Discover the Uniqueness: 5 Reasons to Explore the Detroit Urban Craft Fair at the Masonic Temple

Photos By: Doug Coombe Courtesy of Handmade Detroit 

Detroit is a city pulsating with creativity, and one event that captures this spirit vibrantly is the Detroit Urban Craft Fair (DUCF). Set against the grand backdrop of the Masonic Temple, this December 2nd and 3rd, the fair promises an unparalleled experience for craft enthusiasts, explorers of unique finds, and families seeking a day of artisanal delights.

Poster By: Jason Abraham Smith 

Here are five compelling reasons why you shouldn't miss DUCF2023:

1. Curation at Its Finest
The DUCF isn't just another craft fair; it's a meticulously curated haven. With hundreds applying, only a select 120 artisans make the cut. Expect diversity in crafts, ensuring there's something to catch the eye and steal the heart of every visitor. From handcrafted jewelry to bespoke home decor, the variety astounds, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.

2. Early Birds Catch the Gift Bags
Arriving early holds a special treat! The first 25-50 attendees each day will snag an exclusive gift bag. Imagine starting your day with surprises curated by these talented makers, setting the tone for a day of discovery and delight.

3. Discover Unparalleled Finds
Ever gifted something so unique it elicits the question, "Where did you find this?" DUCF is precisely where those treasures await. It's the spot to uncover one-of-a-kind gems that speak volumes without words, perfect for those seeking gifts that leave lasting impressions.

4. Crafts Galore for All Ages
Families, take note! The fair isn't just for adults. Embrace the afternoon with free kids' crafts by AR Workshop and engaging activities for all ages curated by POST Detroit. It's an opportunity for creativity to flow freely, fostering a love for craftsmanship in the young and the young at heart.

5. Savor the Experience
Shopping can work up an appetite or a thirst for some caffeine. Fear not! Indulge in delights from local favorites like Gooseneck Coffee, Delectabowl for scrumptious bites, or even a crafted cocktail from the Masonic Temple itself. Sip, savor, and continue your journey through the fair.

When and Where to Immerse Yourself:

Dates:
Saturday, December 2nd, 2023: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 3rd, 2023: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location:
Masonic Temple
500 Temple Street, Detroit, MI 48201

Admission:
Saturday: $5
Sunday: $3
Children 12 and under: Free after 1 p.m.

Special Events:
Free Kid Crafty Corner with AR Workshop: 1-5 p.m.
Free Crafting for All Ages with POST: 2-4 p.m.

The Detroit Urban Craft Fair promises a weekend filled with creativity, unique discoveries, and an atmosphere pulsating with the heart of Detroit's artisanal community. Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

~S

Hip In Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: July 7-9

Friday, July 7th - Sunday, July 9th - Lager/Brooklyn Summer Music Fest - Benefit for Girls Rock Detroit: The folks behind the Corktown Music Festival are putting on another fest this Friday through Sunday! The event will feature close to 100 bands playing at Lager House and 2000 Brooklyn. Cover is $20 for the whole weekend or $10 a day. Check out the full lineup here. Proceeds from the event go towards Girls Rock Detroit. 

Friday, July 7th - Sunday, July 9th - PUG Fest: The Pleasant Underground brings PUG Fest (aka DIY Burning Man) to The Sanctuary, The Crofoot, Gate Keeper Games, and The Loving Touch this weekend! Tickets are $15 for Friday, $50 for Saturday, and $15 per venue on Sunday. Get your tickets here. 

Saturday, July 8th - Leni Sinclair & Doug Coombe 'Decades' Photo Show @ Edo Ramen: Leni Sinclair and Doug Coombe have been documenting music in Detroit through for decades. This Saturday night, their photos will take you on a journey through Detroit's music scene from the 1960s to the 2000s. The show will be on display at Edo Ramen in Royal Oak. The evening starts at 6 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m. and Marcie Bolen will be supplying the soundtrack.

Sunday, July 9th - 5th Annual Detroit Kite Festival @ Belle Isle: Let's go fly a kite this Sunday afternoon at the 5th Annual Detroit Kite Festival! Bring your own kite or purchase one on site and enjoy this relaxing and fun past time. There will also be food, drinks, music, and more. Whether you come to fly or just to watch, this is a super fun and magical event. 

~C

GIG: The Art of Michigan Music

There are lots of pieces that have to come together to produce a great show, it takes a lot more than talented musician to make musical magic. To have successful events you need cool venues with good owners and good sound systems and lighting. You need good sound person to run the board, designers to create the posters and artwork to promote the show, promoters to get the word out, bartenders to serve up the drinks, and photographers to capture the memories and preserve them. Believe us, this is just the tip of the iceberg, when it comes to the Detroit music scene it takes a village. Luckily, we have some of the most talented bands, promoters, booking companies, designers, and photographers in the business. This Friday’s art show at The Ann Arbor Art Center will spotlight some of the most talented people in the business

Life in Michigan has brought together 20 local artists, including Doug Coombe, Mark Armanski, and Jeremy Wheeler for the show. The opening will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. this Friday and the show will run through January 30th. There will be music and a lot of the artists in the show will be there for you to talk to and meet. This is a cool opportunity to see the art that is inspired by the music that we all love. It’s also a chance to celebrate some of the key people that make our Detroit music scene so special

~S