Posted by Michael Perna on Thursday, March 27th, 2025 11:02am.
April in Metro Detroit marks the return of outdoor festivities, creative celebrations, and community traditions that showcase the best of the region’s energy and spirit. Whether you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, this is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the area's vibrant culture and explore the diverse events that make spring in the city so memorable. From large-scale neighborhood gatherings and themed seasonal festivals to immersive family outings and nostalgic experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy—no matter your age or interests. As the weather warms and the city wakes up from winter, Metro Detroiters come together to celebrate everything from local heritage and creativity to fun, food, and wellness. These uniquely Michigan events highlight the passion and pride of the region, creating the perfect backdrop for newcomers and longtime residents alike to connect with the community. If you're looking to discover what makes this area truly special, April is the month to dive in and experience the charm, character, and excitement that define life in Metro Detroit.
Hailed as “the best musical of this century” by The New York Times, The Book of Mormon lands at Detroit’s Fisher Theatre this April for a limited run that promises gut-busting laughs and boundary-pushing satire. From the creators of South Park and Avenue Q, this nine-time Tony Award-winning phenomenon spins the tale of two earnest yet hilariously unprepared missionaries sent to Uganda. With its razor-sharp wit, infectious songs, and bold sense of humor, the show strikes a perfect chord between irreverence and heart. Be warned—this is not your grandma’s musical, but it’s one unforgettable night of theater.
Bursting with energy, heart, and toe-tapping tunes, Madagascar Jr. bounds onto the stage at the Macomb Center for a wild weekend of family-friendly fun. Adapted from the hit DreamWorks film, this vibrant musical follows zoo favorites Alex, Marty, Melman, and Gloria as they embark on an unexpected adventure from Central Park to the jungles of Madagascar. With a one-hour runtime, charming costumes, and a spirited young cast, the show offers the perfect entry point for kids to experience the wonder of live theater. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the movie or simply seeking a lively weekend outing, this delightful production promises laughs, music, and a whole lot of zoo magic.
Detroit’s iconic Fox Theatre transforms into a haunted haven this April as The Addams Family musical creeps into town for a delightfully dark and hilarious run. This Broadway hit features all the beloved ghoulish characters in a fresh storyline centered on Wednesday Addams’ surprising romance with a “normal” boy—and the dinner party that spirals into eerie chaos when their families finally meet. With original music by Andrew Lippa and plenty of deadpan humor, spooky spectacle, and heartfelt moments, the show captures the quirks and charm of America’s most eccentric family. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their macabre world, this comical feast of the bizarre is not to be missed.
Step into the shinobi world like never before with Naruto: The Symphonic Experience, a breathtaking fusion of anime and orchestral grandeur. This exclusive two-hour concert pairs a sweeping live performance of Toshio Masuda’s original score with a stunning montage of over 220 episodes from the legendary series. From emotional character arcs to explosive battles, every beat is brought to life through dynamic arrangements and traditional Japanese instruments like the shakuhachi and shamisen. With sing-along moments and fan-favorite openings and endings, this immersive event invites audiences to relive Naruto Uzumaki’s journey to Hokage status in a truly unforgettable celebration of friendship, growth, and resilience.
The spirit of swing comes alive at Meadow Brook Theatre with The Rat Pack Lounge in Rochester, a musical journey steeped in nostalgia, smooth crooners, and a touch of heavenly intervention. When Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. are sent back from above to fulfill an old promise at a lounge on Earth, audiences are treated to an evening of legendary hits and vintage Vegas vibes. With songs like My Way, What Kind of Fool Am I, and Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime, this feel-good tribute weaves timeless music into a heartwarming tale of redemption, laughter, and style. It's a classy throwback to the golden era of highballs, charm, and tuxedo swagger.
Why let the kids have all the fun? Farmington Hills invites grown-ups to unleash their inner child at the Adult Flashlight Egg Hunt—a spring tradition with a grown-up twist. Held at the charming Longacre House, the night kicks off with dinner, games, and a cash bar before hunters head out into the dark, flashlight in hand, to uncover hidden eggs filled with drink tickets, prizes, and even a cash-filled golden egg. With multiple difficulty levels and a spirited, competitive vibe, it’s equal parts scavenger hunt and spring soirée. Whether you're in it to win it or just in it for the wine, this event promises laughs, surprises, and a glowing good time.
The Easter season takes flight—literally—at Canterbury Village Eggstravaganza, where eggs don’t just get hidden... they drop from the sky. Back by popular demand, this one-of-a-kind celebration features helicopter egg drops sorted by age group, allowing kids to collect up to 10 eggs and exchange them for prizes across the village’s charming shops. Beyond the thrill of the hunt, families can enjoy free lawn games, a petting zoo, festive food and drinks, live entertainment, and selfies with the Easter Bunny himself. Throw in a bustling vendor market and the return of monster truck rides, and it’s clear this springtime extravaganza is a crowd-pleaser for all ages—parents included (hello, cider and donuts).
