Thursday, December 21, 2023

Head Dowtown for Some Winter Fun at the Monroe Street Midway

The weather outside is... surprisingly nice for this time of year! So take advantage of this mild winter that we're having and enjoy the outdoors at the Monroe Street Midway! Located adjacent to Campus Martius, this fun outdoor space has once again been transformed into a winter wonderland this year. Fun seekers of all ages can take a ride down the Arctic Slide, play a game of Puck-Putt (a hockey/mini golf hybrid), play on seesaws, swings, bumper cars, or even play their favorite arcade games! Admission to the Midway is free as are most activities, with the exception of the bumper cars that are $5 per session and the arcade games which range from $0.50- $3. In addition to the fun attractions, there are also concessions including hot chocolate, and bonfires to warm up by. 

The Monroe Street Midway has extended hours now through the end of their season, which is January 7th. Those hours are:


Mondays – Thursdays: 11AM – 8PM
Fridays – Saturdays: 11AM – 10PM
Sundays: 11AM – 8PM

Christmas Eve: 11AM – 4PM
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve & Day: 11AM – 8PM


Head downtown, take a picture in front of the Campus Martius Christmas Tree, shop the Markets at Cadillace Square, and have some fun at the Monroe Street Midway!


~C

Monday, December 18, 2023

Cold As Life, Earthmover, Koffin Kats, Mustard Plug and More Play Black Christmas 2023 (Podcast)

 

There are a few shows that have become staples in the Detroit music scene and Black Christmas tops that list! The annual event is a welcome escape from holiday festivities with your family, for a night of music, fun, and craziness with your chosen family! This year's show is somehow even bigger than year's past, with 30 bands on the bill. The headliners this time around include Cold As Life, Earthmover, Koffin Kats, and Mustard Plug. Regulars to Black Christmas probably have noticed that The Suicide Machines aren't on the list, but fret not because the guys will still be included with their side projects, J. Navarro & The Traitors, The Boreouts, and Bastardous. Some other acts that stand out on the list are Bill Kozy's Rising Force, Detroit 442, PT's Revenge, The Mizzerables, Macho, Norcos Y Horchata, and well, just about everyone on that flyer up above. 

It's all happening on Saturday, December 30th at the entire Majestic Complex, including The Magic Stick, The Garden Bowl, and The Majestic Theatre. To get all of the details about the show, we had Ramona from Black Iris Booking and Jeff from Cold As Life come by to chat about Black Christmas. Give the podcast a listen below through Soundcloud or on Spotify here.


Tickets for Black Christmas are $34.99 and can be purchased online here. As Ramona mentioned in the podcast, you can also purchase the tickets fee free at The Garden Bowl or at Edgemen Printing. All ages are welcome, doors open at 3 p.m., and the show starts at 4. So get there early and stay late! Trust us, you aren't going to want to miss anyone on this bill! Get all of the details on this year's Black Christmas here


~C

Monday, December 11, 2023

Friday, December 8, 2023

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: December 8-10

Friday, December 8th & Saturday, December 9th - Outer Limits Records Showcase - Holiday Party: Get in the Holiday Spirit at Outer Limits Lounge this weekend during the Outer Limits Holiday Record Showcase! Friday & Saturday night OLL will have shows with bands from the Outer Limits Records' Family with four bands each night for just $10. Friday night's lineup includes New Twenty Saints, Loose Koozies, Tin Foil, and Menage Detroit. Saturday night will feature Hentchmen, CC Nobody, Prude Boys, and 208. Doors open at 8 p.m. each night and the bands start at 9. 

Saturday, December 9th - Against the Grain @ Small's: We weren't sure if it would ever happen again, but Against the Grain is returning to the stage at Small's this Saturday night! The band will be playing a retrospective set, with songs spanning their whole career. Joining them for the night are Bill Kozy's Rising Force, Manic Outburst, and Pepper & The Heavy Boys. Cover is $20 and doors open at 7 p.m. A lot of tickets are already sold for this one, so there's a good chance it will sell out! So, if you don't already have tickets, make sure you get there early! 

