket prices vary.

• Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle: Brad Wenzel-Dec. 26-28; Zach Martina-Dec. 31-Jan. 4; at 310 S. Troy St., Royal Oak, www.comedycastle.com, 248-542-9900, ages 18+, ticket prices vary.

• Remember That One?: 7 p.m. Dec. 29, The Berman Center for Performing Arts, 6600 W Maple Road, West Bloomfield Township, an evening with Larry Joe Campbell and Friends live show, https://tickets.thejdetroit.org/remember-that-one-time, $35-$65+.

Expos/Shows

• Jurassic Quest: Dec. 27-30, dinosaur event, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, (noon-6 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday), lifelike, scientifically-accurate dinosaur herd, fossil exhibits, dinosaur shows, dino rides, inflatables, Advance purchase online at www.jurassicquest.com, use Promo Code-Quest15 online for 15% off, or tickets are available on-site, ticket prices vary.

Holiday activities

• Cirque du Soleil ‘Twas The Night Before”: Through Dec. 31, Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit, 313Presents.com, ticket prices vary.

• Deck the Halls with Ologies: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily, noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 26-29, and Jan. 2-5, https://science.cranbrook.edu/explore/programs/events, festive exhibits and hands-on workshop.

• Winter at The Station: Fridays and Saturdays, through Dec. 28, Michigan Central, Detroit, festive global winter traditions, winter lights, innovative technologies, art, live performances, shopping. Parking is $5+ at Michigan Central’s Bagley Mobility Hub parking garage, 1501 Wabash, Detroit, tickets at https://michigancentral.com/winter-at-the-station.

• Glenlore Trails-Aurora: Thursday-Sunday evenings, through Dec. 29, at 3860 Newtown Road, Commerce Twp., one-mile walk through experience, www.GlenloreTrails.com.

• Holidays at Meadow Brook: Through Dec. 30, outdoor evening light show, Winter Wonder Lights, Meadow Brook Hall, 350 Estate Drive, Rochester, on the campus of Oakland University, ticket prices vary, www.meadowbrookholidays.com.

• Magic of Lights: 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Sunday, through Dec. 30, (5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), Pine Knob Music Theatre, Independence Twp., www.313presents.com/events/detail/magic-of-lights, purchase tickets online, ticket prices vary.

• Holly Dazzle: 5-10 p.m. (5-9 p.m. on Sundays) Friday-Tuesday Dec. 20-31, at 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly, winter wonderland stroll along a three-quarter mile outdoor trail, adorned with Christmas scenes, 248-634-5552, www.hollydazzles.com.

• “It’s All Magic” party: 10 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec 31, Detroit Foundation Hotel, The Apparatus Room Experience, 250 W Larned St, Detroit, featuring the artistry of the future with dancers paired with mesmerizing Afro-futurism projection art by Norwest Gallery and street art by All Motion Studio,  complimentary champagne toast at midnight. gen. sdm., $50+, https://detroitfoundationhotel.com.

• Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo: Through Jan. 5, (5-9 p.m. select weeknights and Sundays and 5 to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays), outdoor event limited to the front half of the zoo, no access to animal habitats, adv gen advance tickets are $17-$25+ each, children younger than 2 are admitted free, parking is $8, https://detroitzoo.org/events/wild-lights.

• Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm: Holiday House Tours & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit are noon-4 p.m. on select Saturdays, Sundays and weekdays in December and January, 1005 Van Hoosen Road Rochester Hills, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults, www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms.

• Holiday Lights at Innovation Hills: The City of Rochester Hills invites the community to enjoy holiday lights at Innovation Hills Park, 2800 W. Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, 5-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 5-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday, through Jan. 15, www.rochesterhills.org/news_detail_T9_R385.php.

• The Big, Bright Light Show: 5 p.m.-midnight, nightly through Jan. 19, downtown Rochester, www.downtownrochestermi.com/the-big-bright-light-show.

• The Rink at Royal Oak: Open through Feb. 17, at Centennial Commons Park, festive lights, royaloakholidays.com, weather permitting.

• The Rink at Stine Community Park: Open daily through March 16, (closed New Year’s Day), 241 Town Center, at the corner of Town Center and Civic Center Drive at the City of Troy Civic Center Campus, free admission, skate rentals are $3 residents, $5 non-residents, https://rec.troymi.gov/parks___facilities/the_rink/index.php, weather permitting.

• Riley Park Ice Rink: downtown Farmington open through February, 23600 Liberty St., Farmington, www.downtownfarmington.org, open daily, weather permitting, free admission, https://farmgov.com/Community/Parks-and-Recreation/Riley-Park-Ice-Rink.

Theater

• “Planet Antics”: A Variety Show Celebrating the Planet Ant Community is Dec. 28, Planet Ant Theatre, 2320 Caniff St., Hamtramck, live music, improv, planetant.com/events, $15.

• “A Beautiful Noise”-Neil Diamond musical: Through Jan. 5, Fisher Theatre, Detroit, www.broadwayindetroit.com, ticket prices vary.

