Hey friends, Jer here.
We're doing a new thing on the first of the month, highlighting a list of what we think are the most interesting events around Metro Detroit.
Not only are we sending it in our newsletter, we're having fun talking about it on our daily podcast. [ Apple Podcasts | Spotify ]
Since it's April in the D, I can't but help but think of the music video skit on Detroiters from the comic geniuses that are Tim Robinson and Sam Richardson.
If you've got an event for consideration for next month, get in touch.
Let's get into the fun!
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What to do this April 2025
The House of Faygo is coming to downtown Detroit — specifically, 1001 Woodward, across from Campus Martius. [Website]
This pop-up (hehe) is in sync with their launch of two new flavors. Super Pop, a take on a popular Michigan ice cream; and Bubble Pop... think bubble gum with vanilla and subtle fruit.
Both flavors are at Meijer now, but I haven't tried them (yet!)
The House of Faygo runs from Friday, April 4th to Sunday the 6th.
The company says there will be an "over-the-top, vibrant photo experience inspired by the flavor launch," a tasting bar, exclusive merch, and jit dancers.
The hours are 5p-7p on Friday, and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday.
p.s. - I put the commercial above, but note that 1001 Woodward is NOT a house but a skyscraper downtown.
The Michigan Panthers home opener is April 4th at Ford Field against the Birmingham Stallions. If you're in need of even more football, or are looking for family-friendly game on a budget, check them out. [Tickets]
There are also home games on the 13th against the San Antonio Brahmas and 18th versus the Memphis Showboats.
The 23rd annual Greek Independence Day Parade is coming up on Sunday, April 6th at 3p in Greektown. [Website]
There's a new route this year - it'll start at Lafayette Street and go up Beaubien Street (right under the People Mover).
The best spot to watch is along Beaubien Street. Get there around 2:30p to grab a good viewing spot. You'll see some cool stuff like traditional Greek dancers, the actual Presidential Guard of Greece in their historic uniforms, and even some Detroit sports mascots!
After the parade (around 4pm), stick around for more dancing, music, and a street festival. Make a whole day of it and grab some amazing Greek food at one of the local restaurants, enjoy the performances, and soak in the culture!
It's free to go and family-friendly.
On Sunday the 13th are a pair of free tours of the Detroit Public Library Main Branch.
They start at 1:30p and 3:30p. The pair of hour and a half tours are of one of the most beautiful buildings in the city that I don’t think gets enough shine. That place is gorgeous. Architecture. Murals. All kinds of collections.
A little history. The money for the main branch was donated by Andrew Carnegie - the steel magnate - in 1910. But the main building opened in 1921, significantly delayed because of WWI, and the wings opened in the early 1960s.
Have you ever done yoga with puppies? Puppy Yoga Detroit in Ferndale is on Sunday, april 13th at 4p. Tickets at $35, and space is limited. [Tickets, $35]
I don't think I need to explain more. It's at a studio tucked just east of the railroad tracks and south of 696.
On Saturday, April 18 from 2p to 3:30p the Troy Public Library is doing “Saturday Stitches,” their monthly crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts drop in work time. All skill levels welcome and bring your own stuff. No registration required. [Website]
The Detroit Riverfront folks are doing their spring cleaning of the Dequindre Cut on Saturday, April 19. [Eventbrite]
If you don't know, now you know: Set in an old railroad bed, the Dequindre Cut is one of the most amazing biking and walking routes in Detroit.
You can show up anytime between 10a and 1p and stay as long or short as you want and lend a hand.
Just head to any of these entrances to the Dequindre Cut: Woodbridge, Lafayette, Gratiot, or Wilkins. They'll have tables set up where you can check in and grab supplies.
Just remember to dress for whatever the weather is doing that day, and if you've got work gloves at home, bring them along.
Independent Book Store Day is on April 26. And the thing is, there's so many good places to patronize. 27th Letter Books. Van Dyke. Book Beat. Source. Coreander's. Pages has new ownership over on the west side. And many more.
So I feel bad picking just one thing, but I’m gonna highlight what Sidetrack is doing in Downtown Royal Oak. They’re doing Sidetrack After Hours, a literary-themed party from 7p-9p. [Eventbrite, $25]
They say to enjoy book-inspired beverages, exclusive discounts, and a Bookseller Blitz with a chance to win a Sidetrack Giveaway Bag. Mingle with fellow book lovers in a dazzling, after-hours setting. Cocktail attire is encouraged!
One more thing...
Watching the news, if Metro Detroit native Keegan-Michael Key doesn't get tapped to play Senator Cory Booker on SNL this weekend, I'll be beside myself. His Obama Anger Translator character has a ton of physical resemblance to Booker. Maybe there needs to be a reprise?
That's it for now. I know, there's a lot going on — but I hope this list of fun things to do around town brought a smile to your face. There will probably be a few editions of the newsletter this week, so I wanted to get this out sooner than later.
Remember that you are somebody,
-Jer
p.s. People were mad I didn't include a music track! I won't forget you.
I did in fact write this newsletter to this, but the track isn't Detroit-related (to my knowledge). The guitar riff of Float On is permanently infused into the hearts of many people around my age and is a reminder to keep perspective and we'll get through this.
By request, I'll start a Spotify playlist with our song picks. I'll do that sometime this week, hopefully.
p.p.s. - This is a helluva read in the New York Times about the Gen X career meltdown in the workforce (Gift Link). I see so many of my friends in this position. Honestly, I don't know where I'd be at if I didn't work for myself.
