Monday, April 28, 2025

A New Gem in Downtown Ferndale: Nine Kitchen & Bar

A brand new hotspot is opening its doors in downtown Ferndale this Tuesday, April 29, 2025! Nine Kitchen & Bar, a sophisticated new American bistro, is taking over the space that was once Brooks Brewing, and the transformation is absolutely stunning. We had the chance to check out a sneak peek last week, and we were completely blown away by both the gorgeous decor and the mouthwatering food.

The owners have completely reimagined the interior, bringing a fresh, modern, and luxurious look to the space. Plush booths, sleek lighting, and elegant wallpaper set the tone, while a central bar with comfortable chairs invites you to relax and unwind. But despite the contemporary updates, Nine still manages to honor the building’s history. The beautiful garage door windows at the front remain, providing an airy vibe that connects the space to its roots.

Adding a unique touch to the atmosphere are subtle nods to classic Hollywood, with portraits of icons like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra on the walls. It’s the perfect blend of modern luxury and vintage charm that makes Nine feel special and welcoming.

Now, let’s talk about the food, because it’s definitely worth mentioning. We couldn’t stop talking about the vegan carrot tacos, which are packed with flavor and topped with a tangy vegan dill sauce. The spicy Greek feta dip is another standout, offering a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. And the fried Oreos? You’ll be dreaming about those crispy bites long after your visit. But we have to mention the fries—without a doubt, some of the best fries around. Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned, they’re the kind of fries that elevate any meal.

But it’s not just about the food—Nine’s drink menu is equally impressive. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail, a refreshing mocktail, or an interesting wine selection, there’s something for everyone. The prices are surprisingly reasonable for such a chic spot, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent value for the experience.

For those who love a good happy hour, Nine’s got you covered. From 4-6:30 PM Tuesday through Friday, you can enjoy small plates like tacos, flatbreads, and wings for just $9, with drink specials to match. Whether you’re unwinding after work or gearing up for a night out, Nine is the perfect place to gather with friends or enjoy a cozy date night.

This addition to downtown Ferndale is exactly what the area needed—an upscale yet approachable spot with great food, great drinks, and a vibe that’ll make you want to return again and again. We’re confident Nine Kitchen & Bar will quickly become a local favorite.

Be sure to swing by when they open on April 29, 2025—you won’t regret it!


~S

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Win Tickets to See Magnolia Park @ St. Andrew's Hall


Who: Magnolia Park w/ Hot Milk, Savage Hands, and South Arcade

What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Thursday, May 1st, 2025

Tickets are $35.25 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 #park


~C

Friday, April 25, 2025

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: April 25th - 27th, 2025

Friday, April 25th & Saturday, April 26th - Star Wars @ Redford Theatre: Kick off your May the 4th celebration early by watching Star Wars (A New Hope) a the historic Redford Theatre this weekend! The 1977 classic that started it all will be showing on Friday, April 25th at 8 PM and Saturday, April 26th at 2 PM. Tickets are only $7 and can be purchased in advance here

Friday, April 25th & Saturday, April 26th - Corktown Music Festival: The Corktown Music Festival kicked off Thursday night and continues this Friday and Saturday! Nine venues throughout the Corktown neighborhood are participating in the fest, with over 150 bands playing over the three nights. Some of the highlights include No Vision at Flamingo Vintage on Friday night, Ryan Allen, Big Life, and The Hourlies at Lager House on Friday, Black Swan Dive Bomb and The Ghouls at Flamingo Vintage on Saturday, and Permanently Pissed and The Lowcocks on Saturday at the Lager House. There are a ton of other great bands playing too! Tickets are $15 a day or $25 for the weekend. Get yours and check out the full schedule here

Friday, April 25th - Opening Night @ The House of Tarot: An immersive art installation is taking over Building 7 of the Herman Kiefer Complex in Detroit starting this weekend! The House of Tarot features 22 artists, each offering a unique representation of one of the 22 Major Arcana Tarot cards. Opening night for the installation is this Friday, from 5:30 PM - midnight. Tickets are $22.85 and can be purchased here. After the opening, hours are Thursday - Sunday, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM from April 26 - May 10. 

