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The Winter at Valade celebration will return on weekends in January and February along the Detroit waterfront.
Photo provided by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
DETROIT — The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy will kick off its fourth annual Winter at Valade celebration starting Friday, Jan. 5.
The conservancy hosts this program each weekend until Sunday, Feb. 25. Some weekends will be centered around a celebration or theme. The season will begin January 5-7 with a Fire and Ice-themed weekend. January 19-21 will focus on Motown Magic. Mardi Gras at Valade on will be the theme for Feb. 9-11 and Lunar New Year will be celebrated Feb. 23-25.
The events will take place at Robert C. Valade Park every weekend and feature giant fires, marshmallow roasters, sledding, seasonal drinks and delicious food, and more.
“Each year, our winter programming continues to expand in scope and in popularity,” Rachel Frierson, senior director of programming and public spaces, said in a press release. “It’s rewarding to see how popular Winter at Valade has become over the last three years. For a lot of people throughout our community, visiting the Detroit Riverfront for our winter programming has become a tradition and we are excited to welcome everyone back this season.”
More than 40,000 people enjoyed the festivities during the 2023 season. Fridays will include an open mic, board games, trivia and more. Sundays will feature a wide range of wellness programming, which includes hustle classes and polar walks. Food and beverage will also be available for purchase during Winter at Valade hours.
Managed by the nonprofit Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Valade Park is located at 2670 Atwater along the East Riverfront in downtown Detroit. Winter programming takes place Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 7 p.m. Winter at Valade is presented by Friends of Robert C. Valade Park.