Saturday, December 9th - Wreck the Halls @ Lager House: Join Dear Darkness and friends this Saturday night for the fifth annual Wreck The Halls at The Lager House. The evening will include music from Gusher, Werewolf Jones, Dark Red, Womb Worm, Sex Scenes, and Pet Psychic. $10 gets you in, doors open at 6 p.m. and the music starts at 7. 

Saturday, December 9th - Bear vs. Shark @ The Majestic: Saturday night is the night for good shows this weekend, and The Majestic has a doozie lined up for you! Bear vs. Shark will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of Right Now, You’re In The Best of Hands and joining them are Heads Will Roll. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance here. All ages are welcome. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the music starts at 8 p.m.


Saturday, December 9th - Creepy Cheapy Holiday Treat @ The Crofoot: If you're a fan of Creepy Cheapy, don't miss The Crofoot's holiday version of the event this Saturday night! Creepy Cheapy Holiday Treat is a holiday masquerade where holiday themed costumes are highly encouraged! The night will feature live music from The Strangers Unlimited (Throwback Holiday Hits Live (80s-00s)) and tunes from DJ Chaddy Daddy. There will also be photos with Santa, the Christmas Cookie Eating Contest of Doom, Holiday Cocktail Specials, and free Holiday Candies & Goodies. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance here. 18+ are welcome and doors open at 8 p.m.

Saturday, December 9th - Santa on the People Mover: This Saturday afternoon you have the unique opportunity to take a ride with Santa on The People Mover! The big guy himself will be riding the loop from noon - 4 p.m. and you can take a ride with him and even get a picture together for the low cost of a ride token which is just 75 cents. Before you head down to ride, check out the schedule of where he is expected to be throughout the day here



~C


Thursday, December 7, 2023

Win Tickets to See Aqua at The Fillmore Detroit

Who: Aqua

What: Performing Live at The Fillmore Detroit on Sunday, December 10th, 2023

Tickets are $50-$150 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Aqua.


~C

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Win Ticket to See Boys of Fall at The Shelter


Who: Boys of Fall w/ Shallow Truths, Plainview, and As We Divide

What: Playing The Shelter on Saturday, December 9th, 2023

Tickets are $18 and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Boys.


~C

Win Tickets to Emo Night Brooklyn at St. Andrew's Hall


Who: Emo Night Brooklyn (18+)

What: Saturday, December 9th at St. Andrew's Hall

Tickets are $18-$20 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #EmoNight.


~C

Experience the Holiday Magic at Miracle Pop-Up Bar in Detroit's Dragonfly and The Oakland in Downtown Ferndale

  

The holiday season in Detroit just got a whole lot merrier! Embracing the festive spirit, Dragonfly in Detroit and The Oakland in Ferndale have transformed into enchanting Christmas wonderlands with the arrival of the Miracle pop-up bar. This limited-time experience, running through December 30th, promises a delightful escape into a winter wonderland brimming with seasonal cheer and tantalizing drinks.

Step into a Christmas-themed paradise as both Dragonfly and The Oakland don their holiday best. The décor is a delightful blend of cozy and spirited, with twinkling lights, garlands, and charmingly adorned spaces that instantly transport you to the North Pole. The ambiance is as inviting as it gets, making it the perfect spot to revel in the holiday magic.

At the heart of this seasonal celebration are the expertly crafted drinks. The Miracle pop-up bar offers a delightful array of Christmas-themed cocktails served in the most adorable Miracle-themed mugs. Whether you're craving a classic seasonal concoction or a unique twist on a holiday favorite, their menu is sure to have something to tantalize your taste buds.

Moreover, for friends seeking the fun without the buzz, there's a thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic wine and cocktails that promise all the flavor without the kick. It's the perfect opportunity to share the joy with everyone, regardless of their drink preferences.