Saturday, April 26th - Detroit X Detroit @ The Loving Touch: Check out some of Detroit's greatest musicians playing as some of Detroit's other greatest musicians, while supporting the next generation of Detroit musicians, at Detroit X Detroit. (Did you get all of that???) Now in it's 13th year, Detroit X Detroit features independent Detroit-based artists playing 3-song sets covering OTHER Detroit-based artists who inspire them. The show will take place across 2 stages at The Loving Touch, with 15 acts on the bill. Cover is a $10 donation, with proceeds going to a scholarship at School of Rock. Doors open at 7 PM and all ages are welcome.
 

Saturday, April 26th - Big Pink Rodeo: Put on pink and head to Big Pink this Saturday night for Pink Rodeo! It's Beyonce night with music from PROBLEMATICBLACKHOTTIE! 21+ are welcome and admission is free as long as you wear pink! Get your free tickets here. The party starts at 10 PM and goes until 2 AM. 


~C

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Win Tickets to AWOLNATION @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: AWOLNATION w/ Bryce Fox and Makua

What: The Phantom Five Tour Live @ St. Andrew's Hall on Saturday, April 26th, 2025

Tickets are $64 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 #phantom

~C


Monday, April 21, 2025

Backyard Art Fair 2025 Brings Over 200 Artists to Ferndale & Oak Park This May!

Spring is finally here, and with it comes one of the coolest grassroots art events in Metro Detroit — the Backyard Art Fair. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 10th, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., because this year's fair is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet. (If the weather doesn't cooperate, no worries — the rain date is set for Sunday, May 11th.)

Started by local artists Carey Gustafson and Kelly Kaatz during the early days of the pandemic, the Backyard Art Fair was designed to give artists and makers a safe, outdoor space to share their work with the community. What began as a small, homegrown event has blossomed into a beloved annual tradition, full of small-town charm and serious creative energy.

This year, the fair will feature over 200 artists and makers spread across 37 yards in the Ferndale and Oak Park neighborhoods between 8 Mile and 10 Mile, and from Hilton to Scotia. It’s a self-guided, open studio-style event, where you can walk, bike, scooter, or skateboard your way from house to house, discovering new art at every stop.

Each "Host House" will have three or more vendors set up in their yards, offering everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to paintings, textiles, vintage finds, and more. Whether you're looking for unique gifts, original art for your walls, or just a fun way to spend the day outdoors, the Backyard Art Fair has something for everyone.

Beyond the shopping, what really makes the Backyard Art Fair special is its vibe — it’s casual, friendly, and deeply connected to the neighborhoods that host it. It’s a chance to meet the artists face-to-face, hear their stories, and see the passion that goes into every piece they create.

If you’ve never been, trust us — this is the year to go. Grab your walking shoes (or your skateboard), bring a tote bag for all your new treasures, and spend a day soaking up some serious creative inspiration.

Backyard Art Fair 2025
🗓️ Saturday, May 10th (rain date: Sunday, May 11th)
🕚 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
📍 Between 8 Mile & 10 Mile and Hilton to Scotia, Ferndale & Oak Park

For updates, follow Backyard Art Fair on social media and get ready to shop local, support artists, and celebrate the spirit of this amazing community tradition.


~S

Win Tickets to See The Bouncing Souls @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: The Bouncing Souls w/ H2O, Dave Hause & The Mermaid, and School Drugs

What: EAST COAST! F#CK YOU! TOUR @ St. Andrew’s Hall on Thursday, April 24th, 2025

Tickets are $45 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 #souls

~C


Friday, April 18, 2025

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: April 18th - 20th, 2025

 

Friday, April 18th - Spring Stunr Fest @ Lager House: The third annual Spring Stunr Fest takes over the Lager House this Friday for a night of Femme punk! The lineup includes 3 The Hard Way, Wild Shape, Rot Knot, Seahag, Pillow Princess, and Meek. There will also be a bunch of great vendors there. $10 gets you in the door and things kick off at 7 PM. 


