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Things to DoGuides

Best Things to Do with Southeast Michigan Kids in April

Planning your family fun for the month? We've got you covered with the best upcoming events in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties.

By Kari Zaffarano
Photo credit: Detroit Zoological Society

There’s always so many fun things to do with kids in southeast Michigan, so how is a busy parent supposed to keep track of it all? With our list of the best things to do this month, of course!

This April, we’ve found tons of family-friendly fun, including Earth Day events, Easter Bunny events and egg hunts and marshmallow drop events. Here is our curated list of the can’t-miss activities for metro Detroit and Ann Arbor in April 2023.

So, what are you waiting for? Take a look at our list and start the advanced prep for your next family outing.

Don’t see an event you love? Check out our online calendar for even more events and fun things to do. 

Macomb

Photo credit: Macomb Ballet Company

Easter Egg Scramble at Shelby Township Activities Center 

April 1, 2023

This annual event features face painting, balloons, egg hunt and a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny. The hunt will be broken up into two different age groups, one for ages 3-5 and another for ages 6-10. Pre-registration is required.

Magical Journey at Macomb Center for the Performing Arts

April 1, 2023

Grab your crowns and see a magical performance, which features a sing-along and meet and greet with your favorite characters.

Magical Journey – Sensory Friendly at Macomb Center for the Performing Arts

April 1, 2023

See a royal sensory-friendly performance, which features a sing-along and meet and greet your favorite characters. This performance will have low level lights and sound, designated quiet and calm spaces and more.

Natural Egg Dying at Stony Creek Metropark

April 1, 2023

Ages 5 and up will learn how to use natural items to create dyes and then discover some creative ways to decorate their eggs. All materials will be provided, including the hardboiled eggs and tools needed to bring home your eggs. Pre-registration is required by March 31, 2023.

Toddler Easter Egg Scramble at the Farm Center at Wolcott Mill Metropark

April 1, 2023

Little ones can hop around and collect eggs at this scramble, specifically for their ages. Make a craft and visit with the Easter Bunny. A snack and drink will be included. Wagon rides will be available for an extra cost. For ages 2-4. Pre-registration is required by March 25, 2023.

Easter Egg-stravaganza at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill

April 2, 2023

Ages 9 and under will enjoy an egg hunt, train rides, pictures with the Easter Bunny, face painting, crafts and a petting zoo. Make sure to bring your own basket and dress for the weather. Registration required.

Farm Egg Scramble at the Farm Center at Wolcott Mill Metropark

April 2, 2023

Check out the animals at the farm, visit with Rosco the Clown and the Easter Bunny, enter a coloring contest, hunt for eggs and more. For ages 2-12. Pre-registration required by March 29, 2023.

Movie Night at Jean Waterloo Lenox Township Library

April 17, 2023

Spend the evening at the library and enjoy a family-friendly movie and snacks. Recommended for children up to 10, but all ages are welcome.

Comic & Anime Expo at New Baltimore Trade Center

April 22-23, 2023

Check out New Baltimore Trade Center’s first expo, which features vendors, cosplayers, creators, illustrators, artists and more.

Earth Day Celebration at Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center

April 22, 2023

Join Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center to celebrate Earth Day. Meet live animal ambassadors and learn how you can be kind to wildlife. There will also be eco-friendly crafts, scheduled guided hikes and educational stations. Registration preferred.

Macomb Ballet Company Presents The Little Mermaid at The Macomb Center for Performing Arts

April 28-30, 2023

Follow The Little Mermaid on her magical journey under the sea and delight in colorful fish, slithering eels, majestic jellyfish, an evil Sea Witch and a tale of true love. For all ages. The show runs for 90 minutes and includes an intermission. Meet and greet after all four performances.

Oakland

Photo credit: Fever

 

Spring Market presented by Rust and Retro Vintage Market at The Oakland County Fairgrounds Activity Center

March 31-April 1, 2023

Rust and Retro’s vintage market will feature 50-plus local small businesses and food vendors. 

The Novi Home Show 2023 at Suburban Collection Showplace

March 31-April 2, 2023

This event is an opportunity to talk to professionals from local companies and meet experts that will help you design and build your dream home. Purchase your tickets in advance to save 20%. Parking is an additional charge.