• “SIX”: Jan. 7-12, Fisher Theatre, Detroit, www.broadwayindetroit.com, ticket prices vary.
• “Footloose”: Jan. 8-Feb. 2, Meadow Brook, at Meadow Brook Theatre, on the campus of Oakland University, 248-377-3300, www.mbtheatre.com, ticket prices vary.

• “Farce of Habit”: Jan. 10-25, Avon Players, 1185 Washington, Rochester, for tickets, call 248-608-9077 or visit www.avonplayers.org, $28+.

Art

• Drop In Workshop: Paper Snowflakes is 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 26, 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Dec. 27 and noon-4 p.m. Dec. 28-29, Detroit Institute of Arts, Art-Making Studio, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, www.dia.org.

• “The Art of Dining-Food Culture in the Islamic World”: Through Jan. 5, Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, dia.org.

• “Fields-Color & Fiber”: Art exhibit by Denise Gonzalez: Exhibit Jan. 7-Feb. 1, reception is 5-8 p.m. Jan. 10, Northville Art House 215 W. Cady St, Northville, https://northvillearthouse.org/exhibitions/gonzalez, free event.

• Centering Toshiko Takaezu: Book signing and presentation by Glenn Adamson, 6 p.m. Jan. 9, Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, https://cranbrookartmuseum.org/events/centering-toshiko-takaezu-glenn-adamson-with-ian-mcdonald-laura-mott.

• Sukanya Ramakrishna: Exhibit Journey Collection of landscape painting and photography at Farmington Hills City Hall, 31555 W 11 Mile Road, through Jan. 10, featuring Novi artist, non-holiday hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

• “Grace Under Fire”: Through Jan. 11, the Shepherd, 1265 Parkview St., Detroit, lscgallery.com, open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.

• Watercolor Painting: 7-8 p.m. Jan. 13, at Springfield Township Library 12000 Davisburg Road, Davisburg, www.springfield.michlibrary.org/news-and-events/events-calendar#/events/JIuciZ24m4/instances/4jWbUycRl7

• How We Make the Planet Move: Through March 2, The Detroit Collection Part I, Detroit-based artists and designers, featuring Subtleism” Neha Vedpathak with Agnes Martin and Toshiko Takaezu “Worlds Within,” cranbrookartmuseum.org, general admission-$10, free for ArtMembers.

• Tiff Massey-“7 Mile + Livernois”: Exhibit through May 11, 2025, Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, dia.org.

• Thursdays at the Museum: 1 p.m. Thursdays, Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit, self-guided visit of our collections for adults 55 and older. Groups of 25 or more in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties can receive free bus transportation, www.dia.org/events/thursdays.

• The Hawk Makerspace: The Hawk – Farmington Hills Community Center, featuring craft space, specialized equipment including a laser cutter, 3D printer, and sewing lab. Makerspace users may purchase passes to use the equipment during Open Studio hours. Classes are also offered, fhgov.com/play,-explore-learn/the-hawk/amenities/makerspace.

• Drop-in Design: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, self-guided art-making activities in the Cranbrook Art Museum, Art Lab, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, cranbrookartmuseum.org, general admission-$10.

• University of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 South State St., Ann Arbor, 734-764-0395, umma.umich.edu, ticket prices vary.

Auditions

• Motown Museum’s AMPLIFY auditions: The Sound of Detroit 2025 singing competition is Jan. 11, starting at noon at Motown Museum Hitsville NEXT. Interested participants must pre-register by Jan. 8, for a spot to audition at https://forms.office.com/r/PyELywWsPP. The competition is open to solo vocalists and vocal groups from Metro Detroit ages 16+, www.motownmuseum.org.

Beats, continued

• The Ultimate Doors- tribute band: Jan. 3, District 142, 142 Maple St., Wyandotte, doors at 7 p.m., ages 21+, district142live.com, $18+.

• The RFD Boys: 8 p.m. Jan. 3, The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, https://theark.org/event, $16+.

• Grand Funk Railroad: 8 p.m. Jan. 9, Music Hall Center, 350 Madison St., Detroit, www.musichall.org, ticket prices vary.

• A Night With Elvis dinner and tribute show: Jan. 10, Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Road, Orion Twp., www.canterburyvillage.com, doors at 5:30 p.m., ticket prices vary.

• Luke Winslow-King: 8 p.m. Jan. 11, at 20 Front Street, Lake Orion, 248-783-7105, www.20frontstreet.com, doors at 7:30 p.m. all ages, $20+.

Choruses

• Troy Community Chorus registration: Troy Community Chorus seeks new members to join its 2025 Spring Season. Registration is 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 7 and Jan. 14, at Troy Athens High School, 4333 John R. Road, Troy, in the choir room, followed by full rehearsals from 7:30-9:30 p.m. $45/individual or $80/couple. Interested singers should enter through the East entrance on John R Road, www.troycommunitychorus.com.

