This week, we’ve got tons of ways to engage with art in metro Detroit, from interactive sculptures to intimate concerts. Plus, fall favorites, small business experiences and season premieres. Read on to learn more.

Upcoming events

Season Fair

  Michigan Central in Detroit

  Thursday, Sep. 25 through Sunday, Sep. 28

  $30–$100

Detroit’s first contemporary art fair dedicated to bringing local and international galleries together. Visitors can browse featured artwork, shop for new pieces and attend panel discussions. The fair is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Single day entry is $40 for general admission or $30 for seniors and students with valid ID. VIP tickets are available for $100 and include multi-day entry and access to exclusive events.

Rooftop Rendezvous feat. Kasan Belgrave

  Arab American National Museum in Dearborn

  Friday, Sep. 26

  Free with RSVP

A free outdoor concert featuring saxophonist Kasan Belgrave and his band. Belgrave is a woodwind specialist, recording artist and jazz composer, and he’s the son of legendary Detroit trumpet player Marcus Belgrave. The concert goes from 6–8 p.m.

Hay Ride Central

  Heritage Park in Farmington Hills

  Every Friday, Sep. 26–Oct. 31

  $5–$6

Family hayrides through the trails of Heritage Park in Farmington Hills. Admission is $5, and participants can get cider and a s’more at the end of the ride for an extra $1. Kids under 2 years old ride for free. Rides leave every half hour from 5:30–7 p.m.

Shop Downtown Detroit

  Various locations in Detroit

  Saturday, Sep. 27

  Free

A one-day event promoting downtown businesses, featuring exclusive deals, limited-edition products and interactive experiences. Promotions go from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at participating vendors.

13th Annual Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos

  Detroit Institute of Arts

  Saturday, Sep. 27 through Sunday, Nov. 2

  Free with museum admission (free for residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties)

The 13th installment of the DIA’s Día de Muertos celebration, developed in partnership with the Consulate of Mexico in Detroit, the Southwest Detroit Business Association and Mexicantown CDC. The exhibition features ofrendas by local artists and community members, and is designed to familiarize visitors with the Mexican traditions of the Day of the Dead.

Public Opening Celebration for Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation

  Detroit Institute of Arts

  Sunday, Sep. 28

  Free with museum admission (free for residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties)

A day of creative and cultural activities to mark the opening of the DIA’s newest exhibit highlighting contemporary Anishinaabe art. There will be a sculpture dedication ceremony, drop-in art making activities, live musical performances and storytelling. All ages are welcome.

10 Years Back, 10 Years Forward: Black Bottom Archives

  Detroit Historical Museum

  Ongoing through Sunday, Sep. 28

  $15

A 10th anniversary exhibit celebrating the Black Bottom Archives, featuring zines, podcasts, photos and interactive displays about the historic Detroit neighborhood.

Here There Are Blueberries

  Detroit Public Theatre

  Wednesday, Oct. 1 through Sunday, Nov. 2

  $5–$100

A play based on true events that follows a mysterious album of never-before-seen World War II-era photographs and a shocking truth behind the images inside. This is the first production in DPT’s 11th season. General admission is $52–$100 and select dates feature pick-your-price tickets starting at $5.

Shape Your World Interactive Experience feat. Optik Installation

  Beacon Park in Detroit

  Ongoing through Friday, Oct. 3

  Free

An outdoor installation featuring interactive gyroscopic structures that create unique light displays and abstract sounds depending on the position of the sun. The venue also offers music and curated beverages by Lumen Detroit. The installation is open to the public daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

During WDET’s on-air fundraiser, we continue to bring you the news and conversations that inform you, enrich your life, and connect you to the community. 

In this conversation, The Metro’s Tia Graham spoke with Satori Shakoor, host of The Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers. Satori talked about the importance of storytelling and the importance of strong public media. 

This particular conversation also included information about an upcoming show at The Wright on the theme of colorism. It explored the effects of colorism across cultures and how people process related experiences. 

Hosted in front of a live audience, Satori helps create a space of vulnerability, honesty and compassion. 