Canterbury Eggstravaganza at Canterbury Village

April 1-2, 7-8, 2023

A helicopter will rain Easter eggs from the sky at this hunt at Canterbury Village. The afternoon will also include lawn games, a petting zoo and photos with the Easter Bunny. Makes sure to bring your own basket to collect your eggs. Advanced registration required.

Egg Scramble Along the Trail at Indian Springs Metropark 

April 1, 2023

Ages 10 and under can bring their own baskets to search for hidden eggs in themed locations along the trail. Keep an eye out for the Easter Bunny, too. Pre-registration is required by March 31, 2023.

Ignite at Launch Trampoline

April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2023 

Teens ages 13 and up can enjoy an epic teen night glow party at Launch Trampoline. There will be music and special appearances by local DJs, SFX lighting and black lights, glow in the dark body paint and more. 

RARA Easter Egg Hunt at Rochester Municipal Park

April 1, 2023

Check out RARA’s 9th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Bring a camera so your child can get a photo with the Easter Bunny, play games and hunt for eggs during this annual event. Dress for the weather. Different time slots available for ages 1-4, 5-7 and ages 8-11. Pre-registration for each child is required.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA at Fuerst Park

April 2, 2023

Ages 6 months to 12 years old can enjoy a fun, Easter-themed event with an egg hunt, crafts, petting zoo and visit with the Easter Bunny. Leave your baskets at home.

Toddler Time at Launch Trampoline

April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2023

Toddlers and their parent or guardian can enjoy children’s music throughout the park, a special appearance by Joey the Kangaroo and a jump time just for their age. 

Choco Town: An Immersive Journey Into a Sweet Town at Oakland Mall

April 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 2023

  • Address: 412 W. 14 Mile Road, Troy
  • Cost: $25-plus/ages 13-plus, $18-plus/ages 4-12, $20-plus/family or group bundle and for students and seniors, free/ages 3 and under | Get tickets

Take a trip to Choco Town to try some tasty treats, play games, solve riddles and discover your chocolate personality. Take photos against the chocolate backdrops and shop goodies at the gift shop.

Flashlight Egg Hunt at Camp Agawam

April 6, 2023

Ages 9-15 can participate in this annual Flashlight Egg Hunt. There will also be hot cocoa by the campfire. Registration required.

Rock Around The Hawk at The Hawk – Farmington Hills Community Center

April 6, 2023

Ages 18 months to 5 years can join for a morning of music, activities and fun in the Blackbox Theater. April’s theme is Lily’s Fair.

Spring Fling Egg Scramble at Drake Sports Park

April 6, 2023

Ages 1-4 can take part in their own Easter egg hunt, which also has a train ride, petting farm and visit with Mr. Bunny. Make sure to bring your own basket. Registration required.

Spring Fling Flashlight Egg Hunt at Drake Sports Park

April 6, 2023

Ages 7-12 can participate in this nighttime egg hunt with flashlights. Make sure to bring your own basket and flashlight. Dress for the weather. Registration required.

Bunnyville at the Detroit Zoo

April 7-8, 2023

This annual two-day event features a golden egg hunt, live entertainment, photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, inflatables and more. Bring non-perishable food items to donate to Gleaners.

Great Marshmallow Drop at Catalpa Oaks County Park

April 7, 2023

Join Catalpa Oaks for its Easter event where 15,000 marshmallows drop from a helicopter. Turn in one marshmallow for a prize. The four drop zone groups are ages 4 and under, ages 5-7, ages 8-12 and individuals with disabilities.

Easter Egg Hunt and Book Launch at Birmingham First United Methodist Church

April 8, 2023

Families can enjoy a story read by local author, Glenys Nellist, get their picture taken with the bunny and purchase sweet treats from the Detroit Mini Donut food truck. The egg hunt will be after the story time and will be broken up by age. Make sure to bring your own baskets to collect plastic eggs filled with candy and prizes.