Friday, April 18th - The Lowcocks @ The Garden Bowl: Things are always better when they're free! And this Friday night the Garden Bowl has a great free show! Check out The Lowcocks, The Tin Can Collective, and Endless Mike & The Beagle Club. 21+ are welcome and the show starts at 8 PM. 

Saturday, April 19th - Punk Rock Prom @ The Congregation: Pretty yourself up and head to The Congregation Saturday night for Punk Rock Prom! Dress to impress because you'll be taking sassy prom photos that you'll want to hang on your wall! But, don't worry about picking up a corsage for your date because there will be a DIY corsage station on site! Music for the night will be provided by Hayley & The Crushers, Duende, and Antibuddies. There will also be burlesque, spiked punch, prizes, and more. Doors open at 8 PM and $20 gets you in at the door. 

Saturday, April 19th - Open Studios: 40 West Howard Studios in Pontiac will be opening its doors to the public this Saturday afternoon! Check out four floors of local art, live music from The Morrison Brothers, wine, snacks, and more! The event goes from 1-7 PM and is free to attend. 


~C

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

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

What: Emo Night Brooklyn featuring Sorry Mom

When & Where: Friday, April 18th, 2025 @ St. Andrew's Hall

Tickets are $31 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 #brooklyn


~C

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Win Tickets to See half•alive @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: half•alive w/ The Walters and Mehro

What: Persona World Tour @ St. Andrew's Hall on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

Tickets are $53 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 #alive


~C


Friday, April 4, 2025

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: April 4th - 6th, 2025

 

Friday, April 4th - Detroit Tigers Opening Day: The streets of Downtown Detroit will be filled with sports fans this Friday for Tigers Opening Day! The Tigers will be taking on the Chicago White Sox for the home opener, with a 1:10 PM game time. Pretty much every bar in the area will be having an opening day party too! So skip out of work early or head downtown if you have the day off and you're looking to party! 

Friday, April 4th - Death Cat @ Reware Vintage: Reware Vintage is quickly becoming one of our favorite places to catch a show and this Friday they have another great one lined up for you! The bill includes Dream Demon, Closed Circuit Cassettes, and Death Cat. Cover is pay what you can. Doors open at 7 PM and the music starts at 8 PM. Make sure you shop while you're there! You never know what awesome stuff you're going to find! 


Saturday, April 5th - Detroit Zine Fest @ Jam Handy: Celebrate zine culture in Detroit with over 100 zine-makers this Saturday at Detroit Zine Fest! The event will take place at The Jam Handy from Noon - 6 PM. Admission is free and free parking is available too! Come hungry, because Hero Villain Food Truck will be there from 1-4 PM. Don't forget your mask too, because masks are required for entry. Get all of the details here

Saturday, April 5th - Her Head's On Fire @ Small's: Small's welcomes Her Head's On Fire to their stage this Saturday night! They will be joined by Detroit's own Touch The Clouds and Suburban Delinquents. Tickets are only $12 in advance and can be purchased here. All ages are welcome and doors open at 7 PM. 

Friday, April 4th - Sunday, April 6th - Astronomicom: Astronomicon brings your favorite wrestling stars, movie stars, and pop culture icons to town this weekend! The event has a new home this year, the Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest. Some of the big names appearing this weekend include Jason Lee and all of his sidekicks from My Name is Earl, Tommy Chong, Bruce Campbell, wrestling legend Sting (not the singer), and Bret "The Hitman" Hart. Check out the full list of stars that will be in attendance here. Tickets start at $30 a day, with weekend passes, VIP, and combo passes available. Get yours here. The convention runs from 5-10 PM on Friday, 11 AM - 7 PM on Saturday, and 11 AM - 5 PM on Sunday. 