Take a listen to the conversation and learn more about The Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers and the impact of sharing intimate life experiences. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

Over the decades, the city of Detroit gained an identity of being a dangerous place where beautiful things did not happen. The image of the city being blighted with eyesores and vacant lots often overshadowed the residents trying to maintain those communities. 

There are some in the city who have pushed against that narrative and have worked to showcase Detroit in all of its facets. A lot of those folks are artists. From painters to weavers and knitters to muralists, all have found ways to use their work to uplift the city that raised them. 

It’s beyond beautifying neighborhoods and business walls, it’s creating paths for economic growth as well. 

One of those people making a statement through art is Sydney James. You know her work very well, from the Girl with a D earring located on the Chroma building in Detroit off W. Grand Blvd.

Sydney is a visual artist, painter and muralist and co-founder of BLCKOUT Walls. The free block party is a celebration of Detroit and the powerful impact art can have on culture. 

The Metro’s Tia Graham spoke with Sydney James about BLCKOUT Walls and the economic power of creatives in Detroit. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

This weekend is ripe with opportunities to welcome fall and celebrate diverse cultures, plus musical performances and art fests galore! Next Thursday is the annual Spelling Bee fundraiser for the Dominican Literacy Center.

Don’t miss your chance to be present and support local organizations and businesses. 

Upcoming events

Ascension Exhibit by TYP

Big Pink (6440 Wight St, Detroit, MI 48207)

  Friday, Sep. 19 through Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

This art exhibit blends the designed environment with audio to immerse its audience in an intimate exploration of the relationship between life’s struggles and spiritual growth. The exhibit is open from 6-10 p.m. on Friday and from 12-10 p.m. on Saturday.

DIY Street Fair

Downtown Ferndale

  Friday, Sep. 19 through Sunday, Sep. 21

  Free

Over 150 local artists with quality crafted goods, along with food trucks and live music. The event runs from 6-11 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

Funky Ferndale Art Fair

Downtown Ferndale

  Friday, Sep. 19 through Sunday, Sep. 21

  Free

Browse a unique selection of fine 2D and 3D art pieces, make your own masterpieces, and enjoy spirited music, dance, and circus acts. Attend at no cost Friday from 5p.m. – 9p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to  5 p.m.

WDET is a partner of the Funky Ferndale Art Fair.

1st Annual Community Treehouse Fall Concert

Passage to Wellbeing Alley 

  Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

The inaugural Fall Concert at the Community Treehouse Center opens with a debut of “I Am Light” by Tammy Black, performed by the Urban Art Orchestra . Other performances include Detroit’s Queen of Blues Thornetta Davis, Detroit Reggae Rock and Soul Band and more! Bring your own seating. This event runs from 3-7 p.m.

Palmer Park Harvest Fest

Palmer Park Community Center

  Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

Take part in a Palmer Park tradition, celebrating the first official days of fall with apple tasting, cider and donuts available to the first 500 guests free of charge. You and your family can take part in the petting zoo, arts and crafts, and watch live entertainment from 1-4 p.m among an old growth forest.

DTE Community Concert

The Hawk

  Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

Enjoy a classical music program performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra that includes premiere selections from “313: Six Vignettes for Orchestra” by Detroit’s Composer Laureate Patrick Prouty. The music starts at 7 p.m. Reserve your tickets in advance.

Chicano Fest

Batch Brewing Company

  Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

Celebrate Chicano culture with live music, lowriders, lucha libre and more. Activities for all ages, from noon-10 p.m.

Brazilian Day Street Festival

Vamonos!

  Saturday, Sep. 20

  Free

The 4th annual Brazilian Day Street Festival opens with a lively parade and offers dance workshops and competitions throughout the day. Canja de Boa will be performing live. Join anytime from noon-7 p.m.

Dominican Literacy Center Spelling Bee

Jam Brandy 

  Thursday, Sep. 25

  $40 or $35 for participants

The annual Dominican Literacy Center Spelling Bee raises funds for the organization to continue their mission of helping adults improving their reading and writing skills. This benefit is hosted by Stephen Henderson with guest Dame Wilburn from Moth Story Hour and goes from 6-9 p.m.

This week, we’ve got chances to shop from local makers, see performances by rising musicians and explore artifacts from Techno history. Plus, a celebration of vegan food. Read on to learn more.

