Whether you’re a gearhead, political advocate, artist or house-head, we’ve got you covered this week with the finest club experiences and family functions the city has to offer. Put on your Saturday night best and try to keep it clean for Sunday morning, Detroit!

Upcoming events (Feb. 26 to Mar. 5)

Autorama 

Huntington Place 

Feb. 27-Mar. 1 

  General Admission: $30, Kids 6-12: $10, Kids 5 & Under: Free 

Come down to Huntington Place to experience Detroit’s 73rd Autorama! Check out over 800 unique works of art encapsulating hot-rods, muscle cars, trucks and motorbikes. The event will feature live music, celebrity appearances, famous movie cars, a pin-up contest, and more. The event will run from Friday to Sunday. 

Ground Zero 

TV Lounge 

Feb. 28

$35

The weather isn’t the only thing heating up this weekend. TV Lounge is hosting Ground Zero with performances from DJ Dextro, Redax and Lofila, spinning techno until your heart gives out and legs collapse. Dextro, known for his work on Missile, CLR and Mutual Rhythm, is sure to make this Saturday night one to remember…or not. The event will begin at 9 and go until “late.” 

Art March 

215 W Nine Mile, Ferndale, MI 

Mar. 1-Mar. 31 

Free

Celebrate and connect with Ferndale artists for the second annual Art March! Meet with gallery owners, local businesses and more as you enjoy live music, food vendors and a cash bar. There will be a wide variety of events available throughout March, but the opening takes place on the 1st from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

State of the Mama 

Jam Handy

Mar. 5

Free

Come down to Jam Handy next Thursday for the Mothering Justice Action Fund’s State of the Mama. This year’s theme is “Rooted in Resistance: Mamas Decide,” honoring generations of Black resistance while advocating for mothers to make their voices heard to contribute to Michigan’s political future. There will be a panel discussion with State and Federal candidates as well as Michigan advocates, including Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, Eboni Taylor, Nyah Phillips and more. The event will begin at 5 p.m. and go until 8 p.m.  

Dilla World 

Lincoln Factory

Feb. 28

$23

It’s been 20 years since J. Dilla passed and Detroit remains hungry for donuts. Dance your way down to Lincoln Factory for the 5th annual celebration of Dilla’s life and legacy with artists Blaaqgold, Meftah, Big Tone and more. Best to start this set with a pre-function coffee because this event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 5 a.m. 

Donovan Glover & Jeanine Styles 

Big Pink

Feb. 27

$23

Warehouse raves made Detroit notorious for its nightlife in the 90’s and 2000’s, and today’s no different…well, perhaps it’s a bit more up to “legal standards” now, but you get the gist. Join DJs Donovan Glover and Jeanine Styles for an evening of high BPM house and dance music over on the east side. The event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

The Planet D Nonet 

Cliff Bells

Feb. 26-Mar.1

$25

If you’re not a fan or tired of Detroit’s electronic side, perhaps you’ll be better off getting acquainted with its older-spirited cousin. Hop, skip and jump over to Cliff Bells between Thursday and Sunday to witness The Planet D Nonent perform their acclaimed album, “Echoes of Harlem: A Salute to Duke Ellington, Vol. 2.” Doors open at 5 p.m. for dinner and 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. for show seating.  

Peter McPoland & Girl Tones 

The Shelter

Mar. 3

$35+

Peter McPoland takes on The Shelter with Girl Tones in tow this upcoming Tuesday. Vermont clashes with Kentucky on stage as these two budding alternative rock powerhouses visit our not-so-little city as part of McPoland’s Big Lucky Tour that began earlier this month. The event begins at 7 p.m. 

FRAMEWORK 

Northern Lights Lounge

Feb. 28

$23+

Now, if you’re saying to yourself, “Come on Owen, I know you’ve got to include a bit of variety, but I was hoping for a bit more EDM,” I’ve got you covered. Pop out to New Center for some more electronic-fueled, intimate debauchery with DJ sets by Detroit’s own Rick Wade, Shigeto, Ryan Spencer and Todd Modes. The event begins at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this post was published without mentioning State Sen. Mallory McMorrow’s attendance of the State of the Mama event. We have amended this omission to better be in accordance with our value of fair coverage.

What to expect as President Trump delivers the State of the Union address

Tonight, President Trump is scheduled to deliver his first State of the Union address since returning to the White House last year.

As the administration faces challenges on several fronts, including Iranian relations and tariffs, the speech is expected to outline the president’s agenda ahead of the midterm elections.

The address is set to begin around 9 p.m., though the exact length is unknown. Trump’s previous State of the Union lasted more than 90 minutes, making it the longest such address in the past 60 years.

While the Constitution requires the president to deliver a State of the Union “from time to time,” this year’s address comes at a pivotal moment for Republicans as they look to maintain control of both chambers of Congress in November. According to NPR, the party that holds the White House has typically lost about 27 House seats and four Senate seats in midterms since World War II. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found that six in 10 Americans believe the country is in a worse position than it was a year ago.

