Community
Turkey Trots Happening Across Michigan in 2024
It’s time to sign up for Turkey Trots. These holiday races offer runners of any level a chance to go outside and get moving with family and friends. The races are a fun way for everyone to have fun and burn some calories before gearing up to celebrate the rest of the day.
MI Bucket List: Native American Historical Sites to Visit in Michigan
Michigan has a long history with Native American communities and traditions. There are 12 federally recognized tribes of Indigenous peoples in Michigan. Many of the state’s natural wonders and historical sites have a history within the Native American cultures predating the state of Michigan.
Veteran’s Day: Michigan Events, Ceremonies and Celebrations in 2024
More than 550,000 veterans of the United States Armed Forces call Michigan their home. Across the state, many cities, towns and municipalities will celebrate Veteran’s Day with parades, fairs, races and more.
How to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month in Michigan
November is Native American Heritage Month. These Michigan sites and landmarks celebrate the rich and important history of Native Americans. Check out this list of Native American-owned businesses to support as well.
Find Your Fit: Bounce Your Way to a Great Cardio Workout Using a Mini Trampoline
Bounce is a cardiovascular-based, mini trampoline workout offered at fitness studios across Michigan. You can also do it at home. Before trying it, read what Ypsilanti-based fitness instructor Sarah Kreiner has to say about Bounce as a workout, and what beginners should know before they try it.
Foodie Focus: First Bite Endears Itself to Ann Arbor with Vegan, Organic and Gluten-Free Breakfast and Lunch Options
Locals and out-of-towners alike form a line out the door at First Bite each weekend. The breakfast and lunch restaurant's fresh, organic offerings mesh well with anyone's diet, and is popular among vegans and vegetarians.
5 Dinner Party Ideas For College Students
Now that I’m in my 20s, I’ve learned to appreciate the simplicity of getting together with my friends and family and enjoying each other’s company over a good meal. But when it comes down to it, I’m still a kid at heart. Why stop having themed parties when you’re an adult?
Does Apple Cider Have Health Benefits?
Apple cider is a beloved fall beverage, but is it healthy? Learn more about its pasteurization process and nutrition value, here.
Michigan Bucket List: Michigan Cider Mills
As summer gives way to fall, it’s time for a visit to a cider mill to enjoy apple picking, apple cider and donuts.
Detroit’s Pie-Sci Pizzeria Builds a Vegan Following with Plant-Based Pizza Options
Pie-Sci pizzeria on Trumbull in Detroit challenges the notion that vegan pizza fails to stack up to its meat and dairy-based counterparts.
Beautiful Michigan: Top Picturesque Locations For Fall
Grabbing photos of fall foliage here in Michigan makes for a fantastic October activity. So, where are the best places in the state to capture the perfect fall images?
Foodie Focus: Summertown Fresh Bar Fills a Fast and Healthy Restaurant Void in Corktown
Summertown Fresh Bar's additive-free smoothies and juices, and ever-expanding healthy breakfast and lunch programs, have endeared the restaurant to its Corktown neighbors since 2023.
Find Your Fit: Sneak a Full-Body Workout in at the Playground With These Tips
If you are one of those people that struggle to fit a workout into your busy schedule, you can be efficient and accomplish two things at once by working out on the playground while looking after your kids.
Blue Cross ArtPrize Artists Inspired by Nature and History
You can see artists' work in a large window at the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office at the Steketee’s Building, 86 Monroe Center St. NW, in downtown Grand Rapids. ArtPrize is Sept. 13-Sept. 28.
Michigan Bucket List: Paddle Antrim Festival
Paddlers are welcome to join an epic adventure in September. The Paddle Antrim Festival celebrates the waterways and local communities of Northern Michigan Sept. 13-14. The festival includes community events and a non-competitive two-day paddling event from Ellsworth to Elk Rapids on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail.
Mental Health Conversation Starters: Here’s How I Open Up
Mental health, anxiety and depression are topics many people shy away from because they can be uncomfortable to talk about. Breaking the stigma around mental health is extremely important because someone’s mental health is just as important as their physical health.
Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails Settles in As One of Detroit’s Most Beloved Farm to Table Restaurants
Chartreuse was ahead of the "farm to table" curve when it opened in 2015. Clean, quality food, innovative dishes and an emphasis on hospitality have made it one of the most successful "new" restaurants to open in Detroit in the past decade.
Michigan Bucket List: 5 Family-Friendly Fall Festivals
Fall is a wonderful time of year, filled with crisp air, beautiful foliage and plenty of festivals across the state of Michigan. Here are five unique fall festivals that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy:
Folklore in Michigan: Add These Places to Your Bucket List
Michigan is known for its beautiful Great Lakes, scenic views and vibrant cities, but it also has a rich history of folklore. These stories, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into Michigan's mysterious side. Here are some of the places where Michigan’s most iconic myths, legends and spooky stories originated to get you ready for the Fall season
5 Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses All Year Long
Supporting Black-owned businesses should not be only a trend, but a year-round endeavor to be allies to everyone in our communities.
When and How to Watch Perseid Meteor Showers in Michigan
Every summer, the Perseid meteor showers grace the night skies above Michigan. Learn more about this celestial display and the best places and times to check them out in Michigan.
Michigan Bucket List: The Dow Gardens
Located in Midland, the Dow Gardens is 110 acres of tall trees, running water, and beautiful blooming flowers. The botanical garden is the perfect place to take a day trip to disconnect from the world and take a nature walk.
5 Things to Do this Summer in Frankfort
This picturesque lakeshore village sits at the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
How to Reduce Your Plastic Use
One of the easiest ways to make a real difference when it comes to the environment is by making simple adjustments to your own lifestyle. As awareness of environmental issues grows, people are looking for ways to reduce their plastic use.
Michigan Road Trip: US-23 Beach and Heritage Route
There are many sights to see in the state of Michigan from shipwrecks to beaches to lighthouses. Historic heritage route US-23 features those sights and more while showing the beauty of Lake Huron and national forests. We have compiled a list of stops along US-23 to add to your itinerary this summer.
Best Hiking Trails in Northern Michigan
From Traverse City to Alpena and points in between, the northern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is home to wonderful vacation destinations and plenty of natural beauty to explore. If you’re planning to be in the area, make a point to spend a day on foot, checking out some of the best hiking trails in Michigan.
Hiking in Mid-Michigan: Where to Go
Do you think you have to go “up north” to get an authentic Michigan hiking experience? You will be surprised by the diversity of sites to explore in mid-Michigan. Whether you are looking for a riverfront experience, big rocks or an urban adventure, there is plenty to discover in the middle of the Mitten state.
Ken Hayward Reflects on Opportunities Baseball Granted Him After Induction Into State of Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame
Before he led BCBSM's social mission and community affairs efforts, Ken Hayward was an incredible college baseball player. He didn't realize it at the time, but his years as a ballplayer shaped his future in a major way.
Michigan Bucket List: Sunflower Festivals
Check out some of the Michigan farms that are hosting sunflower festivals this summer and fall.
Cooking with Que: Detroit Restaurant Owner’s Cooking Classes Show You How to ‘Eat to Live’
Converting to a vegan diet was a gamechanger for Quiana Rice's health. The lifestyle change set her on a career path and mission to help others choose cleaner ingredients and develop healthier cooking and eating habits.
Take a Hike in Southeast Michigan
Whether you’re looking to escape to a natural setting or enjoy a quick hike on your lunch break, southeast Michigan has plenty of great trails to discover. Here are some ideas to get you going on your next hiking adventure.
Best Disc Golf Courses in Michigan
Pack up some discs, grab some water and check out these popular disc golf courses across Michigan.
Michigan Bucket List: Saugatuck Dunes State Park
If you’re looking for a getaway that combines natural beauty, adventure, and local charm, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is your go-to spot. From hiking through dunes and forests to relaxing on serene beaches, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers an experience for everyone to enjoy.