For those eager to join in on the holiday revelry, here are the hours and locations:

Dragonfly (2929 E. Grand Boulevard) operates from Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday, welcoming guests from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, the doors stay open a little longer, until 12 a.m.

The Oakland (201 West Nine Mile Road) invites guests Tuesday through Sunday, creating magic from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Given the popularity of this seasonal spectacle, reservations are recommended to secure your spot in this winter paradise. Whether it's a cozy evening with friends or a memorable date night, ensuring your reservation guarantees a seamless entry into the holiday joy.

Cheers to the holidays and the wonder of Miracle pop-up bar in Detroit!


~S

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Shop Local or Die 2023!

Shopping local isn't just about transactions; it's about preserving the heart and soul of our communities. Each dollar spent within our local businesses is an investment in our neighborhoods, a commitment to their growth and sustainability. It's the difference between vibrant streets teeming with unique shops and the hollowing out of cherished places. 

Beyond the economic impact, there's a magic in discovering something handcrafted or uniquely curated that evokes genuine joy in the recipient. That moment of delight when they ask, "How did you find this?" speaks volumes about the power of local discovery. Small businesses aren't just shops; they're repositories of knowledge and passion, eager to guide us to the perfect gift.

In the spirit of fostering thoughtful and meaningful connections through gifts, we've compiled a curated list of our beloved local spots in Metro Detroit. This holiday season, let's champion the local artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs who make our communities flourish. 

Join us in embracing the spirit of giving by choosing the local path. And if there's a gem we've missed, share it with us at hipindetroit@gmail.com. 

Together, let's build a thriving network of local treasures, ensuring that the gift of shopping locally continues beyond this holiday season.
Pictured here: Coup D'état

Detroit
Shop at Cadillac Square (10 local makers)

Pictured here: Cabresto Tequila at Lopez Tire

Eastern Market


Hamtramck


Ferndale
The Rust Belt (40 local makers in one spot)


Royal Oak

Pictured here: Downtown Detroit Markets at Cadillac Square

Other Cities in Metro-Detroit


~S

Friday, December 1, 2023

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: December 1-3

We already told you about Detroit Urban Craft Fair! Here are some other fun things happening this weekend! 

Friday, December 1st - Ben Sharkey Holiday Soiree @ Willis Show Bar: If you're looking to get in the holiday spirit, look no further than Willis Show bar this Friday night! Ben Sharkey will be hosting a holiday soiree where he will sing some of your favorite holiday classics the way only Ben can. Dress up and head out for a fun night on the town! 


Friday, December 1st - Flamingo Vintage Five Year Anniversary: This Friday night, Flamingo Vintage Celebrates a half a decade of existence at their Five Year Anniversary Party! It seems like Flamingo Vintage was just the cool new vintage store in town yesterday, so it's crazy to think that five years has already passed! Come out and celebrate with them this Friday night because they will be throwing an epic party at the store with music from DJ Sheefy McFly and Detroit Party Marching Band! Sheefy will also have an art pop up, and there will be pop ups from Lockhart Designs and Sewical Anxiety Clothing. Plus, Flamingo Vintage will be holding a 30% off sale all day!


Saturday, December 2nd - The Idiot Kids Chapels Album Release Party: The Idiot Kids are celebrating the release of their new LP this weekend at Outer Limits Lounge. Chapels is out now on Jett Plastic Recordings and will be available at the show on CD and vinyl. Joining The Idiot Kids for the big album release party are The Cult of Spaceskull and Carmel Liburdi & Friends. Cover is only $10 and doors open at 8 p.m. Give Chapels a listen online here



Saturday, December 2nd - Noel Night: Noel Night takes over the streets of Midtown and the Cultural Center this Saturday evening for the 49th year! During this annual event, businesses, churches, and galleries open their doors to the public for a festive night of holiday cheer. There's live music, shopping, make & take crafts for the family, art, Santa, and more. Check out the map of all of the participating venues here. Admission is free and there are also free shuttles helping you get from place to place. Noel Night goes from 5-10 p.m. in Midtown and 5-9 p.m. in the Cultural Center. Head to NoelNight.org for more details. 