Upcoming events

Strange Beautiful Music 18

  Various locations in Detroit

  Thursday, Sep. 11 through Saturday, Sep. 13

  Free, $23–$34

An annual multi-day event celebrating new music in Detroit, spanning a wide range of genres — including jazz, free improvisation, Techno, electronica, Neo-soul, ambient and genre-defiant. Concerts take place at three local venues over three days, including a show at the Detroit Institute of Arts, which is free for residents of Wayne, Macomb and Oakland counties, on Friday from 7–8:30 p.m.

Jeff Mills presents Star Chronicle

  Spot Lite in Detroit

  Thursday, Sep. 11 through Saturday, Sep. 13

  Free, $34–$80

A multi-media artist residency curated by Techno pioneer Jeff Mills, featuring film screenings, live music, and an exhibit of personal art and artifacts. Show doors open each night at 9 p.m. and admission is $34 per day or $80 for a three-day pass. The exhibition is free and open to the public 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Fridays at The Station: Charity and DJ BJ

  The Station at Michigan Central in Detroit

  Friday, Sep. 12

  $15

A monthly evening event featuring live performances, food and drinks at Michigan Central. This month’s event features a special performance by singer Charity, joined by DJ BJ. The event goes from 5–10 p.m. and music starts at 7:30 p.m.

The Hawk Makerspace 3rd Anniversary Open House

  The Hawk in Farmington Hills

  Saturday, Sep. 13

  Free

An open house for community members to check out The Hawk Makerspace, a shared technical and creative studio in Farmington Hills. There will be live demonstrations of the studio’s professional-grade equipment, giveaways, refreshments and discounts on studio passes. The event goes from 3–7 p.m.

Common Ground’s 51st Birmingham Street Art Fair

  Downtown Birmingham

  Saturday, Sep. 13 and Sunday, Sep. 14

  Free

A longstanding fine arts fair featuring 90 juried artists along Old Woodward in downtown Birmingham. The fair is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Ypsi Vegan Fest 2025

  Downtown Ypsilanti

  Sunday, Sep. 14

  Free

An event celebrating vegan foods in an effort to make veganism more accessible. There will be local vendors, cooking demonstrations and talks by vegan advocates. The event goes from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to all — vegan or not.

Eastern Market After Dark

  Eastern Market Shed 2 in Detroit

  Thursday, Sep. 18

  Free

A district-wide night market featuring galleries, open studios, retailers, brand activations and live music. The market is open from 6–11 p.m.

The main thing on the musical menu today is getting you ready for Sundance, the 3rd edition of Anthony Jasper and Scott Grooves’ end-of-summer dance party at the American Riad happening this Sunday, Sept. 14 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The American Riad is a community space at the corner of Euclid & Oakland in Detroit’s North End neighborhood (you can’t miss it). It’s free, open to the public and an excellent example of dance and music bringing the city together. To preview the event, Anthony Jasper stopped by to chat and I played tracks from Grooves including “E2E4” and “So Glad.”

On top of all that, new music discovery from Deep Sea Diver, JuliaWhy?, spill tab, Cut Copy, Nightbus; a music spotlight on El Michels Affair and their excellent album “24 Hr Sports”; and a track from Andrew Bird’s “The Mysterious Production of Eggs,” which turns 20 this year and will get a special reissue.

Check the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the player above.

