As the summer of ‘24 comes to a close, let’s reflect on the moments that made it count. Our first highlights this summer are the annual Top of the Park festival, nested near the U of M Diag and the Hill Theater. 

“I loved going to the top of the park this year,” said junior Ava Bryan “A couple of my friends played shows there as musical guests which was super fun to see.” 

Featuring local musical artists at this year’s bicentennial, proved a memorable event with many. With musical guests every night the park setting provides a space for everyone to gather and cherish the beginning days of summer, with some a bite to eat and some good music. The park provides entertainment on all levels, with experiences for younger members of the community and even films once the sun sets. 

“I also stayed for two of the movie nights, which were on the field after the daytime events. One was a little shop of horrors and the second was eternal sunshine of a spotless mind,” said Bryan.

As we approached the peak of Michigan summer, the Ann Arbor art fair took over the town. The art fair draws artists from all over Michigan, with the promised audience, people flock to the talent, eager to purchase anything from the extravagant centerpiece or a product from the many featured small businesses,  

“I think some special moments [was] the Art Fair also showcasing small artists and they were able to play their music on a stage,” junior Emily Ngo said. 

Gathering artists of all types, the art fair also cultivates community between the artist and locals, 

Ngo said, “This year I was a volunteer so I had to watch many booths while the owners were on break. Every single person was so nice and had enough time to show me their process in how they made their art.” 

But the gathering of artists also forged another type of community, the eager spectators brought out the locals, 

“I think my favorite moments were to not only see friends I know there but also see so many artists come out for this event,” junior Thylica Babumba said.

Part of the Magic that this yearly event provides is the acceptance of the new and old, an innovation from year to year. 

So as our school year draws to a close, we all have a second to reminisce on on the short and sweet moments in the Ann Arbor Community, until next year.