WDET 101.9 FM

Shades of Ireland WDET Trip
2024-04-08 - 2024-04-20
Ready to travel? Book your space now for the April 2024 Shades of Ireland tour featuring Northern Ireland! The thirteen-day excursion includes round-trip airfare and deluxe accommodations.
In Dublin, you can visit Saint Patrick’s Cathedral or tour the Guinness Storehouse. The trip features lively pubs, green landscapes and such iconic sights as the Cliffs of Moher and the magnificent Giant’s Causeway as we make our way to Belfast to experience the Titanic Museum. Look at the itinerary for Shades of Ireland featuring Northern Ireland at wdet.org/ireland!

Book Your Trip

WDET Presents: Paula Poundstone at the Flagstar Strand Theatre
2024-04-13 20:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Flagstar Strand Theatre, 12 N Saginaw St., Pontiac, MI, 48342, United States
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Iconic comedian Paula Poundstone is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit that has become the stuff of legend. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone, and is a regular panelist on NPR’s Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me.
Paula has starred in several HBO specials, including Cats, Cops and Stuff, which nabbed a cable ACE award for Best Comedy Special. She was the first female comic to host the White House Correspondents Dinner. She filed live coverage of the 1992 Democratic and Republican National Conventions and the Presidential Inaugural for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and at the 93rd Emmy Awards. Paula has starred in two television series, both entitled The Paula Poundstone Show. Paula’s second book, The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness, was one of eight semi-finalists for the Thurber Prize For American Humor; the audiobook was one of five finalists for the AUDIE award for Audiobook of the Year. Paula has released five albums and is featured in several documentaries and compendiums noting influential comedians of our time.
Join us at the Flagstar Strand Theatre on Saturday, April 13th for an unforgettable night of laughter and wit.

WDET Live In-Store Broadcast at Born in Detroit
2024-04-18 11:00 - 15:00 | Born in Detroit, 1275 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
Join us live in person or on air for one of WDET’s first remote broadcasts of 2024 on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The Metro hosted by Tia Graham and Nick Austin and In The Groove hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper will brought to listeners live from the Born in Detroit pop-up shop at 1275 Woodward Ave.
Born in Detroit opened in the former MooseJaw location in mid-March and will stay open through the end of April – an activation ahead of the city’s welcoming of the 2024 NFL Draft on April 25-27.
Guests are invited to shop the exclusive merchandise while enjoying WDET’s programming from 11AM to 3PM:

The Metro hosted by Tia Graham and Nick Austin – 11AM – Noon
In The Groove hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper – Noon – 3PM

Listen to the broadcasts of these shows live via the mobile app, 101.9FM, or on this website!

WDET Travels: Morocco Virtual Q&A
2024-04-30 19:00 - 20:00
WDET Travels is offering a breathtaking experience for travelers in 2025: a 15-day trip to Morocco!
Colors of Morocco trip highlights include:

Stroll through the cobbled alleyways of ancient markets and medinas.
Experience the desert by 4×4 and during your two-night camp stay.
Visit a nomad family and learn about their ancient traditions.

Join our no-commitment virtual meeting to learn more about the Colors of Morocco trip on April 30, 2024, at 7 p.m. ET.
Register »

God Said Give 'Em Drum Machines - Immersive Screening at Marble Bar
2024-05-22 18:30 - 2024-05-23 00:00 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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Washington Hill Pictures, Marble Bar, and WDET are joining forces to host the first-ever nightclub screening of Detroit Techno documentary God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines: The Director’s Cut to kick off Detroit’s Techno Week festivities.
Doors open at 6:30pm for a cocktail hour with Donna Gardner. The film screening is from 7:30-9pm, followed by the first b2b performance between two Detroit dance music legends, Eddie Fowlkes and Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to 101.9 WDET Detroit Public Radio. In God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines, Director Kristian R. Hill and Executive Producer Jennifer Washington shine a light on the true Black origin story of Techno music in Detroit, and we are very excited to share this inspiring, immersive experience with Detroit techno fans from near and far.
**This event is ALL AGES, and capacity is LIMITED**