Classical/Orchestra

• Saxophone and Piano Recital: 2 p.m. Jan. 12, Jeffrey Heisler and I-Chen Yeh Saxophone and Piano Recital at Orion Township Public Library, 825 Joslyn Road, Orion Twp., https://oriontownship.librarycalendar.com/event/jeffrey-heisler-saxophone-and-i-chen-yeh-piano-8754.

• Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring”: Jan. 16-18, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit, dso.org, $20+.

Film

• AMC Theatres holiday fan fave films: “Elf” on Saturdays and Wednesdays, “The Polar Express” on Sundays, “Love Actually” on Tuesdays, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on Mondays, “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” on Fridays and “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on Thursdays. At least one public showtime will be available for each title weekly through Jan. 2, at participating theaters, purchase tickets at www.amctheatres.com/fan-faves. AMC Forum Sterling Heights, AMC Star Gratiot Clinton Township, AMC Star Great Lakes Auburn Hills, AMC Star John R Madison Heights.

• Cinemark Southland Center, Taylor, 734-287-0629, www.cinemark.com/theatres.

• Detroit Film Theatre at Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, dia.org, ticket prices vary.

• Emagine Theatres: Birmingham 8, 248-723-6230; Emagine Palladium in Birmingham, 248-385-0500; Canton, 734-787-3002; The Riviera in Farmington Hills, 248-788-6572; Hartland, 810-207-5757; Macomb, 586-372-3456; Novi, 248-468-2990; Rochester Hills, 248-378-2991; Royal Oak, 248-414-1000, emagine-entertainment.com.

• Farmington Civic Theater: 33332 Grand River Ave., Farmington, www.theFCT.com.

• Milford Independent Cinema: 945 E Summit St., Milford, milfordcinema.org/tickets, $5+.

• MJR Theatres: MJR Chesterfield, 586-598-2500; MJR Universal Grand, Warren, 586-620-0200; MJR Troy, 248-498-2100; MJR Marketplace, Sterling Heights, 586-264-1514; MJR Partridge Creek, Clinton Twp., 586-263-0084; MJR Waterford, 248-666-7900, MJR Southgate, 734-284-3456, mjrtheatres.com.

• Oxford GQT Theater: 248-628-7101, gqtmovies.com/theaterinfo/x01tk-gqt-oxford-7.

• Redford Theatre: 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, redfordtheatre.com, ticket prices vary.

• Regal UA, Commerce Twp.: 844-462-7342, regmovies.com/theatres/regal-ua-commerce-township.

• Romeo Theatre, Washington: 586-752-3455, romeotheatre.com.

Misc.

• Mitch Albom and Bernie Smilovitz: Radio personality/author Mitch Albom and TV personality Bernie Smilovitz on stage together, Jan. 6, at Emagine Royal Oak, 200 N. Main St., Royal Oak, tickets at www.Emagine-Entertainment.com, $15 per person, a portion of all ticket sales will be donated to S.A.Y. Detroit and Have Faith Haiti charities.

• Main Street Pontiac opens applications for vendors through 5 p.m. Jan. 17, for the Saginaw Green Maker’s Village, at Saginaw Green Park (111 N. Saginaw Street) from March through December 2025. Cost is $150 per month, plus a $50 monthly fee for electricity and other shared amenities. Mandatory operating hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday. Eligible to Pontiac-based startups and small businesses without an existing storefront in Pontiac, mainstreetpontiac.org/saginaw-green-makers-village.

Museums

• Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm: Holiday House Tours & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit are noon-4 p.m. on select Saturdays, Sundays and weekdays in December and January, 1005 Van Hoosen Road Rochester Hills, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults, www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms.

• Christmas with the Monroe County Museum: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 29, at 126 S Monroe St., Monroe, monroemi.gov.

• Holidays at Meadow Brook: Through Dec. 30, outdoor evening light show, Winter Wonder Lights, Meadow Brook Hall, 350 Estate Drive, Rochester, on the campus of Oakland University, ticket prices vary, www.meadowbrookholidays.com.

• Michigan Science Center (Mi-Sci): 5020 John R St., Detroit, 313-577-8400, www.mi-sci.org. Regular museum gen. adm. is $17+. Standard Mi-Sci films are available as a $6 add-on to general admission tickets. Mi-Sci is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday and until 8 p.m. the first Friday of each month. “Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family” exhibit is open through Jan. 12.

• Bank of America customers receive free admission: Jan. 4-5, and the first weekend of each month to museums and cultural institutions across the country, including Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History, Michigan Science Center, Arab American National Museum, Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, and Motown Museum, bit.ly/2NvmECM.

• Royal Oak Historical Society Museum: Hours are 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, 1411 W. Webster Road, Royal Oak, royaloakhistoricalsociety.com, 248-439-1501, $10+ suggested donation. Unveiling Hidden Stories of African Americans in 19th Century Royal Oak speaker event is 7 p.m. Jan. 10 at the museum. The Underground Railroad in Oakland County traveling exhibit grand opening at the museum is 2-4 p.m. Jan. 12.

