Detroit Design Festival 2017: 5 must-see events

The Detroit Design Festival kicks into high gear this week as a citywide celebration of design and creativity, led by the Detroit Creative Corridor Center. Looking to check out some of the best events in Detroit? A full schedule can be found here, and we’ve narrowed down five different events throughout the city that are definitely worth seeing this week.

1. Eastern Market After Dark: Thursday, September 28

More than 30 studios and galleries will take over one of the oldest public markets in the country Thursday night with interactive experiences, activations, designer spotlights, installations, and parties. Sheds 2, 3, 4, and 5 will be activated for Eastern Market After Dark, along with studios and spaces throughout the district. This is also a great opportunity to check out the new murals going up throughout the market; some are well underway already. Eastern Market After Dark starts at 7 p.m. We snagged some great photos from last year’s festivities.

2. Light Up Livernois: Saturday, September 30

The Avenue of Fashion will be open from 5-10 p.m. on Saturday with performances, local businesses and artists, an urban furniture installation, open studios, and a putt-putt course by local designers.

3. Detroit Design 139: Ongoing through September 30

Located in the 1001 Woodward building downtown, this exhibition showcases many of the development projects changing the landscape across Detroit. It’s open daily from 12-7 p.m.

4. Detroit Design Village at Ponyride: September 29 & 30

Shop wares made by local makers and designers at Ponyride this Friday and Saturday. Workshops and tours of the space will also be offered. Ponyride is located at 1401 Vermont Street in Corktown.

5. Youth Day at the Michigan Science Center: Saturday, September 30

Kids can learn more about design and the city at the Michigan Science Center. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, workshops and activities will be offered in card making, textile design, urban design, sustainability, and more. Those planning on attending should RSVP.

More events are planned in neighborhoods throughout the city, including Brightmoor, the North End, Southwest, and Hamtramck. A full schedule can be found here.