Things to Do in Battle Creek

Unpainted figurines and pottery pieces stand in single-file lines on the pine shelves of Haze Ceramics and More, patiently waiting for guests to brandish paint-dipped brushes and embellish their blank surfaces with artistry. The studio's instructors lead classes and special events throughout the week, demonstrating techniques for mixing colors and achieving a variety of smooth or grainy textures. Aside from giving children and adults the chance to select a ceramic coffee mug, coin tray, or spiked mace from the studio’s expansive collection, classes include all glazes, paints, and firing fees. Special events, such as ladies' night, fuel outbursts of creativity with wine and snacks, and private parties clear out the room so that birthday boys and girls can gleefully bash away at terra-cotta piñatas.

Featured on the WZZM13 news, Wine-a-Palooza combines international wines with music from local bands during a three-day, outdoor festival. On Friday, vintner Mike Laing from Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan will be onsite to discuss the winemaking process as audience members taste sparkling wines from his vineyards. Later that evening, guests can attend the After Grape Party with music by DJ Stoz and a cash bar. On Saturday, guests can sample 48 wines from around the world, as well as purchase full bottles from an exclusive Wine-a-Palooza label to bolster home collections or christen backyard ocean liners.

Five local musical acts—The Electrixx Band, Kelly Carey, Nick Ayoub, Scott Patrick Bell, and Jane DeYoung—will be on hand to supply the soundtrack to Saturday’s tastings. The concert runs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The wine festivities conclude with a Sunday brunch buffet, which benefits the Center for Women in Transition.

The Bounce Castle’s sprawling floor hosts a fleet of inflatable obstacle courses, ball pits, and a slide that plunges from the ceiling to the ground. As little ones jump, climb, and play, their parents can supervise from a comfy lounge with free wireless internet, magazines, and a TV that automatically shuts down when a cartoon program comes on. The Bounce Castle’s kid-friendly inflatables accommodate open play seven days a week, as well as birthday parties.