~C

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Win Tickets to See Pouya @ The Fillmore Detroit


Who: Pouya w/ Freddie Dredd and Cursed

What: Performing Live @ The Fillmore Detroit on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

Tickets start at $45 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 #Pouya


~C

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Win Tickets to See ARTMS @ The Fillmore Detroit


Who: ARTMS

What: Lunar Theory World Tour LIVE @ The Fillmore Detroit on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2025

Tickets start at $145 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 #Lunar

~C

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Win Tickets to See Sarah & The Sundays this Sunday @ The Shelter


Who: Sarah & The Sundays w/ The Slaps

What: Playing The Shelter on Sunday, March 30th, 2025

Tickets are $31 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 #Sundays

~C

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Win Tickets to See Meshuggah @ The Fillmore Detroit


Who: Meshuggah w/ Cannibal Corpse and Carcass

What: Performing Live @ The Fillmore Detroit on Sunday, March 30, 2025

Tickets start at $75.50 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

Friday, March 21, 2025

Win Tickets to See Nicotine Dolls @ The Shelter

Who: Nicotine Dolls w/ Wic Whitney

What: Playing The Shelter on Thursday, March 27th, 2025

Tickets are $35.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.
LOW TICKET WARNING! If you don't want to risk missing out on this one when it sells out, buy your tickets now! We'll draw our winner the day before the show.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

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


~C

Win Tickets to See Whitechapel @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Whitechapel w/ Alluvial, Brand of Sacrifice, 200 Stab Wounds

What: Performing LIVE at St. Andrew's Hall on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025

Tickets are $38.50 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 #chapel


~C

Thursday, March 20, 2025

The Hamtramck Blowout is the Place to be This Weekend!

This weekend, the bars, venues, and businesses of Hamtramck will be filled with some of the best musicians Detroit has to offer! The Hamtramck Blowout kicks off Thursday, March 20th and runs through Saturday, the 22nd. The 3 day festival includes over 200 acts at 25 venues. Wristbands are $40 for the entire weekend, plus this year your wristband will also get you into the DCFC home opener at Keyworth, Saturday afternoon at 4 PM. Wristbands can be purchased at every participating venue. 

With 220 acts on the bill, it can be a little difficult to decide who to see. We encourage you to check out the full schedule here, but we've also narrowed things down to who we suggest you should check out.

While you're out on Friday & Saturday night, make sure to swing by Small's to pick up Blowout merch from KO Prints! She'll be screenprinting live on site both nights. 

Also, swing by 8 Fold Yoga earlier in the day Saturday for their Grand Opening Celebration! There will be art from Emily Small and live music from Carmel Liburdi and Austin Ahmad. The festivities go from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM.


For all of the details on this year's Hamtramck Blowout, head to HamtramckBlowout.com. While you're there, decide who you want to see and make you're own schedule to share with friends! Just click on schedule, then click "Open Lineup Maker".


~C

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Win Tickets to See Movements @ The Fillmore

Who: Movements w/ Citizen, Scown, and Downward

What: Playing The Fillmore Detroit on Friday, March 21st, 2025

Tickets start at $64 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 #movements

~C

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Win Tickets to See Counterparts @ St. Andrew's Hall


Who: Counterparts w/ Pain of Truth, Malevolence, Foreign Hands

What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025

Tickets are $38.50 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 #counterparts


~C

10 Reasons We Love Shopping Local at Reware Vintage

Shopping local is all about supporting businesses that add character to our neighborhoods and offer one-of-a-kind finds. 

Reware Vintage in downtown Berkley, Michigan, is a prime example of why vintage shopping is so special. 

Here are 10 reasons why we love this local gem!

  1. Shopping Secondhand First
    There's something truly satisfying about giving pre-loved items a second life, and Reware makes it easy. Whether it's a vintage jacket or a rare record, you're bound to find something special every time you visit.

  2. Reliving the ‘90s Vibes
    Remember those tees from your high school days? I’ve been slowly rebuilding my ‘90s wardrobe, and I just scored a 1994 Nine Inch Nails shirt—instant throwback to the best years. If you’re in the same boat, Reware is your new go-to!

  3. The Warm Welcome from Beth & the Team
    Beth, the owner, and her amazing staff are what truly set Reware apart. They’re not only super knowledgeable about vintage pieces but also kind, fun, and always ready for a chat. It’s like shopping with friends who know their stuff!

