What to do in the Greater Flint Area Aug. 17-Aug. 19

Fri. Aug. 17

Altered Art: Artist Trading Cards & Pocket Scrapbooking with Flint Handmade

Learn how to alter old books to make artist trading cards or do pocket scrapbooking during this social crafting event from 1-3pm. You can also create collages, art journals, greeting cards, bookmarks and more. All materials and instructions provided.

Totem Books, 620 W. Court St., Flint

Flint Institute of Arts presents: Happy Hour Patio Nights – Yappy Hour

Tito’s YAPPY Hour! Bring your canine friend for toys and treats while you enjoy a cocktail!. One dollar off every Tito’s sold will be donated to a local animal charity. Drink specials 5-9pm.

Flint Institute of Arts 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint

Fri. Aug 17-Sat. Aug. 18

14th Annual Back to the Bricks

This five-day extravaganza continues this weekend with rolling cruises, a Motown concert and a car show. Friday’s concert will take place at Riverfront Park featuring The Motortown All-Stars starting at 8pm. On Saturday, stroll the bricks in Downtown Flint, from 8-5pm, and admire vehicles of every age and description.

Flint’s Downtown Entertainment District, Saginaw Street, Flint

Fri. Aug. 17-Sun. Aug. 19

University of Michigan-Flint Theatre presents: Little Shop of Horrors

Presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International, don’t miss this incredible rendition of the 1980’s cult classic. Friday performance7:30-9:30pm, Saturday and Sunday performances 2-4pm.

The University of Michigan-Flint Theatre, 303 E. Kearsley St., Flint

Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad presents: Day Out With Thomas

Day Out With Thomas is back for their annual visit to Crossroads Village. This favorite engine is a dream-come-true for all young visitors. Enjoy a train ride with Thomas, meet special guests throughout the weekend and much more. Thomas tickets include admission into Crossroads Village, Thomas and village activities. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, 6140 Bray Rd., Flint

Sat. Aug. 18

For-Mar Nature Preserve: Butterfly Walk

Learn about For-Mar’s partnership with the Michigan Butterfly Network and how this nature preserve is an important place for monarchs in their migration. 1-3pm. Recommended for families of all ages.

For-Mar Nature Preserve, 2142 N. Genesee Rd., Burton

Flint Public Library: Vaudeville Bill’s – Read, Rock N Roll Variety Show

Kids will have a rockin’ blast with one of the craziest characters in Michigan while learning that “Libraries Rock” because “Reading Rocks.” Recommended for families of all ages. 2-3pm.

Flint Public Library/Main Branch, 1026 E. Kearsley St., Flint

Sled Hockey at Crystal Field house Ice Arena

Try this amazing sport of Sled Hockey. USA Hockey-certified coaches and volunteers will be on the ice to ensure a great time from 1:30-2:30pm. All equipment provided. Please arrive 30 minutes early for equipment fitting and a brief introduction.

Crystal Fieldhouse Ice Arena, 5371 Daly Farms Dr., Burton

Auto City Speedway presents: Drift Event

Experience a fast-paced, fun-filled family night at the tracks featuring the chills and thrills of the Drift Event from 4:30-10pm.

Auto City Speedway, 10205 N. Saginaw St., Clio

Sat. Aug. 18-Sun. Aug. 19

Michigan Renaissance Festival – Royal Pet & Ale Fest

Take a time-travel adventure into the 16th century where patrons enjoy the sights and sounds of a 17-acre village, complete with building reproductions of Renaissance shops, taverns and a beautiful castle. Continuous entertainment takes place on the streets and on a variety of themed-stages featuring comedy, theater shows and music. Enjoy adult and children games, people-powered rides and full-contact armored jousting tournaments. Also, enjoy fabulous food and browse the Crafter Marketplace where over 300 artisans display their gallery-quality works for sale. Come out and celebrate Royal Pet & Ale Fest this weekend featuring wiener dog races, a pet costume contest, race for the rattle and more.

Michigan Renaissance Festival, 12600 Dixie Highway, Holly

Sun. Aug. 19

Coloring Party with Flint Handmade

Sip on an Iced Latte or Floating Cream cold brew and enjoy treats from Crust – a baking company while coloring with Flint Handmade. All coloring supplies are provided, including a brand-new coffee and pastry coloring page. 10am-4pm. Recommended for families of all ages.

Fireside Coffee Co., 3239 Elms Rd., Swartz Creek

For-Mar Nature Preserve: Nature Mindfulness & Meditation

Relax with nature with Todd Robinson, a mindfulness and meditation master, while learning useful, everyday stress relieving techniques. Bring something comfortable to sit on and dress for the weather. Recommended for families of all ages. 1-2pm. Admission is free.