The Michigan Glass Project

This weekend, June 15-17, Detroit will be hosting a pretty amazing event. The Michigan Glass Project is a 3 day art event at the Eastern Market, complimented by different parties around the city on each of the nights. This event is to help unite local artists and showcase their talents, while raising money to help re-open the doors of The Belle Isle Aquarium.

The Belle Isle Aquarium was the oldest aquarium in the U.S. when it closed its doors in 2005. It was originally opened in 1904 making it a young 101 years old when it had to shut down. They currently only have 12 working tanks with fish in them. The goal of this event is to raise funds to help them replace the roof and get more tanks up and running. Someday they hope to reopen this center to the public.

The cost for the events that are part of The Michigan Glass Project is $20 for the weekend or $15 for a day pass.

This glass blowing event will feature over 100 artists giving demonstrations on 20 torches that will be set up for the artist to work on. Some of the art they create will be donated to the aquarium and other art will be auctioned off on Sunday from 4 to 5 to raise further proceeds for the aquarium. That means if you see a piece being made that you like, you could win it at the end of the weekend and take it home to enjoy for years to come!

There are lots of acts performing music and creating art in conjunction with this event. Two of Hip In Detroit's favorites, East Side Jon and Flashclash, will also be a part of this weekend. These are two acts that you don't want to miss! Here is a small rundown of the events happening this weekend. For a full list of performers and artists go to themichiganglassproject.com.

Friday June 15 (Kickoff!):
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.: Main Event Day 1 -Glass blowing demos/music/food and drinks at a renovated space in Eastern Market (2431 Orleans, Detroit)

7 p.m. - 10 p.m.: Belle Isle Aquarium Reception @ Belle Isle Park - Featuring food, drinks and Live Music with Frank Raines and East Side Jon. $25 at the door or $20 in advance.

10 p.m. - 2 a.m.: Whitney Garden Late Night Party (4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit)- Featuring music from Will Sessions and DJ Defiant. $10 at the door or $5 with a weekend wristband.

Saturday June 16th:
9 a.m. - 9 p.m.: Main Event Day 2 @ 2431 Orleans - Glass blowing demos/ food/drinks and music. $20 weekend pass or $15 day pass.

10 p.m. - 2 a.m.: Old Miami Late Night Party (3930 Cass Ave.) - Featuring music from Brad Hales, The Chiropractiers and Heady Ruxpin. $5 at the door or FREE with a weekend wristband!

Sunday June 17th:
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Main Event Day 3 @ 2431 Orleans - Glass blowing demos/ music/food/drinks. $20 weekend pass or $15 day pass

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Brunch @ 2431 Orleans 

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.: Raffle @ 2431 Orleans 

7 p.m. - 12 a.m.: Degenerate Art Event and Closing Party at The Magic Stick (4120 Woodward Ave.) - Live music with our favorites, FLASHCLASH and East Side Jon! (Do not miss this party!)


We could not think of a better way to spend the weekend! We think this event is not only going to be fun, but it will be positive for the rebirth of the city that we love!

~S