Don’t forget to get your tickets for “Peter Pan – A Fantasy in Five Acts.”  presented on July 26-28 by the Flint Youth Theatre . This action-packed performance is filled with adventure, intrigue and jealousy.  Come enjoy this bold new adaptation of the complex original story. Performances are Thursday at 2:30 p.m., Friday at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This show is recommended for ages 8 and over.  (810) 237-1530

 

*July 23-27: Visit downtown Flint for lunch and enjoy some “Tunes at Noon.”  Monday through Friday, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., have lunch at the University of Michigan Pavilion while listening to free live entertainment featuring a diverse blend of music by Michigan musicians. Purchase or bring a sack lunch. (810) 238-ARTS

*July 23-28:Fenton Winery & Brewery offers handcrafted wines and Micro-brewed beers, delicious food and beer and wine samplings. Friday night, from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., listen to a variety of Southern pop and Jazz music with Sarasota area based Dan Crawford. Dan has two solo albums to his credit and has won four honorable mention awards for his songwriting. Saturday night, starting at 8:00 p.m., the band Never Knows Best takes the stage. The Brewery is also celebrating their “Summer Beer Fest” on Friday and Saturday. Open Monday-Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to midnight and on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to midnight. (810) 373-4194 or visit www.fentonwinery.com

*July 23-29: US-23 Drive-In Theater, located on Fenton Road, is open for the summer season featuring double first run films. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and movies begin at dusk. (810) 238-0751 or visit www.us23driveintheater.com

 *July 23-29: IMAX Trillium Theatre in Grand Blanc (NCG Cinemas): For IMAX show times and information on other movies call (810) 695-5000 or visit www.ncgmovies.com/grand-blanc.  “The Amazing Spider-Man An IMAX Experience” – (Rated PG-13) Peter, an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, is left to be raised by his Aunt and Uncle. Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parent’s disappearance leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors, his father’s former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

*July 23-29: FLINT CULTURAL CENTER CAMPUS:

SLOAN MUSEUM:  (810) 237-3450 (Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Enjoy regional history, historic automobiles and hands-on science activities in the Science Discovery Center where children and adults can explore principles of chemistry and physics through exhibits and staff presentations. Stroll through Sloan’s Automotive Gallery and view major automotive exhibits featuring vehicles from the Sloan fleet of over 80 Flint-built automobiles.

•  “Muscle Cars: The Hustle Behind the Muscle” – From a 1964 Pontiac GTO to a 1987 Buick GNX, this exhibit is sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. Since they cruised on the scene in the mid-sixties, these high-powered machines changed the face of the automotive industry forever. The engineering technologies and marketing techniques developed during their heyday still influence manufacturing today. Learn the stories that shaped each one of these American icons. Follow the inception and evolution of this modern phenomenon.

•  “100 Years of Girl Scouting” – What was started by Juliette Gordon Low and 18 young girls on March 12, 1912 has grown into an American institution with over 3.2 million active members. In Girl Scouts, girls discover the fun, friendship and power of girls together and how to develop their full individual potential. Take a colorful journey through 100 years of Girl Scouting in America.

•  “Flint and The American Dream” – Relive Flint’s dramatic history, as the birthplace of General Motors comes to life with over 600 artifacts and photographs, including rare antique automobiles, colorful neon signs, period clothing, household furnishings, commercial goods and much more. Encounter the ups and downs of General Motors, the birth of the UAW and what life was like in Flint during the 50s, 60s and 70s.

BUICK GALLERY & RESEARCH CENTER: (810) 237-3440. (Admission included with Sloan with same operating hours) The Gallery displays over 25 classical and concept locally built automobiles featuring five one-of-a-kind concept Cars – a 1954 Wildcat II, Centurion, Arrow, Phantom and an XP. Also on display is the Buick Bug, which has undergone an extensive renovation.

