Kick Off the New Year with these January Southeast Michigan Events
Happy New Year from The Gilson Home Group! 2026 has arrived and has brought with it a ton of fun events and outings in the Metro Detroit area and beyond. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or just explore what the local community has to offer, our team has got you covered.
Here’s what’s happening this month around Detroit:
Detroit Auto Show
When: January 14—25
10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Sunday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Huntington Place, Downtown Detroit
The Motor City’s favorite auto show is back for 2026 with a full slate of major auto companies showing off the latest automotive technology. Experience an indoor race track, industry keynote speakers, art and design exhibits, a musical performance by Robin Thicke, and more!
Winter at Valade
When: January 10—March 1
Saturdays & Sundays: 12:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Robert C. Valade Park, Detroit Riverfront
Head down to the Detroit River walk every Saturday and Sunday through March to celebrate winter with a full day of indoor and outdoor activities! Visitors can enjoy sledding, bonfires (with marshmallow roasting, of course), curling, board games and delicious barbeque bites at Smokey G’s.
Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest
When: Saturday, January 17 | 4:00 to 9:30 pm
Where: Michigan Firehouse Museum, Ypsilanti
Sample your way through 100+ rare and high-end whiskeys, bourbons and cocktails from local Michigan distilleries at the Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest. The event also includes food stalls, live music and vendors selling bourbon-themed merch.
Tecumseh Annual Ice Sculpture Festival
When: January 16 & 17 | 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Tecumseh
Bundle up and explore almost 50 unique, artist-made ice sculptures, complete with a carving competition and scavenger hunt! Check out live carving demonstrations and explore historic downtown Tecumseh.
49th Annual Ann Arbor Folk Festival
When: Friday, January 30th | 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 31st | 7:00 p.m.
Where: Hill Auditorium, Downtown Ann Arbor
The Ann Arbor Folk Festival features a blend of renowned and up-and-coming performers, providing audience members with the opportunity to hear artists they know and love while discovering great new talent.
Aqua Freeze Festival
When: Saturday, January 24 | 1:00 to 10:00 pm
Where: Blossom Heath Park, St. Clair Shores
The annual St. Clair Shores Aqua Freeze Festival returns this year, with warm drinks, ice sculptures, and more!