• Westin Book Cadillac at 100 Exhibition: Westin Book Cadillac, 1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit, presented with Detroit Historical Society, exhibit explores the 100-year history of the Book Cadillac hotel, https://detroithistorical.org.

• Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, https://science.cranbrook.edu/explore/programs/events, general admission: $14, $10.50 for ages 2-12 and seniors 65+, free for children under age 2.

• The Zekelman Holocaust Center: 28123 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills, www.holocaustcenter.org, 248-553-2400.

• Motown Museum, 2648 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, motownmuseum.org, 313-875-2264.

• The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village: 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Ford Rouge Factory Tours Monday-Saturday, purchase tickets online, prices vary, thehenryford.org.

• Ford Piquette Plant Museum: 461 Piquette Ave, Detroit. Open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10-$18. Optional guided tours take place daily at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., www.fordpiquetteplant.org, 313-872-8759.

• Ford House, 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, 313-884-4222, fordhouse.org.

• Dossin Great Lakes Museum: 100 Strand Drive, Belle Isle, Detroit, detroithistorical.org.

• Detroit Arsenal of Democracy Museum: Seeks volunteer groups from veteran and military groups to assist with restoration. The museum is also seeking building materials and equipment to support the ongoing restoration of its vintage industrial space at 19144 Glendale Ave., Detroit, including floor grinders, clear epoxy and Thinset products for floor repairs, www.detroitarsenalofdemocracy.org.

• Pontiac Transportation Museum: 250 W. Pike St., Pontiac. Admission to the museum is $10, $8 for seniors and veterans, $6 for children ages 6-12, free for children ages 5 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, www.pontiactransportationmuseum.org.

• Detroit Historical Museum: 5401 Woodward Ave. (NW corner of Kirby) in Midtown Detroit, detroithistorical.org. Permanent exhibits include the famous Streets of Old Detroit, the Allesee Gallery of Culture, Doorway to Freedom: Detroit and the Underground Railroad, Detroit: The “Arsenal of Democracy,” the Gallery of Innovation, Frontiers to Factories, America’s Motor City and The Glancy Trains, regular museum general admission is $10. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. “Detroit Lions: Gridiron Heroes,” exhibition featuring the history of the Detroit Lions, detroithistorical.org.

• The Wright: The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit, 313-494-5800, open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and open until 7 p.m. on Thursday, closed on Mondays, reserve timed tickets at thewright.org, $30+ gen adm., $20 for seniors 62+, $15 for youth, ages 5-17, free for under 5.

• Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society: Open 1st/2nd/4th/5th Sundays of the month and 3rd Fridays, 1-4 pm, (holidays excluded) with exhibits including “Four Communities” exhibit at The Orchard Lake Museum, 3951 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake. Admission is free, donations are welcome, www.gwbhs.org, 248-757-2451.

Submit events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.

The Oakland County Chapter of The Links Inc. hosted its annual Festival of Giving, Dec. 11, at The Pontiac Middle School.

Nearly 600 middle school students participated in the holiday event which featured face painting, arts and crafts, and a holiday “store” where students could gather a gift or two for family and friends. The event included a photo booth, holiday photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, DJ Steve Coleman and refreshments. Pontiac Mayor Tim Greimel and Pontiac School Board President Anisha Hannah and Oakland University tutors and mentors were in attendance.

Throughout the year, Oakland County Links sponsors programs for Pontiac Middle School students, including STEAM activities, tutoring and field trips.

For more information, visit www.oaklandcountylinks.org.

AA Van Elslander Foundation awards $2.5 million grant to New Day Foundation for Families

The A.A. Van Elslander Foundation recently awarded a $2.5 million grant to the nonprofit New Day Foundation for Families, for cancer support services.

The announcement was made by Gina Kell Spehn, co-founder and president of Rochester Hills-based New Day Foundation. It is the largest grant received in the nonprofit’s history.

“The A.A. Van Elslander Foundation recognizes New Day Foundation as a leader in helping people who are facing cancer-related financial toxicity, and they recognize that our ‘family-focused’ approach is innovative and critical to the healing process,” said Kell Spehn.

“No family should make unthinkable choices between cancer treatment and basic necessities,” said A.A. Van Elslander Foundation board member Debra Van Elslander.  ““We are making this investment in New Day because we know the funding we provide will be put to the best possible use to help Michigan’s communities in need.”

New Day Foundation for Families provides financial and emotional resources to Michigan families facing cancer. For more information, visit www.foundationforfamilies.org.

For more information about the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation, visit www.vanelslanderfoundation.org.

Huron Valley State Bank hosts holiday gift giving programs

Huron Valley State Bank hosted two holiday giving programs. The Highland Township branch hosted a toy drive Nov. 18-Dec. 13, in which customers and staff donated toys. The collected toys were delivered to the Community Sharing Outreach Center in Highland Twp., Dec. 16.