Saturday, December 2nd - The Suicide Machines @ St. Andrew's Hall: Talking about time flying, somehow it has been 20 years since The Suicide Machines released their album A Match and Some Gasoline!!! This Saturday night, the band will be celebrating this anniversary with a big show at St. Andrew's Hall with their friends Frank White, Kill Lincoln, and ska legends Against All Authority! The show technically is sold out, but there are resale tickets available starting at just $35.



~C

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Coffee Down Under: A Taste of Melbourne in Detroit's Financial District

Attention, coffee aficionados of Detroit! There's a new hub brewing in the Financial District, bringing an Australian coffee experience straight to the heart of Motor City. Nestled on Shelby Street, this latest addition isn't just any coffee spot—it's a Melbourne-inspired haven crafted for coffee purists.

What sets Australian coffee apart? Let's start with size. Down Under, they believe in savoring smaller doses of espresso-based magic, served in cups ranging from 8 to 12 ounces. Contrast this with the extra large portions commonly found in American coffee shops, where 20+ ounce cups reign supreme.

But it's not just about the size; it's about the artistry behind each cup. Australian coffee culture thrives on three mainstay beverages: the Flat White, Cappuccino, and Latte. Don't be fooled by the common thread of a single espresso shot and steamed milk—each sip offers a distinctive flavor and texture, cherished by Aussies for their unique profiles.

What's the secret ingredient? Proud Mary Coffee, an award-winning Australian roaster, joins forces with this Detroit gem, ensuring each brew maintains that authentic Australian taste. 

Coffee Down Under's address is 607 Shelby St. Ste. B, Detroit, MI 4822. They are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays, extending their hours till 11 p.m. from Tuesday through Thursday, and keeping the doors open till midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

This is a great grab-and-go kinda spot although they have a few seats if you need to sit down and savor your sips. They also have a speakeasy in the back called the Shelby for those looking for something a little stronger. If your into to coffee stop in and try this spot out for yourself, our drinks were delicious!


~S


Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Win Tickets to See Cattle Decapitation at St. Andrew's Hall


What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Monday, December 4th, 2023

Tickets are $25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Decapitation.


~C

Win Tickets to See Meshuggah with In Flames and Whitechapel in Grand Rapids


What: Performing at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids on Sunday, December 3rd, 2023

Tickets are $47.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Meshuggah.


~C

Win Tickets to See Andrew McMahon with Michigander and Wildermiss


What: In The Wilderness - New Friends Tour at The Fillmore Detroit on Sunday, December 3rd, 2023

Tickets are $33.50 - $60.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Wilderness.


~C

Win Tickets to See Steel Panther at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids


What: Winter Holidaze Tour at GLC Live at 20 Monroe on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023

Tickets are $35 - $57.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Panther.


~C

Win Tickets to See Nikki Glaser at The Fillmore Detroit

Who: Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour

What: Live at The Fillmore Detroit on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023

Tickets are $34.50 -$49.50 and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #GoodGirl.


~C

Win Tickets to The Cadillac Three at St. Andrew's Hall

Who: The Cadillac Three: The Years Go Fast Tour

What: Performing Live at St. Andrew's Hall on Friday, December 1st, 2023

Tickets are $37.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Cadillac.


~C

Monday, November 27, 2023

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.


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

Win Tickets to See Imminence at St. Andrew's Hall


What: Performing Live @ St. Andrew's Hall on Wednesday, November 29th, 2023

Tickets are $25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Imminence


~C

Friday, November 24, 2023

Win Tickets to See Wolfmother at St. Andrew's Hall


What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Tickets are $29.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Wolfmother.


