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Photo courtesy of Winter Blast
February in Metro Detroit – a month brimming with excitement, where the chill in the air is matched only by the warmth of vibrant events around every corner. Whether you’re a fan of embracing the wintry outdoors, diving into the fantastical worlds of comics, or savoring the finer things in life, Metro Detroit’s February lineup has something to spark everyone’s interest. Let’s embark on a journey through February’s most captivating events, from the frosty fun of the Winter Blast to the cozy corners of Brown Iron Brewhouse. Get ready to mark your calendars; these February events in Metro Detroit are like you’ve never experienced before!
WINTER BLAST ROYAL OAK
Downtown Royal Oak
February 2 – 4
Winter Blast is taking place once again in and around the Centennial Commons and the Royal Oak City Center this February. Between February 2nd and 4th, head to Royal Oak to experience live music, outdoor activities, yummy treats, and more. This family-friendly is free to attend, and many activities are free to enjoy as well. Some new additions to this fest are a Medieval Village with knights on horseback, a karaoke competition with cash prizes, and more, while still hosting ski and snowboarding lessons, a zip line, and other outdoor activities. “Winter Blast Royal Oak would not be the same without an abundance of returning favorite outdoor winter activities and, of course, a few new elements, so that is what attendees can expect,” said Jon Witz, producer of Winter Blast Royal Oak. “And to ensure attendees can have the best Winter Blast experience possible, we will monitor the weather and adjust accordingly, just as we have in past years. No snow? No problem. We will offer more outdoor activities. If temps drop, we will feature an additional snow attraction and heated tent.” Try out some of the featured food trucks, see ice sculptures, and experience some of the fun events being held.
BAR PIGALLE
2915 John R Street, Detroit
February 4
Bar Pigalle is having its first chef’s takeover and collaboration on February 4th. Bar Pigalle owner Travis Fourmont shares, “Chef Norman Valenti (Bar Pigalle) and Chef Amado Lopez (Casa Amado) are long-time friends and put this event together [as a] really great opportunity to showcase the flavors and veracity of Mexican cuisine.” Bar Pigalle is known for its French fare, but Chef Lopez is, “excited to share a specially curated, five-course Mexican tasting menu with Bar Pigalle.” Tickets are available for the Casa Amado Takeover event for $85, which can be purchased here.
DETROIT ZOO
8450 West 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak
If you’re looking for a tranquil experience, the Detroit Zoo will be offering yoga classes. “Yoga at the Zoo offers a great chance to exercise, relax, and connect with the animals who call the Detroit Zoo home,” says Megan Gregg, senior events manager. “Best of all, each ticket purchase supports our mission and helps ignite positive change for animals and nature at the Zoo and around the world.” From February through April, you can attend yoga sessions on select mornings and evenings. The classes are said to be suitable for all skill levels, and passes can be purchased singularly or for five sessions. Surround yourself with serenity and relaxation with the zoo’s inhabitants in the background.
BROWN IRON BREWHOUSE
57695 Van Dyke Road, Washington
30955 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak
Brown Iron Brewhouse has a couple of noteworthy events taking place during February. First up, there will be a Beer versus Wine Pairing four-course dinner at each location (February 12th in Washington Township and 14th in Royal Oak). One of the owners, Patti Eisenbraun shares, “The beer versus wine dinner is an excellent opportunity for those who like beer or wine, and they can experience how pairing each course with either a beer or wine impacts the pallet. It’s a fun and interactive evening where participants get to vote who paired better, beer or wine?”
Another exciting event will be the Ice Fests hosted by Brown Iron Brewhouse. Eisenbraun tells us, “Our annual Ice Fest is a great event for all ages that showcases a fun winter activity. There will be live ice carving demonstrations for the family as well as special beer releases for the adults. It’s also our last hurrah to say goodbye to winter! Spring is just around the corner.” The Ice Fests are free to attend, and you’ll keep warm on the outdoor patio with the lit fire pit. Check out the hot chocolate bar, coffee bar, and rare beers while you’re there! The Royal Oak spot will be hosting an Ice Fest on February 24th, while the one in Washington Township will be on March 2nd.
