Select events happening in the Detroit area. Be sure to check venue websites before all events for the latest information. See our online calendar for more ideas for things to do, or add your event: metrotimes.com/AddEvent.
Ghostbusters (1984) shadowcast
While “shadowcasts” — actors performing in front of a movie screen while a film plays behind them — are often associated with The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this one takes on another cult classic. Wandering Lantern Productions and The Redford Theatre have teamed up to present the OG 1984 Ghostbusters flick “like never before,” organizers say, “with a LIVE cast performing in sync, complete with proton packs, ghosts, slime surprises, photo ops, themed drinks and more” in partnership with Ghostbusters Detroit.
Starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4; Redford Theatre, 17360 Lahser Rd., Detroit; redfordtheatre.com. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.
The American Speed Festival
Now in its fifth year, this event offers fans the chance to connect with legendary drivers, experience rare and iconic vehicles up close, and witness high-octane action including exhibition laps, drifting demos with stunt pro Ele Bardha, and flat track motorcycle racing with champion Bryan Smith. This year, ASF honors two-time Indy 500 champion Al Unser Jr., with a special appearance and a rare display of the Borg-Warner Trophy. On Saturday, don’t miss the vintage Scream N’ Rebels Warbird flyovers, plus the Ladies Race of Champions Invitational featuring top female racers in identical Radical cars. Special ticketed events include the Dine & Drive ($250), Garage Reveal ($200), and the Checkered Flag Ball ($500), with all proceeds supporting M1 Mobility, which provides free transportation for Pontiac residents.
From Friday, Oct. 3-Sunday, Oct. 5; M1 Concourse, 45399 Woodward Ave., Pontiac; americanspeedfestival.com. Tickets are $55 per day, $175 per day VIP.
Detroit Bourbon & Blues Festival
This immersive festival brings together smooth pours from Michigan’s finest distilleries and standout national brands, all set to the electrifying sounds of live blues. This year’s lineup includes Niecie, the Free Style Band, and Wil & Anthony Zach. General admission includes 10 tasting tickets and a commemorative glass, while VIP offers early entry, 15 tasting tickets, a VIP lounge, curated bottles, a commemorative glass, and a meal voucher. Additionally, a Classic Cocktail Course presented by Louisville Tourism offers a deep dive into bourbon cocktail history. A portion of proceeds supports Turning Point, a nonprofit serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
From 7-10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3; Eastern Market Shed 5, 2810 Russell St., Detroit; detroitbourbonandblues.com. Tickets are $54.98 or $81.66 for VIP.
Mark Arminski and Mark Diskin
This joint exhibition at Edo offers an arresting dialogue between two distinct visual voices. Arminski is celebrated for his electric, rock ’n’ roll poster‑style imagery. Meanwhile, Diskin is known for his mixed-media assemblages, often made from discarded vintage items like creepy old dolls. Speaking of dolls: Margaret Dollrod will be on hand to provide the evening’s musical entertainment.
From 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4; Edo Ramen & Sushi House,
4313 W. 13 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; edo-lounge.com/shows. No cover.
Shigeto: Live at the Palmer Park Bandshell
Thankfully, Detroit’s historic Michigan State Fairgrounds bandshell was saved from demolition, and recently reopened in Detroit’s Palmer Park with a jazz concert by Marcus Elliot. The music continues on Sunday with a concert by Shigeto, the drummer, electronic music producer, and WDET radio host who is celebrating one year of his solo album Cherry Blossom Baby. Shigeto will be joined by Elliot on saxophone, Ian Fink on keys, Tim Shellabarger on bass, Dez Andrés on percussion, and KESSWA on vocals — the same live configuration that enchanted during Detroit’s Movement festival this spring. DJs Saylem Celeste and Turtle Bugg round out the bill. Guests can bring their own blanket or lawn chairs, and beer and wine will be available for purchase, along with non-alcoholic sodas from Detroit’s Casamara Club and food from Pink Flamingo.
From 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5; Palmer Park Bandshell, 910 Merrill Plaisance St., Detroit; facebook.com. No cover.
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How Detroit saved its legendary Michigan State Fairgrounds bandshell
On Saturday, Detroit celebrated the grand reopening of its historic bandshell — saved from demolition and relocated from the former Michigan State Fairgrounds across Woodward Avenue to Palmer Park…