In The Groove with Ryan Patrick Hooper playlist for September 10, 2025

• “Skin Is, My” – Andrew Bird
• “Small Stakes” – Spoon
• “Moonshake” – Can
• “Heaven’s Gonna Burn Your Eyes” – Thievery Corporation
• “C.T.F.O” – Jose Junior
• “What Do I Know” – Deep Sea Diver
• “Pale Blue Dot” – JuliaWhy?
• “A Fragile Thing (Mark Saunders Heartbroken Remix)” – The Cure
• “Assis” – spill tab
• “Carry Me Away” – El Michels Affair & Norah Jones
• “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” – El Michels Affair
• “C.R.E.A.M.” – El Michels Affair
• “Once Around the Block” – Badly Drawn Boy
• “Moving Forward (Cosmodelica Remix)” – Bryony Jarman-Pinto
• “How Can We Mend a Broken Heart” – Kahil El’Zabar
• “Step In” – Jeb Loy Nichols & Cold Diamond & Mink
• “5 On A Joyride” – Cody ChesnuTT
• “Cathode Ray” – Folk Bitch Trio
• “Dollar Store (feat. Waxahatchee)” – Ben Kweller
• “Does This Song Sound Familiar? (7″ Version)” – Pearl Charles
• “Afraid” – Flock of Dimes
• “If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim)” – Bon Iver
• “Thinkin Bout You” – Frank Ocean
• “All Night” – Romare
• “I’m Doing Fine (feat. Amp Dog Knight)” – Moodymann
• “E2E4” – Scott Grooves
• “So Glad” – Scott Grooves
• “The Ones We Loved” – Georgie Sweet
• “Angles Mortz” – Nightbus
• “Belong To You” – Cut Copy & Kate Bollinger
• “Weak In Your Light” – Nation of Language
• “Evertyhing Is Simple” – Widowspeak
• “Thank You” – Bonnie Raitt
• “I Just Want To Talk To You” – Charles Brown & Sleepy Creek

Listen to In the Groove with host Ryan Patrick Hooper weekdays from noon-3 p.m. ET on 101.9 WDET or stream on-demand at wdet.org.

The thriving Detroit film scene continues to produce fan favorite shows and movies, which can often be found on Tubi and Youtube. The local artists and creators in Detroit continue to do what they can with what they have.

Resources and access to them are limited, but the City of Detroit wants to make a change.

The city is offering a new initiative to support local film creators called Film Detroit. They want to attract actors, production assistants, directors and more while providing them the chance to connect and learn about what the city has to offer.

This Wednesday September 10th, the city is hosting its first Film Detroit outreach session which will include food, music and networking. 

Chantal Cook is the program coordinator for Film Detroit. She joins The Metro to speak more about Detroit’s film community.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

It’s been more than 60 years since the Beatles arrived on the shores of the U.S. bringing the first wave of the “British Invasion”.  But even decades later, enthusiasm for the “Lads from Liverpool” is strong. 

Beatles fans remain excited, not only because of an expected compilation release by the group, but because they still have a chance to see what appears to be a live performance by the rock legends. 

The facsimile called “1964 The Tribute” is still generating excitement, even though they’ve been touring for 40 years. 

As WDET’s Jerome Vaughn noticed in this NPR report from 2001 that fans didn’t really mind that they weren’t seeing the genuine article. 

Meeting 1964 in 2001

The House of Blues in downtown Chicago is packed with fans of all ages.  Middle aged men and women gather in clumps down on the dance floor while a group of teenage girls jostle to proclaim their love for their favorite Beatle. 

The girls are well aware that these aren’t the real Beatles. They know they’re about to hear four middle-aged men—three from Akron, Ohio and one from Los Angeles.   But it doesn’t seem to matter.  The excitement the band generates could have come straight out of a 1960’s newsreel.   

During the show, “1964’s” George dances just like the real one in a “A Hard Day’s Night” and Ringo does his trademark headshake while pounding out the beat.    

The band members have watched hundreds of hours of tape, learning to imitate the mannerisms and voices of the Beatles.   Gary Grimes, who plays Paul, even spent years learning to play the bass left-handed.  And all of the group’s members have perfected their Liverpool accents.  Mark Benson is the group’s John.   

“Well, John’s a bit snotty isn’t he.  He would say something like shut up or something like that while Paul’s talking or something last that you know,” says Benson, reflecting on how to perfect the persona.  “But the main thing we want to talk about is the interaction between people is very natural.” 

The musicians dress like the Beatles, complete with black suits and skinny ties and, of course, the signature haircuts.  They even use a combination of authentic and reproduction guitars and amplifiers to get the sound just right. 

“1964 The Tribute” has the reputation for being so authentic that the members of three other Beatle cover bands have come to see the House Of Blues show. 

Frank Kanino from the group British Export says “1964” is the gospel when it comes to Beatle bands. “They move just like the Beatles.  They dance.  They’ve done their homework.  They’ve got the best show imaginable.  It’s great to go see them.  They really bring back that feeling.”  

Making it real is the only way to make the fans happy according to Jimmy Pou, the group’s George. 

