12 things to do in Michigan in April

Spring is finally here, as illustrated by our 12 things to do in Michigan in April 2024. Let’s get outside and have some fun.

April 4 Detroit Tigers Opening Day – Detroit

As the old saying goes, “there ain’t no party like a Detroit party,” and nowhere is that more evident than in and around Comerica Park on Opening Day. Some years it feels like summer, and some years, it feels more like football season than baseball. We won’t know what we’ll get until it comes, but the warmth of the people is what really makes this day shine. If you have tickets, come down early to support local establishments by the stadium, or in Corktown near that familiar corner of Michigan and Trumbull. Most bars in Corktown offer shuttles. If you don’t have tickets, just join in on the festive atmosphere. Tailgate with some friends, and watch the game in a nearby watering hole. Regardless of weather, it’ll definitely make you feel like spring has sprung.

April 12 GVSU Spring Pow Wow – Allendale

For a truly unique experience, head to Grand Valley State University and attend a genuine Pow Wow. For those not familiar with these Native American events, a Pow Wow is a community gathering and celebration of culture through ceremony, song, dance, feasting and socializing. At a Pow Wow, you can expect a series of activities including dancers, drummers, singers, vendors, and food, all while maintaining the central core in a traditional ceremony. The public is welcome to attend this cultural experience at no cost.

April 12 Greenfield Village Opening Day – Dearborn

Fresh air, gravel beneath your feet, the honk of an old horn, you’ll also know that spring has officially sprung when Greenfield Village reopens its gates for the season. There is an exclusive member preview on April 11, and then the general public is invited to come on in on April 12. This map of the Village will help in planning your visit. Hop aboard the train. Get the kids on the carousel. Go back in time in a Model T. The farm animals will be out, artisans will be making magic in Liberty Square, and of course frosty goodness awaits at the Frozen Custard Hut. Weather permitting, it might just feel like summer.

April 13 All Things Detroit Day – Detroit

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to sell your wares, someone who loves to shop, or just looking for some family fun, head to Eastern Market on April 13. This special event seeks to connect you with small business owners, artisans, food lovers, entertainers and a host of very interesting people for a great and memorable experience. Groove to the music from local DJs, check out the food trucks, and shop until you almost drop. Then, pop over to historic Bert’s for some scrumptious BBQ, quench your thirst at Eastern Market Brewing Company, or sip a sassy cocktail at Detroit City Distillery. If the weather cooperates, take a stroll to enjoy the murals all over the market.

April 19 Beerfest at the Ballpark – Lansing

There are so many fantastic reasons to head to a Michigan ballpark this month. At Jackson Field, home of the Lugnuts, there is a reason that involves no balls, nor bats. Instead, you’ll find beverages a plenty. This outdoor event gives attendees the opportunity to taste their choice of brews, ciders, hard seltzers, meads, spirits, and wine, from over 70 craft producers. Every ticket includes entry to the festival, a souvenir glass, and tasting tickets. Each tasting ticket is redeemable for a 3-oz pour of one of the 300+ beverage options. More expensive beers, cider, meads and spirits will require two tickets. Additional tickets will be available for purchase at the festival for $2 per drink ticket. General admission is $50 in advance or $55 at the door.

April 23-27 National Trout Festival – Kalkaska

As they like to say in Kalkaska, “Rise and shine, it’s fishing time.” Anglers will be coming from near and far to the National Trout Festival, which consists of events, activities, and parades that take place mainly at the Kalkaska County Fairgrounds and downtown at Railroad Square. Festivities begin at the town’s Trout Fountain for an introduction of this year’s Grand Marshall, and crowning of the King and Queen, followed by live jazz. Highlights the rest of the weekend include fishing contests, a golf outing, classic car show, flea market, Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo, dodge ball, pig roast, Troutzilla, a carnival and fireworks. What a great way to welcome trout season.

April 24 Neil deGrasse Tyson – Kalamazoo

In Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies – Part 1, audiences will join the famed scientist for an entertaining and enlightening review of all the science that our favorite movies got wrong, combined with some of the stuff they got right. The show incorporates the latest films as well as some classics that you may not have known had any science in them at all. Expect discussions on Star Wars, Frozen, Armageddon, Titanic, and The Martian, among others. The show takes place at Miller Auditorium on the campus of Western Michigan University. A V.I.P. experience is also available, which gives guests the opportunity to participate in a private 30-minute Q&A with Dr.Tyson, an autographed poster, and an opportunity to be photographed with the renowned influencer.

April 24-26 Upper Peninsula Dark Sky Festival – Copper Harbor

The Keweenaw Peninsula is home to the state’s latest Dark Sky Park. The fact that its star-filled skies weren’t first is almost shocking. Any time is a wonderful time to visit. This month’s festival runs in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week. Events and special workshops will be hosted at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, headquarters for the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park. Intended for all ages of dark sky enthusiasts, guests can participate in workshops, stargaze on snowshoes, and even chase the Northern Lights, which have had some spectacular shows as of late.

April 25 Season Opener – Mackinac Island

Have you been craving creamy fudge, the clippity clop of horses hooves, and sunsets over Mighty Mac? The wait is over! Beginning April 25, ferries will begin running several times daily from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace to our beloved Mackinac Island. Not only that, but a multitude of hotels, eateries, and shops open for the season as well. If you’ve never experienced this scenic gem in the off season, then set a course and you’re in for a treat. Smaller crowds provide a more timeless feel, making it easy to truly disconnect from a hectic life. Plus, flowers begin to bloom across the island, and those legendary lilacs are not far behind.

April 25-26 Bringin’ Back the 80s Festival – Frankenmuth

This might just be Frankenmuth’s best party of the year. The annual event takes attendees back to a gnarly time, when gnarly meant good and so did bad. Whether you prefer to dance to a Jackson or a Prince, Madonna or The Police, grab some stonewashed jeans, and totally awesome friends, and hit the floor. Groove to outrageous live cover bands. Enter the best dressed contest. Check out the huge display of 80s memorabilia. Play retro video games, and marvel at the breakdancing show. Tickets are $20 and proceeds support cancer-related causes. The fun runs 6pm-Midnight on Friday or 5pm-Midnight on Sat.

April 25-26 Earth Fair – Wales Township

Let’s face it, saving this planet of ours is everyone’s responsibility, so isn’t it a good time to learn more? Stopping by this event is an excellent way to get started. By blending together demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, artisans, and activities, Earth Fair focuses on inspiring and educating the thousands of visitors who take part in Michigan’s largest Earth Day event. The more you know, the better environmental steward you can be. Your adventure into a celebration of Earth Day begins at the gate where you will be assisted with parking and given a guide to the exhibits and activities. Don’t forget to bring some spending money, because Earth Fair can be a significant source of funding for grassroots nonprofits and local businesses.

April 25-27 Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival – Vermontville

If you love maple products and Michigan history, then this is the place to be. The state’s original maple syrup festival, this event dates back to about 1940, when local syrup producers gathered in a barber shop to discuss a way to sell their product. Suffice it to say, the idea took off, and the festivities now include carnival rides, a talent show, arts and crafts, a flea market, two parades, a petting zoo, a princess pageant, antique tractor show, and mini horse pulls. Best of all, you can enjoy maple in all it’s best forms from syrup to cotton candy!

Join us on social media for ongoing discussions about Michigan travel destinations. Follow @BuyMichiganNow on Facebook or tag us in a picture on Instagram when you make it to one of our 12 things to do in Michigan in April. For next month’s event highlights, or to get ideas for your local bucket list, be sure to visit our Michigan Tourism page regularly.