Kickoff list culled from Hour Detroit. Add your suggestions below.
60th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade
The Mexican Patriotic Committee of Metro Detroit is once again hosting this event honoring the Battle of Puebla, which was fought on May 5, 1862. The parade spans 2.4 miles and will be themed “Past, Present & Future” [[Pasado, Presente, y Futuro) as it pays tribute to the founders of the parade and their gift to the community. May 4. No cost for admission. Steps off at Patton Park and makes its way to Clark Park, Detroit; mpcdetroit.org.
88th Annual Detroit Public Schools Student Art Exhibition
This exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts recognizes exceptional work by student artists in grades K-12 through- out the Detroit Public Schools Community District. Expect a variety of mediums, including printing, painting, drawing, photography, ceramic, film, and jewelry. Now-May 25. No cost with museum admission. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit; dia.org.
Royal Oak Tequila Fest 2025
Tequila takes center stage at this festival as guests sample over 100 tequilas — including ultra-premium, liqueurs, crémes, and infusions — mezcals, margaritas, and cocktails. In addition to the drinks, food trucks will be on site to keep you satiated. Plus, live music and vendors, too. Ages 21 and up only. May 3. $34-$69. Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak; royaloaktequilafest.com.
Make the Paranormal Normal
Eloise Asylum hosts its first-ever kids’ event in honor of National Paranormal Day. The event, which aims to introduce kids to the paranormal in a safe way, includes DIY activities, hands-on learning stations, mini paranormal investigations, and a chance to learn about cryptids. May 3. $30 per child. Eloise Asylum, 30712 Michigan Ave., Westland; eloiseasylum.com.
Lingenfelter Car Collection
For one day only, see the more than 150 vehicles that make up the Lingenfelter Car Collection, which is widely known as one of the greatest car collections in the world, in support of the American Cancer Society. May 3. At-will donations accepted. The Lingerfelter Collection, 7819 Lochlin Drive, Brighton; facebook.com.
GLASS53
This all-ages show is being called the “ultimate glass art experience” and includes live glass blowing demonstrations and more than 400 pieces of glass art on display. May 3. No cost for admission. Habatat Galleries, 4400 Fernlee Ave., Royal Oak; habatat.com.
Chasing El Chavo 5K
Participants in this annual fiesta-themed race at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill earn not only bragging rights but doughnuts and cider, too. Open to runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels, the race winds through scenic orchard trails and culminates in a lively party in the farm’s Orchard Square. Registration includes a take-home pint glass and a Blake’s T-shirt. May 3. $38+. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada; blakefarms.com.
Forbidden Broadway
Originally launched by playwright Gerard Alessandrini in 1982, this evolving satirical revue features parodies of Broadway’s recent hits and old favorites, including The Outsiders, The Wiz, and The Great Gatsby. Awarded the Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre in 2006, the show is beloved and embraced even by the Broadway glitterati — despite the fact that they’re often the butt of the jokes. May 3. $49+. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Rive Blvd., Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com.
May the Fourth Be With You
The Macomb Symphony Orchestra celebrates Star Wars Day and its 50th anniversary with performances of your favorite songs from a galaxy far, far away. May 4. $12 for students, $15 for military and first responders, $25 for general admission. Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield Road, Clinton Township; macombcenter.com.
Hanami Picnic
Spring is here and you can celebrate its arrival with the Japanese tradition, Hanami, at this picnic-style gathering. There will be cultural music and food, crafts, demonstrations, and more. May 4. $10 in advance, kids under 4 are free. MSU Tollgate Farm and Education Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Road, Novi; canr.msu.edu.
Jurassic Park: The Musical
This stage show parodies the beloved 1993 film about a greedy billionaire who invites a group of scientists and his grand kids to experience his groundbreaking dinosaur theme park. When the power fails and the dinosaurs are set loose, the trip becomes a struggle to survive. Now-May 10. $30-$40. Planet Ant,2320 Caniff St., Hamtramck;Eventbrite.com.
Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Another opportunity to celebrate the art of Jewish filmmaking will take place at The J this month. The annual event showcases independent films from around the world. Now-May 11. Ticket fees apply. The J, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield Township; thejdetroit.org.
The Rat Pack Lounge
Written by James Hindman and Ray Roderick, this stage show tells the story of the original Rat Pack — Frank, Dean, and Sammy — who are up in heaven when God tells them they have some unfinished business back on Earth. Now-May 18. $39+. Meadow Brook Theatre,378 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester;mbtheatre.com.
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