Watch live at 9 p.m. 

Immigration and enforcement under scrutiny

Immigration is expected to be a central focus. The Department of Homeland Security remains in a partial shutdown as Congress continues to debate funding, though enforcement operations have continued.

The Trump administration has said it aims to remove undocumented immigrants who have committed acts of violence. Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about ICE tactics, particularly after agent involved shootings that killed Alex Pretti and Renee Good last month.

At least six additional detainees have died in ICE custody since the start of the year, according to The Guardian.

Tariffs, trade and the courts

Tariffs are also likely to feature prominently. The address comes after the Supreme Court reversed tariffs signed through executive orders. Following that decision, Trump announced plans to impose a 10 percent ad valorem tariff on most nations by invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, with exceptions for certain minerals, fertilizers and agricultural products.

According to NPR, a majority of Americans believe the tariffs could hurt the economy more than strengthen manufacturing. Trump has dismissed affordability concerns, calling them a “hoax” promoted by Democrats.

Foreign policy and rising tensions

Foreign policy is another expected topic, particularly U.S. relations with Iran. Trump has continued to pressure Iran to dismantle its nuclear weapons program and has not ruled out the potential use of force.

Human Rights Activists News Agency reports more than 6,800 protesters have been killed since December, while the United Nations has suggested the total could exceed 20,000, according to Al Jazeera.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said last week that global powers are attempting to pressure the country but vowed Iran would not “bow our heads,” according to Reuters.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. Dan Caine has warned that military strikes against Iran could draw the United States into a prolonged conflict, according to the BBC.

Democratic response

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger is expected to deliver the Democratic rebuttal, outlining her party’s priorities ahead of the midterms. Sen. Alex Padilla will also give a Spanish-language response.

Several Democratic lawmakers have said they plan to skip the address and instead attend a counter rally known as the “People’s State of the Union.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has encouraged Democrats to remain silent during the speech as a form of protest.

Whether it’s exploring the world of short film or finding your new favorite whiskey, WDET has you covered on Detroit’s upcoming events. Prepare to expand your palette and dance your heart out, Detroit!

Upcoming events (Feb. 19 to Feb. 26)

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express  

Stagecrafters 

Feb. 19 through Mar. 1 

  $28-$38

Take a ride to Royal Oak to witness Murder on the Orient Express adapted for the stage. All is well by nightfall, but as the sun rises through the passenger car windows, we’re one traveler short… Who could the killer be? There are performances every Thursday through Sunday until March 1, with both 2 p.m. matinees and evening shows at 7:30 p.m. 

HERd 

The Garden Theatre 

Feb. 20 

Free

HERd is returning to Detroit for its third year, uniting leaders, advocates, and allies for conversations about uplifting women’s voices in its TED Talk-style format. This year’s theme, Passions with Purpose, encompasses the holistic well-being of women by focusing on the emotional, social and professional systems which shape women’s lives. Oh, and there’ll be cocktails! Reception is at 5 p.m. and the program goes from 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

10th Annual African American Family Book Expo & Read-In 

Developing K.I.D.S. Village Hall 

Feb. 21 

Free

Enjoy an afternoon delving into Black literary excellence for the opportunity to meet with more than 40 independent Black authors and listen to this year’s National African American Read-In. There are books for all ages, with a chance to get signed copies as well. The event will be held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

The 2026 Oscar® Nominated Short Films: Animation and Live Action 

Detroit Film Theatre 

Feb. 20 through Mar. 15 

General: $11.50 & Seniors, Students, and DIA Members: $9.50 

Visit the Detroit Film Theatre inside the Detroit Institute of Arts for a screening of this year’s Oscar-nominated short films. Experience the works of emerging filmmakers as they explore bold stories in condensed segments. Screenings are happening each weekend through Mar.15, with matinees at 1 p.m. and evening showings at 7 p.m.; the collection spans 3 hours with an intermission between animation and live action.  

Detroit Pistons VS. San Antonio Spurs 

Little Caesars Arena 

Feb. 23 

$40+ 

The Pistons are slated to host the Spurs next Monday as they hope to continue their 3-game winning streak. The Pistons are currently the top contender in the Eastern Conference. The game will begin at 7 p.m. 

Symphonie fantastique 

Orchestra Hall  

Feb. 26 through Feb. 28 

$20

Enjoy an evening at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with a performance of Berlioz’s 5-movement concerto about a young artist’s hallucinations following a failed love affair. The performance will feature the “once in a generation flutist” Emmanuel Pahud as soloist. The event runs for two hours and will begin at 8 p.m.

