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10 things to do this weekend in Metro Detroit

Events for weekend of January 12-15

Detroit Lions fans hold third down placards as the Denver Broncos line up during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/David Dermer) (David Dermer, Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

DETROIT – Do you feel that buzz? There’s a rumble at Ford Field for its historic first NFL playoff. Plus, where you can celebrate the legacy of MLK Jr.

10 things to do this weekend in Metro Detroit

Farmington Hills Public Art Program Opening Reception (Farmington Hills City Hall), Friday 7 to 9 p.m.: In honor of the newest installment of the Public Art Program, celebrate the works of the 65 artists from Farmington and Farmington Hills whose art will be on display for the next two years. Pieces include clay, metal, fiber, paint and photography. Meet the artists themselves and enjoy live music, appetizers and opening remarks by mayor Theresa Rich. Admission is free. More info here.

Detroit WinterFest (Kemeny Recreation Center), Saturday 1 to 5 p.m.: The weather outside is frightful, but head to the Kemeny Rec Center for family fun that’s delightful. Inside, you’ll find a Frozen Forest where you can take pictures with Anna, Elsa and Olaf. Find the build-a-bear station, face painting, ceramics making and more. You can also test your luck at the Wintercade with laser tag, virtual roller coasters, inflatables and battle archery. DJ Rocwithmoe will provide the beats, while food trucks and vendors will be available. Admission is free. More info here.

Mitten Vintage Night Market (Royal Oak Farmers Market), Saturday 5 to 10 p.m.: If you’re on the hunt for difficult-to-find vintage and rare pieces, look no further than Michigan’s premiere vintage market. Here you’ll find over 70 vendors from Michigan in all styles, including sneakers. Admission is free. $10 early bird is available to get a head start on shopping. More info here.

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. (The Henry Ford), Saturday to Monday: Get inspired by the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a free day of admission to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (Monday only). Inside you can find “With Liberty and Justice for All,” a featured exhibit that explores the evolution of American freedom. The event coincides with the final weekend of Mandela: The Official Exhibition. A schedule of special events can be found throughout the weekend including an original play called The Beginnings of the Boycott, performances of The Queen of Gospel: Music of Mahalia Jackson and more. More information and schedule of events here.

Ultimate Fishing Show (Suburban Collection Showplace), through Sunday: From rods to bait, and even boats, find everything you need for your next fishing trip under one roof. Touting itself as the largest fishing market in the country, the annual convention is home to hundreds of specialty booths. It’s your chance to meet representatives from popular resorts, lodges, charters and guides. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children. Open 12 to 8 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. More information and tickets here.

Lions vs. Los Angeles Rams (Ford Field), Sunday 8 p.m.: It’s the game many are calling the “Detroit Super Bowl” when Ford Field hosts its first NFL playoff game. Matthew Stafford returns to Ford Field for the first time since joining the Rams in a head-to-head battle with Jared Goff. If you can’t be there in person (especially since it’s the most expensive NFL playoff ticket this weekend), don’t worry, you can also watch the game on Local 4 starting at 6:30 p.m. Get tickets here.

MLK Day at The Wright (Charles H. Wright Museum), Monday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Every year, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History honors the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a packed schedule of events including the annual prayer breakfast, several educational and family-friendly workshops, a feature film and an inspiring keynote by Jeanelle Austin, the Executive Director of the George Floyd Global Memorial. Free for members and children 17 and under. $15 for adults. More info and tickets here.

Madonna (Little Caesars Arena), Monday 8:30 p.m.: The Queen of Pop is making her grand homecoming with “The Celebration Tour.” The Material Girl is celebrating her decades-long career with over 30 of her biggest hits including “Vogue,” “Ray of Light,” “Holiday” and so much more. Joining her on the world tour will be winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Bob the Drag Queen. Get tickets here.

Winter at Valade Park, ongoing: Spend some time this weekend at the award-winning Detroit Riverfront when Valade Park transforms into a winter wonderland. You’ll find oversized fires, winter games, sleds, s’mores, games, hot seasonal drinks, food and more. Take part in Fireside Fridays and Self Care Sundays. Admission is free. More info here.

The Rink at Campus Martius, ongoing: Tie up those laces for some laps around the downtown skating rink. Bring your own skates or pick some up for rent. It’s the last weekend to glide by the giant Christmas tree on top of the fountain. The Rink is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for children. Rentals are $6. More info here.

Find more events with our Live Guide calendar here.