Welcome to Family Finds Detroit, where we give you daily deals and a weekly list of the most fun things to do in and around the D. Amy Kuras is a mom of two and writes about parenting all over the internet -- find her on Twitter @AmyKuras.
Aspiring detectives and CSI's can pick up some crime-solving skills at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Every week during the summer, kids can learn scientific concepts through special activities, and this week's focus is criminology. Older kids can enjoy the activity while younger ones roam the museum, which is fun for everybody. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday, Aug. 15-Friday, Aug. 19. >> 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor. Free with museum admission, $9 for ages 2 and up. Read More...
Even if you've never seen the movie, you know the songs..."16 Going on 17", "Do-Re-Mi", "Something Good"...they are all classics, and that's just a small sampling of the incredible Rogers and Hammerstein compositions you can sing along to during this special presentation at the Michigan Theater. The film itself is visually gorgeous and even more stunning on the big screen. An on-stage costume parade, on-screen lyrics, and goodie bags complete the fun. 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16. >> 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. $15 adults, $12 students, seniors and veterans. Read More...
If you've got a kid who can't stop dancing, loves to watch "Glee" and seems born for the stage, check out the Plymouth Uptown Players (PUPs) open house at the Plymouth Community Arts Council. Parents and children can learn about the program, which teaches elementary and middle school-aged kids about all aspects of a dramatic production and culminates in a play performed for the public. Prospective thespians can also meet the instructors, watch some improv, and learn about the audition process. 5-8 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 17. >>774 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth; 734-416-4278. Free. Read More...
Imagine Michigan as it was 100 years ago and enjoy a lovely evening in the children's garden at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. Kids and parents alike can enjoy refreshments and a walk through the garden. Members of the Rochester Branch of the Woman's National Farm and Garden Association will be available to answer questions. 7 p.m. -8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18 >> 1005 Van Hoosen Rd., Rochester Hills. Free, but pre-registration is required by calling 248-656-4663 or emailing rhmuseum@rochesterhills.org. Read More...
Celebrate the rich cultural traditions of the African Diaspora at the African World Festival. Music, dance, food, exhibits and crafts highlight the diversity of African culture. A "Watoto" celebration featuring activities for children, including a performance by children's music legend Ella Jenkins, is one of the highlights of Friday's festival. Noon-11:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 19-Sunday, Aug. 21. >>Hart Plaza, Jefferson Ave. at Woodward, Detroit. Free. Read More...
It's about as historically accurate as a plastic pirate sword, but the Renaissance Festival in Holly is always a good time. The mythical village of "Hollygrove" is wooded and pretty, and peopled with costumed characters from all eras (and some that are pure fantasy). Jousting demonstrations, puppet shows and games happen throughout the festival grounds, which are also lined with shops selling candles, costumes and food (don't miss the Scotch eggs). 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 2; also Labor Day and "Festival Friday" Sept. 23. >>12600 Dixie Highway, Holly. $19.95 adults, $10.95 children. Read More...
Love it or hate it (or flee it, as most people living along Woodward Avenue opt to do), the Woodward Dream Cruise has become an annual tradition along one of Detroit’s major thoroughfares. Saturday’s “official” cruise is the culmination of a summer-long cruising season and a week where hopeful spectators set out their lawn chairs or clog traffic in hopes of glimpsing a classic car days before the cruise actually begins. Events begin Thursday in communities along the cruise route; the official event starts bright and early Saturday, Aug. 20 and goes until about 10 p.m. >>Woodward Dream Cruise, Woodward Avenue between Ferndale and Pontiac. Free. Read More...