This week, we’re celebrating 313 Day, International Women’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and the start of WDET’s spring fundraiser! It’s people like you who power this essential service to Detroit, so please consider making a gift of support today. There are tons of fun prizes in it for you if you do, so tune in throughout the week to learn how to win!

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Plus, other fun stuff like drunken spelling bees, DJ sets at the DIA and more. Read on for details.

Detroit Day

Celebrate 313 Day with a celebration at Valade Park on the Detroir Riverfront on Thursday, March 13. This free, all-ages event features live music, local food and Detroit-centric activities, including trivia and comedy with T. Barb, love letters to Detroit with InsideOut Literary Arts, a 3.13-mile run with We Run 313 and a Detroit vendor market from All Things Marketplace. The event goes from 3:13-8 p.m. and is completely free to attend. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

Women’s Day

Celebrate International Women’s Day at Batch Brewing in Corktown on Saturday, March 8. Beginning at 2 p.m., the brewery will have an International Women’s Day Market featuring 13 woman-owned vendors who make and sell things like pottery, candles, vintage clothing, permanent jewelry, art and more. DJ Thornstryker will be spinning tunes from 2-6 p.m. and guests can enjoy a collaborative brew between Detroit Girls Pint Out and the women of Batch Brewing, as well as a collaborative dish with Chef E. For more information, visit batchbrewingcompany.com.

Then the celebration continues in the evening with Best Batch Comedy hosted by local comic Patty Rooney. This International Women’s Day comedy show features some of the city’s funniest women, including Johanna Medranda, Tam White and Melanie Hearn — all of whom have performed at WDET’s “What’s So Funny About Detroit?” comedy show as well. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the show is 18+. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

St. Patrick’s Day

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with Celtic song, dance and storytelling at Orchestra Hall on Sunday, March 9. Led by conductor and co-creator Ernest Richardson, “Celtic Journey” showcases traditional Irish marches, reels, jigs and ballads performed on authentic Irish instruments accompanied by the DSO. This one-day-only performance starts at 3 p.m. and tickets start at $25. For more information, visit dso.org.

Other fun stuff

Over the next week, WDET is on a mission to put the fun in fundraising. We’ll have celebrity guests, special themed episodes and opportunities to win cool stuff every day. Prizes include weekend passes to Movement, wristbands for the Hamtramck Blowout, vinyl record packages, Pistons suite tickets and more. We’ve even got a new insulated water bottle available exclusively to listeners who have never donated before! Tune in to WDET on 101.9 FM, wdet.org/listen-live or the WDET app to learn more about how to win, and make your first gift of support now at wdet.org/give.

On Friday, March 7, the DIA is hosting an After Dark event featuring DJ Problematic Black Hottie as part of Tiff Massey’s exhibition, “7 Mile + Livernois.” Guests can enjoy dancing, music and a cash bar in Rivera Court from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The exhibition offers a vibrant, inclusive view of Detroit, celebrating collective identity, ancestral flyness and beauty. This event is free to attend with general admission to the museum, which is also free for residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. For more information, visit dia.org.

Friday, March 7 is teacher night at Detroit Shipping Company, featuring drink discounts for educators, music by DJ Heart & Soul and a “Buzzed Bee” for guests to test their spelling skills while under the influence. The event goes from 6-10 p.m. and is hosted by King Jamarr and Sistahaus Community Network. For more information, visit detroitshippingcompany.com.

On Saturday, March 8, Detroit singer, songwriter, artist and storyteller Ideeyah is making their Moondog Café debut. Ideeyah has been active in the city’s music scene for over a decade, working with producers like Theo Parrish, Jon Dixon, De’Sean Jones and WDET’s own Waajeed (host of The Boulevard Wednesdays 8-10 p.m.). To complement the live performance, Detroit DJ and producer Whodat will be on the turntables before and after the show. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the performance begins at 8 p.m. This event is open to all ages, and tickets are pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of $20. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

This week, some station favorites are playing live in-concert. Plus, dance parties, costume contests and opportunities for local artists. Read on to learn more.

Hear local music

Starting on Thursday, Feb. 27, Miss Eva’s speakeasy is welcoming The kLOUDs Band as their first Artists in Residence. The Motown-style R&B group will be performing live every Thursday night now through April 24 from 8-10 p.m. We speak from experience when we say they know how to put on a show — The kLOUDs and frontman Drey Skonie performed at our Sounds Like Detroit concert last summer after being fan favorites in Detroit’s Tiny Desk Contest! Doors for this week’s show open at 7 p.m. and tickets are $15, no advance purchase necessary. For more information, visit missevasdetroit.com.

