WDET Travels: Costa Rica Zoom preview
2026-04-27 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Register for a no-obligation preview of the 2027 WDET trip to Tropical Costa Rica. The presentation will be held on Monday, April 27th at 6 p.m.

Lush forests and stunning waterfalls… rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines… Costa Rica is a paradise teeming with exotic plants and animals.
Explore part of a 20,000-acre nature preserve. Experience the forest canopy during a hanging bridges nature walk or an exhilarating zip lining tour. Soak in the sunshine on breathtaking beaches. In Costa Rica, you will find a slice of paradise and so much more.
Register now!»

Smart Politics
2026-05-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Mario’s Italian Restaurant, 4222 2nd Ave, 48201, MI, 48201, United States
Midterm elections are approaching, and campaigning is already underway.
Join WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn for the first Smart Politics event of 2026 on Tuesday, May 5, at Mario’s Italian Restaurant in Midtown Detroit. Vaughn will moderate a panel discussion with Zach Gorchow of Gongwer News Service and Dave Dulio, political science professor at Oakland University. Audience questions will be part of the conversation.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and guests are welcome to dine during the program. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 6 p.m. The program begins at 7 p.m.
This program is supported by Bernard Wealth Management.
The views expressed by panelists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of WDET or Wayne State University. Please be respectful of panelists, the moderator and fellow attendees. Disruptive behavior may result in removal from the event. A valid government issued ID is required to purchase or consume alcohol.
Get your tickets online.

WDET Travel: Christmas on the Danube Zoom Q & A
2026-05-11 18:00 - 19:30 | Online
Register for a no-obligation preview of WDET’s 2027 “Christmas on the Danube” trip.
The virtual presentation will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, May 11.
Cruise along the Danube and explore European Christmas markets in cities dressed for the holidays. The itinerary includes Würzburg, known for its Baroque architecture, and Nuremberg, home to one of the world’s oldest and largest Christmas markets. Travelers will visit riverside towns and experience local holiday traditions.
Reserve your spot!
Register »

Movement 2026
2026-05-23 - 2026-05-25 | Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, 48226, United States
WDET is partnering with Paxahau as an official media partner for the 2026 Movement Electronic Music Festival, happening Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25.
Tune in to WDET starting Tuesday, May 20, for special programming celebrating Detroit techno and the artists shaping this year’s festival.
From May 20-22, In the Groove welcomes Movement artists for live sets from 2 to 3 p.m. Then on Memorial Day, catch all three performances rebroadcast back to back from noon to 3 p.m.
Plus, tune in throughout the week for your chance to win a pair of Movement weekend passes.
Visit movementfestival.com for the full schedule, wristbands and more.

What's So Funny About Detroit?
2026-05-28 18:00 - 21:30 | The Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
Thursday, May 28 showcase
Get your tickets!
What’s So Funny About Detroit? is coming back to the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami with host extraordinaire, Ryan Patrick Hooper (In The Groove,).

Detroit’s talented comedians will take the stage on the last Thursday of the month to showcase what, indeed, is so funny about the Motor City.
Line up for May 28: Josh Adams, Mary Spencer, and Diego Attanasio!
Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. sharp.
Tickets are $30 in advance for WDET members, $35 for non-WDET members and for everyone at the door. We will accept cash and card at the door.
There will be an on-site food vendor. No outside beverages are permitted.

This is an UNCENSORED comedy event. The viewpoints of the performers do not necessarily reflect those of WDET or Wayne State University.
This is a BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET event. When you get to the backyard, please set up blankets in the front, chairs in the back. There will be very limited on-site seating.
The Old Miami is a 21+ venue – NO EXCEPTIONS – we apologize in advance for any inconvenience! You may be required to show a photo ID for entry.

All four showcases are Supported by:

Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control
Titos Handmade Vodka, Vodka for dog people

Meet your new best friend at the event
Volunteer foster parents will bring adoptable dogs to The Old Miami for one hour before showtime so guests can meet, pet and play with the dogs, and learn about their personalities from the foster parents. And maybe adopt!
*Dogs are not allowed in the beautiful backyard of The Old Miami. If you do decide to adopt, you will need to make arrangements with the foster family.

Grab a signature cocktail

A special signature Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktail will be available at each showcase.

Get your tickets!

WDET Travel: Cultural Treasures of Japan
2026-06-07 - 2026-06-21
Book Your Trip »
Join Detroit Public Radio in June 2026 and explore the cultural treasures of Japan!

