Good morning, Battle Creek.

Crews from Michigan DNR removed a five-inch plastic lid from a young bear's neck in Montmorency County after trail cameras showed the animal had its head stuck for around two years.

A local resident alerted officials who trapped, anesthetized, and treated the 110-pound bear on June 2 before releasing it back into the wild — officials say such container openings can pose serious hazards to wildlife.

The local high school boys track season ended and readers voted for the Battle Creek Enquirer's 'Readers Choice' Athlete of the Year—poll closed Wednesday at noon and featured candidates from schools like Marshall and Harper Creek.

The West Michigan Whitecaps are drawing large crowds this season by offering family-friendly baseball fun at their Comstock Park ballpark.

The team promotes value deals—like free kids meals on Sundays and affordable ticket options—to boost local attendance and highlight promising talent.

Oaklawn Pink Out the Park Night

6:35 – 9:00 p.m. — MCCU Field — $20 ticket package — Enjoy a night of baseball while supporting women's health initiatives with a special promotional package.

Cheetah Chase 5K

6:30-10 a.m. — Binder Park Zoo — Registration required — Experience a thrilling 5K race through scenic zoo paths alongside exotic animals.

Beach Day Painting Party

6:00-8:30 p.m. — New Holland Brewing - Battle Creek Brewpub — $38.00 — Enjoy a fun paint and sip session under the guidance of a local artist.

Michigan State Armwrestling Championships 2025

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — Weigh-ins on Friday and Saturday — Watch the best arm wrestlers in Michigan face off in an exciting competition.

City Kids Day

12-5 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — Free admission — A fun-filled event for families featuring games, music, and activities for kids in Battle Creek.

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival

8 p.m. – 1:29 a.m. — Battle Creek Executive Airport — Tickets available now — Experience aerial thrills with spectacular pyrotechnics and stunning night shows at North America’s largest air and balloon festival.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music in Downtown Battle Creek's vibrant social scene.

Vibe@5 – Toppermost Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music in Downtown Battle Creek's lively social district.

Taco and Tequila Festival

3-8 p.m. — Festival Market Square — Cost varies — Michigan's Original Taco & Tequila Festival returns with larger festivities and flavors.