Staying at Miss Eva’s, Detroit singer-songwriter Ideeyah is kicking off Women’s History Month with a Saturday Night Unplugged performance on Saturday, March 1. Her music blends electronic with soul, and we got to witness her raw talents up close when she performed at WDET’s studios back in 2023. Doors for this intimate concert open at 7 p.m., the show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are $20. The Lobster Pitstop food truck will also be on-site all night long. For more information, visit missevasdetroit.com.

Heading downtown, Detroit pianist and educator Michael Malis is performing a rare solo show at the historic Fort Street Presbyterian Church in Detroit on Wednesday, March 5. Malis recently joined In The Groove to give us a preview of what he’ll be playing and chat about why this venue is so special to him. Doors open at 7 p.m., music starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $25 online. For more information, visit michaelmalis.com. 

Go dancing

On Thursday, Feb. 27, Drag Night returns to Bowlero in Royal Oak. This free monthly drag show and dance party takes place every last Thursday in the Bowlero’s lounge. Hosted by Auntie Chanel, this month’s performers are Drag Chef Kokayne, Valentina Rosé, Doubleho Sevyn and Remy Lafontain. Social hour starts at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. This event is 18+. For more information, visit bowlerodetroit.com.

Then on Sunday, March 2, kick off your Mardi Gras celebrations with Domingo: Carnival Edition at Spkrbox in Detroit. From 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., DJ Iza and DJ Yak will be bumping reggaeton, baile funk, latin house, dembow and afro house. For more information, visit @sprkbox.detroit on Instagram.

Strut your stuff

On Wednesday, March 5, UFO Bar is throwing a Detroit Talent Show where fun is the only skill necessary. Hosted by Auntie Ely, entry is $5 and winner takes the pot.  The show starts at 10 p.m. followed by an afterparty DJ set by Ashton Swinton. Limited spots are available, so email ely@spotlitedetroit.com to sign up in advance. For more information, visit @ufobardetroit on Instagram.

Then on Thursday, March 6, Bowlero is celebrating Day of the Dude with live music, $9 White Russians and a Big Lebowski costume contest. Detroit rock bands The Beggars and Dirty Copper will be playing in the lounge, and WDET’s own Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove weekdays noon to 2 p.m.) will be DJing. Music starts at 8 p.m. and the costume contest starts at 9 p.m. This event is 18+ and admission is free. For more information, visit bowlerodetroit.com.

Get involved

On Saturday, March 1, the Detroit Office of Arts, Culture and Entrepreneurship is hosting their first city-wide Performing Arts Summit at The Detroit School of Arts. The summit will highlight how our creative workforce can drive a healthy economy and thriving communities, featuring presentations and discussions about resources the city has to offer and opportunities the city has to further support artists. Admission is free and broken up into theatre, dance, music and film sections. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

This week, we’ve got live performances from some incredible musicians spanning across genres. Plus, unique art showcases, cultural celebrations and Great Lakes Comic-Con. Read on to learn more.

Live music

This year, the Concert of Colors is expanding its programs to grassroots neighborhoods citywide, bringing more free music to the residents of Detroit. On Saturday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m., Duane Stephenson, global ambassador of Reggae, will play live at the historic Redford Theatre in Detroit presented in partnership with the Caribbean Cultural & Carnival Organization. This special event will celebrate Black History Month with music, culture and community at one of Detroit’s most beloved venues. This event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event goes until 10 p.m. For more information, visit our events page.

The Hawk Theatre in Farmington Hills is continuing its celebration of Black artists during Black History Month with a performance by Urban Art Orchestra on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. — fresh off their Australian tour. Led by GRAMMY-nominated De’Sean Jones, Urban Art Orchestra blends the richness of a traditional orchestra with the infectious energy of urban beats. UAO is known for pushing the boundaries of musical genres to a captivating fusion that defies expectations. Tickets for this all-ages performance are $25 online or $30 at the door. For more information, visit thehawktheatre.com.

Listen: Urban Art Orchestra performs on Sam’s Jams Live

On Saturday, Feb. 22, Miss Eva’s Detroit continues their Saturday Night Unplugged series with a stripped-down performance from Detroit’s own Apropos. A soulful powerhouse singer-songwriter, Apropos pours his heart into every note — a vulnerability that’s sure to lend itself well to the intimate nature of the series. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show goes from 8-10 p.m. Tickets are $20 at the door, no advance purchase necessary. For more information, visit @missevasdetroit on Instagram.