The Milford branch partnered with the Milford Village Elves program, collecting donations of more than $1,000 to purchase gifts and gift cards.

In November, Huron Valley State Bank also hosted its annual Thanksgiving food drive, collecting canned and boxed non-perishable goods.

For more information, visit www.hvsb.com.

Blood drives

• The City of Troy is hosting American Red Cross Blood Drives, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 23 and Dec. 26, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 2, at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy. Donation appointments can be scheduled by calling 313-300-9617 or visiting www.redcrossblood.org and entering zip code 48083. Photo ID or Red Cross Donor Card will be required. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Charitable activities/Fundraisers

• Love In the Name of Christ of North Oakland County (Love INC), Lake Orion, is hosting a gift card drive through Dec. 23. ($25-$50 gift card denominations suggested). For locations to drop off boxes for card donations, visit Loveincofnoc.org, or call 248-693-435, or drop off 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday at Love INC, 1550 W. Drahner Road, Oxford.

• The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit seeks donations. Individuals can donate money via an online kettle, Paypal, Venmo or physical red kettle, or at SAmetrodetroit.org, or by calling 877-SAL-MICH or texting GIFT to 24365.

• Hospice of Michigan is seeking volunteers across Oakland and Macomb counties to lend their sewing skills to create ‘Memory Bears’ to help comfort families coping with the loss of a loved one. Those in Oakland County who are interested in donating time to the Memory Bear program should contact Cynthia Palmer at cpalmer@hom.org or 248-334-1323.

• Buddy’s Pizza has partnered with the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign. Through Dec. 31, customers can automatically add a Salvation Army Red Kettle donation to any Buddy’s Pizza online or app order.  Buddy’s Pizza will match donations,

• Party Palooza Fundraiser: 6-10 p.m. Jan. 17, Pontiac Transportation Museum, 250 W. Pike St., Pontiac, cocktails, food, live entertainment, tickets are available at https://events.getlocalhop.com/pontiac-transportation-museum-pop/event/3AxmNbdcA5 or call 248-977-4410.

• Gorman’s Home Furnishings and Interior Design is hosting its annual Charity Recliner Promotion. Customers who visit any of Gorman’s four Southeast Michigan showrooms (Farmington Hills, Novi, Southfield and Troy) from now through Jan. 20, and make a minimum donation of $50 to The Arc of Oakland County, will receive an extra $200 off the price of any leather recliner from Gorman’s 10 Best Brands or up to $400 off Stressless recliners, www.gormans.com/arc.

• The Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit is seeking donations of gently used furniture for families in need, especially smaller sofas, dining tables, and chairs that fit in modest-sized homes, items should be free of stains, rips, tears, and pet hair. Call 248-332-1300 to schedule a pick-up.

• Forgotten Harvest’s Hope for the Holidays meal distribution events take place through December in metro Detroit. Forgotten Harvest seeks monetary donations and volunteers to continue programs, www.forgottenharvest.org.Those in need of food assistance can visit www.forgottenharvest.org/find-food to find a distribution event nearby.

• Gleaners Community Food Bank seeks community help, through financial donations and nonperishable food donations, including canned meat, beans and vegetables, low-sodium soups, oatmeal, protein drinks, peanut butter and healthy cereal (avoid donating items in glass containers or any cooked leftovers), www.gcfb.org/give-now. Gleaners also seeks volunteers for the winter season (January through March), https://gcfb.volunteerhub.com/vv2.

• Bloomfield Hills-based nonprofit JARC, an organization serving adults with developmental disabilities in metro Detroit seeks donations and volunteers. A donation to JARC supports funding for recreational therapy, transportation to events and items for the homes. JARC welcomes people of all ages to participate in volunteer opportunities including visiting with people served by JARC, assisting at events and delivering holiday meals, www.jarc.org. To volunteer, visit www.jarc.org/volunteer or call Jessica at 248-940-2607.

• Oakland Hope human service nonprofit, food pantry and thrift store, seeks volunteers and donations. Located at 20 E. Walton Blvd, Pontiac, www.oaklandhope.org, 248-309-3658. Call for hours of the free food pantry.

Education activities

• Pontiac Housing Commission is sponsoring a series of seminars for minority women, providing training on small-scale real estate development investing. The series consists of seven classes which will be held 6-8 p.m. monthly, beginning Jan. 6, at Pontiac Housing Commission. Classes are free, those wanting to attend can sign up at www.eventbrite.com/e/empowerher-minority-women-emerging-developer-series-tickets-1090186981609.

• Bank of America is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Student Leaders summer internship program through Jan. 15. Students Leaders receive first-hand experience in serving their communities through a paid eight-week internship with local nonprofits. They also travel to Washington, D.C. for the national Student Leaders Summit. Apply at www.bankofamerica.com/studentleaders and submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, guidance counselor or school administrator.

Holiday activities

• Visits with Santa: Through Dec. 23, Somerset Collection, Troy, North Grand Court. Guests can reserve a photo session with Santa at somersetevents.as.me/SantaPhotos, photo prices vary.

