Your Ultimate Bay County Weekend Guide: Pride Bingo, Planetarium Adventures & More

Bay County is buzzing with activity this Saturday and Sunday, and whether you’re looking for a night out with friends, a family‑friendly outing, or a chance to support a good cause, there’s something on the calendar that will catch your eye.

First up, the annual Pride Bingo fundraiser rolls into town on Saturday evening at the Bay City Community Center. Organized by the local LGBTQ+ advocacy group, the event promises a lively mix of classic bingo, rainbow‑themed prizes, and a few surprise performances that will keep the energy high. Tickets are modest – $10 for adults and $5 for seniors or students – and all proceeds go directly to supporting community outreach programs, counseling services, and upcoming Pride celebrations. If you’ve never played bingo before, don’t worry; the volunteers are friendly and will walk you through the basics between rounds. And yes, there will be plenty of snacks, so you won’t go home hungry.

Meanwhile, for anyone who’s ever stared up at the night sky and wondered what’s out there, the Bay County Planetarium is hosting a special series of shows on Saturday and Sunday evenings. The schedule includes “Journey Through the Milky Way,” a 45‑minute visual tour that blends stunning CGI with real‑time astronomy commentary, and “Cosmic Kids,” a shorter, interactive program perfect for younger children and their parents. Seats fill up quickly, so it’s a smart move to reserve your spot online now. Bring a light jacket – the theater can get a bit chilly when the dome lights dim.

If you’re still looking for more ways to fill your weekend, the downtown riverwalk will be alive with a weekly farmer’s market on Saturday morning, featuring fresh produce from local farms, handmade crafts, and a coffee cart that’s famous for its cinnamon‑spiced lattes. Later in the afternoon, the Bay City Arts Council hosts a pop‑up art walk, showcasing work from emerging regional artists, complete with live music from the “River Rhythm” jazz trio. And don’t forget the free outdoor movie night at the waterfront park on Sunday – this week’s feature is a classic family film, projected onto a giant screen with blankets and popcorn available for purchase.

All told, Bay County’s weekend lineup offers a blend of community spirit, educational fun, and simple pleasures. So grab a friend, bring the kids, or enjoy some solo time – there’s a little something for everyone, and the best part is you get to experience it all without having to travel far from home.