  4. The $10 Rack for Climate Change
    Looking for a bargain that also does good? Check out the $10 rack, where you can pick up fun, affordable pieces like shorts while supporting climate change efforts. It’s a win for both your wardrobe and the planet!

  5. Awesome Detroit Gear
    Reware has a great selection of Detroit-themed items, from t-shirts to hats and everything in between. Whether you’re celebrating the Motor City or just want something with local flair, you’ll find something that screams Detroit pride.

  6. The Poster Wall in the Fitting Room
    Head to the fitting room for an unexpected treat—a wall full of killer concert posters! With old-school lineups and venues listed, it’s a true blast from the past. Plus, the memories of low door fees are a sweet touch for any music lover.

  7. Live Shows Galore
    Reware isn’t just about vintage shopping—they’re also a hub for live music. The shop regularly hosts shows, so you can enjoy a local gig while checking out all the cool items in the store.

  8. Rare Finds & Hard-to-Find Gems
    Forget overpriced designer stuff—Reware is all about those rare pieces and hard-to-find gems. Whether it’s a unique vintage jacket or a one-of-a-kind shirt, you’ll find treasures here that you can’t get anywhere else. Plus, it’s all fairly priced!

  9. Walkable Downtown Berkley
    Reware Vintage is part of the vibrant downtown Berkley scene, which is full of quirky, fun shops. After you’ve found your next favorite vintage piece, pop into nearby spots like Jodi Lynn Doodles and Naka to keep the shopping spree going!

  10. Fair Prices & Serious Knowledge
    Beth’s expertise is unmatched—she knows her tags, decades, and value. You’ll always get a fair price for anything you pick up, and you can trust that you're getting quality pieces that have been carefully curated.

Shopping at Reware Vintage is about more than just scoring a great deal; it’s about supporting a local business that brings unique character to the community. Whether you're on the hunt for broken-in Doc Martens, rare vinyl, or just a cool new piece to add to your collection, you’ll find it at Reware.

Make sure to visit next time you're in Berkley, and see why we can't stop coming back!


~S

Win Tickets to See Trevor Wallace @ The Fillmore Detroit


Who: Trevor Wallace

What: The Alpha Beta Male LIVE @ The Fillmore Detroit on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025

Tickets start at $35.25 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 #Trevor


~C

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Win Tickets to See The Main Squeeze @ The Shelter


Who: The Main Squeeze w/ The Free Label

What: Performing Live at The Shelter on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025

Tickets are $31.50 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 #squeeze


~C

Friday, March 14, 2025

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend: March 14th - 16th, 2025

 

Friday, March 14th - Touch The Clouds Album Release Show @ Small's: Touch The Clouds has a new album coming out this Friday, March 14th and they're having a release show at Small's to celebrate! Joining them are The Black List and Kind Beast. Cover is $12 in advance, get your tickets here. Give the first single "You Got No Soul" a listen via Brooklyn Vegan here.

Friday, March 14th - Catstravaganza @ Flipside Records: Head to Flipside Records in Berkley this Friday night for a great lineup. The bill includes Death Cat, Smidgeon, and Closed Circuit Cassettes. The music goes from 7-9 PM and cover is pay what you can.

Sunday, March 16th - Gimme Gimme Record Show @ The Sanctuary: The Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie Record Show returns to The Sanctuary this Sunday afternoon! Shop with dozens of great vendors selling records, music memorabilia, shirts, CDs, tapes, and more. Admission is free and all ages are welcome! Doors open at 11 AM. Get a sneak peek at some of the stuff up for grabs here


Sunday, March 16th - Detroit St. Patrick's Parade: Michigan Ave. and the streets of Corktown will be taken over by people in green this Sunday! The annual Detroit St. Patrick's Parade will kick off at 1 PM, making its way up Michigan Ave. towards the city. The day actually kicks off with the Corktown Races at 9 AM. Then, the bars, restaurants, and sidewalks will be taken over the rest of the day with parade goers! Lager House, UFO Bar, and pretty much every bar on Michigan will have live music and parties throughout the day. Get there early and stay late! 


~C