Trip Highlights:
Walk through the electric city of Tokyo, become energized by the metropolis’ buzz. Explore the lakeside resort of Hakone and cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi. Participate in a peaceful and meditative tea ceremony. Try your hand at the centuries-old art of gold leaf decorating. Tap into Japan’s train culture as you travel by the famous Shinkansen bullet train. Explore Tokyo’s famous Ginza District, the first Western-style shopping district in Japan where modern and old charms blend.

Experiences like these are what await you when you travel with WDET to the “Land of the Rising Sun!”

Book Your Trip »

Decks on Deck - Yacht Rock Edition
2026-06-07 18:00 - 21:00 | The Detroit Princess Riverboat, 1 Civic Center Drive, Detroit, MI, 48226, United States
Get your tickets today!
Join us on Sunday, June 7 for Decks on Deck: Yacht Rock Edition on the Detroit River.

The evening will feature live DJ sets from Rob Reinhart, host of Essential Music and Chris Campbell, host of The Progressive Underground.
Come join us for an evening of music, food, and drinks on this floating dance party! Tickets are $65 each.
Boarding will begin at 6 p.m., the cruise sets off at 7 p.m. We will debark by 10 p.m.

This is an all-ages venue. You must bring a valid government-issued ID if you plan to purchase or consume alcohol.
This event will be held on the Detroit Princess Riverboat. Please dress for the weather.
All ticket sales from Decks on Deck will directly benefit WDET.
Your ticket will include light bites. A cash bar is available featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Get your tickets today!
Thank you to our sponsor!

WDET Travel: Spotlight on Paris Q&A
2026-06-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
Spotlight on Paris
May 5 – 11, 2027
Travel Q&A Wednesday, June 24
Join us for a no-obligation Paris Information Session being held on Wednesday June 24 at 6 p.m.
Register »
About the trip
Be filled with joie de vivre as you soak in the romance and unparalleled charm of Paris. Savor dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring wonderful French cuisine and breathtaking views of Paris. Explore priceless treasures in the Louvre Museum. Learn about the history, architecture, and gardens of Versailles, one of the world’s most opulent royal palaces. Enjoy free time to discover Paris independently. Glide down the Seine on a romantic river cruise. Revel in the allure of the city and take in its spectacular sights, history, architecture, art, and cuisine.
Must-see inclusions

Explore the treasures of the Louvre Museum with a museum expert.
Feel like a royal when you tour the Palace of Versailles and its gardens with a local insider.
Take a walk down to the Ile de la Cité to snap a picture of the façade of the awe-inspiring Notre Dame.

Cultural connections

Navigate Paris like a local by riding Le Métro to destinations.
Explore the Le Marais neighborhood’s winding streets, gorgeous mansions, and oldest planned square in Paris.
Feel like a true Parisian when you discover the beloved neighborhood of Montmartre.

Culinary inclusions

Enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower with unparalleled views of the “City of Light.”
Admire the city skyline as you float down the Seine on a relaxing dinner cruise.

We hope you’ll join us on June 24!
Register »

What's So Funny About Detroit?
2026-06-25 18:00 - 21:30 | The Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
Thursday, June 25 showcase
Get your tickets!
What’s So Funny About Detroit? is coming back to the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami with host extraordinaire, Ryan Patrick Hooper (In The Groove,).

Detroit’s talented comedians will take the stage on the last Thursday of the month to showcase what, indeed, is so funny about the Motor City.
Line up:

Sam Tallent
Johanna Medranda
Blain Hill

Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. sharp.
Tickets are $30 in advance for WDET members, $35 for non-WDET members and for everyone at the door. We will accept cash and card at the door.
There will be an on-site food vendor. No outside beverages are permitted.

This is an UNCENSORED comedy event. The viewpoints of the performers do not necessarily reflect those of WDET or Wayne State University.
This is a BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET event. When you get to the backyard, please set up blankets in the front, chairs in the back. There will be very limited on-site seating.
The Old Miami is a 21+ venue – NO EXCEPTIONS – we apologize in advance for any inconvenience! You may be required to show a photo ID for entry.

All four showcases are Supported by:

Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control
Titos Handmade Vodka, Vodka for dog people

Meet your new best friend at the event
Volunteer foster parents will bring adoptable dogs to The Old Miami for one hour before showtime so guests can meet, pet and play with the dogs, and learn about their personalities from the foster parents. And maybe adopt!
*Dogs are not allowed in the beautiful backyard of The Old Miami. If you do decide to adopt, you will need to make arrangements with the foster family.

