Just when you start to wonder if this might be the year that winter sticks around forever, the gray skies start to crack and the sun begins to warm us up. Those determined crocuses and daffodils begin to unfurl, and we start looking through seed catalogs, filled with giddy relief that spring is happening again! Alongside those crocuses, another sure sign of spring in Ypsilanti is the beginning of First Fridays Ypsilanti. First Fridays is a monthly event (held on the… first Friday of every month!) that strives to connect Ypsi businesses and community members with arts-related events and celebrations. This year marks the program’s 10th anniversary! The overall event runs from 5-10pm, though individual venues set their own hours. Tonight’s theme is Ypsi in Bloom, and the attractions include swing dancing lessons, fairy door supplies, ice cream, art shows, an Easter egg hunt, a makers’ market,  and so much more! (See the detailed event listings, as a few events have age restrictions and/or a small fee.) Shake off the winter dust and come on out, Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor neighbors! We’d love to see you there! We’ll be there! Keep your eyes peeled for our Innkeeper, Chef Allison Anastasio, and ask her what she did with this rhubarb that got her so excited! She’s really excited for local fruits and veggies to start showing up in the garden at The Newton, and at local farmers’ markets!