Our Picks For the Hottest Events This 'Boo-tiful' Weekend
There's more to Halloween weekend than just trick-or treating. Don't believe us? Check out this list of fantastic things going on in Metro Detroit. No boos: All are sure to get rave reviews. - Christy Strawser
1. Free candy
Not into trick-or-treating on the streets? The University of Detroit Mercy is hosting its 22nd annual Safety Street Trick or treat at 4 p.m. Friday in the Student Center Fountain Lounge on the McNichols campus. Free candy for everyone, and no worries about the weather.
2. Free candy redux
Bring little ghosts and goblins to the Royal Oak Library on 11 Mile Road, just off Main Street, where visitors will have a "merry, not scary time" with Halloween games, crafts and activities from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday. Call 248-246-3725 to register.
3. Run of the Dead
An interesting road race happens at 9 a.m. Saturday in southwest Detroit with the "Run of the Dead. The 5K and 10K races will head through historic Holy Cross Cemetery. Not only that: Participants are urged to dress in costume. Awards will be given for best day of the dead costumes (whatever that may mean to you.) Runners are also encouraged to wear ribbons in honor of their deceased loved ones.The race begins at Patton Park Recreation Center. Register here.
4. Books Festival
The Michigan International Books Festival will showcase authors from Detroit, Michigan and across the country this weekend. It happens Friday through Sunday at Laurel Park Place Mall in Livonia. The three-day event is free and the public is invited. Celebrity readers include former Governor Jennifer Granholm.
5.Orchestra Hall
A concert called "Thrills and Chills" will happen at 11 a.m. Saturday at Orchestra Hall. It's something to enjoy with -- or without -- the kids. Everyone is invited to come in concert to hear great Halloween-style music. It's fun and free! Get details here.
6. Treats in the Streets
A fun Halloween tradition happens noon to 3 p.m. Sunday at the Detroit Historical Museum with the 10th annual "Treats in the Streets" event for kids 5-12 years old. Youngsters can trick or treat at the museum, decorate a pumpkin, and enjoy live entertainment and refreshments. Free admission is offered for kids 12 and under who show up in costume. Get details here.
7. Halloween Pet Adoption
The Michigan Humane Society is holding a special Halloween Pet Adoption 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday in West Bloomfield.
Up for adoption are dogs, cats and chinchilla, among other things. It happens at the West Bloomfield PetSmart location at 7260 Orchard Lake Road.
8. Creepy Cheapy Halloween Treat IV
Crofoot Ballroom at 1 South Saginaw in Pontiac is hosting this party starting at 7 p.m. Friday -- and it only costs $5.
For the fourth year musicians of Metro-Detroit have banded together to produce the ultimate musical masquerade, with each of the more than 15 bands performing full-on costumed covers of the greatest bands of all times.
The night will be full of unique twists and devilish treats, as more than 15 bands and DJs pay homage to their heroes on three of the Crofoot's stages. The night will feature a candy eating contest, costume contest, free candy, and surprises galore. Get more information here.