• Visits with Santa: Through Dec. 24, The Village of Rochester Hills Outdoor Shopping Center, Festival Park,104 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills, hours vary, walk-up only, TheVORH.com.

• Santa’s Flight Academy: Through Dec. 24, Great Lakes Crossing, 4000 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, photos with Santa, 22-foot-tall sleigh, snowfall dance party, reserve a time at https://greatlakescrossingoutlets.com/events, prices vary.

• Santa’s Flight Academy: Through Dec. 24, Twelve Oaks Mall, 27500 Novi Road, Novi, photos with Santa, 22-foot-tall sleigh, reserve a time at https://shoptwelveoaks.com/pages/santa-s-flight-academy, prices vary. Reservations are limited, walk-up visits are welcome.

• Holiday Stroll: Evenings, Dec. 20-23, Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Road, Orion Twp., www.canterburyvillage.com, $17.99+, $19.99+, free for ages 2 and younger.

• Holly Dazzle: 5-10 p.m. (5-9 p.m. on Sundays) Friday-Tuesday Dec. 20-24 and Dec. 27-31, at 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly, winter wonderland stroll along a three-quarter mile outdoor trail, adorned with Christmas scenes, 248-634-5552, www.hollydazzle.com.

• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides and Santa House: Weekends through Dec. 22 and Dec. 23-24, Shain Park, 270 W. Merrill St., downtown Birmingham, www.allinbirmingham.com.

• Glenlore Trails-Aurora: Thursday-Sunday evenings, through Dec. 29, at 3860 Newtown Road, Commerce Twp., one-mile walk through experience, purchase tickets at www.GlenloreTrails.com, ticket prices vary.

• Winter Wonder Lights, through Dec. 30, (excluding Dec. 24-26), at Meadow Brook Hall, 350 Estate Drive, Rochester, on the campus of Oakland University, ticket prices vary, www.meadowbrookholidays.com.

• Magic of Lights: 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Sunday, through Dec. 30, (5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), Pine Knob Music Theatre, Independence Twp., www.313presents.com/events/detail/magic-of-lights, purchase tickets online, ticket prices vary.

• The Great Decorate: Annual holiday decorating contest through Dec. 31, raises awareness and funds to support local foster teens who are about to age-out of the foster care system. Each year, a group of foster teen recipients are selected through a partnership with the Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange. Visitors are welcome to stop by restaurants and retail locations throughout downtown Birmingham to view holiday decor and vote for their favorite display by donating online, www.thegreatdecorate.com.

• Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm: Holiday House Tours & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit are noon-4 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays through Dec. 29, and Dec, 26-27 and Jan. 2-4, at 1005 Van Hoosen Road Rochester Hills, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults, www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms. Old-Fashioned Christmas is noon-4 p.m. Dec. 21, no registration required, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults.

• Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo: Through Jan. 5, (5-9 p.m. select weeknights and Sundays and 5 to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays), outdoor event limited to the front half of the zoo, no access to animal habitats, adv gen advance tickets are $17-$25+ each, children younger than 2 are admitted free, parking is $8, https://detroitzoo.org/events/wild-lights.

• Holiday Lights at Innovation Hills: The City of Rochester Hills invites the community to enjoy holiday lights at Innovation Hills Park, 2800 W. Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, 5-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 5-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday, through Jan. 15, www.rochesterhills.org/news_detail_T9_R385.php.

• The Big, Bright Light Show: 5 p.m.-midnight, nightly through Jan. 19, downtown Rochester, www.downtownrochestermi.com/the-big-bright-light-show.

• The Rink at Royal Oak: Open daily through Feb. 17, at Centennial Commons Park, Royal Oak, festive lights, royaloakholidays.com, admission is $10-$12, skate rental if needed is $5, weather permitting.

• The Rink at Stine Community Park: Open daily through March 16, (closed Christmas and New Year’s Day), 241 Town Center, at the corner of Town Center and Civic Center Drive at the City of Troy Civic Center Campus, free admission, skate rentals are $3 residents, $5 non-residents, https://rec.troymi.gov/parks___facilities/the_rink/index.php, weather permitting.

Parks

• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.

• Huron-Clinton Metroparks 2025 annual passes are on sale now, with a $5 discount to residents of the five counties they serve, for annual vehicle passes purchased through Dec. 31, 2024, $35 ($24 for Seniors 62+). The pass can be used to access all of the 13 Metroparks all year long. Additionally, 2025 passes can be used immediately, even before the new year. Starting Jan. 1, the 2025 Metroparks annual pass will again cost $40 for residents ($29 for Seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for Seniors 62+).

• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.

Support activities/Resources

• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.

• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.

• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.

• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.

Submit community events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.

