By Biba Adams, Staff Writer and Report for America corps member
It is the spookiest time of the year. Ghouls and goblins of all ages will take to the streets of Metro Detroit to gather as much candy as possible and celebrate the end of the fall harvest season for Halloween. Here are some Halloween Highlights taking place around the city and a few little-known Halloween facts.
Halloween in the D
The City of Detroit continues its tradition of Halloween in the D with a host of fun, family-friendly and, sometimes, spooky activities during the weeks surrounding Halloween – Oct. 24, Oct. 31 and Nov. 7.
Returning this year is a Halloween decorating contest. The City is inviting neighbors and block clubs to bring their street to life by decorating with pumpkins, cobwebs, ghosts, and goblins. The award categories are: best theme; scariest house and most participation. The best-decorated blocks will get bragging rights and prizes! Residents are encouraged to light up their block with spooky fun in this friendly competition. Learn more at halloweeninthed.org.
“Halloween has become a time of great fun for children and families across Detroit, with plenty of opportunities for them to trick or treat at fire stations, police precincts and play at recreation centers and city parks,” said Mayor Sheffield. “Halloween in the D gets better every year and that’s thanks to the great work of city employees and our many sponsors.”
The Halloween in the D effort is led by the Department of Neighborhoods with support from the General Services, Police and Fire departments. Other City departments also join in the effort by donating candy, decorating cars and passing out candy at various Halloween in the D locations.
Halloween Celebration
Friday, Oct. 30
10700 W. 7 Mile Rd.
Join Magical Touch Quick Lube and Peace over Pistols for our Halloween Customer & Neighbor Appreciation Night! Bring the kids for FREE hot dogs, candy, drinks, and Halloween fun!
THRILLER Flash Dance Mob
Saturday, October 31 • 5 PM – 6 PM
Main | Detroit Public Library
Detroit, MI
Join us for our first annual THRILLER Flash Mob here at the Library (Strohm Hall, 3rd Floor). We’ll provide the music and a beautiful venue, You just bring your costume and dancing feet.
We are also hosting a Zombie Make up Session 2-5pm in the Explorer’s Room for help with your Thriller look. Our professional movie makeup artist, Ritzi will be here to show you how it’s done. We will provide the make up, fake blood, and scars. Learn something new and look great for your Halloween night!
Halloween at Michigan and Central Train Station
Saturday, Oct. 31 and Sunday, Nov. 1
Michigan Central will host two days of free family celebrations Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at Michigan Central Station, with movies, Halloween fun and activities inside and outside.
Halloween Career Fair
Saturday, Oct. 31
17036 E. 9 Mile Rd., Eastpointe
Free CNA training and healthcare job opportunities in Eastpointe. Free food, candy and costumes welcome.
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Hosts Sixth Annual DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS Celebration
Sunday, Nov. 1 11am to 3pm
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is inviting the community to a free Day of the Dead event this Sunday from 11am-3pm at Robert C. Valade Park. The community can enjoy food, live music, vendors and family-friendly activities. They can also leave a name or message to a loved one they’d like to remember on the ofrenda, an altar honoring those who have passed.
Activities and performances include:
11 a.m. to Noon – Children’s storytelling
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Food for purchase/Shop local vendors/Arts & Crafts activities
Noon to 1 p.m. – Live music by Luna
1 p.m. to 2 p.m. – Dance performance by Ballet Folklorico Moyocoyani Izel
2 to 3 p.m. – Mariachi Mexico de Detroit
You can reach Biba at Biba.Adams@MIChronicle.com