Easter Egg Hunt & Lunch at Paradise Park

April 8, 2023

Enjoy exploring the park looking for hundreds of colorful eggs filled with candy, toys and free attraction tickets. A lunch buffet will also be served from noon-1:15 p.m. There will be homemade pizza, breadsticks, salad, beverages and an assortment of desserts. Advanced registration is required.

The Fairytale Princess Ball at The Fairytale Fun Place

April 14-16, 2023

Join The Fairytale Fun Place for a day of royal treatment and magical princess performances, along with dances, photographs and even a crowning ceremony. Advanced tickets are encouraged.

Earth Day Celebration at the Recreation Activities Center 

April 20, 2023

Explore the Outdoor Natural Play Area and celebrate Mother Earth with a recycled craft, live animal interactions and guided hikes. Register with or without the hike. Pre-registration required.

Mom & Son Night Out at The Hawk – Farmington Hills Community Center

April 21, 2023

Join the Farmington Hills Recreation Department for a Mother and Son Night Out at the HAWK Fitness & Activity Center. There will be music, dancing, snacks, games, activities and more at this event. Registration required.

Earth Day Camp at Indian Springs Metropark

April 22, 2023

Ages 7 and up can enjoy lots of crafts and projects to celebrate Earth Day at this camp. Bring your own lunch and wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy. Pre-registration is required by 4 p.m. April 19.

The Oakland County Earth Day March, Rally and Fair at Centennial Commons Park 

April 22, 2023

Oakland County communities will take administrative action to fight against the climate crisis while creating justice, protecting future generations and creating sustainable jobs at this march. The Earth fair will feature live music, art, a march and speeches from political leaders.

Super Bounce Days at The Hawk – Farmington Hills Community Center

April 23, 2023

Head to The Hawk on Super Bounce Days and jump around. Once a month on special mornings and afternoons staff members set up the inflatable bouncers in the gym to make an arena of fun! Kids will enjoy the big bouncer, bouncer obstacle course and giant inflatable slide.

Kid’s Night at The Hawk – Farmington Hills Community Center

April 28, 2023

Parents can plan a special night out while kids get to enjoy a night in at the Hawk Community Center. Hawk Recreation Staff will plan and oversee activities for a fun-filled night. For ages 5-11.

SUE: The T. rex Experience at Cranbrook Institute of Science

Through April 30, 2023

  • Address: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
  • Cost: $10/non-member adults, $9/members, $8/non-member children ages 2-12 and seniors, free/enhanced members and children under 2. (Non-members must pay general admission, too) | Get tickets

This traveling exhibit comes from the Field Museum in Chicago and features an exact cast of SUE’s skeleton, measuring in at 40 feet from snout to tail and 13 feet tall at the hip.

Washtenaw

Photo credit: Waterloo Recreation Area

Night of the Amphibians at the Eddy Discovery Center

April 1, 2023

Join the Eddy Discovery Center for a lively presentation featuring frogs, salamanders and quivering masses of eggs from local ponds. The program will start in the outdoor pavilion followed by a walk to a nearby pond to see and hear frogs singing in the night. Make sure to bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required.

Little Paws Story Time at Humane Society of Huron Valley 

April 6, 13, 20, 27, 2023

Bring your little ones aged 2-5 to the Humane Society of Huron Valley for a story time, which features stories, crafts, finger plays and animal interactions. Pre-registration is required.

Yoga with Cats at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center 

April 6, 13, 20, 27, 2023

Ages 12 and up can join Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center to practice yoga with their furry feline yoga masters. You may bring your own yoga mat or borrow one of theirs. Pre-registration and advance payment required.

Rescue Reading at Humane Society of Huron Valley

April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2023

This drop-off event is for ages 6-11. This program includes reading to our adoptable animals, a group read-aloud and a dog meet-and-greet. Pre-registration is required.

Yoga with Cats at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center

April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2023

Ages 12 and up can join Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center to practice yoga with their furry feline yoga masters. You may bring your own yoga mat or borrow one of theirs. Pre-registration and advance payment required.

