Families looking to enjoy winter outdoors have another option along the Detroit Riverfront with Winter at Valade, a free weekend series that brings sledding, bonfires and seasonal celebrations back to Robert C. Valade Park.
Running Saturdays and Sundays from Jan. 10-March 1, Winter at Valade is designed to fit easily into a family’s weekend plans, whether that means stopping by for a short visit or spending the entire afternoon outside by the river.
The event offers a mix of outdoor play and indoor warm-up spaces that make winter visits comfortable for all ages. One Yelp reviewer described the park during winter programming saying that it’s “a truly incredible park right in the heart of the Detroit Riverfront and managed so beautifully by the Riverfront Conservancy!”
What families can expect each weekend
Each Saturday and Sunday, families can move between outdoor activities and the warmth of the Shed. Kids can sled down the park’s hills using free sleds borrowed from the Sled Shed, while oversized bonfires and marshmallow roasters are lit from noon-7 p.m. for anyone looking to warm up.
Additional activities include casual curling games, board games inside the Shed and visits from Riverfront Ambassadors, who offer free activity pages along with hand warmers and gloves while supplies last.
Food and drinks are also part of the weekend experience. Smokey G’s serves food from noon-7 p.m., and the Valade Shed Bar offers drinks and s’mores from noon-8 p.m. Hours are subject to change.
A seasonal scene along the riverfront
Winter at Valade leans into the quieter, cozier side of the riverfront during the colder months. Ice sculptures, fire pits and river views create a winter setting that feels festive without being overwhelming.
Another Google review noted, “The winter ice sculptures, the fire pits and the eatery made my experience special. All of this right off the Riverfront made it even more fantastical.”
Weekly walk for those who want to move
Families with older kids, teens or adults looking for a more active option can join the Polar Power Walk at 2 p.m. every Sunday. Led by Urban Solace, the cardio-focused group walk follows the Detroit Riverfront and includes stops for stretching and group movement. Participation is free, but registration is required.
Seasonal celebrations continue throughout the winter
Winter at Valade continues to roll out special themed weekends and cultural celebrations throughout the season, giving families new reasons to return to the riverfront. Highlights include the Fire and Ice Festival on Jan. 24-25, featuring ice sculptures, oversized fires and family-friendly entertainment. Another upcoming event is a Lunar New Year celebration on Feb. 14, hosted in partnership with the Michigan Taiwanese American Organization, with live performances, crafts, family-friendly activities and food vendors.
When and where
- What: Winter at Valade
- When: Saturdays and Sundays, Jan. 10-March 1
- Time: Noon-8 p.m.
- Where: Robert C. Valade Park, 2670 Atwater St., Detroit
- Cost: Free admission; food and drinks available for purchase