“As musicians and actors we’re doing the Beatles and most of the people that come to see us are Beatle aficionados, if you will, or Beatle fanatics and they know every little nuance.  They know every little mannerism and if you don’t do it or you do it the wrong way, they’ll notice.”   

Apparently, the members of “1964” get it right.  After more than 15 years, the number of fans has grown dramatically, as have the number of nights the band plays each year and the size of the venues.   

Bringing Beatles to new generations

Down in front, six teenage girls lean their elbows on the stage singing, screaming, and swaying side to side.    The girls know the words to every song, even though they were born more than a decade after the real Beatles broke up.  14-year-old Megan O’Connor is one of them.   

“My favorite part of the show was the ‘Twist and Shout’ part,” she says. When asked why she liked that part, O’Connor replies, “Because we were all dancing and it was fun — and I like that song.”  

For Megan and many of the teenage fans at the 1964 show, their love of the music seems genuine. But their manic behavior may be genetic. 

Peggy O’Connor is Megan’s mom. “She went from N Sync to the Beatles very quickly and she lives for the Beatles.  I’m not surprised at all.  She knows every word to every Beatles song.  She gets that from mommy.” 

The members of “1964 The Tribute” say they don’t know how much longer they’ll continue touring.  The rigors of playing between 150 and 200 nights per year is taking its toll—especially considering “the boys” are in their early 50’s and have families, including teenagers of their own. 

But for now, the group will continue giving Beatles fans the closest thing they can get to a live performance by John, Paul, George and Ringo.   

This story originally aired in 2001.  Since that was an archived report, we should note that Mark Benson continues to lead the group, but Gary Grimes died in 2010 and the other members in this story have gone on to different adventures. 

“1964 The Tribute” plays tomorrow night, Saturday September 6, at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.  The show starts at 8 p.m. 

In 1978, residents in the Detroit’s Cass Corridor resisted Wayne State’s plan to demolish historic buildings in the neighborhood. This act of resistance birthed the Dally in the Alley festival.

Since that year, community volunteers come together annually put on a block party that features local vendors, food, and musical performances.  Adriel Thornton, the president of the North Cass Community Union, which host the event, joined the show to discuss Dally.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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From the 46th Annual Dally in the Alley to the inaugural Detroit Vinylfest, here are five free events to check out in Detroit this week.

Upcoming events

Detroit Vinylfest

  Eastern Market Shed 5

  Friday, Sep. 5

  Free

A new event from the creators of Detroit Bookfest, where vendors will sell vinyl records/LPs, CDs, cassette tapes, music-related posters, t-shirts and more. The event goes from 1–8 p.m.

In the Life: Black Queerness Exhibition

  The Carr Center in Detroit

  Friday, Sep. 5 through Saturday, Oct. 11

  Free

An exhibition produced by Mighty Real/Queer Detroit that explores the mirroring power of artist and viewer through the lens of the Black Queer experience. The exhibition features 13 artists and spans photography, painting, drawing and multi-media works. The Carr Center is open to the public on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m., and on Fridays from noon to 8 p.m.

46th Annual Dally in the Alley

Detroit’s Cass Corridor

  Saturday, Sep. 6

  Free

A longstanding community festival featuring live music, art, food, beer and a kids fair in the streets of Midtown Detroit. Festivities go from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Entrance is free, but donations are welcome.

6 Mile Street Festival

W. McNichols Road in Detroit

  Saturday, Sep. 6

  Free with RSVP

A celebration of local community, commerce and culture featuring musical entertainment, family-friendly activities and local artist showcases in Northwest Detroit. Festivities go from noon to 8 p.m.

Sounds from the Park: Memory and Transformation

Belle Isle

  Thursday, Sep. 11

  Free

The fifth and final installment of the Sounds from the Park series of outdoor concerts organized by the Detroit Parks Coalition. The show features a live performance from and original music by Detroit saxophonist Marcus Elliot. Performance goes from 6–8 p.m.

Detroit is undergoing changes. You can see it as you drive around. From the murals to the development and redevelopment of particular areas, Detroit can be the model for what it looks like to create a more inclusive city for all. 