Grab a signature cocktail

A special signature Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktail will be available at each showcase.

Get your tickets!

WDET Travel: Imperial Cities Q&A
2026-06-30 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
Imperial Cities featuring Prague, Vienna and Budapest
October 3 – 14, 2027
Travel Q&A Tuesday, June 30
Join us for a no-obligation Imperial Cities Information Session being held on Tuesday June 30 at 6 p.m.
Register »
About the trip
Bask in the splendor, history and romance of Europe’s regal capital cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Your journey starts in Prague, the noble capital of the Czech Republic. Your adventure continues in Vienna, where you’ll delight in the Baroque marvels of the Schönbrunn Palace, the summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty for more than 200 years. Listen to the lineage of Vienna’s history and indulge in a performance featuring the works of Mozart and Strauss, two former Viennese residents. In Budapest, visit a 14th-century Hungarian castle. Enjoy traditional local cuisine and a glimpse into this region’s eminent past.
We hope you’ll join us on June 30!
Must-see inclusions:

Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.
Discover Budapest’s iconic sights through the eyes of an expert.
Enjoy a stop in the fairy-tale town of Cesky Krumlov.

Cultural experiences:

Tour the majestic Prague Castle.
Get a glimpse into Hungary’s communist past during an exclusive talk with a local.
Get to know Bratislava’s 4,000-year-old history on a tour with a local expert

Register »

The Don Was Motor City Playlist 3rd Annual Bowling Party
2026-07-20 18:00 - 22:00 | Bowlero, 4209 Coolidge Hwy, Royal Oak, MI, 48073, United States
Get your tickets online»
Overview
Join WDET Motor City Playlist hosts Don Was and Ann Delisi on July 20 for a night of bowling, music, BBQ, cocktails and friendly competition.
Join WDET and Motor City Playlist hosts Don Was and Ann Delisi on Monday, July 20, at Bowlero Lanes & Lounge in Royal Oak for our third annual bowling party. This event will feature music, BBQ (while supplies last), cocktails and bowling.
There are four ticket tiers and two bowling sessions. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

General Admission (non-bowling): $35
Includes spectator viewing, BBQ (while supplies last), one complimentary Tito’s Handmade Vodka signature cocktail (or soft drink), and the opportunity to watch Team Don vs. Team Ann.
Individual Spot: $60
Includes one hour of bowling, bowling shoes, a bowling ball and all General Admission benefits.
Group Lane (up to six people): $300
Includes all Individual Spot benefits, with a savings of $50 when booking a full lane of six.
VIP Ticket: $500
Includes all Individual Spot benefits, two tickets, a limited-edition event-exclusive bowling shirt, and the chance to bowl for one hour on either Team Ann or Team Don. VIP tickets are extremely limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Additional event information
Doors open at 6 p.m. When you arrive, please check in at the front desk to receive your lane assignment and any additional event information.
There are two bowling sessions available. Please select your preferred bowling time during checkout and respect the reservation times of your fellow bowlers.
A cash bar will be available for all attendees.
Lanes will be assigned based on the session selected during registration. If you’d like to bowl on the same lane as another ticket purchaser, please email Bill St. Laurent at bill.stlaurent@wdet.org. Please note that each lane accommodates six bowlers, and parties may be assigned together to maximize lane capacity.
BBQ will be provided courtesy of Slows Bar BQ. Vegetarian options are not guaranteed. Due to the nature of this event, we are unable to guarantee accommodation of dietary restrictions. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Parking is available in the lot and on nearby streets.
If you have any additional questions, please email Bill St. Laurent at bill.stlaurent@wdet.org.
On The Don Was Motor City Playlist, Blue Note Records President and music industry powerhouse Don Was pays homage to the Motor City and the artists who inspire him.
Each week, Was digs deep into his music archives to curate playlists and share personal stories about the artists whose songs he features. Co-hosted by WDET’s Ann Delisi, the program offers commentary on Detroit and its rich musical and cultural history.
Get your tickets online»

What's So Funny About Detroit?
2026-07-30 18:00 - 21:30 | The Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
Thursday, July 30 showcase
Get your tickets!
What’s So Funny About Detroit? is coming back to the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami with host extraordinaire, Ryan Patrick Hooper (In The Groove,).

