With kids in tow, seeing the latest stage show or attending that super popular special event can put a real dent in the ol’ bank account. It’s great once in a while, but geez, where are all of the free southeast Michigan events this weekend?
Turns out, there are plenty of free events to choose from, and we’ve rounded up the best options happening this weekend in this convenient spot.
Every activity listed here will cost you absolutely nothing for admission. Zilch. Maybe you’ll have to splurge a few bucks for parking and a little for some activities within the event. But that’s it!
Want to try some events in Detroit that won’t cost you a fortune? Searching for online activities in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties that won’t break the bank?
Then check back here regularly and mark your calendars so you don’t miss any of the free family fun happening over the next week or so.
Don’t see an event that fits your fam? Check out our online calendar for more fun events.
Free events in Macomb county
Valentine Cards & Crafts (All Ages) at Shelby Township Library
Feb. 4, 2023
- Address: 52610 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township
All ages are welcome to come to the Library Legacy Room to decorate a card for residents of a local assisted living facility.
Take & Make for Kids: Valentine’s Day Magnets! at Harrison Township Public Library
Feb. 10, 2023
Drop by the library to grab a magnet craft to take home with you. Available while supplies last. Limit is 1 per child.
Superhero Marvel VS DC: Valentine’s Day Party! at Harrison Township Public Library
Feb. 11, 2023
Enjoy a Valentine’s Day party with a superhero theme. There may even be a couple special guests attending the party. Registration required.
Free events in Oakland county
The Big, Bright Light Show in Downtown Rochester
Through Jan. 21, 2023
- Address: Downtown Rochester area
Downtown Rochester is decked in 1.5 million lights, brightening up buildings every evening.
Love is Lit: Valentine’s Day Circuits (Teen) at Royal Oak Public Library
Feb. 8, 2023
- Address: 222 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
Teens can come out to the Royal Oak Public Library to use circuits to electrify conversation hearts. Registration required.
Love is Lit: Valentine’s Day Circuits (Tween) at Royal Oak Public Library
Feb. 8, 2023
- Address: 222 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
Tweens can come out to the Royal Oak Public Library to use circuits to electrify conversation hearts. Registration required.
Black History Mysteries at Southfield Public Library
Feb. 1-28, 2023
- Address: 26300 Evergreen Road, Southfield
Families can come out to the library each week in the month of February for a new mystery to solve. Turn in your clue sheet for a prize and be entered into the drawing to receive a year-long family membership to the Detroit Zoo.
Winter Wonderland Magic Show with Gordon the Magician at Gilham Recreation Center
Feb. 11, 2023
- Address: 26325 Scotia Road, Huntington Woods
See magician, Gordon Russ at his Winter Wonderland Magic Show at Gilham Recreation Center. He will be with his trusty sidekick, George the Raccoon. Don’t forget to make and bring a “PICK ME” sign to the show.
Valentine Sensory Play: Birth to 3 years at Royal Oak Public Library
Feb. 11, 2023
- Address: 222 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
Babies and toddlers can enjoy a sensory play for Valentine’s Day. They will explore with various toys, textures in the room and sensory activities. Registration required.
Galentine’s Day at Royal Oak Public Library
Feb. 16, 2023
- Address: 222 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
Teens can enjoy a non-gendered celebration of platonic love and friendship in the Youth Activity Room. There will be snacks, crafts and more.
Black History Month Celebration at Pontiac Public Library
Feb. 18, 2023
- Address: 60 East Pike St., Pontiac
Celebrate Black History Month with the library and hear from African American authors who will presents their books, vendors, speakers and more. Refreshments will be provided.
Black Expo at the Orchard Mall
Feb. 25, 2023
Families can celebrate Black History Month with an expo with demos and displays, Black-owned businesses, live music and more.
Toddler Explorations: Valentine’s Day Theme at Northville District Library
Feb. 25, 2023
- Address: 212 W. Cady St., Northville
Ages 1-3 can come to the library for an open interactive engagement program that uses play and exploration to develop motor and social skills. Registration required.
Free events in Washtenaw county
Chocolate Extravaganza in Downtown Chelsea
Feb. 11, 2023
- Address: Downtown Chelsea area
Shop Chelsea’s annual Chocolate Extravaganza and get treats and goodies, just in time for Valentine’s Day. There will be events for kids, too.
Free events in Wayne county
Light Up Beacon Park
Through Jan. 16, 2023
- Address: 1901 Grand River Ave., Detroit
Children of all ages can enjoy this annual as it transforms Beacon Park into a winter wonderland. It will feature a light display with more than 125,000 LED lights, holiday music and more.
New York International Children’s Film Festival – Celebrating Black Stories at Detroit Film Theatre
Feb. 4, 2023
- Address: 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Families can enjoy short films, which were audience winners at the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Recommended for ages 9 and up. Free for residents of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks at Detroit Film Theatre
Feb. 4, 2023
- Address: 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Join the Detroit Film Theatre for a screening of The Rebellious Life Of Mrs. Rosa Parks, followed by a conversation with the film’s executive producer, journalist Soledad O’Brien and the film’s directors Johanna Hamilton and Yoruba Richen. Free for residents of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.
Detroit Book City African-American Family Book Expo 2023 at Historic People’s Community Church
Feb. 18, 2023
- Address: 8601 Woodward Ave., Detroit
This 7th annual expo features book discussions, kids’ activities, meet-and-greets with Black authors and more. First 100 adults receive a swag bag. Bring the kids to meet “Brodie,” Detroit Book City’s dog mascot and get free Black history coloring sheets, bookmarks, crayons and other goodies! Registration required.
This post is updated regularly.
