Detroit River Days Returns to Detroit this Weekend

Detroit River Days is returning to the Detroit River Front this weekend for the 12th year in a row. The festival was started in 2007 and its purpose is to celebrate the continuously improving Detroit River Front. Their goal is to get people who wouldn't normally come down to the city to come down for the day/weekend and give it a chance. In order to get everyone's attention, they have put together a fun filled three day event that includes live music, a kids zone, yoga on the river, zip lines, an air show, a motorcycle bike night, river boat tours, a food court, sand sculptures, and a jet ski championship. Basically, there is a little something for everyone. Musical headliners include Kool & the Gang and Morris Day & the Time, but there will be lots of great local acts too, including Brother Son, Roots Vibrations and The Reefermen.

The three day festival kicks off on Friday and is free from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. and then it is a $3 admission fee for anyone from 3 until 65 years of age. This does not include the cost of carnival rides, which range from $1.50 to $2.50 a piece. The event will take place from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. all three days and each day will require a different wristband. Dogs are welcome to attend, but they must be on a leash. No outside food, drinks, chairs, or large backpacks will be permitted inside the festival, but there is a food court where attendees can enjoy some bites. Click here for a guide to parking and make your trip down to the city even more enjoyable!

~S

Dequindre Cut Community Clean Up

The Dequindre Cut is one of Detroit's most popular outdoor green trails. The trail was built on an old Grand Trunk Western Railroad line that was originally built in the 1930s. The line was used by passengers until the '80s and for transport into the turn of the century. These days it is a popular place to go for a run or a bike ride, and it's a great place to see some of Detroit's unique graffiti. Spring is right around the corner and all of us are ready to take advantage of the trail, but this winter was rough, windy and rainy and the old trial needs a little love before it can be fully enjoyed this summer.

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is urging everyone to sign up to come clean up the trail this Saturday, April 1st. They are asking everyone who is willing to help to visit this website to sign up for the clean up. Then they would like you to meet them to check-in at the Dequindre Cut entrances at Woodbridge, Gratiot and Wilkins Street for registration and directions. The clean up will take place from noon till 4 p.m. this Saturday and all that can help are welcome to help for whatever amount of time they are able to give!

The conservancy will provide garbage bags, gloves,and light snacks to help you do your part to clean up the trail for all of us to enjoy. To learn more about the cleanup and to get updates on the event visit the event invite on Facebook here.

~S

Exploring the Dequindre Cut

Photo Credit: Camera Jesus

Looking for a bit of nature in the city? Check out the Dequindre Cut Greenway, better known as the Dequindre Cut. The 1.35 mile paved path features a juxtaposition of graffiti murals and mature perennials for a scenic Sunday stroll, or an inspiring workout. For those weekend warriors who want to double down on their fitness, the trail offers a Fit Park, donated by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Bicycles are also available for rent at Wheelhouse Detroit’s Riverfront Location.

According to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, the Dequindre Cut used to be a Grand Trunk Railroad line. The sub level trail gives guests a unique view of the city, with plenty of park benches and green space to take it all in. Check out some of the events listed below to explore the Dequindre Cut with likeminded urban adventurers.

The Details
Commuting to the Dequindre Cut? Park for free in the Rivard Plaza lot and follow the Dequindre Trail Extension. For more information, including a map, visit the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.

Hank and Jon on the Dequindre Trail Extension
Photo Credit: KT

Upcoming Events

Sunday, July 19th- Pack Walk with Canine to Five
Bring your dog, comfy shoes, and lots of water! The RiverFront Canine Club walks either the Dequindre Cut or the RiverWalk toward Joe Louis Arena. See Canine to Five’s Facebook page or the Meetup App for more details on this regularly occurring event.

Thursday, August 20th- Soiree on the Greenway
Riviere28 describes itself as the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s “young and active professionals auxiliary.” The group’s event will feature local art, food trucks, and live entertainment to raise money for the Conservancy. Ticket information will be posted on the Riviere28 Facebook page.

~KT