Detroit’s talented comedians will take the stage on the last Thursday of the month to showcase what, indeed, is so funny about the Motor City.
July 30 lineup

Melanie Hearn
Zech
Brett Mercer
Heather Jowett

Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. sharp.
Tickets are $30 in advance for WDET members, $35 for non-WDET members and for everyone at the door. We will accept cash and card at the door.
There will be an on-site food vendor. No outside beverages are permitted.

This is an UNCENSORED comedy event. The viewpoints of the performers do not necessarily reflect those of WDET or Wayne State University.
This is a BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET event. When you get to the backyard, please set up blankets in the front, chairs in the back. There will be very limited on-site seating.
The Old Miami is a 21+ venue – NO EXCEPTIONS – we apologize in advance for any inconvenience! You may be required to show a photo ID for entry.

All four showcases are Supported by:

Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control
Titos Handmade Vodka, Vodka for dog people

Meet your new best friend at the event
Volunteer foster parents will bring adoptable dogs to The Old Miami for one hour before showtime so guests can meet, pet and play with the dogs, and learn about their personalities from the foster parents. And maybe adopt!
*Dogs are not allowed in the beautiful backyard of The Old Miami. If you do decide to adopt, you will need to make arrangements with the foster family.

Grab a signature cocktail

A special signature Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktail will be available at each showcase.

Get your tickets!

Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking
2026-08-10 18:00 - 21:00 | HiO Farm, 4454 18th St., Detroit, United States
Get your tickets online!

Important Update from Ann Delisi and Chef Brad Greenhill..
“Rain plan in action! Our dining experience is moving indoors to TAKOI, located at 2520 Michigan Ave Detroit, MI 48216 in the Corktown neighborhood a short distance from HiO farm.
Know Before you Go:
PARKING

TAKOI: Does not have a private on-site parking lot or valet service. Heads up! There is road construction right in front of the restaurant on Michigan Ave.
Cost: Much of the nearby street parking along Michigan Ave and adjacent residential blocks are free
Side Streets: Check nearby side streets (such as near 17th Street) if Michigan Avenue spaces are full.
Signage: Always read posted street signs carefully for any time limits, sweeping restrictions, or paid meter zones

DINING EXPERIENCE

Our farm to table experience will take place at the same time! Doors will open at 6:00 PM.
The menu will remain the same with food grown at HiO Farm along with BOS Wines and a Tito’s Handmade Vodka welcome cocktail

THANK YOU for being flexible. We are excited and look forward to seeing you inside!
TAKOI
2520 Michigan Ave
Detroit, MI 48216
Takoi

Get your tickets online!

WDET presents: Sounds Like Detroit 2026
2026-08-13 18:00 - 22:00 | Batch Brewing Company, 1400 Porter St., Detroit, 48216, United States
Get your tickets online! »
Join us Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Batch Brewing Company in Corktown for a musical showcase of Detroit Tiny Desk Contest talent.
Gates open at 6 p.m. and music starts promptly at 7 p.m.
There will be food and beverages for purchase on site. No outside food or beverage is permitted.
This event will take place outdoors, in a covered area and will be rain or shine. There is seating on site.
Batch Brewing Company is located at 1400 Porter Street, Detroit, MI. We recommend street parking for the event.
Show line up:
KTCHN – Jazz
KTCHN is a pianist, vocalist and composer contributing the sound of modern jazz in Detroit.
Aisha Ellis – Jazz
Ellis is a multi-genre percussionist/drummer with a career spanning nearly four decades.
Jubilee Jackson – Hip-Hop
Jubilee Jackson is a producer and self-taught musician of seven different instruments.
Michelle Held – Folk
Held is a singer-songwriter with a distinct voice whose lyrics focus on life’s complexities.
Get your tickets online! »

What's So Funny About Detroit?
2026-08-27 18:00 - 21:30 | The Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
Thursday, August 27 showcase
Get your tickets!
What’s So Funny About Detroit? is coming back to the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami with host extraordinaire, Ryan Patrick Hooper (In The Groove,).

Detroit’s talented comedians will take the stage on the last Thursday of the month to showcase what, indeed, is so funny about the Motor City.
Check back soon for the August 27 lineup.
Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. sharp.
Tickets are $30 in advance for WDET members, $35 for non-WDET members and for everyone at the door. We will accept cash and card at the door.
There will be an on-site food vendor. No outside beverages are permitted.

This is an UNCENSORED comedy event. The viewpoints of the performers do not necessarily reflect those of WDET or Wayne State University.
This is a BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET event. When you get to the backyard, please set up blankets in the front, chairs in the back. There will be very limited on-site seating.
The Old Miami is a 21+ venue – NO EXCEPTIONS – we apologize in advance for any inconvenience! You may be required to show a photo ID for entry.

