We try to showcase the best of the entire area, from A2 to Chelsea to Saline to Detroit. But you’ve got to admit that Ypsilanti has a flavor all its own. It’s got a charming mix of students and artsy types with a rugged blue-collar feel that gets the blood moving. Take a look at some upcoming events that give a sense of this community’s heart and soul. Whether you’re looking for some cutting edge art, or just something to take the kids to, you don’t have to get too far away from home.
All Along the Water tower
There’s little doubt that the Pure Michigan campaign has been one of the most aggressive, successful and creative attempts in any state to sustain and increase tourism. A four-minute video — that highlights 50 Michigan cities — premiered at the home opener of the Detroit Lions. Included was Ypsilanti — at the 3:20 mark to be exact — with 100 people holding a “Visit Ypsi” sign on Cross Street in front of the water tower.
The Ypsi 24 Hour Film Shootout
The Mix Marketplace/Sunday 7
Sure, Ann Arbor’s got a rich tradition of film, with the annual Festival bringing in cineastes from throughout the globe. But Ypsilanti is more than deserving of a place at that table. Witness the depth of local filmmaking talent at the Ypsi 24 Hour Film 
Shootout, which asks ambitious artists to come up with an original film in the course of a day. The filmmakers show up on Friday, October 5 and twenty-four hours later, they turn in a finished film. There’s literally no limit to what can be done within those boundaries, so don’t miss the chance to see the best entries at the Sunday night screening. 7pm Sunday screening at Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. www.ypsi24hourfilm.com
Ypsifest 8 at Woodruff's Bar
Thursday 11- Saturday 13
Seeing more than 15 of Washtenaw County’s finest indie bands for under $1 apiece is a deal you really can’t beat. And with some of the scene’s fastest rising rockers and veteran songsters this eighth annual, three-day festival (about seven bands per day) continues to show that Michigan is a never-ending hotbed for innovative musicians. Bands like Ferdy Mayne, Carjack, Lawless Carver, Congress and Child Bite and many more make this one a no-brainer. 6pm all days. $7 all days. 36 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. www.woodruffsbar.com.
Downtown Halloween Fall Festival
South Washington Street/Friday 26
Get a little scared — but not TOO scared. It’s only Halloween. And downtown Ypsi is ready to celebrate, with the annual Downtown Halloween Fall Festival. The Downtown Association has sponsored the evening of wholesome fun for 15 years now, and luckily plenty of new little kids have come along in that time to enjoy it. There’ll be trick-or-treating, of course, with downtown businesses happily indulging your little ones’ sweet tooth. But Andy theAmbulance will also be on hand to teach kids about safety, and the library’s Book!Mobile will do its part to spur their love of reading. So, if someone you know is between the ages of two and 12 get to work crafting those costumes. 5pm. South Washington Street between Michigan Ave. and Ferris St.