And with Detroit being the only U.S. city with a UNESCO Design City designation, it’s natural for Detroit to be at the forefront of major changes that include a creative flair.

UNESCO or The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization promotes international cooperation in various fields to build peace and sustainable development worldwide.

Over the next month, Detroit Month of Design will celebrate 10 years as a UNESCO city of design, with more than 95 events featuring more than 500 creatives in the city.

SustainACity is one of those events. It’s curated by Asia Hamilton, the founder and director of Norwest Gallery of Art. Hamilton is also the Climate Resilience Program Manager for the City of Detroit. 

She spoke on The Metro about what a reimagined Detroit could look like with environmental health at the forefront.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

The City of Detroit is known for its arts. It’s not as well known for its contributions to the greater development of those artistic fields, yet Detroit is the only U.S. city with the title of a UNESCO City of Design. 

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) promotes international cooperation in various fields to build peace and sustainable development worldwide. Detroit is one of over 40 cities sharing resources and knowledge, allowing greater access to creative solutions.

Design Core Detroit was the organization that applied for the designation. Design Core Detroit provided proof that the city has had a major hand in moving industries with the innovative minds of the people who call Detroit home.

The organization curates the city-wide and month-long event, Detroit Month of Design festival. There will be more than 500 creative spirits in Detroit spanning across the city with exhibitions, panel discussions and immersive teaching events.

The goal is to bring as many innovative people as possible together to develop new inspiring realities for all people. It’s a way for Detroit and its residents to come together and build a brighter future through design and a creative flair.

This year’s theme is city of design, celebrating 10 years as a UNESCO Design City. Co-Executive Director of Design Core Detroit Kiana Wenzell stopped by The Metro to talk more about the month-long event.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

Public art isn’t limited to Detroit-proper. Smaller cities surrounding Detroit are often known for their charm or cozy vibes, yet the love of creative pursuits are just as important as those vibes. 

Now, there’s a new mural festival coming to the downriver area. Paint The Park is a 2-week-long festival that is bringing large-scale murals to downtown Allen Park. It runs September 1–13, 2025. 

Two guests joined The Metro to talk about the first Paint the Park and what makes Allen Park special to its residents: artist and founder of The Mural People Michelle Tanguay, and Director of Allen Park Downtown Development Authority Ben Hughes.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

More stories from The Metro

It’s Labor Day Weekend, which means tons of annual festivals in Detroit. Plus, some unique celebrations for punks and sandwich enthusiasts. Read on to learn more.

Upcoming events

“What’s So Funny About Detroit?” Comedy Showcase

  The Old Miami in Detroit

  Thursday, Aug. 28

  $25 online, $30 at the door

The final WDET comedy showcase of the summer, hosted by In The Groove’s Ryan Patrick Hooper. This month’s headliner is Nicole Melnyk with special guests Alaina Bamfield, Madison Thomas, Andy Peters, Reeves Ledbetter, Pat Sievert, Brooke Van Poppelen and Joe Aasim. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Guests must be 21+.

Michigan State Fair

  The Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi

  Thursday, Aug. 28 through Monday, Sep. 1

  $10–$42

A family-friendly festival featuring carnival rides, livestock shows, talent competitions, beer tastings and more. General admission is $10, and some festival activities cost extra. The fair is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday through Monday.

46th Annual Detroit Jazz Festival

  Various locations in Detroit

  Friday, Aug. 29 through Monday, Sep. 1

  Free

The world’s largest free jazz festival, featuring dozens of performances by world-renowned musicians across several local venues. General admission is free, but VIP seating and other perks are available for $125–$600. Performances start at 6 p.m. on Friday and at noon on Saturday through Sunday.

Arts Beats & Eats

  Downtown Royal Oak

  Friday, Aug. 29 through Monday, Sep. 1

  $10–$68

An annual festival featuring live music, a juried art fair, carnival competitions and more. General admission ranges from $10–$12 depending on the day and time, and VIP tickets are available for an additional $68 online. The festival is open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Monday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

45th Annual Hamtramck Labor Day Festival

  Joseph Campau Street in Hamtramck

  Saturday, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sep. 1

  Free

An annual Labor Day celebration featuring live music, carnival rides, canoe street racing and more. The Labor Day Parade takes place on Monday, Sep. 1, and the festival is open from noon to 10 p.m. each day.