All four showcases are Supported by:

Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control
Titos Handmade Vodka, Vodka for dog people

Meet your new best friend at the event
Volunteer foster parents will bring adoptable dogs to The Old Miami for one hour before showtime so guests can meet, pet and play with the dogs, and learn about their personalities from the foster parents. And maybe adopt!
*Dogs are not allowed in the beautiful backyard of The Old Miami. If you do decide to adopt, you will need to make arrangements with the foster family.

Grab a signature cocktail

A special signature Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktail will be available at each showcase.

Get your tickets!

WDET Travel: Discover Southern Italy and Sicily
2026-10-07 - 2026-10-20
Journey with WDET to Sicily and the southern coast of Italy.
Discover Palermo, shaped by Moorish and Norman influences. See Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples and the Roman mosaics of Piazza Armerina. Visit the hilltop town of Taormina, then enjoy a wine tasting and agriturismo dinner at a local winery.
Explore the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. Take in the charm of Sorrento and the beauty of Positano on the Amalfi Coast. Walk through the ruins of Pompeii and experience history up close.
This trip offers a mix of culture, history, and unforgettable landscapes.
Join us for a journey that brings Southern Italy and Sicily to life.
Book Your Trip »

Motown on the Menu - Vinyl Tasting Dinner
2026-10-17 | Terri’s Detroit, 16311 E Warren Ave, Detroit, MI, 48224, United States
A music themed fine dining experience featuring Chef Amber Beckem (@queen.kitc) and Jermond Booze (@jermond.booze), with Ryan Patrick Hooper (@ryanpatrickhooper) spinning Motown classics.
This unique fundraising event brings together food lovers and music fans for an evening of Motown inspired cuisine and the songs that defined a city.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Location: Terri’s Detroit
Dinner includes six courses with wine pairings.
Two seatings:

4:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.

This event is a thank you gift for donations of $500 or more per ticket. (No fees will be added.) $325 of the donation is tax-deductible as a WDET contribution.
Get your tickets online »

WDET Travel: Tropical Costa Rica
2027-03-01 - 2027-03-09
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica on an unforgettable journey filled with lush forests, stunning waterfalls, volcano views, wildlife encounters and relaxing beachfront sunsets. From coffee plantations and cloud forests to riverboat adventures and sandy shores, this tropical escape blends nature, culture and pure relaxation.
Book Your Trip »

WDET Travel: Spotlight on Paris
2027-05-04 - 2027-05-11
Experience the romance, history, and timeless charm of Paris on a guided journey through one of the world’s most iconic cities. From the Louvre and Versailles to Montmartre and a dinner inside the Eiffel Tower, this immersive tour blends art, culture, cuisine, and unforgettable sightseeing, with free time to explore at your own pace and optional excursions that deepen your connection to France.
Book Your Trip »

WDET Travel: Imperial Cities featuring Prague, Vienna and Budapest
2027-10-03 - 2027-10-14
Your journey starts in Prague, the noble capital of the Czech Republic. Your adventure continues in Vienna, where you’ll delight in the Baroque marvels of the Schönbrunn Palace, the summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty for more than 200 years. Listen to the lineage of Vienna’s history and indulge in a performance featuring the works of Mozart and Strauss, two former Viennese residents. In Budapest, visit a 14th-century Hungarian castle. Enjoy traditional local cuisine and a glimpse into this region’s eminent past.
We hope you’ll join us on June 30!
Must-see inclusions:

Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.
Discover Budapest’s iconic sights through the eyes of an expert.
Enjoy a stop in the fairy-tale town of Cesky Krumlov.

Cultural experiences:

Tour the majestic Prague Castle.
Get a glimpse into Hungary’s communist past during an exclusive talk with a local.
Get to know Bratislava’s 4,000-year-old history on a tour with a local expert.

Culinary inclusions:

Tour the majestic Prague Castle.
Get a glimpse into Hungary’s communist past during an exclusive talk with a local.
Get to know Bratislava’s 4,000-year-old history on a tour with a local expert.

WDET Travel: Christmas on the Danube
2027-12-12 - 2027-12-21
Celebrate the magic of the season on a festive Danube River cruise through Europe’s most charming cities. Discover twinkling Christmas markets, historic towns, and timeless holiday traditions as you sail from Vienna through Germany, enjoying cozy culture, scenic river views and unforgettable winter experiences.
Book Your Trip »