DETROIT OPERA HOUSE
1526 Broadway Street, Detroit
The month of love brings a touch of magic to the Detroit Opera House with the arrival of “Wicked” performances. This Broadway sensation, known for its spellbinding story and stunning visuals, is set to captivate audiences. It’s the untold story of the witches of Oz, filled with heart, humor, and soaring melodies. Whether you’re a die-hard musical fan or new to the world of Broadway, “Wicked” is an enchanting experience that should not be missed. The richly detailed sets, breathtaking costumes, and unforgettable performances make for an evening of pure theatrical magic at the Detroit Opera House.
THE MAGIC BAG
22920 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale
February 16
The Magic Bag is a great intimate concert venue for those looking for a live show. On the 16th, The Reefermen Rock & Roll Circus will tribute to the 1968 Rolling Stones Concert film. The Reefermen have been a Metro Detroit staple for over 30 years and will be performing as the Rolling Stones with other guests representing other iconic artists. You can expect to see Corktown Popes as the Who, Tino G. & Dumpster Machine as Jethro Tull, and more. This show is open to all ages and promises great music and vibrant energy.
BLAKE’S ORCHARD & CIDER MILL
17985 Armada Center Road, Armada
For the chili lovers out there, I’ve got the perfect event for you. Blake’s Hard Cider Co. is hosting its 8th Annual Chili Cook-Off on February 17th. Tickets are $23 in advance or $28 at the door, and include a commemorative pint glass, a pint of hard cider/beer (or non-alcoholic drink for attendees under 21), unlimited chili, live music, games, and more. There will be four categories of chili to vote on, including 4 legged (think beef or pork), 2 legged (chicken or duck), exotic, and no-legged (vegetarian options). If you happen to make a mean pot of chili, you can register to compete for a category and grand prizes. Registration closes on January 31st, so sign up soon if you want to show off your chili! If that isn’t enough chili for you, we cover a whole list of options here.
Another event Blake’s is hosting is Dog Dayze, which is a chance to bring your dog for a mile walk through the orchard on February 25th. After the walk, enjoy food, drinks, music, prizes, and more in Orchard Square. Tickets are $7.95 (or $5.95 until a week before the event) and include a pup cup, entry to three giveaways, and the ability to participate in the walk and two contests: an owner/pet look-alike contest and a doggy costume contest.
ROYAL OAK WHISKEY FEST
316 East 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
February 17
The Royal Oak Whiskey Fest is a must-visit for whiskey aficionados. This festival showcases an extensive selection of whiskeys, from Kentucky bourbon and Scotch whiskey to Japanese whiskey and Rye. Attendees can savor tastings, learn from experts, and even discover new favorites in an inviting atmosphere. There are two ticket options available, General Admission and VIP. Both include a commemorative glass, a keepsake photo, and a coat check. VIPs get 15 sample drink tickets and early entry, while General Admission receives 10 drink tickets.
GREAT LAKES COMIC-CON
14500 East 12 Mile Road, Warren
February 23 – 24
For the comic enthusiasts, now is the time to assemble. The Great Lakes Comic Convention is a haven for comic lovers, offering an array of activities, renowned artists, and more. This family-friendly event occurs every February, with thousands of attendees each year. Promoter and Owner Mike DeSantis tells us, “We try to focus directly on comic books and toys – and those industry professionals who played a role in their creation or popularity. For example, this year Bob Budiansky is attending the show, along with many other guests. For anyone who is a fan of the Transformers, Budiansky was a key participant in the development of the early characters (Megatron, Starscream, and more), as well as Cybertron and the mythos surrounding it. But, it doesn’t just stop there – we also have some of the early comic book professionals of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the Muppet Babies cartoon, the Fraggle Rock TV show, and more! We also focus on wrestling, since the Detroit area has such a huge history with wrestling. This year, we are joined by WWE Legend Honky Tonk Man and WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff.”
DeSantis also shares, “The event also features gaming (Pokemon, Magic the Gathering, Dungeons and Dragons Campaigns, and a Super Smash Bros. Tournament), Cosplay guests (along with a costume contest), members attending from various Star Wars groups – the 501st Great Lakes Garrison, The Rebel Legion, and the R2-D2 Droid Builders. They are joined by Ghostbusters Detroit, the Finest (the GI-Joe Costuming Group), and the League of Enchantment.” With raffles for show attendees and face painting for the kids, the Great Lakes Comic-Con is a fun-filled weekend.