Listen: Apropos performs Live on WDET

Local art

On Saturday, Feb. 22, Kalamazoo is hosting its 27th annual Garage Sale Art Fair at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center. This fun and unique art fair gives local and national artists a chance to sell their overstock, discontinued items and seconds for discounted prices. The event promises great deals on great work, and hopefully some fun experimental pieces as well. Entry is $5 cash and food will be available for purchase on-site. For more information, visit garagesaleartfair.com.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, Umoja Fine Arts Gallery in Southfield is hosting a Black History Month Youth Artist Showcase and Award Reception to celebrate young talent and creativity. This free event highlights works by artists between 11 and 21 years old, featured alongside works by professional artists. Doors open at 3 p.m. For more information, visit umojafinearts.com.

Listen: Umoja Fine Arts Curator Ian Grant joins The Metro to talk about the gallery’s efforts to support young artists

Cultural celebrations

On Saturday, Feb. 22, the Muslim Community of Western Suburbs in Canton is hosting their 4th annual Ramadan Market from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Local vendors will be selling abayas, groceries imported from the Middle East and other goods traditionally used during the month of Ramadan like, Ramadan decor, Islamic jewelry, Islamic books and more. The event will also offer creative workshops throughout the day, including a children’s Ramadan story time, cookie decorating, lantern building and designing your own iftar plate. Admission is free, but those interested are encouraged to RSVP online. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page. 

For the fans

Great Lakes Comic-Con returns to the Macomb Expo Center in Warren this weekend from Friday, Feb. 21 through Sunday, Feb. 23. GLCC is the ultimate gathering for comic lovers, toy collectors and cosplay enthusiasts to share in the fandom. There will be guest appearances, attractions, cosplay contests for all ages, fan panels and gaming. Tickets range from $20 to $25, children 10 and under get in free, and a limited amount of free tickets are available to active military, veterans and their families as well. To see the full lineup of attractions and learn more, visit greatlakescomicconvention.com.

This week, we’ve got a variety of Valentine’s Day activities, from ice skating to orchestral performances.

Plus, where to catch local soul, rock and house musicians this weekend. Read on to learn more.

Valentine’s Day celebrations

For the outdoorsy types, celebrate Valentine’s Day at Campus Martius Park with The Rink’s Sweetheart Skate. On Friday, Feb. 14, treat your special someone to a romantic evening of ice skating under the lights featuring feel-good ballads, timeless love songs and Broadway in Detroit giveaways from 6-9 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for children under 13 and seniors over 58, and $8 for active military and first responders. For more information, visit downtowndetroit.org.

For the theater enthusiasts, head to Orchestra Hall to see the DSO perform Broadway Love Songs throughout the weekend. From Friday, Feb. 14 through Sunday, Feb. 16, the Orchestra an all-star cast of vocalists will perform some of Broadway’s most cherished love songs, including timeless classics from “The King and I,” “Cinderella,” “South Pacific” and “West Side Story,” as well as contemporary hits from “Wicked,” “Hamilton,” “Cabaret” and more. Tickets start at $20 and limited seats remain for the Feb. 14 performances. For more information, visit dso.org.

For the academically-inclined, head to the Cranbrook Institute of Science for a Valentine’s Day edition of Science After Dark. This interactive 21+ event will explore love, sex and attraction through the lens of science, history and nature. Visitors can sip on signature cocktails while immersing themselves in lively demonstrations, spicy presentations and interactive activities. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members and $35 at the door (subject to availability). Pre-registration is highly recommended. For more information, visit science.cranbrook.edu.

For the party-goers, Spot Lite Detroit is throwing a Valentine’s Day Rocksteady Disco celebrating the 55th anniversary of David Mancuso’s The Loft. Love Saves the Day will honor The Loft’s legacy of inclusivity and soul-affirming beats, featuring DJ sets by Eddie C, Elado and Eddie Logix back to back with Peter Croce. The party starts at 9 p.m. and tickets start at $17. This event is 21+. For more information, visit ra.co.

Cultural festivities

This weekend, head to Valade Park on the Detroit riverfront for Winter Around the World. Festivities include an international food truck rally, a Desi high tea ceremony, a Chinese yo-yo demonstration and dance performances showcasing a variety of styles and genres by Detroit artists. Plus, there will be a Mardi Gras presentation on Saturday evening and a Lunar New Year celebration on Sunday. This event is free and open to all ages. To see the full lineup of events and learn more, visit detroitriverfront.org.