Michigan Bucket List: Ann Arbor Art Fair
Every July, one of the nation’s largest art festivals is right here in Michigan. The Ann Arbor Art Fair is an exciting, three-day festival that brings half a million visitors to Ann Arbor. The fair takes up 30 blocks of Ann Arbor and features more than 1,000 artists.
Michigan Bucket List: Turnip Rock
Turnip Rock is in Port Austin at the tip of a small, private peninsula called Pointe aux Barques. It’s located just offshore the shallow waters of Lake Huron. This gravity defying rock formation got its turnip-like shape from gradual erosion caused by waves breaking down its soft, limestone stack.
Accessible Beaches in Michigan
Access to beaches and waterfront spaces is improving across Michigan as state parks and city beaches become places that people of all abilities can navigate.
Michigan Bucket List: Zoos to Visit
Michigan is home to many zoos, petting zoos, refuges, and specialty animal conservancies that are an exciting, fun and educational experience for the whole family. We’ve compiled some of the best zoos and conservatories from across the state.
5 Health Benefits of Volunteering at an Animal Rescue
The joy and affection that animals bring can cheer you up, calm you down, and keep your attention focused and in-the-moment. Not everyone can have a pet at home, and even if you do, you may find volunteering at a local animal rescue to be a rewarding experience. Learn five ways volunteering at an animal shelter can benefit your health.
Breadless in Detroit Turns the Afterthought into the Centerpiece with Healthy, Innovative Sandwich Concept
Breadless uses super-green vegetables like Swiss chard and kale to conceal savory, chef-inspired sandwich recipes. The fast casual restaurant has become a much-needed health food option in Detroit.
Michigan Bucket List: African World Festival
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African History is putting on its 41st annual African World Festival, July 12 to 14. Come celebrate African beauty, strength, and culture at Hart Plaza, Detroit. This three-day festival features more than 100 vendors, local and international performers, and countless opportunities for family fun.
Michigan Bucket List: Art In The Park
Art In The Park will host more than 400 artists from around the United States for its 44th summer. The fair includes art in a wide variety of mediums such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, glass, woodwork, photography, folk art and more. From practical to surreal, whimsical to extravagant, there is bound to be something for everyone.
9 Iconic Michigan Ice Cream Parlors to Visit
From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?
Fourth of July Fireworks in Michigan: 10 Displays to Check Out in 2024
Looking for the best fireworks in Michigan in 2024? There are destination fireworks displays and festivals all over the state between June 26 and July 4.
Michigan Bucket List: Flea Markets
This summer, there are a lot of opportunities for purchasing second-hand items. Flea markets are a perfect place to find second-hand clothing, vintage furniture items, or books you’ve been dying to read. Flea markets are also a great way to consider your carbon footprint and reconsider your use of fast fashion.
Michigan Bucket List: Hot Air Balloon Festivals
Hot air balloons offer the chance to see the breathtaking sight of different colors flying through the sky and learn about the physics of the balloons. There are plenty of opportunities across the state to see these spectacles. We have a list of a few different locations and dates where you can see a hot air balloon festival in Michigan.
How to Celebrate the Summer Solstice
Ready to mark the longest day of the year? Stick with us for tips on how to celebrate the summer solstice.
Creative Ways to Thank the Father Figure in Your Life
Every year it can be a challenge to come up with something new and exciting to celebrate the father figure in your life. What to do for a man who has done so much for you? We’re here to help you come up with ideas to honor the father figure in your life.
Michigan Bucket List: Must Visit Lavender Festivals in Michigan
Lavender begins to bloom in Michigan early-to-mid June and continues through mid-August. Visiting these vibrant, purple-lined fields are sure to create magical memories for the whole family.
Detroit Juneteenth Celebrations in 2024
Metro Detroiters can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Detroit in a multitude of ways, from festivals to special dinners to educational events.
Pride 2024 Events Throughout Michigan
Festivals, parades and family-friendly activities are all on tap as Pride events fill up the summer calendar across Michigan in 2024.
