Five Things to Do in Detroit this Weekend
The Motor City vibrates with energy from September 6-8, 2024. Detroit offers something for everyone. Like art? Music? Theater? You’ll find it all here. The city is known for its mix of cultures, and it shows in its activities. People who live here and those just visiting can immerse themselves in the action. Prepare for three days you won’t forget in this lively city.
Detroit’s creative spirit burst this weekend as the 58th annual Art & Apples Festival transforms Rochester Municipal Park into a haven for about 250 exceptional artists. This beloved event, running September 6-8, serves up live music, delectable food, and a special area for kids. It’s free to get in, but if you can, a $5 gift would help out.
On Saturday, September 7, the Cass Corridor comes alive with the Dally in the Alley festival. This free, community-driven bash, which runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., offers delectable food, unique vendors, and live music that encapsulates Detroit’s rich sound. With stages named The Forest, Alley, Garden, and Electronic, you’ll go on a musical trip that shows off the city’s mix of styles.
Theater enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the first showing of “Memphis the Musical” at the Birmingham Village Players. This Tony Award-winning show tells the captivating tale of how Black blues music first hit white crowds. It starts Friday and runs through September 22. Tickets cost $30.
Seeking innovative performances? Head to the BRED Hip-Hop Theatre Festival at Wayne State University’s Hilberry Gateway on Saturday, September 7. This no-cost event mixes music, theater, and dance in new ways. From new acts based on classic hip-hop songs to impromptu game shows and block parties with live rap and DJ sets, this event blends hip-hop culture and theater, igniting a wealth of creative ideas.
Conclude your visit with Sweatember: A Pop Dance Party Fundraiser at Planet Ant in Hamtramck. On Friday, September 6, at 8 p.m., unleash your inner pop star and dance to a thrilling mix of songs. Your $10 ticket does two things – it gets you in and helps the venue’s program for artists to live and work there. You can have fun and help out artists at the same time.
| Event | Date | Time | Location | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art & Apples Festival | Sept 6-8 | Fri 2-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-4pm | Rochester Municipal Park | Free ($5 suggested donation) |
| Dally in the Alley | Sept 7 | 11am-11pm | Cass Corridor | Free |
| Memphis the Musical | Sept 6-8 (runs through Sept 22) | Fri/Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm | Birmingham Village Players | $30 |
| BRED Hip-Hop Theatre Festival | Sept 7 | 12pm-9:30pm | Hilberry Gateway, Wayne State University | Free |
| Sweatember | Sept 6 | 8pm | Planet Ant, Hamtramck | $10 |