Haute to Death, BEIGE and Kindle

Marble Bar

Feb. 21

$16+

Celebrate eight years of Marble Bar with a post-Valentines DJ set by Detroit artists Haute to Death (1-800-CALL-ASH & S.O.F.T. Power), BEIGE and Kindle. Be sure to slide through with your partner, best friend, or messy situationship for a few drinks and much-needed dancing. The event starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

Big Stretch: Yoga with a live DJ 

Big Pink

Feb. 26

$17

Unleash your inner yogi while you get your groove on at Big Pink next Thursday. Bring your own mat, a friend and prepare to sweat out your troubles while the DJ spins tracks of encouragement. All ages are welcome, music by Botez! The event starts at 7 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m. 

Whiskey Festival 

Royal Oak Farmers Market

Feb. 21

$39+

Spend an evening in a whiskey lover’s dream this Saturday at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. With over 100 different brands of whiskey, live music and food vendors, this event is set to help you find your new drink of choice. General admission includes 10 drink tickets as well as a keepsake photo and commemorative glass to help you remember what you’ve forgotten by morning. The event will run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Lunar New Year at Eastern Market

Eastern Market Shed 5

Feb. 22

Free

Enjoy an afternoon of extravagance at the Association of Chinese Americans’ annual Lunar New Year Community Fair. The event will feature cultural performances from local community groups, food vendors, interactive experiences and opportunities to learn about traditional customs. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Chinese Lunar New Year is upon us once again, and with it comes a celebration that won’t be forgotten. Make sure to take a stroll down by the riverfront this weekend to catch the festivities and take a dive into Chinese culture.

Upcoming events (Feb. 12 to Feb. 19)

Lunar New Year Celebration 

Robert C. Valade Park 

Saturday February 14th  

  Free with an RSVP

Experience a Lunar New Year Celebration with the Michigan Taiwanese American Organization. There will be a festive parade, dances, arts and crafts, performances by a Chinese orchestra, temporary tattoo stations, and opportunities to learn Mandarin. The event will be held from 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. 

Reflections of Our Ancestors Behind Glass 

Arab American National Museum

Sunday February 15th

  Free with an RSVP

Learn about the acquisition and legacy of Egyptian and Nambian artifacts that inhabit U.S. museums through a series of performances and discussions with the founders of the HERitage emBODYment artist ensemble. The event will be held from 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m

Butterfly Bones: Ceramic Sculptures by Genevieve VanZandt 

Detroit Shipping Company (2nd floor) 

Opening reception, Thursday, February 19th  

Free

Take a stroll over to Detroit Shipping Company to check out Michigan artist Genevieve VanZandt’s solo exhibition of ceramic art reflecting time, change, and the overlap between strength and vulnerability through a series of 3D collages. The gallery’s opening reception will take place between 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

Paczki Party

Detroit City Distillery 

Saturday February 14th  

Free admission

Pop into Detroit City Distillery on Valentine’s Day for an afternoon of live music from the Crampton Brothers, ice sculpting, unique Paczki Day cocktails, Polish delicacies, and of course… the shot ski. The event will be held from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. 

Outdoorama 

Suburban Collection Showplace 

February 19th– 22nd

Adults: $12, Children: $6, Multi-Day: $18

Take a trip out to Novi for the Outdoorama outfitters expo to shop for an array of hunting, fishing, boating and camping gear. In addition, there will be snake handlers, an indoor trout pond, deer processing demos, interviews with some of last season’s most successful deer hunters, and the opportunity for Commemorative Bucks of Michigan to score your buck free of charge. 

Julius Caeser 

Hilberry Gateway

February 12th-15th

$15-25 

Peek into ancient Rome through Wayne State’s production of Shakespeare’s gripping political drama about the tyrannical rise and treacherous fall of dictator Julius Caesar.  

Sip and Stroll 

Detroit Opera House  

Thursday February 19th

$35

Take a tour through music history at the renowned Detroit Opera House and enjoy a glass of wine with snacks while you’re at it. This event is 21+, doors open at 5:30 p.m., and refreshments will be served at 6:10 p.m. 

The Jazz Room: A Tribute to Soul 

The Gem Theater 

Sunday February 15th  

$38

Embark on a journey through the history of soul music with an hour-long live performance of Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding and more. This event is 21+ and takes place from 6 p.m.- 7 p.m. 

Beethoven, Bignamini and Weilerstein 

Orchestra Hall 

February 13th-15th  

$25+

Renowned cellist Alisa Weilerstein performs a two-hour concerto written for her by Joan Tower, co-commissioned by the DSO. The performance is inspired by Weilerstein’s time growing up in South America, as well as the likes of Beethoven, whose Fourth Symphony will end the concert. The event will be held from 8 p.m.- 10 p.m. 

Cuffing SZN (R&B and Dance Music) 

Big Pink

February 13th  

$23 

Dance all night at Big Pink as DJs Olea and Completd play a mix of H.E.R, Usher, Mary J. Blige, SZA and more. The event is 21+, the first 600 tickets are free, and doors will open at 10 p.m.