5 Ways to Get Your Garden Ready to Plant in May
Garden lovers, this is the season of so much anticipation. Major gardening activity typically waits until the soil warms up enough to plant the most common crops, and for us in Michigan, this usually means mid to late May
Aster Farm to Table Restaurant in Midland Focuses on Seasonality, Sustainability and Community
Beef from Stoney Grove Farm in Rodney. Whitefish caught in Lake Erie. Fresh tomatoes from Good Stead Farm in Hope. Michigan's incredible farming community is highlighted in every dish at Aster.
Guide to Michigan Memorial Day Parades
Do you have plans this Memorial Day Weekend? Stop by one of the many parades and celebrations happening all over Michigan. Find a Memorial Day celebration near you.
Michigan’s Best Farmers Markets
Michigan is home to roughly 300 farmers markets. Here are more than a half dozen of our favorites from around the state.
Ideas for a Healthy and Happy Mother’s Day
It’s time to get those Mother’s Day plans in order. Here are some food and activity-based ideas that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
Michigan Spring Bucket List: Best Spots to See Holland’s Famous Tulips
This West Michigan town is known for its spring tulip displays. Here are some insider tips on scenic spots to see them in full bloom.
Teacher Appreciation Week: Simple Acts to Show Appreciation
May 6 to May 10 is Teacher Appreciation Week this year. It is common to celebrate teachers during this week with events, gifts, and an outpouring of appreciation and respect for teachers and their work. Here are some examples of acts that students and parents can use to show their appreciation for teachers.
Michigan Bucket List: Public Golf Courses
Ready to break out your clubs? You’re not alone. Here are some popular public golf courses to check out across the state.
The Foodie Focus: Spotlighting Michigan Restaurants Focused on Clean Eating
The Food Focus series is coming to AHM this spring. Each month we'll chat with different restaurant owners in Michigan who prioritizes clean ingredients, sustainability or just general healthy eating. Let's dig in!
Why Yooperlites Are a Pure Michigan Rock-Hunting Quest
Ready for a late-night adventure that will land you some rocks that glow in the dark? Then you’re ready to find Yooperlites.
Sensory Spaces for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
For people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, spaces that are too-bright or too-loud can be painfully overwhelming. Sensory-friendly activities can help.
Michigan Spring Bucket List: Cherry Blossoms in Traverse City
Michigan has an abundance of beautiful spots spread out across both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. In the springtime, try heading to a corner of Northern Michigan known as the Cherry Capital of the World.
Opening Day in Detroit: Saginaw Super Fan Sammie Telder Never Misses a Game
Saginaw native Sammie Telder doesn’t miss many pitches, swings or catches during the 162-game regular season. She can't wait to see how her Tigers perform this year.
6 Michigan Cities for a Fun, Low-Cost Spring Break Trip
An exciting spring break can be found right here in Michigan. Here are six destinations to get you started.
2024 Spring Festivals in Michigan
This spring, make sure you make time to get outside and play. And there’s nothing that says springtime fun like the bevy of Michigan festivals you can put on your calendar.
Planning for a Healthy, Sustainable Spring
Make spring your healthiest, most sustainable season yet with these easy tips for your home and outdoor areas.
5 Signs of Spring in Michigan
Look out for these 5 telltale signs that spring has hit Michigan. Whether you've been waiting for the blooms, for baseball starting up, or to get some ice cream from a Michigan ice cream stand, make sure to enjoy spring while it is here.
5 Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is set aside for us as a society to recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women, including their social, political, economic, and cultural impacts. This day developed from a long tradition over the past two centuries of protests and celebrations by women laborers and women’s rights champions.
Explore Black History Across Michigan
Visit some of these unique Michigan gems that tell the story of African-American contributions to our state’s cultural history.
PPO vs. HMO: What is the Difference?
The right healthcare plan varies from family to family and person to person. As with any big decision, knowledge is power. Whether you receive insurance through your employer or you’re self-insured, you typically have a choice between the two most common types of managed care plans – health maintenance organizations (HMOs) or preferred provider organizations (PPOs).
