What to Expect at This Year’s Harvest Fest Detroit: Events, Food, and Fun

The Detroit Riverfront is set to come alive this weekend as the city celebrates the grand opening of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park with the annual Detroit Harvest Fest and Food Truck Rally. This event promises a vibrant mix of entertainment, food, and community activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

A Historic Celebration

The new park, which opened in 2023 after overcoming a $44.3 million scandal, is a $80 million investment in the city’s future. The park features several unique attractions, including the William Davidson Sport House, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden, and the DTE Foundation Summit. It also includes the Delta Dental Play Garden, where children can enjoy climbing structures, a treehouse, and a 20-foot bear-shaped slide.

The park is named after Ralph C. Wilson Jr., a Detroit-born entrepreneur, veteran, and philanthropist who was best known for being the owner and founder of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills. Designed by New York-based Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, the park is a testament to the city’s commitment to public spaces and community engagement.

What to Expect at the Harvest Fest

The Harvest Fest will take place from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Sunday. The event will feature 40 live music and dance performances across three stages, with the Jacksons headlining on Saturday. Other performers include Testimony Sings, Larry Lee & the Back In the Day Band, Alise King, and more.

In addition to the live music, there will be a variety of activities for both kids and adults. Kids can participate in the Pick-and-Take Pumpkin Patch, the Kids Adventure Trail, and science lessons at the Mort Harris Outdoor Classroom. Adults can enjoy ax-throwing, cornhole, and yoga classes, among other activities.

Food and Drink

The Harvest Fest will also feature a Food Truck Rally with 35 local food trucks offering a wide range of cuisines, including Mexican, Middle Eastern, barbecue, seafood, vegetarian, and Caribbean options. Some of the participating food trucks include Balkan House, the Cracked Egg, and the Drunken Rooster.

Visitors are encouraged to bring empty water bottles, as filling stations will be available throughout the event. Coolers and outside food and beverages are not allowed, except for those with dietary or medical needs.

Activities for All Ages

For families, the Harvest Fest offers a variety of kid-friendly activities. The Kids Adventure Trail allows children to trick-or-treat and collect giveaways, while the Science Lessons at the Mort Harris Outdoor Classroom provide educational opportunities. The Art Alley in the Delta Dental Play Garden features crafts, face painting, and temporary tattoos.

Adults can enjoy the Games Grove, which includes ax-throwing, cornhole, and other lawn games. The Park After Dark Glow Party will take place from 6 – 8 p.m. on both days, offering a fun and colorful experience for attendees.

Parking and Transportation

Free parking will be available at the Assembly Parking Garage and the Bagley Mobility Hub, with complimentary shuttles to and from the park. Additional shuttle services will be available from the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation and Clark Park. Bike corrals will also be available at the Southwest Greenway and East Riverfront entrances.

Special Features

One of the highlights of this year’s Harvest Fest is the unveiling of a new wildlife mural along the Dequindre Cut Greenway. Created by Detroit-based artist Ed Irmen, the mural features eight panels depicting Michigan-managed wildlife, including a sturgeon, porcupine, pheasant, monarch butterfly, cottontail rabbit, turkey, black bear, and elk.

This partnership between the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and the Michigan Wildlife Council aims to increase awareness of the importance of wildlife management and conservation. The mural serves as a beautiful addition to the greenway, highlighting the natural beauty of the Detroit Riverfront.

Final Thoughts

The Detroit Harvest Fest is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the outdoors. With its mix of live music, food, and activities, the festival offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Harvest Fest is a great opportunity to experience the spirit of Detroit and enjoy the many attractions of the new Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park.

Stay updated with the latest news about the Harvest Fest and other events in Detroit.

Author: Jane Smith

Title/Role: Senior Journalist

Credentials: With over a decade of experience covering local events and community initiatives in Detroit, Jane has been a trusted voice in the city’s media landscape.

Profile Link: www.janesmithnews.com

Sources:

– Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

– Michigan Wildlife Council

– Detroit News

For more information about the Harvest Fest and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, visit www.detroitharvestfest.com.

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