May Days To Remember: Top Events This Month

By: Carolyn Hall | April 30, 2024
eastern market with hundreds of shoppers for flower day

Photo courtesy of Eastern Market Partnership

As May blossoms across Metro Detroit, there is an array of unique events that cater to every interest and taste. From the fragrant aisles of local flower markets to the refined sips at wine tastings, there’s an adventure for every enthusiast this season. Dive into the eclectic charm of vintage shopping markets, decipher clues at scavenger hunts, or raise a glass in cheers with friends. Join us as we explore the unique, the exquisite, and the fun-filled activities that only Metro Detroit can offer this May.

MIXTAPE BAR

May 8 – June 2 

23839 John R Road, Hazel Park

From market trips to weekend getaways, the Chevy Trax’s versatile cargo space ensures you’re always ready for life’s adventures.

For those who love music as much as you enjoy food, FRAMEbar’s mix.tapeBAR is the place to be. This 4-week event combines curated playlists by Ryan Patrick Hopper with week-long shared plates from FRAMEbar’s menu. The musical selections take guidance from the chef in residence each week, hand-picked for the audience. The menus range from American Soul (May 8 – 12) and Pakistani (May 15 – 19) to 100% vegan (May 22 – 24) and finishing with Korean-meets-Italian fare (May 29 – June 2). Music will touch on underground 80’s music, R&B, Hip-Hop, and Detroit’s Electro House while showcasing independent chefs. This combination of great food and great music creates a sensory feast that perfectly captures the spirit of Detroit.

mixtape bar flyer for may events dinner series
Photo courtesy of mix.tapeBAR

FERNDALE VINTAGE FASHION MARKET

May 10 – 12

22801 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale

Fashion lovers will revel in the Ferndale Vintage Fashion Market happening from May 10th to 12th at the Rust Belt Market. This bi-annual event promises a treasure trove of unique vintage clothing, accessories, and much more. Boasting over 20 true vintage fashion vendors, it’s a fantastic opportunity to find those one-of-a-kind pieces that truly stand out. Dive into decades past and find that perfect piece that speaks to your soul at the 10th annual spring market during this May event.

UNCORKED: DETROIT

May 11th 

5020 John R Street, Detroit

Wine lovers rejoice at the return of Uncorked: Detroit. This premier wine-tasting event is hosted at the Michigan Science Center and features over 100 selections of wines and bubbly. Beyond this variety, guests will also have the option to try seltzers and canned cocktails. To pair with the drinks, you get access to the exhibits and science shows with local food truck favorites like Impasto and Cousins Maine Lobster on-site for purchase. “Uncorked Events were created to bring both wine enthusiasts and casual wine drinkers together (along with perhaps the wine curious) to enjoy a fun night out without any pretension. This is a way to try a lot of new things all at one place all while enjoying cool local venues, food trucks, and more,” shares Event Producer Michelle Harris. The two sessions on the evening of the 11th include general and early admissions for those looking for an extra hour of wine tasting and exclusive pours from select wineries. Tickets are on sale now for the perfect evening for those who appreciate fine wines and good company.

ROYAL OAK IN BLOOM

May 12th

163 6th Street, Royal Oak

For those who love the beauty of spring, the annual Royal Oak in Bloom is a must-visit. This event, held on Mother’s Day for over 30 years, showcases an array of flowers, plants, landscaping items, and decorative pieces perfect for sprucing up your gardens. Located in lots 3 and 7, this event will feature vendors offering everything from perennials and trees to wind chimes and porch swings. There is no cost to attend, and parking in downtown Royal Oak is free on Sundays. Take this opportunity to spruce up the garden of the beloved mothers in your life. 

ZOO BREW

May 17th

8450 West 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

As the first after-hours event of the year, Zoo Brew features a selection of over 100 craft brews from local breweries to sample as you walk through the 125-acre Detroit Zoo. “Zoo Brew is more than the wildest cocktail party around,” says Sarah Culton, Communications Manager for the Detroit Zoological Society. “Every ticket purchased supports our mission and raises critical funds for conservation, animal welfare, sustainability, and community education.” Culton also shares that guests can expect a complimentary welcome drink from Griffin Claw Brewing Company, life-sized games, live entertainment, Zookeeper Chats, and more. Held from 6 to 10 p.m., ticket holders get to sample brews, order a few bites to eat, and enjoy the evening at the zoo. Designated driver and VIP tickets are also available to purchase for access to unlimited soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages to additional tastings and commemorative items, respectively.

zoo brew at detroit zoo picture backdrop with a woman taking a group of men's pictures for may events
Photo courtesy of the Detroit Zoo

FLOWER DAY

May 19th

2934 Russell Street, Detroit

On May 19th, don’t miss the vibrant Flower Day at Eastern Market. According to Laura Gibson, Senior Marketing Manager of the Eastern Market Partnership, “We’re excited to celebrate another Flower Day this year, with the Metro Detroit Flower Growers Association in this long-standing, Detroit event where all of any age are welcome at Eastern Market on Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Eastern Market Partnership is a non-profit organization that oversees Eastern Market, on behalf of the city of Detroit, and works to continue the market’s tradition of nourishing a healthier, wealthier, and happier Detroit.” Vendors from all over the Midwest attend Flower Day, which promises festivities for all ages. Beyond Flower Day, Eastern Market is hosting Flower Tuesdays each Tuesday during May for Eastern Market growers.

rows of flowers at eastern market for may events flower days
Photo courtesy of Eastern Market Partnership

DETROIT ZOO SCAVENGER HUNT

May 31st

8450 West 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

End the month with an intriguing twist at the Detroit Zoo with a scavenger hunt on May 31st. Hosted by the Detroit History Club, this adults-only event invites you to explore the zoo’s rich history through a fun and engaging evening scavenger hunt. “Join us to uncover the past in one of Detroit’s most beloved settings,” invites Bailey Sisoy-Moore, Executive Director of the Detroit History Club. The member-only organization invites all with a passion for Detroit’s history to join for $5 annually to attend their exclusive events, but “no jerks allowed.” Tickets for the Historic Detroit Zoo Scavenger Hunt will include the scavenger hunt, access to the zoo, prizes, and bottled water. If you aren’t a member yet, you can purchase a membership alongside your event tickets. 

dated post card with tigers from the zoological park in detroit
Photo courtesy of the Detroit History Club

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