Kickoff list culled from the MetroTimes 15 things to do in Detroit this weekend list. Add your suggestions below.
Ibram X. Kendi Book Talk and CelebrationWhen: Feb. 1 from 5-7 p.m.
Where: A book talk
What: An art exhibition
Who: Ibram X. Kendi
Why: Kick off Black History Month with #1 New York Times bestselling author and scholar Ibram X. Kendi. He will discuss his adaptation of Zora Neale Hurston’s Barracoon, which gives young readers an introduction to the true-life story of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last-known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade. The event is free or $20 if you want a signed book.
Woodward Lecture Series: Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd When: Feb. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: College for Creative Studies, Wendell B. Anderson Auditorium
What: A discussion surrounding art, titled Turning Poetry into Film
Who: Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd
Why: The 2023 Kresge Eminent Artist will discuss how film and poetry converge in The Black Unicorn: Dudley Randall and the Broadside Press by illustrating how verbal imagery was transferred into cinematic language to reflect the creative complexity of a poet.
The FEL3000FT ExperienceWhen: Jan. 26 from 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Carr Center
What: An art exhibition
Who: 11 Black Detroit artists and local art lovers
Why: Support local Black artists and view a variety of unique art.
Marlon WayansWhen: Feb. 1 at 8 p.m.
Where: Sound Board
What: A stand-up comedy show
Who: Marlon Wayans
Why: Start your weekend with a laugh.
2024 Winter BlastWhen: Feb. 2-4
Where: Downtown Royal Oak
What: A free annual outdoor family
Who: You and your loved ones
Why: The free festival features outdoor activities including ice skating, a zip line, ice sculptors, live music, bonfires, food trucks, and more.
Baba’s BounceWhen: Feb. 2 from 10 p.m.-2 a.m.
Where: Big Pink
What: A DJ set of world music
Who: Sounds by Chicago-based queer Palestinian DJ Nanoos, plus QUJO and DJ KDirty
Why: Have a fun night with your friends vibing to Arabic and Afro music.
Rock the Cock OffWhen: Feb. 2 from 8 p.m.-midnight
Where: Corktown Tavern
What: Live performances
Who: Local musicians, bands, and artists
Why: Support local rock ‘n’ roll performers.
Warehouse Sale @ Woodward ThrowbacksWhen: Feb. 3 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Woodward Throwbacks
What: A big warehouse sale
Who: You and fellow shopping friends
Why: There will be antiques, vintage housewares, clothing, dining tables, and much more at affordable prices.
A Personal Experience of American ExceptionalismWhen: Feb. 3 from 1-6 p.m.
Where: Harper Galleries
What: An art exhibition opening
Who: Dr. Taft Parsons III
Why: It’s a powerful solo exhibition in honor of Black History Month.
Free screening of American HomeboyWhen: Feb. 3 from 5-9 p.m.
Where: Senate Theater
What: A screening, panel, and community art event
Who: The film’s director Brandon Loran Maxwell alongside special guest speakers
Why: To kick off Chicano History Week, which runs from Feb. 2-8.
Tim AllenWhen: Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: Fox Theatre
What: A comedy show
Who: Tim Allen
Why: See the actor live for his current stand-up tour.
Shrek Rave When: Feb. 3 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Leland City Club
What: An interestingly-themed rave
Who: You and some adventurous friends
Why: According to the event’s flier, “It’s dumb just come have fun. Who cares? Cool is dead.” Sounds cool.
Barcade Family Day! When: Feb. 4 from noon-5 p.m.
Where: Barcade
What: An all-ages fun day
Who: You and your kids
Why: If you enjoy this local bar arcade, but wish you could bring your kids along, here’s your chance! The event is now happening on the first Sunday of every month. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Imbolc Community Creation SessionWhen: Feb. 4 from 4-8 p.m.
Where: 27th Letter Books
What: A community jam session
Who: Hosted by King Sophia
Why: Bring your voice or instrument and join the house band, or just chill and listen.