Blood drives

• The City of Troy is hosting American Red Cross Blood Drives, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 19, Dec. 23 and Dec. 26, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 2, at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy. Donation appointments can be scheduled by calling 313-300-9617 or visiting www.redcrossblood.org and entering zip code 48083. Photo ID or Red Cross Donor Card will be required. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Charitable activities/Fundraisers

• Toys for Tots toy drive, donations of unwrapped toys accepted through Dec. 16, at Farmington Hills Police and Fire Department headquarters on the campus of City Hall at the corner of Eleven Mile and Orchard Lake Roads.

• Guests at Parc Detroit, Experience Zuzu, and 220 Merrill are encouraged to bring a toy to benefit COTS Detroit, through Dec. 16. As a thank-you, guests will receive a complimentary Christmas dessert, COTSDetroit.org. Toys can be purchased from COTS’ Amazon Wishlist.

• The Birmingham Fire Department is collecting new, unwrapped toys for its annual Toys for Tots Foundation toy drive through Dec. 20 at the city’s two fire stations, 572 S. Adams Road and 1600 W. Maple Road, and Baldwin Public Library, 300 W. Merrill St. and Birmingham City Hall, 151 Martin St. Unwrapped donated toys for all ages can be placed in Toys for Tots collection boxes at these locations. For more information, call 248-530-1906, toysfortots.org, bhamgov.org/fire.

• The Ghost of Dishes Past is 7-10 p.m. Dec. 20, First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac, 99 Wayne St., Pontiac, dinner fundraiser featuring dishes served in the Victorian England household of Charles Dickens, complete with period music and inspired 19th century refreshments, tickets are $50 with a portion to benefit Pontiac’s historic Oak Hill Cemetery, https://events.getlocalhop.com/the-ghost-of-dishes-past/event/aYMxi2rmcR.

• Christmas of Hope, A benefit concert for Hurricane Victims is 6:30 p.m. Dec. 22, Flagstar Strand, 12 N Saginaw St, Pontiac, www.flagstarstrand.com, ticket prices vary.

• Love In the Name of Christ of North Oakland County (Love INC), Lake Orion, is hosting a gift card drive through Dec. 23. ($25-$50 gift card denominations suggested). For locations to drop off boxes for card donations, visit Loveincofnoc.org, or call 248-693-435, or drop off 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday at Love INC, 1550 W. Drahner Road, Oxford.

• The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit seeks volunteer bell ringers. Individuals and families can sign up to volunteer by visiting registertoring.com where they have an option to choose a traditional, two-hour session at a physical red kettle site or participate in a virtual bell ringing shift where they can raise funds from home. Individuals can donate money via an online kettle, Paypal, Venmo or physical red kettle, or at SAmetrodetroit.org, or by calling 877-SAL-MICH or texting GIFT to 24365.

• Gifts for All God’s Children, a faith-based nonprofit located in Rochester Hills, seeks sponsors and donations. To sponsor a child-Choose a child and do the shopping for clothing, toys, books, and hygiene items. To make a donation, purchase from the nonprofit’s Amazon Wish List and ship Items to the workshop, https://giftsforallgodschildren.org/christmas-outreach-program.

• Gorman’s Home Furnishings and Interior Design is hosting its annual Charity Recliner Promotion. Customers who visit any of Gorman’s four Southeast Michigan showrooms (Farmington Hills, Novi, Southfield and Troy) from now through Jan. 20, and make a minimum donation of $50 to The Arc of Oakland County, will receive an extra $200 off the price of any leather recliner from Gorman’s 10 Best Brands or up to $400 off Stressless recliners, www.gormans.com/arc.

• The Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit is seeking donations of gently used furniture for families in need, especially smaller sofas, dining tables, and chairs that fit in modest-sized homes, items should be free of stains, rips, tears, and pet hair. Call 248-332-1300 to schedule a pick-up.

• Forgotten Harvest’s Hope for the Holidays meal distribution events take place through December in metro Detroit. Forgotten Harvest seeks monetary donations and volunteers to continue programs, www.forgottenharvest.org.Those in need of food assistance can visit www.forgottenharvest.org/find-food to find a distribution event nearby.

• Gleaners Community Food Bank seeks community help, through financial donations and nonperishable food donations, including canned meat, beans and vegetables, low-sodium soups, oatmeal, protein drinks, peanut butter and healthy cereal (avoid donating items in glass containers or any cooked leftovers), www.gcfb.org/give-now. Gleaners also seeks volunteers to for the winter season (January through March), https://gcfb.volunteerhub.com/vv2.

• The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office collects bicycles (new, used, or in need of repair), bike accessories, tools, and parts for the Sheriff’s Re-CYCLE for Kids program. Donations may be dropped off at any of the Sheriff’s Office locations in Oakland County, or at the 1-800-Self-Storage locations in Troy or Oak Park. Volunteers assist with refurbishing and repairing the donated bikes on an as-needed basis. The recycled bikes are distributed to families in need at events and by appointment, www.oakgov.com/government/sheriff/community-services/domestic-safety.