Local concerts

On Saturday, Feb. 15, head to Miss Eva’s in Detroit for Saturday Night Unplugged with Detroit-based singer-songwriter, Bevlove. She’s graced stages across the country, and will perform an intimate, stripped-down set for the audience at Miss Eva’s. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the performances starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit @missevasdetroit on Instagram.

On Saturday, Feb. 15, Detroit-based rock band The Feisty Birds are playing at The Loving Touch in Ferndale. Their music is influenced by a wide range of genres including jazz, fusion, pop, country and blues, and their sets include both covers that bring back special memories and original material. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are $10. All ages are welcome. For more information, visit thelovingtouchferndale.com.

On Saturday, Feb. 15, Deep house maestro and Sound Signature affiliate Marcellus Pittman returns home for a soulful celebration of Black music at Spot Lite Detroit. Noire: A Celebration of Black Music features Pittman with special guest Kindle. The party starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are $22. This event is 21+. For more information, visit ra.co.

This week, we’re kicking off Black History Month with several ways to celebrate, from dance parties to museum exhibitions.

Plus, watch parties, wrap parties and unique live performances. Read on to learn more.

Black History Month

On Friday, Feb. 7, the DIA and I Love Steppin’ present Steppin’ Into Black History Month at the DIA’s Rivera Court from 4:30-8:30 p.m. I Love Steppin’ is an open community of dancers passionate about Chicago Style Steppin’. Members gather in cities nationwide to celebrate and raise awareness of this cherished tradition within Black communities. The event at the DIA will include an introductory lesson of the basics by Sherry Gordon from 6-7 p.m., followed by a dance party featuring music curated by DJ Rod Edwards. This event is free with admission to the museum, and guests are encouraged to come as they are. For more information, visit dia.org.

On Saturday, Feb. 10, Aretha’s Jazz Café in Detroit presents A Tribute to Jazz & Black History featuring the renowned vocalist Sky Covington and a stellar lineup of Detroit’s finest musicians. This special event will honor the profound contributions of African Americans to jazz and their enduring legacy in shaping culture and art worldwide. General admission is $35 and advance reservations are highly recommended as seating is limited. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. For more information, visit jazzcafedetroit.com.

And of course, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is dedicated to celebrating Black history all year long. They have several exhibits on display this month that honor the rich cultural heritage, achievements and contributions of African Americans. These exhibits use photographs, portraits, heirlooms and more to honor the legacy of those who came before us while inspiring visitors and future generations to continue the fight for empowerment and equality. For more information about their current lineup and upcoming events, visit thewright.org.

Super Bowl LIX watch party

While the Lions unfortunately won’t be playing in the Super Bowl this year, you can still watch the game at Detroit Shipping Co. this weekend. They’ll have wings, appetizers, beer, shot and cocktail specials, giveaways, raffle prizes, and live music by DJ Mo Will. Packages that include food, drinks and table reservations for up to 8 people are available on their website for $100 plus tax. The party tailgate starts at 4:30 p.m., one hour before kickoff. For more information, visit detroitshippingcompany.com.

WDET’s 75th year wrap party

If you’re still in the mood to celebrate a Detroit institution, join us at the Majestic Theatre on Thursday, Feb. 13 for our 75th Anniversary Wrap Party! We’ll look back on a year filled with exciting programming changes, pay tribute to our 75 years of service to the Detroit-area community and reflect on the important role public media continues to play in our society today. Guests will be able to chat with our hosts and staff while enjoying pizza courtesy of Sgt. Pepperoni’s and a cash bar. This is a members-only event, so either check your email for details or become a member today at wdet.org/give.

Live performances

On Friday, Feb. 7, Best Case Scenario Comedy is hosting their fourth installment of Variety at the Congregation, featuring comedy, improv, drag and burlesque performers. Host and producer Sarah Lynn will introduce you to comedian Esteban Touma (a frequent guest at our What’s So Funny About Detroit? series), improv by Jake Russell, Patty Rooney, and Josh McDaniel, and burlesque/drag performances by Tommy Gun, Seasin, and Hym. Guests are encouraged to bring cash to tip the performers. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. in the basement of The Congregation Detroit. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This venue is 18+ and is not ADA accessible. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

On Sunday, Feb. 9, The Hawk Theatre will welcome the Amen-Ra Drummers and Dancers back to its Black Box for an evening of African music and movement. The Amen-Ra Drummers and Dancers are known for performing around the Detroit metro area, holding drumming and dancing lessons, and even performing as part of Super Bowl XL in Detroit in 2006. This performance is open to all ages and starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. For more information, visit thehawktheatre.com.

