10 Things to Do in Metro Detroit this Weekend (Sept. 21-23)

Here’s where to spend the first official weekend of fall
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Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel: Comedian Tracy Morgan is best known for NBC’s 30 Rock, and for his stand-up special on Netflix, Staying Alive. Morgan received a well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2018. Sept. 21. $40+. 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-309-4700; soundboarddetroit.com

2018 Michigan China Festival: The Midwest’s biggest Chinese-themed festival will feature authentic street vendors, live music, raffle drawings, charitable activities, and speeches by people in the community, like Wayne County Executive Warren Evans. Souvenirs and T-shirts will be sold, and profits will benefit Detroit education. Sept. 22. $5+. Downtown Detroit; detroitchinatownllc.com

Brews, BBQ, and Bourbon 2018: Cold brews, barbecue dishes, smooth bourbon, games, and music are staples at this weekend-long Motor City festival. Expect to see performances by classical and jazz artist Bobby McManus, soul artist Alise King, and three-piece blues rock band The Muggs. Sept. 21-23. No cost. Detroit; brewsbbqbourbon.com

DIY Street Fair: Returning for its 11th year, the DIY-focused event will feature work by local makers, nearly 25 bands, and a diverse selection of food from various local and national eateries. Sept. 21-23. No cost. Woodward Avenue and East Troy St., Ferndale; ferndalediy.com 

The Ark’s 22nd Annual Fall Fundraiser: Spend the evening with The Taj Mahal Trio as The Ark raises money to continue providing the community with folk and roots music. A silent auction and afterglow dessert reception will also take place. Platinum, gold, and silver-level ticket holders can enjoy a buffet dinner provided by Zingerman’s Roadhouse. Sept. 23. $75+. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800; theark.org

Zoo Brew: Beer lovers can sample 12 Michigan craft beers while enjoying live music and the Detroit Zoo’s habitats. VIP tickets include perks like unlimited food, access to an exclusive lounge, additional beer samples, and a commemorative gift. Sept. 21. $45+. Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; 248-541-5717; detroitzoo.org

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: Detroit’s award-winning African-American history museum is celebrating 100 years of the life of Dr. Charles H. Wright with the A Man of Our Time: The Quiet Warrior fundraiser event. Sept. 22. $100. 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit; 313-494-5800; thewright.org

J. Cole: The “No Role Modelz” singer will be performing songs from his latest album, KOD, during his 34-date tour. Rapper Young Thug will accompany him. Sept 21. $49.50+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-471-7000; 313presents.com

The The: Debuting in 1981 with the album Burning Blue Soul, the English punk band has paved their way through the music industry with songs like “This Is the Day,” “Uncertain Smile,” “Love is Stronger Than Death,” and “The Beat Generation.” Sept. 21. $49.50+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-399-2980; royaloakmusictheatre.com

Murals in the Market: Named one of Smithsonian’s “Top 5 Mural Festivals in the World,” Murals in the Market showcases live paintings from local and international muralists, artist talks, lectures, and more. Through Sept. 22. No cost. Eastern Market, 2934 Russell St., Detroit; muralsinthemarket.com


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