~C

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Shop Local at Cadillac Square this Holiday Season

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is making it easy to shop local this holiday season with the return of the Downtown Detroit Markets at Cadillac Square. Whether you're shopping for gifts or for something nice for yourself, this curated collection of over a dozen local businesses will make shopping easy and fun. This year, businesses that we were excited to see set up shop include The Brave Wimp, Speedcult, Folk, and Halie & Co. Check out the full list of participating businesses here

The shops at Cadillac Square are open Wednesday - Sunday from now through January 7th, 2024. Hours are as follows: 

Mondays & Tuesdays: Closed
Wednesdays & Thursdays: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sundays: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

While you're at the markets, be sure to make a stop at the Cadillac Lodge at the end of the strip to relax, and grab a drink or bite to eat. 

The Downtown Detroit Markets at Cadillac Square are located adjacent to Campus Martius Park off Cadillac Square between Woodward Ave. and Bates St. in Downtown Detroit. 



~C

Win Tickets to See Citizen at St. Andrew's Hall


What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Saturday, November 25, 2023

Tickets are $27 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Citizen.


~C

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

CVRSES Ferndale Reopens at WAB's Lower Level, Unveiling Unique Cocktails and Dark Ambiance

Ferndale's nightlife just got a jolt of intrigue with the return of CVRSES Ferndale to the lower level of the WAB. Operating from Wednesdays through Saturdays, 6 p.m. to Midnight, this enigmatic space promises an unconventional experience that caters to a specific niche within the city's bar scene.

At the helm of this resurgence is master mixologist Kevin Hickner, the creative genius behind a bespoke cocktail menu featuring six hand-batched specialty drinks. These libations are complemented by a carefully curated selection of six beers and ciders, four wines, and a house shot, ensuring a comprehensive drink lineup to suit varied tastes.

CVRSES Ferndale prides itself not only on its libations but also on its immersive ambiance. Catering to enthusiasts of punk, metal, rock, and goth, the bar offers a haven for those seeking an alternative setting in which to enjoy quality drinks.

The revival of CVRSES Ferndale brings forth an establishment that stands out amidst the typical bar landscape. It offers a dark and intriguing atmosphere that resonates with patrons embracing unconventional aesthetics. Whether a devoted fan of alternative genres or simply an individual seeking a distinctive night out, this locale promises an experience that deviates from the mainstream.

Step into CVRSES Ferndale at the WAB and be enveloped in a world where darkness meets creativity in mixology.

Location: 22646 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220.


~S

Monday, November 20, 2023

New Restaurant Alert: Oak Parker in Oak Park

Nestled at 13621 W. Eleven Mile Road, Oak Parker emerges as a culinary treasure trove that seamlessly intertwines age-old traditions with innovative culinary artistry, inviting both seasoned local food enthusiasts and those in search of a dining escapade unlike any other. Here, the spotlight shines brightly on pastrami, burgers, and the intriguing symphony of flavors encapsulated in the enigmatic schnitzel, promising a culinary adventure that's as distinctive as it is enticing.

For many, the term 'schnitzel' might evoke curiosity. Originating from Austria, this classic dish features thinly pounded meat coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. However, Oak Parker has added an innovative twist, offering a delightful vegan rendition alongside the traditional versions.

What sets Oak Parker apart is their unwavering commitment to sourcing ingredients locally and crafting everything in-house. From their tantalizing pastrami, smoked to perfection, to the house-made patties adorning the veggie burger, every dish is an ode to freshness and quality. 

Open from Monday to Wednesday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thursday and Friday from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Oak Parker warmly invites guests without the need for reservations. Their kitchen graciously operates until midnight.

So, whether it's the allure of a perfectly smoked pastrami, the comfort of a thoughtfully crafted burger, or the curiosity of tasting a modern spin on a classic schnitzel, Oak Parker invites you to savor their distinctive offerings. It's a place where you can have a good meal and a delicious drink that won't disappoint. 

~S