Crew Fest

  Tangent Gallery in Detroit

  Saturday, Aug. 30

  $16

A new community-driven art and music festival celebrating the underground punk and alternative scenes. There will be live performances by local bands, art for sale by independent makers and refreshments from unique kitchens. The festival goes from 2–11 p.m.

Detroit Sandwich Party

  Eastern Market Shed 5 in Detroit

  Sunday, Aug. 31

  Free to attend, sandwich prices vary

The second annual event celebrating the great sandwich makers of our city. Guests can sample small-format sandwiches from dozens of local vendors, and drinks are available for purchase as well. The party goes from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

15th Annual Detroit Month of Design

  Various locations in metro Detroit

  Monday, Sep. 1 through Tuesday, Sep. 30

  $0–$100+

An annual celebration Detroit’s designers, featuring a wide range of exhibitions, installations, product launches, tours, hands-on workshops and discussions. This year’s calendar features work from over 500 creatives on display at 95 events throughout the metro area.

The Detroit Jazz Fest sets itself apart by being the largest free jazz festival in the world.

It’s not easy or cheap for a cultural institution to be able to give it all away for free. Getting rid of any barrier of entry, however, ensures that this festival actually looks and feels like Detroit. That’s a big issue in a majority Black city that often struggles to represent itself via arts, culture and media.

The 2025 edition of the festival will feature major names performing like Keyon Harrold, Kenny Barron, Endea Owens, Chucho Valdes, Branford Marsalis, John Scofield and many more.

This year’s artist-in-residence is a big deal, too. That’s Jason Moran, an accomplished pianist, educator and composer who currently serves as the artistic director for jazz at the Kennedy Center. He’s racked up 18 solo releases via jazz stalwart labels like Blue Note.

During his residency with the fest, he’ll perform three varied sets over Labor Day weekend, including a tribute for Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday, an opening night set with techno pioneer Jeff Mills and Detroit poet Jessica Care Moore, and more. You can see the full schedule here.

Earlier this year, Jason Moran joined In The Groove to chat about the Detroit Jazz Festival, his influences (including the late great Detroit pianist Geri Allen) and more. 

Click the audio above to hear that full interview.

As someone that spends a lot of time at concerts and festivals, I always preach the importance of thanking the people who do all the heavy lifting to make the event go off without a hitch.

That’s the bartenders, the security guards, the folks running the stages, keeping the sound sharp, making sure the grounds are clean and safe for patrons. And everybody else in between.

During this year’s Detroit Jazz Fest, take a moment to thank these people as you go out about your day.

So, what does it take to make four days of jazz go off without a hitch? And programmed as well as it is?

Behind the scenes of the Detroit Jazz Festival is artistic director Christopher Collins and his incredible team, who blend the next generation of performers with the legends of jazz each year. 

The 2025 edition of the festival is no different, with rising saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin alongside iconic Detroit bassist Marion Hayden and 83-year-old Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés.

I got the chance to chat with Christopher Collins ahead of this year’s Detroit Jazz Festival to talk about the programming and also the importance of keeping the event free and open to the public. Click the audio above to hear that full interview.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services launches Medicare support program

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has launched a program to assist residents with Medicare. MI Options is a statewide system that offers free counseling for people who need long-term care.

MDHHS director Elizabeth Hertel says in a press release that the resource hub will provide information about Medicare enrollment and prescription costs, while empowering people to make choices for their health and wellbeing, including aging in place.

People can call 800-803-7174 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, to speak with an agent. More information is available at Michigan.gov/MDHHSMIOptions.

Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley

Additional headlines

MDOT warns of road closures without budget agreement

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is urging state leaders to pass a budget soon to prevent road closures.

Officials warn the I-96 and Southfield Freeway interchange in Detroit is in poor condition and at risk of becoming too dangerous to use. MDOT spokesperson Diane Cross says that without a funding plan, closures can be expected within the decade.

“Which sounds like a long time, but it is not really. When it comes to road projects, you have to design them, you have to do safety studies, you have to do traffic counts, you have to do updated environmental things. There is a lot you have to do when you plan and design and do any major rebuilding,” Cross said.