• “1956 Centurion” – Buick enthusiasts will recognize the “sweep-spear” chrome on the Centurion as being similar to the 1957 Buicks. They might even recognize the rear fins as being like those on the 1959 models. The rest of the car, however, is one-of-a-kind. The Centurion uses a freestanding speedometer with a fixed indicator and rotation dial. A television camera, mounted just above the tail cone, projects images from the rear mirror. Centurion’s “wings”, tail cone and canopy top reflect the influence that aircraft design had on many of GM’s designers.

LONGWAY PLANETARIUM: (Laser Hotline (810) 237-3409 or (810) 237-3400) (Check show time dates and hours below)

• “Club 90’s Laser Show” – (Show times are Monday-Friday at 2:00 p.m.) Enjoy great ‘90s music set to an entertaining laser light show. Club ‘90s features brilliant laser animation. Check out the awesome sounds of Brittany Spears, NSYNC, Backstreet Boys and more. Get “The Party Started” as lasers, digital effects and vibrant colors come alive on the dome above. This laser show is recommended for ages 5 and older.

•  ”Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast” – (Show times are Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.) All Rocket Rookies report to class! Lift off with Rusty Rocket and learn rocket basics, relive great moments in space exploration and discover how far it really is to the moon and planets. This sky show is recommended for ages 5 and older.

•  “Off the Beaten Orbit” – (Show times are Saturday at 2:00 p.m.) Throughout our Solar System are many remarkable, fascinating worlds. Scattered among and beyond the planets are asteroids, comets, moons and dwarf planets. Explore the parts of the Solar System usually ignored and learn about these unusual objects in this original production. This sky show is recommended for ages 10 and up.  

THE FLINT INSTITUTE OF ARTS (FIA): (810) 234-1695 (Monday-Wednesday and Friday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Visit the FIA and browse through their outstanding collections of American, European, Native American, African and Asian art including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and decorative arts featuring a complete set of 17^th century French tapestries.

• “Designs from the Past: Ancient Chinese Ceramic Vessels” – Enjoy this FIA collection of more than 100 Chinese ceramic vessels from the Neolithic period (6,500 – 1,700 BCE), many which were predecessors to the shapes of early Chinese bronze vessels. These ceramic vessels were frequently decorated with elaborate geometric and stylized patterns, often specific to a certain region of Neolithic China featuring a wide variety of spirals, lozenges, checkered patterns, net patterns, curved bands and saw-toothed bands that emphasized the form of the vessel.

• “The Epic and the Intimate: French Drawings from the Snite Museum” – The works on paper in this exhibition illustrate the history of French drawings from before the foundation on the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in 1648, through the French Revolution of 1789. This exhibit features over 30 works on loan and offers an opportunity to explore the range of media employed including chalk, ink, crayon and more.

• “The Golden Age of Painting, 1600-1800, from the Speed Art Museum, Louisville, KY”  Tremendous changes swept Europe during the two-hundred years in which the art in this exhibition was produced. Advances in the sciences transformed long held views on the way the universe worked and the place of humans within that universe. Technical aspects of art making were honed and codified, as art academies grew in number and power. These exciting times resulted in a golden age of European painting.

•  ”Abstract Expressionism: Then and Now” – This exhibition surveys the American art movement from its origins in the postwar period to the latest developments in the late twentieth century. Third-wave Abstract Expressionist painters, including Roy Lerner, Stanley Boxer and Joseph Drapell, built on the earlier movement, using paints that they invented through working with Golden Paints, developing new techniques and forms of expression.

• “Viola E. Bray: A Legacy of Giving” – The Year of the Bray (2011-2012) honors the 50^th anniversary of the Mrs. Viola E. Bray’s contribution of Renaissance and Baroque works, along with a unique gallery, to the people of Flint. This exhibit highlights the works that entered the museum’s collections through the generosity of the Bray Charitable Trust.

