Spring is officially in the air and Easter is just around the corner. For many, this holiday is a time to gather with loved ones and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Detroit, the Motor City, Easter is celebrated in a unique and exciting way. From churches to egg hunts, museums to Riverwalk, restaurants to opera and theater, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this festive time.
For those looking to attend church services on Sunday, Detroit has a plethora of options. Many churches in the city offer special services with beautiful music and uplifting messages. Some notable churches include the historic Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church , which has been serving the community since 1906, and the magnificent Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament which features stunning architecture and a vibrant congregation.
But celebrations in Detroit extend far beyond church services. Families can participate in egg hunts at various parks and community centers throughout the city. One highly anticipated event is the annual Marshmallow Drop, a tradition that dates back to the 1980s. Held at Elizabeth Park on Saturday, thousands of marshmallows are dropped from a helicopter and children race to collect as many as they can. This event brings joy and excitement to children and adults alike each year.
Spend the Afternoon at the Detroit Zoo. The Detroit Zoo is a popular attraction among families, and on Sunday, it becomes even more special. The zoo hosts its annual Bunnyville event, where families can enjoy fun activities like an egg hunt, games, crafts, and live entertainment. Kids can also meet the Bunny and other costumed characters at the zoo. Don't forget to check out the animals, including their newest addition, a baby giraffe named Zara.
For a more traditional experience, visitors can head to Heilmann Recreation Center for their Candy Land carnival. The General Services Department-Parks and Recreation Division hosts this free family fun event on Easter Saturday. The center is transformed into a colorful wonderland with interactive games, rides, and plenty of candy. This is a great option for families looking for a fun-filled day of Easter festivities.
The Great Lakes Museum also offers an egg-citing experience for families with their Eggstravaganza. Children can hunt for eggs hidden throughout the museum while learning about marine life and maritime history. The museum also offers various activities such as face painting and arts and crafts to keep young ones entertained.
Catch a show at the Fox Theatre. The Fox Theatre is an iconic landmark in Detroit known for its grand stage productions. On Easter Sunday, you can catch their annual show, featuring performances by local artists and musicians. This show is perfect for families looking for a unique way to celebrate the holiday.
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts. If you're looking for a more low-key activity on Sunday, why not visit the Detroit Institute of Arts? This renowned museum has an extensive collection of art from around the world, with special exhibitions happening throughout the year. The museum also offers family-friendly activities on Sunday, such as scavenger hunts and art-making workshops.
Take a Stroll at Belle Isle Park. Belle Isle Park is a beautiful island park located in the Detroit River. This 982-acre park offers stunning views of the city's skyline and has various attractions like the Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and Dossin Great Lakes Museum. On Sunday, you can take a leisurely stroll around the park and enjoy a picnic with your family or friends. You can also participate in the annual Egg Hunt that takes place at the park.
For those looking for a more sophisticated celebration, The Whitney offers an elegant afternoon tea with the Easter bunny. Located in a historic mansion, this event is a unique opportunity to indulge in delicious tea and scones while mingling with the bunny himself. The Whitney also offers a special brunch and dinner menu, featuring dishes like ham carving stations, prime rib, and spring-inspired desserts. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular event.
Indulge in Some Retail Therapy. Sunday is a great day to treat yourself or your loved ones to some shopping. Detroit has several shopping destinations, including the trendy Downtown area, where you can find unique boutiques and local shops. You can also head to one of the city's malls, like Somerset Collection or Twelve Oaks Mall, for a more extensive selection of stores.
Detroit's iconic Eastern Market is also a must-visit during Easter time. This historic market, known for its fresh produce and artisanal goods, transforms into a spring wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors can browse through flower stalls filled with colorful blooms and shop for treats such as handmade chocolates and pastries. It's the perfect place to pick up a beautiful bouquet of flowers for your table.
For a unique experience, visitors can also drive through North Rosedale Park to see the bunny. This annual event allows families to stay in their cars as they drive through the park and wave to the Easter bunny and his helpers. It's a fun and safe way to participate in Easter celebrations while staying socially distanced.
As the weather warms up, Detroit's Riverwalk also becomes a popular spot for Easter weekend activities. Families can take a stroll along the river, have a picnic, or rent bikes to explore the area. The Riverfront also hosts various events during the holiday season, such as live music performances and craft fairs.
And of course, no celebration is complete without a delicious meal. Detroit's restaurants offer special menus with mouth-watering options like roasted lamb, glazed ham, and fresh seafood. Some popular spots for Easter brunch or dinner include Bailey Park Spring Fest, which offers a variety of food trucks and live music, and Prime + Proper , known for its high-end steaks and seafood.
Easter in the Motor City is truly a time of joy and celebration. From church services to egg hunts, museums to Riverwalk, and delicious meals at restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your loved ones, put on your Easter finery, and head out to experience the egg-citement of Detroit's Easter celebrations.
