(WWJ) A grand opening for a huge new park on the Detroit Riverfront, and lots of Halloween fun highlight this weekend's list of what to do around our region.
Here are some of our top picks, brought to you by WWJ's Don't Miss List with Pat Vitale.
1. Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park Grand Opening Celebration, featuring Detroit Harvest Fest
Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 25-26
1801 W. Jefferson, Detroit
The newest park on the Detroit Riverfront is being billed as the best in the USA! Be part of Detroit history with two days of FREE all-ages fun in this dynamic new public space. Visitors will experience four zones of fun across 22 acres along the beautiful Detroit River. Detroit Harvest Fest will feature a free event filled with live entertainment, fall activities, food trucks, and endless fun for all ages throughout the brand-new park, which is the final piece connecting west river front and Belle Isle. Visit the Detroit Harvest Fest website for continuing updates on the grand opening celebration.
2. Historically Haunted Detroit: Dark Side of History Bus Tour
Sunday, Oct. 26, 2:30-5:30PM (Other dates may be sold out)
The Detroit History Club
As Halloween approaches, explore Detroit with the Dark Side of History bus tours. Alongside your guide, you’ll uncover the stories that have intrigued, frightened, and fascinated Motown’s residents for generations — including the legend of the Nain Rouge, Detroit’s own “Demon of the Strait,” whose appearances are said to foretell disaster. You’ll explore a different side of the fort that dates back to before the Civil War, and learn about a newspaper tragedy that shook the city. Book this our, or check out other Detroit History bus tours offered, at detroithistorytours.com.
3. Novi Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Saturday, Oct. 25, 10AM-4PM
Novi High School
Get a jump on the holiday season! Shop wares from 200 jury-selected artists and crafters from around the area, showcasing an incredible variety of products, including home décor, hats, jewelry, handbags, doll clothes, food, artwork, woodwork, pillows, artisan soaps, candles, tumblers, quilts, towels, holiday items, and more.
Friday, Oct. 24, 7PM-10PM
Cranbrook Institute of Science
Cranbrook Institute of Science is throwing a Halloween Party for adults only. Get ready for a frighteningly good time as you explore the museum…after dark. There will be a spine-tingling lineup of activities and eerie entertainment, including a costume contest, flashlight ghost tours, a mummy relay, skeleton dance off, stargazing in the observatory, and more! Enjoy Halloween-themed bites and devilish drinks available for purchase.
Saturday, Oct. 28, 9AM-2PM
Downtown Farmington
Come all ye ghouls, goblins & ghosts to shop for the best of Michigan grown fall fresh produce and artisan delights. Dress up and dress up the kids too for trick-or-treating! Farm stands and others businesses will be passing out treats starting at noon. There will also be pumpkin carving demos, music, and more.
**Bonus!** Join the undead for one epic, synchronized dance! Thrill the World is a global dance event where people around the world perform Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” at the exact same time. Saturday night, Oct 25, it'll be at Riley Park in Downtown Farmington, starting at 6PM. Make sure you come dressed as a zombie, ghoul or other creature of the night!