Downtown Bay City

Sip, savor, and support The Arc of the Bay during an April 24 fundraiser

Empty Canvas Concert at the State Theatre offers ticket-buyers the chance to enjoy art, music, wine, and chocolate while helping out a local nonprofit.

United Way’s Day of Caring rallies Bay County volunteers for a community-wide cleanup

United Way of Bay County’s Day of Caring brings volunteers together on Fri., April 25 to make a difference. More than 500 volunteers will step up to tackle community beautification and clean-up projects during the annual event.  

The Bay City Noon Optimist Club is preparing its annual recognition of the area’s young Unsung Heroes at its Youth Appreciation luncheon on March 17.
Optimist Club travelogue series ends in March

The final film in the Bay City Noon Optimist Club Travel & Adventure Cinema Series documents the life and work of Sebastião Salgado. It is narrated by his son, Juliano Salgado, and Wim Wenders.

During Thelen Free Art Fridays this summer, visitors can use materials inside Studio 23's art lab to create their own artwork.
Everyone is invited to participate in an inclusive art exhibit coming to Studio 23 in April

Community workshops, sensory-friendly hours, and an invitation for field trips all are part of the Access•ABILITY exhibit coming to Studio 23/The Arts Center this spring.

Marketing & Management students at the Bay-Arenac ISD Career Center created a display to promote the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
Voices of Youth: The 2025 Bay City’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration marks 70 years of tradition

In 1955, four men staged a St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Bay City, attracting about 10,000 people. Today, that parade has grown into a multi-day event that brings together people from all over Michigan  

Bay City turns green with shamrocks and shenanigans this weekend

The Bay City St. Patrick’s Day weekend festivities include a parade, races, music, and, of course, green beer.  

Polka music benefits a softball team and Good Samaritan Rescue Mission

The Steve Drzewicki Band is the featured performer during a benefit concert on Sat., March 8.  

In 2013, the Oscar P. & Louise H. Osthelder Advisory Fund granted New Dimensions $3,000 to build a new shed to store lawn care equipment. (Photo courtesy of New Dimensions)
New Dimensions launches an annual talent show. Auditions open soon.

Auditions for the Sat., April 26 talent show take place later this month. The deadline to apply to audition is Mon., March 10.  

Photo courtesy of the Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum
Bay City’s oldest firehouse is coming back to life as a museum

The Antique Toy & Firehouse Museum is renovating the former Fire Station No. 3, located at the edge of Downtown Bay City. In the end, the building will house fire trucks and toys, classrooms for lessons in fire safety, and even offer space to two other local history organizations.  

Calli Ruffertshofer, a long-time customer in Downtown Bay City, has opened her own boutique business, Fran & Dot.
A love of fashion and style leads teacher to a new business venture in Downtown Bay City

Calli Ruffertshofer, a long-time customer in Downtown Bay City, has opened her own boutique business, Fran & Dot. She says the store will emphasize style, bling, and personal service.  

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