It seems like we’re still dealing with Summer heat, but that’ll be over before we know i,t and the leaves will start to change colors!
Now that September is upon us, let’s get down to business and start going over all the fun things to do in Detroit this month.
1. Check out this exclusive Edgar Allen Poe-themed speakeasy
Only in town for one weekend, September 25th – 27th, this exclusive pop-up craft cocktail speakeasy is going to be the highlight of September for anyone who takes the time to go!
You’ll want to get your tickets now; space is limited and demand will be high.
2. Attend a beautiful Candlelight Concert
There are several stunning Candlelight Concerts scheduled in venues all across Detroit this September, offering an intimate experience and highlighting local musicians.
Below are the standouts to check out this month:
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Candlelight Open Air: Tribute to Queen and The Beatles – September 13th
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Candlelight: Featuring Mozart, Bach, and Timeless Composer – September 19th
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Candlelight: 90s Unplugged – September 19th
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Candlelight: Rings and Dragons – September 20th
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Candlelight: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons – September 20th
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Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More – September 25th
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Candlelight: Neo-Soul Favorites ft. Songs by Prince, Childish Gambino, & More – September 25th
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Candlelight: Tribute to Drake – September 26th
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Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings – September 26th
3. Check out the Detroit Month of Design events
Did you know that Detroit is the only US city designated as a UNESCO City of Design?
This UN recognition is bestowed on cities that demonstrate a commitment to leveraging creativity as a development tool.
Throughout September, Design Core has put on a program of events for both design enthusiasts and the general public that fits under the 2025 theme of “City of Design”.
The festival focuses on the design of the built environment, visual communication, and product design.
4. Have a unique gourmet experience with Dining In The Dark
This September, you’ll only have one night to reserve your spot for one of the most unique culinary experiences in all of Detroit!
On September 18th, The Detroit Club will be hosting the only Dining in the Dark event in all of Detroit this month!
The meal includes a personalized ‘secret’ menu based on the dietary preferences you fill out during the purchase process, tickets are starting at $76 for this incredible experience and are selling out fast!
5. Attend the final days of Arts, Beats & Eats
Running from August 29th until September 1st through Labor Day Weekend is the Arts, Beats & Eats festival, which just so happens to be one of the best ways to cap off your Summer!
The incredible festival brings together around 200 musical acts as well as a series of local artists and small businesses that you can check out and support.
Tickets are already on sale starting at around $12 per person and selling out fast, so you’ll want to get yours before it’s too late.
6. Check out local food trucks at Downtown Street Eats at Cadillac Square Park
Every weekday from 11 am to 3 pm, Downtown Street Eats brings a variety of local food trucks to Cadillac Square Park for Detroiters to check out and eat at!
The schedule for September has yet to be released, but once it is announced you’ll be able to find it here.
7. Pay a visit to America’s oldest continuously operating aquarium
Detroit’s own Belle Isle Aquarium happens to be the oldest continuously operating aquarium in the US, and the best part of it is that it is completely free to visit!
While a donation of around $3 per person is suggested during a visit, this is an incredible plan that won’t hurt your budget.
8. Check out the Detroit Jazz Festival
The Detroit Jazz Festival has been taking place for over 40 years at this point and has become a staple in the Detroit community as a way to celebrate the history of Jazz, both as a genre of music in general and within the city of Detroit as well.
The festival will bring a great mix of established Jazz musicians as well as some great up-and-coming local artists that you can visit and support.
9. Grab a bite at the Detroit Foodie Fair
This September 21st, Eastern Market is going to be hosting the 2025 Detroit Foodie Festival, which will host dozens of delicious vendors offering some tasty treats and refreshing drinks!
The event will be free to attend and take place from 10 am until 4 pm at the Eastern Market’s Shed 5.
10. Make Labor Day Weekend count with a quick trip away from Detroit!
Whether you want to take a short drive out to somewhere not far from Detroit or want to make the effort to get away from the city for the long weekend, we’ve put together a few options for you to check out!
11. Donut & Cider Fest at Canterbury Village
On September 6th and 7th, starting at 10 am, will be the annual Donut & Cider Fest at Canterbury Village – one of the biggest can’t-miss events of the season!
There will be live music, plenty of activities for all audiences, and opportunities to shop from local boutiques and small businesses from vendors at the event grounds.
Tickets are only being sold at the door for $4 cash or $5 with a card!
12. Experience the 18th annual Strange Beautiful Music Festival by New Music Detroit
This incredible music festival that breaks the mold of conventional genres brings together the music art of a long list of artists that perform everything from contemporary classical and art-pop to experimental jazz, free improvisation, electronica, techno, and everything in between!
The festival is spread across three days at three unique venues:
- Thursday, September 11th – Motown Mansion
- Friday, September 12th – Detroit Institute of the Arts
- Saturday, September 13th – the Cadieux Stage