On Thursday, Feb. 13, the Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer fundraiser and ice show returns to The Rink at Campus Martius Park for the 7th consecutive year. This free, outdoor event features world-class and local skaters in an effort to raise funds on behalf of the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation and the Detroit-based Karmanos Cancer Institute. Festivities and performances go from 6-8 p.m. To donate and learn more, visit downtowndetroit.org.

The government may be giving up on its efforts toward diversity, equity and inclusion, but we sure aren’t. This week, we’re celebrating the Lunar New Year with our community, enjoying Bollywood-inspired high tea and learning about the Black-led legacy of dance music.

Plus, some underground events you won’t find anywhere else. Read on to learn more.

Celebrate traditions

The Detroit Association of Chinese Americans is hosting their 2025 Lunar New Year Community Fair at Eastern Market’s Shed 5 on Sunday, Feb. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests will welcome the Year of the Snake with cultural performances representing diverse Asian traditions, authentic foods, traditional crafts and fun for all ages. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, visit their Eventbrite page.

Detroit Shipping Company is hosting a Bollywood-inspired “afternoon and high tea” event from 4:30-7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1. This happy hour alternative will be hosted by food blogger Alina Alam, featuring stories from South Asian culture and traditional high tea refreshments like karak chai, Kashmiri pink tea, cookies and samosas. To register and learn more, visit @foodiesnapper on Instagram.

Get outside

From Friday, Jan. 31 through Sunday, Feb. 2, Winter Blast Royal Oak returns to Royal Oak City Center. This free community event features live music, ice skating, ice sculptures, a medieval village, a zip line, food trucks, family-friendly activities and more. To see the full lineup of events and get more information, visit winterblast.com.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, the Shiver on the River Eco Fair returns to Belle Isle. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be indoor and outdoor activities across the park including free caricature drawings, a magic show, ice carvings, winter birding and more. This event is free and open to all ages. Concessions will be available to purchase with cash. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required to enter Belle Isle. For more information, visit detroitriver.org.

See a show

This winter, Emagine Entertainment will be hosting their annual Winter Kids Film Series at all of their locations. This series features a different family-friendly film each week from Friday, Jan. 31 to Thursday, March 20, including ‘The Flintstones,’ ‘Cat in the Hat,’ ‘Babe’ and more. Tickets are $3 per person and concession packages are available for $5 each. For more information, visit emagine-entertainment.com.

Detroit Public Theatre’s next production is ‘Confederates,’ a story of two Black women living in America 160 years apart — Sara, an enslaved woman preparing herself to fight for the Union during the Civil War, and Sandra, a political science professor at an esteemed university fighting institutional racism. This searing and acclaimed play by Dominique Morisseau leaps back and forth in time to hold an unyielding lens to the racism and gender biases that plague America’s institutions to this day. Performances start on Thursday, Feb. 6 with two “pick your price” previews, after which general admission is $49. The show closes on March 16. For more information, visit detroitpublictheatre.org.

On Thursday, Feb. 6, legendary funk collective George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic will be performing at Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel. Tickets start at $61 and all guests must be at least 21 years of age with valid photo ID. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. For more information, visit 313presents.com.

Get moving

On Friday Jan. 31, Spot Lite Detroit is transforming into a rave paradise for D.A.R.E. TO R.A.V.E. Guests are invited to come in your boldest, brightest rave/techno attire and lose yourself in the music, the energy and the movement. The only rule: Respect the dance floor and your fellow ravers. The party goes from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. featuring unforgettable beats from 2Lanes, Duck Trash, Huey Mnemonic, Miguel Cisne, Nick Dagher and Rebecca Goldberg. Tickets are $22. For more information, visit ra.co.

Also on Friday, Jan. 31, Job Stoppers Inc is putting on a fundraiser for The Future of Detroit Punk at UFO Bar in Detroit. There will be karaoke, vendors, raffles and more from 3-9 p.m., followed by a rave dance party until 2 a.m. For more information, visit @ufobardetroit on Instagram.

Learn about legacy

On Friday, Jan. 31, Spot Lite Detroit is hosting a Fireside Chat with John “Jammin” Collins and Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale as they discuss the rich history and profound impact of dance music in Detroit. This event is free to attend and goes from 6-9 p.m. Guests must be 21+. For more information, visit @spotlitedetroit on Instagram.