*July 23-29: Shop Birch Run Premium Outlets and find incredible values on all the new season fashions with up to a 65% discount on every day savings. Shop at over 145 well-known brand name stores such as the Pottery Barn Outlet, COACH Factory and the Nike Factory Store. Visit www.premiumoutlets.com for Outlet hours.

*July 23-29: The Machine Shop Concert Lounge, located on Dort Highway, presents weekly live Rock-N-Roll events. On Friday, enjoy “Country Night” at the Machine Shop with Colt Ford and special guests Johnny T. and Bullhonky Deluxe. Then on Saturday, a “Kids Need Art Fundraiser” will be held with artists, vendors, side shows, tarot readings and live bands. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. for all shows.  (810) 715-2650 or visit www.themachineshop.info

 *July 23-29: Wild Spurs, part of the Jewel Entertainment Complex in Grand Blanc, features Friday entertainment with a DJ, dancing and Karaoke starting at 10:00 p.m. and live country music on Saturday. Also, come out and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of Paddy McGee’s the ultimate Irish Pub. Great food and company!  (810) 694-5960

 *July 24: The Flint Public Library, in downtown Flint, is hosting a “Lunch on the Lawn” starting at 12:30 p.m. Ms. Brenda will share dreamy stories on the Library Lawn. Feel free to bring a sack lunch and blanket. Rain Location will take place in the Children’s Room at the Library.  (810) 232-7111 or visit www.fpl.info

 *July 24: Flint’s “Music in the Parks”, an outdoor summer concert series, is hosting a free concert at Mott Park featuring a Gospel Music Celebration with special guest artists Nanette Benman, The Flint Jubilee Chorale and the Flint Community Gospel Singers. Performances begin at 7:00 p.m. Rain location will be at the St. John Vianney Church. (810) 237-3112 or visit www.MusicintheParks.US

*July 24, 26 & 28: The Flint Farmers’ Market, in downtown Flint, is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Shop for fresh fruit, produce, cheese, meats, Michigan wines, gourmet coffees, desserts, baked goods, flowers, vintage wares, unique crafts, fine arts and more.  (810) 232-1399  

While visiting the Market, be sure to stop by “d’vine Wines” for unique gadgets and a selection of Michigan wines and brews.  (810) 235-WINE.  Also, visit the Market’s 2^nd floor for restaurant service, boutique shopping and a chance to stroll through the “Art at the Market Gallery.” The Gallery offers great gifts of art or just the opportunity to view and enjoy art from over 35 local artists. (810) 238-AATM

 *July 24-29: The Flint Children’s Museum celebrates “OH YUCK!” On Saturday, starting at 10:00 a.m., have fun during the Museum’s “Magical Mid-Summer” event with animal magic, Gordon the Magician, water games, face painting, trolley rides, snacks and more. On Sunday, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., try out the life of a farmer during “Magical Miniature Farm” and make your own farm. The Museum is open Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Museum is recommended for ages 2 to 10.   (810) 767-5437 or www.flintchildrensmuseum.org

 *July 25: The Flint Public Library and Genesee County Parks presents a “Special Story Hour” to Genesee County Parks’ Bluebell Beach. Genesee County Parks Ranger, Jowanne Carrigan, will read the beloved children’s book “Rainbow Fish” - about the value of being an individual and for the distinctive shiny foil scales of the main character, Rainbow Fish. Lunch will be provided. This event begins at 2:00 p.m.  (810) 249-3816 or (800) 648-PARK