Kick off your Easter weekend with a royal twist at the Bunny Breakfast inside Canterbury Village’s King Richard Ballroom. Families are treated to a hearty buffet of French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit, warm pastries, and a DIY parfait station—all served alongside coffee, juice, and plenty of smiles. The main attraction? The Easter Bunny himself, hopping from table to table for photos, high-fives, and unforgettable moments. With seating extremely limited and demand sky-high, early reservations are essential for this magical, memory-making morning feast.
Easter gets the full Blake’s treatment at this family-friendly celebration packed with charm, excitement, and irresistible treats. Little ones can hunt for colorful eggs, enjoy storytime, hop aboard train rides, pet fuzzy farm animals, and even catch a magic show—all nestled within the scenic setting of one of Metro Detroit’s most beloved orchards. Parents, meanwhile, might find themselves equally enchanted, especially once the cider and donuts start rolling out. With something for everyone and a signature touch of Blake’s hospitality, this is a spring tradition that makes the hour-long drive from Detroit more than worth it.
Set among the elegant grounds of the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, this Easter Bunny meet-and-greet offers a serene, storybook-style setting for springtime memories. Little ones can enjoy a relaxed visit with the Easter Bunny, spring-themed crafts, and photo opportunities with a garden-inspired backdrop—perfect for avoiding the hustle of larger events. Parents are encouraged to bring their own cameras to capture those sweet moments, all without the pressure of long lines or over-the-top fanfare. With its charming historic surroundings and peaceful vibe, this is Easter magic at its most timeless and tasteful.
Elevate your Easter celebration with an elegant waterfront brunch at the historic Ford House in Grosse Pointe. Set against the serene backdrop of Ford Cove and Lake St. Clair, this refined event offers a gourmet buffet complete with fresh pastries, vibrant fruit displays, made-to-order omelets, and golden waffles. Adults can toast the occasion at the Bubble Bar with a complimentary festive drink, while kids enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. With its luxurious ambiance and picturesque setting, this is Easter reimagined—perfect for making cherished memories over a beautifully prepared meal. Reservations are essential, as this sought-after brunch fills quickly each year.
Celebrate spring with the wildest Easter tradition in town—Bunnyville at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak. This beloved family event combines the excitement of egg hunts (including the elusive golden egg), live entertainment, Easter Bunny meet-and-greets, and “whisker painting” for a day full of joy and discovery. Guests can also experience special animal engagements and enjoy the beauty of the zoo’s natural habitats in bloom. Bring a canned good for Gleaners Community Food Bank and not only will you help support families in need—you’ll also receive a discount on admission. It’s festive, feel-good fun with a purpose.
Ann Arbor’s most whimsical night returns with FoolMoon: Rhythm & Fools, a glowing celebration of imagination, rhythm, and community. Now in its 15th year, this illuminated street festival invites the public to join a parade of homemade luminaries, light-up costumes, and makeshift percussion from one of three “Constellation Stations” around the city. At 8 PM sharp, glowing processions march toward the heart of the festivities at Washington & Ashley, where a vibrant street party unfolds with live music, art installations, and interactive performances. Surrounded by downtown favorites like Frita Batidos and Grizzly Peak Brewing Co., revelers of all ages can grab a bite, dance under the stars, and bask in a spectacle of creativity that’s uniquely Ann Arbor.
A staple of Michigan’s counterculture calendar, the Ann Arbor Monroe Street Fair – Hash Bash Festival returns for a high-spirited day of music, advocacy, and cannabis celebration. Since 2002, this free open-air event has transformed the streets near the University of Michigan campus into a vibrant hub for reform-minded fun, featuring live performances, a bustling marketplace of cannabis-related vendors, educational booths, food trucks, and nonprofit organizations. The fair coincides with the iconic Hash Bash rally on the U-M Diag, creating a full-day experience of activism and community vibes. Whether you're an industry advocate, enthusiast, or simply curious, this 21+ event offers an electrifying blend of culture, conversation, and connection—with peace, love, and plenty of green.
Raise a glass to craftsmanship at the Royal Oak Bourbon Fest 2025, an immersive tasting experience featuring over 100 whiskeys and bourbons—from classic pours to rare and high-end bottles. Held at the Royal Oak Farmers Market, this indoor festival combines fine spirits, expertly crafted cocktails, live Americana tunes from The Whiskey Charmers, and gourmet eats from local favorites like Detroit BBQ Company, La Amapola, and Maria’s Food Trucks. Whether you're sampling a smooth single barrel or sipping on something smoky and bold, there’s a flavor profile for every palate. Proceeds benefit Friends of the River, making this spirited night both indulgent and impactful.