This week, we’ve got free winter festivities, warm indoor art experiences and unique concerts from Bach to rock.

Plus, where to catch the planetary alignment this weekend. Read on to learn more.

Winter carnivals

Saturday, Jan. 25 is Downtown Birmingham’s BRRmingham Blast, featuring free entertainment, food trucks and activities for all ages. Attractions include a 300-foot zip line, magic shows, storytelling, marshmallow roasting and more. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of Downtown Birmingham, along South Old Woodward Avenue from Maple Road to Brown Street. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, visit allinbirmingham.com.

Sunday, Jan. 26 is the City of Oak Park’s Winterfest 2025, featuring family-friendly activities like carriage rides, ice carving, ice skating, hot snacks and more. Festivities go from 1-4 p.m. and admission, parking and all activities are free. For more information, visit their Facebook event.

Art experiences

Now through March 5, head to The J in West Bloomfield to check out “Pushing Boundaries,” a new exhibit on display in the Janice Charach Gallery. It features seven highly-regarded Michigan artists who were challenged to push the boundaries of their art practice and the very space they take up by creating seven distinct installations within the space of the gallery, including a dramatic display of giant multimedia squares suspended from the gallery’s skylight. Gallery hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all exhibits are free and open to the public. For more information, visit thejdetroit.org.

The newest art exhibit at Farmington Hills City Hall features hyper-realistic drawings from metro-Detroiter Karri Bloemer. “Drawings of Birds in Southeast Michigan and Beyond” is on display now through March 14, and there will be an artist talk and opening reception at City Hall on Friday, Jan. 24, from 6-8 p.m. Visitors can also view the exhibit during City Hall’s regular hours, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit fhgov.com.

If you’re interested in something more hands-on, visit the DIA’s Art-Making Studio on Friday, Jan. 24 for “Cultural Convergence: Arabic Calligraphy in the Chinese Style.” Participants will join master calligrapher Haji Noor Deen Mi Guangjiang 米广江 for a lecture, demonstration and mini-workshop exploring the artistic convergence of Arabic and Chinese calligraphic traditions. This event is free with general admission to the museum and goes from 6-8:30 p.m. Participants can join at any time, but capacity is limited. For more information, visit dia.org.

Unique concerts

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is launching its 2025 William Davidson Neighborhood Concert Series this week with “Bach’s Coffeehouse,” a program paying homage to Johann Sebastian Bach’s time performing at Zimmermann’s Coffeehouse in Leipzig. Guest conductor Jeannette Sorrell takes on the role of Bach’s lively coffeehouse orchestra, the Leipzig Collegium Musicum, for a series of performances starting Thursday, Jan. 23 and going through Sunday, Jan. 26. Performances will be held in Southfield, Plymouth, Grosse Pointe and Beverly Hills, and tickets start at $32. For more information, visit dso.org.

Detroit-based indie-rock group Bandeau is having a record release party at Outer Limits Lounge in Hamtramck on Saturday, Jan. 25. They’ll be playing songs from their new album, Spirit Fingers, with special guests Troy Gregory and the Mercury Gauntlett, Timothy Monger and Carol Catherine, Jim Cherewick, and members of the Detroit Party Marching Band. Limited-edition vinyl will be available for sale. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and admission is $15. For more information, visit Outer Limits Lounge on Facebook.

Cultural celebrations

The Hawk Theatre in Farmington Hills is celebrating the Lunar New Year on Saturday, Jan. 25 with an evening of activities and music for community members of all ages. This year, the festival marks the transition from the Year of the Dragon (2024) to the Year of the Snake (2025). Starting at 6 p.m., there will be a family-friendly cultural celebration with crafts and activities, followed by a concert featuring modern and traditional Chinese music at 7 p.m. Tickets include both the cultural celebration and the concert, and are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. For more information, visit thehawktheatre.com.

Stellar observations

On Saturday, Jan. 25, the Cranbrook Institute of Science is hosting a Planetary Alignment Party in celebration of a rare celestial phenomenon set to occur that night. Cranbrook astronomers and members of the Warren Astronomical Society will guide guests through the experience of seeing Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Neptune and Uranus together in the night sky using the Cranbrook Observatory and the Acheson Planetarium. The viewing party goes from 6-10 p.m. and pre-registration is highly recommended. Tickets are $14 for adults, $10.50 for children and seniors, and free for children under 2 years old. For more information, visit science.cranbrook.edu.