Tiny Tails Story Time at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center

April 5, 19, 2023

Come to Tiny Lions on Wednesday mornings for a story time designed for toddlers ages 2-5 with stories, crafts, finger plays and animal interactions. Pre-registration is required.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt at Hudson Mills Metropark

April 7, 2023

Ages 8-16 will love the extra challenge of this special nighttime egg hunt searching for eggs in different themed areas outdoors. Bring a basket or bag and a flashlight. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Easter Egg Hunt at Hudson Mills Metropark

April 8, 2023

Ages 10 and under can bring their own baskets to search for hidden eggs in themed locations along the trail. Keep an eye out for the Easter Bunny, too. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Pre-registration is required by April 7, 2023.

Teen Mewvie Night at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center

April 8, 2023

Ages of 12-17 are invited to join the felines at Tiny Lions once a month for a special Teen Mewvie Night! Pop and popcorn are included, but you’re also welcome to bring any snacks and drinks of your own choice. You may bring any pillows, sleeping bags or blankets.

Pets and Pajamas at Humane Society of Huron Valley

April 14, 2023

Ages 6 to 11 can enjoy adoptable animal interaction, a cheese pizza dinner and an animal-themed movie with popcorn. Wear your pajamas, bring a sleeping bag and pillow and be ready for some animal-themed fun, while parents enjoy a night to themselves.

Family Read Celebration at Ypsilanti District Library – Whittaker

April 15, 2023

Celebrate the end of this year’s Family Read with a virtual visit by award-winning author Lisa Yee and a conversation led by their tween book group. There will be snacks and an art project after the reading.

Strange Creatures of the Spring Pond at Eddy Discovery Center

April 16, 2023

Come and meet the many fascinating and little-known creatures that live the spring ponds at Eddy Discovery Center. No boots are required, as you will be viewing the creatures in their special “pour-a-ponds” outside on the deck. Pre-registration is required.

Mothering Earth: A Poetry Gathering at Ypsilanti District Library – Michigan Avenue

April 22, 2023

Teens can join local poets Desirae Simmons and Leslie McGraw at the library as they do a poetry reading revolving around Earth Day.

Why Peas Need Bees! at Eddy Discovery Center

April 23, 2023

Join Becky Green, beekeeper and certified pollinator champion, to learn about pollinators. She will also have some of her local honey available for sale. Advanced registration required.

Sensory Story Time at the Humane Society of Huron Valley 

April 25, 2023

It is just like their regular story time, but a welcoming space for those with sensory sensitivities. All ages are welcome, but it’s designed for ages 2-5. Advanced registration is required.

Nature’s Nightlife at Eddy Discovery Center

April 30, 2023

Join the Leslie Science Center as they bring live animals, such as bats, owls and arachnids, to show you why these creatures choose to work in the dark and how they are adapted for life at night. Registration required.

Wayne

Photo credit: Darren Thomas

Dearborn Heights Easter Marshmallow Drop at Canfield Community Center

April 1, 2023

Participants can celebrate the city of Dearborn Heights’ 60th Anniversary with a marshmallow drop at this Easter event.

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt at Oakwoods Metropark

April 1, 2023

Stop by anytime during the event to walk the trail in search of hidden eggs. After the hunt, there will be treats and crafts at the nature center. Pre-registration required by March 31, 2023.

Ford House Bunny Trail at Edsel and Eleanor Ford House

April 1-30, 2023

Hop along the bunny trail at the Ford House for an Easter-themed scavenger hunt all throughout April. Your little one will also get a treat inside the Visitor Center. Registration required.

Great Detroit Egg Hunt at The Congregation

April 1, 2023

Ages 12 and under can take part in an Easter egg hunt, with special eggs with cash and gift cards. Photo opportunities, too.

“The Science of the Cookie” at the Michigan Science Center

April 1-2, 8-9, 2023

Michigan Science Center educators, edibleWOW and Girl Scouts representatives will explore the science behind baking cookies and lead hands-on activities for visitors. Girl Scout troops will also sell cookies at the event and host an online voting contest for visitors to select their favorite Girl Scout cookie, with opportunities for participants to win prizes.

Story Time with Mr. Jim at Caroline Kennedy Library

April 6, 13, 20, 27, 2023

Caroline Kennedy Library offers simple stories, music, crafts, bubbles and fun for little ones and their caregivers every Thursday. Recommended for ages 2-3, but all ages are welcome.

Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop at Elizabeth Park 

April 7, 2023

Thousands of marshmallows will drop from the sky as they tumble from the Easter Bunny’s helicopter! Turn in one marshmallow for a prize. This event will be broken up into spare age groups – 4 and under, 5-7 years old and 8 and older.

Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop at Nankin Mills Park Area

April 7, 2023

Thousands of marshmallows will drop from the sky as they tumble from the Easter Bunny’s helicopter! Only one marshmallow is needed for a prize. For ages 12 and under. They will be broken up into three separate age groups (4 and younger, 5-7 years old and 8 and older).

Bunny Bash at Heritage Park Petting Farm 

April 8, 2023

Take a walk through Heritage Park’s Petting Farm and meet all of the farms favorite long-eared friends.

Easter Egg Hunt at Garden City Park

April 8, 2023

There will be three different age groups for the hunt in searching for more than 12,000 eggs. Each age groups will have 15 “magical eggs” to turn in for a special prize! Bring your own bag or basket to collect your eggs in. No registration required.

Easter Egg Scramble at Lake Erie Metropark

April 8, 2023

All ages can head to Lake Erie Metropark for an egg hunt, crafts, games and more during this festive spring program for the kids. Pre-registration required by April 7, 2023.

Scooby-Doo! Mansion Mayhem at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn

Through April 9, 2023

Join Daphne as she combs the Hall of Portraits, find the details in the music room and library, check the Kitchen and the Villain’s Tinkering Workshop for clues and take a selfie with the whole gang when the case is closed.

Farm Tours at Maybury Farm

April 11-16, 18-23, 25-30, 2023

Families can enjoy a hands-on farm experience that connects them to the animals and agriculture at Maybury Farm. All tours include a dedicated Farm Educator and use of the playground and picnic area.

Eggstravaganza at Maybury Farm

April 15, 2023

Kids ages 2-11 can enjoy an egg hunt, live animals, seed planting, face painting, crafts and more. Prize bags are limited to the first 800 children ages 2-plus.

Bluey’s Big Play at the Fox Theatre

April 21-23, 2023

Fans of all ages will get to see Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli as the Heelers embark on their very first live theater show. It will feature live actors, puppetry and iconic sets. Based on an original new story written by Bluey creator Joe Brumm.

Guided Canoe Program at Crosswinds Marsh Interpretive Preserve

April 21, 2023

Ages 6-15 can enjoy sunset views while enjoying a guided paddle at Crosswinds Marsh Interpretive Preserve. Canoes, paddles and life jackets will be provided. Registration required.

Earth Day at Greenmead Historical Park

April 22, 2023

Families can head to the Alexander Blue House for a hands-on encounter with Dan the Creature Man. Kids will also create their very own take-home plant terrarium. Advance registration required.

Earth Day: Heroes of Conservation at Lake Erie Metropark 

April 22, 2023

Ages 8 and up can join Lake Erie Metropark for a look at real-life heroes and fictional heroes from the Marvel Universe. Pre-registration required by April 21 at 4 p.m.

Earth Day: History Hike at Lake Erie Metropark

April 22, 2023

Join Lake Erie Metropark for a nature hike to celebrate Earth Day. Discover the history of the holiday and how you can help the environment. Pre-registration required by April 21 at 4 p.m. 

Annie at Fisher Theatre

April 25-30, 2023

See little orphan Annie in one of the best-loved musicals of all time. The open captioned performance will be at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 28, 2023. The performance is 2 hours and 40 minutes long, including an intermission.

Disney Animation: Immersive Experience at Lighthouse ArtSpace Detroit

Through May 14, 2023

Sing along and experience your favorite Disney songs and movies in an all-new immersive experience.

“Level Up” at the Michigan Science Center

Through May 29, 2023

Check out this 8,000-square-foot interactive installation that demonstrates the acquired skills behind video and analog games.

Rosa Parks Bus at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Through Dec. 31, 2023

Located in the With Liberty and Justice for All section of the museum, see the infamous bus where Rosa Parks took a stand in the Civil Rights Movement by refusing to give up her seat to a white man.

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