6 Things to Do This Weekend (May 21-23)

From local art and techno music to drink events and a boating festival, this weekend offers a myriad of experiences
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The Los Trompos installation is in Detroit’s Beacon Park for one more weekend. // Photograph courtesy of DTE Energy

Reno Collier

In 2004, Reno Collier embarked on the Tour of America, opening for Larry the Cable Guy on stages across the nation. Following the tour’s success, Collier was invited to tape his own half-hour special for Comedy Central. He has since appeared on television programs such as NBC’s Late Friday, The Martin Short Show, and TBS’s Blue Collar Comedy: The Next Generation. Collier has also racked up a number of film credits over the years, including for 2008’s Witless Protection and 2014’s Jingle All the Way 2. This weekend, Collier will grace the stage at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, joined by fellow comedians Pat Sievert and Sal Demilio. $10+. Through May 22. Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, 310 S. Troy St., Royal Oak; comedycastle.com 

Los Trompos

This weekend is your last chance to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Los Trompos in Beacon Park. Spanish for “spinning tops,” Los Trompos are a collection of eight supersized, three-dimensional, sculptures modeled after the traditional Mexican toy. But it’s not just their appearance that mimics the trinkets for which they were named.  Award-winning artists Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena designed the tops to be interactive. Guests can spin the dynamic works to watch the installation come to life in a cultural celebration that combines art, Mexican heritage, and fun. No cost. Through May 23. Beacon Park, 1901 Grand River Ave, Detroit; empoweringmichigan.com

World Expo of Beer

Frankenmuth’s annual World Expo of Beer is the largest beer sampling event in the state. Guests at this year’s affair will have their pick of nearly 300 brews from around the world, served out of three outdoor “beer pods.” In addition to admission, ticket holders will receive six sampling tickets and a complimentary souvenir mug. Proceeds will be dispersed among dozens of nonprofit organizations. $50. May 21 and 22. Heritage Park, 601 Weiss St., Frankenmuth; frankenmuth.org

Great Lakes Boating Festival
Head to the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club this weekend for the Great Lakes Boating Festival. // Photograph courtesy of Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Shake-n-Sip Cocktail Class

Learn to mix like a pro with iBartend’s cocktail classes. Upon arriving, — after filling out your COVID-19 screening questionnaire, of course — you’ll be offered a complimentary glass of Champagne and escorted to your party’s personal bar station, stocked with all the tools and ingredients you’ll need to make a variety of craft cocktails. You’ll learn pouring, mixing, and shaking techniques straight from a certified bartender. But the best is yet to come. After mastering each cocktail, you’ll enjoy your creation with an assortment of appetizers and hors d’oeuvres. $74. May 21 and 22. iBartend Downtown Detroit, 607 Shelby St., Detroit; ibartend.info

Great Lakes Boating Festival

Enjoy the first taste of summer weather on the docks this weekend at the 32nd annual Great Lakes Boating Festival. As you soak up the sun, you’ll also get a peek at the latest yachts on the market as well as other maritime products and services. Additional attractions include stadium sailing, a vintage boats display, and the Grosse Pointe Art Fair — plus food and live music. Hosted by the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, proceeds from this local tradition will support the Grosse Pointe Youth Nautical Education Foundation in its mission to promote amateur sailing. No cost. May 21-23. Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, 788 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores; greatlakesboatingfestival.com 

Still Loading Art and Music Festival

Still Loading will host live painting and techno, tech-house, and deep house performances on stages designed by local artists. Acts include local creatives like Justin Cinquemani, Danny Pachman, and Nick Mahaffey. The festival will feature accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including an LED wall, entry-point ramps, drop-off sections, and an ADA platform to elevate those with walking aids and other mobility limitations. No cost. May. 22 and 23. Beacon Park, 1901 Grand River Ave., Detroit; stillloadingmusicfestival.com