Prepare for a parade like no other as FestiFools 2025 brings its giant papier-mâché puppets, wild costumes, and whimsical energy back to the streets of Ann Arbor. This year’s theme, RevFOOLution, invites both spectators and participants to embrace the spirit of movement, creativity, and transformation—whether through spinning, twirling puppets or bold, revolutionary designs. Created by University of Michigan students and community volunteers, the parade is a riot of color and absurdity, celebrating the playful power of public art. Arrive early to stake out a spot and soak in the full spectacle of Ann Arbor’s most joyful, weird, and wonderfully foolish tradition.
Lace up and outrun the aliens at the Martian Invasion of Races, one of Metro Detroit’s most out-of-this-world running events. Held in Dearborn’s scenic Ford Field Park, this space-themed race day features multiple distance options—5K, 10K, 13.1M, 26K, and a full 26.2M Boston-qualifying marathon—catering to runners of all levels. Themed medals, fun swag add-ons, and a festive finish-line atmosphere give this event its unique cosmic charm. With smooth, traffic-free courses and an emphasis on fun, fitness, and extraterrestrial flair, this race invites the whole community to blast off on foot and join the galactic celebration.
Big hair, neon tights, and boombox vibes—it’s all coming back at the 20th annual Bringin’ Back the 80s Fest in Frankenmuth! This epic throwback celebration honors the raddest decade with two nights of non-stop entertainment, from breakdancing showcases and retro arcade games to outrageous 80s tribute bands like SUNSET BLVD and The 1985 - Totally 80’s Mixtape LIVE. Friday is all ages, while Saturday is adults-only, guaranteeing a full-force party for those 21 and up. Alongside the fun, the festival continues its heartfelt mission of giving back, with proceeds supporting cancer-related charities—bringing the community together for a good cause and a totally tubular time.
Get ready to celebrate Opening Day like a true Detroiter at the Detroit Home Opener Festival, the city’s largest and most electrifying baseball season kickoff party. Taking over the Madison Avenue Festival Grounds—just one block from Comerica Park—this massive indoor and outdoor bash delivers wall-to-wall entertainment with two stages of live music, over 15 of Detroit’s top DJs, and headlining act Your Generation in Concert. Heated tents, video walls, and full-service bars keep the energy high from early morning to late-night, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for sports fans and partygoers alike.
Whether you're rallying for the Tigers or simply soaking in the festive spirit, the festival offers something for everyone. Enjoy mouthwatering eats from local food trucks and classic ballpark vendors, test your skills at festival games, or kick back in a lounge area with your drink of choice. For those looking to upgrade their Opening Day, VIP Cabana Packages offer exclusive perks like private seating, personal waitstaff, premium spirits, and access to luxury amenities. Even better, a portion of proceeds supports Angel’s Share, a Detroit-based nonprofit, making this high-energy celebration not only unforgettable—but impactful.
Step up to the plate for the Grand Slam Opening Day Festival 2025, Detroit’s largest Opening Day party and an all-out celebration of music, baseball, and city pride. Just one block from Comerica Park, this high-energy event transforms downtown Detroit into a daylong festival experience featuring massive heated tents, two huge beer gardens, a full-service bar lineup, and a stacked food truck selection that includes Bro’s Burger Joint, Torta Express, and Smoke, Rattle, Roll BBQ.
More than 20 of Detroit’s top DJs—including DJ Godfather, DJ Cue, and Vin Amori—will spin live throughout the day, creating a non-stop soundtrack for the festivities. Sports fans will also enjoy a live pre-game show hosted by Woodward Sports, featuring Detroit legends like Darren McCarty, Terry Foster, and Braylon Edwards. With festival games, selfie stations, massive LED screens, and an unbeatable party atmosphere, this event is the ultimate way to kick off the Tigers’ 2025 season in style.
As spring settles in and the days grow longer, April proves to be a standout month for discovering the vibrant culture and community-driven spirit that defines Southeast Michigan. Whether you're enjoying longtime traditions or exploring something new for the first time, each of these seasonal experiences offers a unique glimpse into what makes this region so dynamic and welcoming. For those living in Metro Detroit, these events offer the perfect chance to reconnect with local favorites and create fresh memories. And if you're moving to Metro Detroit, there's no better way to get a feel for the area's lively neighborhoods, diverse attractions, and strong sense of community than by diving into the month’s standout celebrations. April is just the beginning—what comes next is an exciting year of discovery, connection, and authentic Detroit living.