• Bloomfield Hills-based nonprofit JARC, an organization serving adults with developmental disabilities in metro Detroit seeks donations and volunteers. A donation to JARC supports funding for recreational therapy, transportation to events and items for the homes. JARC welcomes people of all ages to participate in volunteer opportunities including visiting with people served by JARC, assisting at events and delivering holiday meals, www.jarc.org. To volunteer, visit www.jarc.org/volunteer or call Jessica at 248-940-2607.

• Oakland Hope human service nonprofit, food pantry and thrift store, seeks volunteers and donations. Located at 20 E. Walton Blvd, Pontiac, www.oaklandhope.org, 248-309-3658. Call for hours of the free food pantry.

Education activities

• Bank of America is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Student Leaders summer internship program through Jan. 15. Students Leaders receive first-hand experience in serving their communities through a paid eight-week internship with local nonprofits. They also travel to Washington, D.C. for the national Student Leaders Summit. Apply at www.bankofamerica.com/studentleaders and submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, guidance counselor or school administrator.

Holiday activities

• Holly Dickens Festival: Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, through Dec. 15, downtown Holly. Stroll the streets of historic Battle Alley, visit shops, enjoy strolling Christmas carolers, street performers, holiday lights, roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, children may visit with Santa in the Tiny Tim Children’s Tent, www.hollydickensfestival.org.

• A Holiday to Remember: Dec. 14-15, (Noon-3 p.m. Sunday) downtown Northville, holiday-themed activities, carolers and bagpipers, Santa House located in Town Square, www.downtownnorthville.com.

• Visits with Santa: Friday-Sunday through Dec. 15 and Dec. 19-24; and visits with reindeer and farm animals are Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 21-22, The Village of Rochester Hills Outdoor Shopping Center, Festival Park,104 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills, hours vary, walk-up only, TheVORH.com.

• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides and Santa House: Weekends through Dec. 22 and Dec. 23-24, Shain Park, 270 W. Merrill St., downtown Birmingham, www.allinbirmingham.com, appointments needed for Santa House on Saturdays.

• The Great Decorate: Annual holiday decorating contest through Dec. 31, raises awareness and funds to support local foster teens who are about to age-out of the foster care system. Each year, a group of foster teen recipients are selected through a partnership with the Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange. Visitors are welcome to stop by restaurants and retail locations throughout downtown Birmingham to view holiday decor and vote for their favorite display by donating online, www.thegreatdecorate.com.

• Holidays at Meadow Brook: Indoor daytime Holiday Walk through Dec. 23 (excluding Dec. 16), and the outdoor evening light show, Winter Wonder Lights, through Dec. 30, (excluding Dec. 16 and Dec. 24-26), at Meadow Brook Hall, 350 Estate Drive, Rochester, on the campus of Oakland University, ticket prices vary, www.meadowbrookholidays.com.

• Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm: Holiday House Tours & All Aboard! Model Railroad Exhibit are noon-4 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays through Dec. 29, and Dec, 26-27 and Jan. 2-4, at 1005 Van Hoosen Road Rochester Hills, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults, www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms. Old-Fashioned Christmas is noon-4 p.m. Dec. 21, no registration required, buy tickets at the door, $5/adults.

Library activities

• Talkin’ Broadway Highlights the Musical “Wicked” discussion is 2-4 p.m. Dec. 15, at West Bloomfield Township Public Library, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield Twp., https://wblib.org.

• Crafts and Cocoa is 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Salem-South Lyon District Library, 9800 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, for Grades 6-12. Registration required at https://ssldl.info, 248-437-6431.

• Tuba Christmas is 6:30-7:15 p.m. Dec. 19, at Salem-South Lyon District Library, 9800 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, in the pavilion for a bonfire and a festive holiday concert, dress for the weather. No registration required, bottle and can drive for Furry Friends, trailer set up outside for drop-off, https://ssldl.info, 248-437-6431.

• Holiday Lights Recycling Fundraiser for Furry Friends Rescue through Jan. 11, Salem-South Lyon District Library, 9800 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, registration required at https://ssldl.info, 248-437-6431.

Parks

• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.

• Huron-Clinton Metroparks 2025 annual passes are on sale now, with a $5 discount to residents of the five counties they serve, for annual vehicle passes purchased through Dec. 31, 2024, $35 ($24 for Seniors 62+). The pass can be used to access all of the 13 Metroparks all year long. Additionally, 2025 passes can be used immediately, even before the new year. Starting Jan. 1, the 2025 Metroparks annual pass will again cost $40 for residents ($29 for Seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for Seniors 62+).

• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.

Senior citizen activities

• Candy Cane Day is 3-4 p.m. Dec. 16, at Oxford Township Senior Center, Oxford Township Parks & Recreation, 2795 Seymour Lake Rd. Oxford, holiday desserts and sing-along as Santa makes a special appearance. Bring in non-perishable items to help fill holiday stockings to be donated to the Free Meals Program in Oxford, Red and white attire suggested, (248) 628-1720, https://oxparkrec.org.

Support activities/Resources

• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.

• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.

• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.

• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.

Submit community events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.