Michigan Bucket List: Ice Tree in Gaylord
Michigan is home to many winter marvels, including the “world’s largest ice tree” in Gaylord.
50 Black-Owned Restaurants to Try in the Detroit Area
This list of 50 Black-owned restaurants in the Metro Detroit area need to be on your radar, if they're not already. How many have you eaten at?
Michigan-Themed Valentine’s Day Ideas
How do you know you’re from The Mitten State? Maybe it’s because you know just how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with fun, friends - and a little bit of love.
7 Detroit Black History Sites to Visit
These historic Detroit sites and landmarks document both the triumphs and hardships of Black Americans who have ties to the city.
Get to Know Michigan’s Woody the Woodchuck Ahead of Groundhog Day
Woody the Woodchuck isn't just a Michigan legend; she's known nationwide. With a personality as big as her appetite, it's easy to see why Woody is such a treasure.
Michigan Bucket List: Ice Fishing
During the winter, Michigan is known for its world-class ice fishing. Here are 10 lakes that are anglers’ favorites.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Cadillac
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.
This German Football Fan was a Foreign Exchange Student in Michigan 26 Years Ago. He Returned to Watch Detroit Win a Playoff Game.
Detroit's feel-good playoff run has been a blast for the city to follow. The team even has support overseas, as evidenced by this former Michigan foreign exchange student from Germany's unlikely tale.
Michigan Bucket List: Biggest Sledding Hills in Michigan
If you love sledding, you’re in the right place. Here’s our list of favorite sledding hills across Michigan.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Tawas City
There’s a lot to discover in this northeastern Michigan community during the winter.
Michigan Bucket List: Great Lakes Ice Formations
The Great Lakes delivers some spectacular ice formations during the winters. Here’s what to look for.
10 Places to Walk Indoors During Michigan Winters
Michigan gets pretty cold during winter months, but it doesn’t mean you can stop exercising. Check out these 10 places to get your 10,000 steps in indoors.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Fenton
There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the winter.
Dr. King’s Detroit Legacy
The city of Detroit has a deep connection to the civil rights movement – especially to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Here are some of the major ways King influenced the civil rights movement in the Motor City, according to the Detroit Historical Society.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Munising
There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the winter.
A 5-Step Action Plan for Caregivers of Aging Parents or Loved Ones
Caring for a loved one can be tough. This simple action plan for caregivers can help you get your bearings and make your caregiving role a little easier.
How to Treat Your Weekend Like a Vacation
When your weeks feel cyclical and repetitive, try treating a weekend like a vacation. Here's how to unplug, unwind, and get into that vacation mindset.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Rochester
There’s a lot to discover in this Southeastern Michigan community during the winter.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Spring Lake
There’s a lot to discover in this West Michigan community during the winter.
Sustainable Holiday Gift Guide
Ready to save money and go easy on the Earth this season? Buy your friends and family sustainable gifts.
10 Family-Friendly Winter Break Activities in Metro Detroit
Looking for things to do during the kids' winter break? These indoor and outdoor ideas should ignite the holiday spirit in the whole family.
5 Things to Do This Winter in St. Ignace
There’s a lot to discover in this community in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula during the winter.
Winter Festivals in Michigan in 2024
Looking for festive winter events to attend? The Michigan winter festivals on this list take place between January and March of 2024.
Winter Break Activities in West Michigan
Step into a warm-water splash zone, join a museum mini camp, or skate away through a lighted forest trail. Winter Break activities are all about adventure.
5 Things to Do in This Winter in Traverse City
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.
5 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah in Detroit in 2023
Celebrate the Jewish “festival of lights” by attending one or more of these five Hanukkah celebrations happening in or around Detroit.
Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Light Displays
One of the best Michigan winter activities is visiting one of the many extravagant Christmas light displays. Here are some of our favorites.
What are Blue Zones?
Blue Zones are all the buzz when it comes to healthy living - and living longer.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Bay City
There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the fall.
Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Markets
Christmas Markets add a sparkle to the holiday experience. Here is a list of some of the markets taking place across Michigan this season.