She adds that the department has already completed as much maintenance and made as many repairs as possible, and the only next step is a full rebuild. Many other bridges across the state are facing the same risk if funding is not approved soon.

Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley

Students return to school as budget uncertainty looms

Students across Metro Detroit are returning to class for the first day of school. That comes as school officials remain uncertain about how much money they will actually have to spend this year.

The Michigan House and Senate are still divided over how much funding to allocate for schools in the state budget.

Michigan’s overall education system is under scrutiny amid high absenteeism in many classrooms and low student performance in state and national testing.

Some educators also remain concerned about the Trump administration’s possible cuts in federal school funding. And some students say they worry that immigration enforcement could cause classmates to be forced to leave school.

Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter

Detroit Senior Task Force hosts free movie day

Detroit’s Senior Task Force is hosting a movie day for seniors this week. The free event will be held on Wednesday at the Bel Air Luxury Cinema starting at 10 a.m.

The first 500 people ages 55 and older will receive free entrance, popcorn, and a drink.

Film Detroit to host outreach and resource fair

The City of Detroit is hosting a Film Detroit Outreach and Resource Fair. The networking event will include food and conversations with Detroit’s film community.

Attendees can learn about film permits and local resources to access Detroit’s cable channels. The event will take place on September 10 at the community center at AB Ford Park, located at 100 Lenox in Detroit, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Looking for something fun to do this week? Metro Detroit is packed with free festivals, family activities, and cultural events — from art fairs and workshops to live music and delicious food. 

Drop-In Workshop: Doodle Art

Detroit Institute of Arts

Wednesday 8/20 – Sunday 8/24

Free with general admission

*General museum admission is FREE for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.

Many people doodle as a fun, spontaneous way to express ideas. Grab some drawing materials and see where your creativity takes you! Event time varies; check the website for details. 

Novi Taco Fest

44275 W 12 Mile Rd d134, Novi, MI 48377

Friday 8/22, Saturday 8/23 and Sunday 8/24

Tickets start at $7 online. Military free with proper ID.

Get ready for a weekend of flavor and fun at the Novi Taco Fest! Enjoy authentic Mexican-American dishes, sip refreshing margaritas, and celebrate Hispanic culture with live music and entertainment all around.

Back-to-School JAM!

Motown Museum on Rocket Plaza

Saturday 8/23

Free

The Motown Museum and Enjoy Detroit are hosting a Back to School Jam with free school supplies, live performances by local artists and Lyric Project singer-songwriters, giveaways, and family fun. Supplies are limited, so come early to enjoy the music, treats, and positive vibes to kick off the school year.

SIP and Beyond: 2025 Summer Alumni Performance

Detroit Public Theatre, 3960 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Saturday 8/23 – Sunday 8/24

Free with RSVP.

This weekend, celebrate the powerful work of Shakespeare in Prison at the Alumni Performance at Detroit Public Theatre. Experience stories of resilience, creativity, and community as former ensemble members share their voices on stage.

Hazel Park Art Fair

Green Acres Park – Hazel Park, MI

Saturday 8/23 and Sunday 8/24

Free

The Hazel Park Art Fair is back! Free and family-friendly in Green Acres Park with local art, live performances, tasty eats, and a craft beer tent. Don’t miss this celebration of creativity in Hazel Park!

The Brightmoor community in the city of Detroit has had its battles, from blight to vacant lots, the community has found a way to remain resilient through the years.

The Brightmoor Music Series began in 2019 and wasn’t an instant hit. After a few weeks of word-of-mouth testimonies from community members, there was a demand for another one the next year. 

Now, the event continues to thrive at Etheldra Mae Williams Park. Located on Burgess between Lyndon and Acacia Streets in Detroit, the once blighted 11acre grassland is now renovated and beautiful.

“Puttin on the Ritz” is a celebration of the 100th birthday of the park’s namesake, Etheldra Mae Williams.

The park will be transformed into a 1920’s speakeasy, along with classic cars and vendors.

Michael Williams is a manager of the William Park Alliance who organizes the Brightmoor Series, and Flint native songstress Pia Broden-Williams is headlining the upcoming celebration. They joined The Metro to talk more about the music series and uplifting the Brightmoor community.

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