*July 25-29: Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad welcomes all to the 19^th Century. There is so much to do in the Village and so many people to talk with. The cider maker is pressing apples while the miller grinds grains into flour at the water-powered grist mill. The blacksmith is hammering hot iron into horseshoes and fireplace tools. Each villager has an important role – from barber to broom maker, doctor to seamstress, homemaker to cleric. Be sure to hop on board the Huckleberry Railroad and enjoy a 40-minute ride through woods, meadows and along the shore of beautiful Mott Lake. Get closer to Mott Lake during a scenic 45-minute cruise on the Genesee Belle, a replica of the paddlewheel riverboats that were popular during Mark Twain’s time. On Saturday and Sunday, visit the Village in your favorite prairie dress or overalls during “Prairie Days” and experience life as the Ingalls family knew it. Visit a log cabin, attend class in a one-room schoolhouse and enter your dress-up picture for “Best Look-A-Like of Nellie or Laura Contest.” The Village is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (800) 648-PARK or visit www.geneseecountyparks.org

 *July 25 & 29: The Grand Blanc City Farmers’ Market, located at the Grand Blvd cul-de-sac by Physicians Park, is open for business on Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, organic foods, local specialties, crafts and more. (810) 694-1118 or visit www.cityofgrandblanc.com

 *July 26: “Butterfly Dreams & Musical Things: Summer Reading Club Finale featuring The Storytellers” will take place at Flint’s Public Library starting at 4:00 p.m. The Storytellers will feature humorous and mildly scary tales and music from around the world. A worldly collection of musical instruments will be featured with hands-on participation for everyone. (810) 232-7111 or visit www.fpl.info  Then, continue the celebration as the Flint Cultural Center and Applewood Estates presents a “Firefly Walk.” From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., enjoy live music, family activities, refreshments, a scavenger hunt and more throughout Applewood and on the lawn of the Cultural Center. (810) 233-3835 or (810) 237-7330

*July 26: Visit Cranberries Café, in Goodrich, for some great food, drinks, company and live music. This Thursday enjoy the sounds of Triple Threat. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and for dinner, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday and Friday and Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (810) 636-3409

*July 26: Flint’s monthly “Jazz Walk” is happening in downtown Flint from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Stroll Flint’s numerous downtown clubs while listening to highly talented local Jazz musicians. (810) 238-ARTS

 *July 26-28: The Whaley Historic House Museum is open for public guided tours. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Whaley House is filled with hundreds of family and period artifacts that tell the story of the Whaley’s and Victorian Era Flint. Open for tours on Thursday and Friday at 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. and on Saturday at 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Please call ahead for all other tour times. Tours last about an hour and include the 1^st and 2^nd floors of the home. (810) 471-4714 or visit www.whaleyhouse.com

 *July 26-28: Buckham Gallery is open showcasing “Primal Notations” an exhibition featuring the work of local artists Ian Hagarty and Kenneth Hakala. The Gallery is open Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.  (810) 239-6233

 *July 26-28: The Flint Institute of Music presents “Peter Pan – A Fantasy in Five Acts.” Enjoy this action-packed performance filled with adventure, intrigue and jealousy as the Flint Youth Theatre introduces this complex original story in a bold new adaptation. Performances are Thursday at 2:30 p.m., Friday at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This show is recommended for ages 8 and over. (810) 237-1530 or visit www.flintyouththeatre.org

*July 27 & 28: The Historic Holly Hotel Comedy Club presents professional stand-up comedy featuring Paul Strickland with special guest Stu McCallister. Shows start at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.  (248) 634-5208 or visit www.hollyhotel.com

*July 27 & 28: Celebrate the spirit of folk music at the 13^th annual “Flint Folk Music Festival” happening this weekend at the Kearsley Park Pavilion. Regionally and nationally known musicians will showcase their skills to audiences of all ages featuring Joel Mabus, Mustard’s Retreat, Jo Serrapere & The Willie Drums, Neptune’s Car and more. Music performances will run Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. www.flintfolkmusic.org

*July 28: The Good Beans Café, located at 328 N. Grand Traverse in Flint, presents its 3^rd annual “Christmas in July, 2012” from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Spend an afternoon listening to great live music and browsing a variety of vendors. This is a fundraiser festival to benefit Toys for Tots, the official charity of the U.S. Marine Corps.  (810) 237-3224