WDET Presents: Don Was & The Pan Detroit Ensemble at the DSO
2024-05-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Orchestra Hall @ The DSO, 3711 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201, United States
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Music has always loomed large in the life of DON WAS. Legendary producer and Detroit native, Don Was brings his rich musical legacy to life with a band of exceptional jazz talents from his hometown. Experience the essence of Detroit— with its unmistakable and underlying groove—through Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble.

The band includes long-time collaborators like Blue Note Records artist Dave McMurray on sax and Eminem’s Oscar-winning collaborator, keyboardist Luis Resto. Additional musicians include trombonist Vincent Chandler, trumpeter John Douglas, drummer Jeff Canady, percussionist Mahindi, guitarist Wayne Gerard and vocalist Steffanie Christi’an.
Don Was co-hosts The Don Was Motor City Playlist with Ann Delisi Fridays at 8:00PM on WDET. You can listen to recent episodes here.

Movement 2024
2024-05-25 - 2024-05-27 | Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, 48226, United States
WDET is partnering with Paxahau as an official media partner for the Movement electronic music festival this Memorial Day weekend, May 25-27. Tune in starting May 20 to experience special programming celebrating Detroit’s musical legacy.
Donate to WDET to enter our Movement ticket drawing
Listen to WDET’ starting on Saturday, May 18, and donate during the following shows to enter our drawings to win weekend Movement passes:

Ann Delisi’s Essential Music | Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET
The New Music Show with Shigeto | Saturday, May 18, 8-10 p.m. ET
The Boulevard with Waajeed | Wednesday, May 22, 8-10 p.m. ET
In the Groove with Ryan Patrick Hooper | Thursday, May 23, noon-3 p.m. ET
Alternate Take with Liz Warner | Thursday, May 23, 8-10 p.m. ET

In the Groove, May 20-24
Join Ryan Patrick Hooper on In The Groove from 2-3 p.m. ET for live DJ mixes and interviews with artists performing at this year’s festival, including DJ Godfather, DJ Etta and more.

Alternate Take, May 23 and 25
Liz Warner hosts a 4-hour Movement edition of Alternate Take on Thursday, May 23, from 8 p.m. to midnight that features the return of focus:electronic. Liz will be joined by focus:electronic co-host Clark Warner as they highlight unforgettable festival moments from past years. They’ll also preview artists from this year’s Movement.
Then on May 25, Liz will broadcast from the WDET studios for a live Saturday edition of Alternate Take from 10 p.m. to midnight! It’s part Movement Festival celebration, part Saturday night party to keep the flow moving between The New Music Show with Shigeto and Movement Rewind during WDET After Hours.
Movement Rewind, May 25-27
Don’t miss Movement Rewind, WDET’s overnight programming from midnight – 5 a.m. ET during Memorial Day weekend — featuring highlights from the 2022 and 2023 editions of Movement. Performances include Deon Jamar, Meftah, Ash Lauryn, Beige, Eddie Fowlkes and more. Check out the schedule below.

In the Groove, Memorial Day (May 27)
Ryan Patrick Hooper presents an encore presentation of the In the Groove Movement DJ performances into one mega mix on Memorial Day from noon – 3 p.m. ET!
WDET is excited to showcase Detroit’s music and its global impact on electronic music. Bookmark this page to stay connected for more Movement coverage and announcements.
Movement single-day and weekend passes are on sale now at movementfestival.com.
Tickets »

Mackinac Policy Conference 2024
2024-05-29 09:00 - 2024-05-30 18:00 | Grand Hotel, 286 Grand Avenue, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757, United States
Mackinac Policy Conference 2024

Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET is bringing the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference to you.
The annual Mackinac Policy Conference brings together influential politicians, captains of industry and thought leaders as they shape the future of the state. WDET will broadcast special coverage from Mackinac Island this week with interviews and news stories that connect you to the ideas and agendas impacting metro Detroit.
Special coverage begins with All Things Considered starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, and runs through Thursday, May 30.
Wednesday, May 29
9-10 a.m.
WDET’s Mackinac Policy Conference coverage continues on Wednesday as Created Equal host Stephen Henderson interviews Michigan U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters.
11 a.m. – noon
The Metro co-host Nick Austin will be joined by MichMash host Cheyna Roth as they discuss the agendas for the conference. They’ll also talk to Hilary Doe of the Michigan Department of Economic Corporation.
4-6 p.m.
Russ McNamara hosts All Things Considered live from the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Thursday, May 30
9-10 a.m.
Stephen Henderson begins the day’s live coverage with conversations with U.S. Congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate Elissa Slotkin, U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee and more.
11 a.m. – noon
Nick Austin talks to Tammy Carnrike, COO of Detroit Regional Chamber — who organizes the Mackinac Policy Conference. Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti also joins the show.
4-6 p.m.
Russ McNamara hosts All Things Considered live from the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Mackinac Policy Conference 2024 Coverage
Supported by:

Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking: Oak & Reel
2024-05-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Oak & Reel, 2921 E Grand Blvd., Detroit, 48202, United States
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Join us for the next installment of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking at Oak & Reel on Wednesday, May 29th at 7PM. Chef and Owner Jared Gadbaw will prepare a 5-course meal with a special wine pairing for guests to enjoy. Plus, Nick Austin (The Metro, former host of Soul Saturday) will be spinning the tunes!
Despite major challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chef/Owner Jared Gadbaw and his wife Abby opened Oak & Reel in September 2020, bringing fresh, seafood-focused Italian fare to East Grand Blvd and the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood. HOUR Detroit named it Restaurant of the Year in 2022, and on May 29th, Chef Jared and team will generously open their doors to WDET listeners for a private showcase of their culinary skills and hospitality.
In November 2023, Chef Jared sat down with WDET’s Ann Delisi and Essential Cooking co-host Chef James Rigato for a conversation delving into the chapters of his culinary expedition, his knowledge of the New York and Detroit food scenes, and testing the boundaries of the Midwestern palate. You can listen to that episode of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking here.
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Due to the nature of this event, there will be no menu substitutions. If you have a severe food allergy that needs accommodating, please contact Oak & Reel directly.
Seats will be assigned to maximize space due to limited availability. If you’d like to be seated with a separate ticket buyer, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
There is one seating for this event: 7:00PM. Doors will open at 6:30PM.
Tickets are $200 and directly support WDET and Oak & Reel.
Oak & Reel is wheelchair accessible.
Oak & Reel has a designated, free parking lot on the east side of the building. There is also additional street parking on East Grand Blvd.

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - MAY
2024-05-30 18:30 - 21:30 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
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The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
What’s So Funny? brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, May 30 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove, weekdays 12-3p) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he ) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to …. BRETT MERCER, BRAD WENZEL, ESTEBAN TOUMA, TAM WHITE, PAT SIEVERT, and headliner T. BARB!
This event is a benefit for 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded. No pets are allowed.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Show starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. The show will be approximately two hours long.
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill). Outside food and drink is not permitted.
This is an uncensored comedy event. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

WDET Travels: Alaska Virtual Q&A
2024-06-13 18:00 - 19:00
Register now for WDET’s no-obligation travel preview for the August 2025 WDET Travels trip to Alaska.
During the eleven-day experience, you’ll see Alaska from a Holland America Cruise ship on a breathtaking journey from Alaska to Vancouver. Plus, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable rail journey from Denali to Talkeetna in a domed railcar.
Learn about the entire itinerary during our virtual travel preview and Q&A on June 13.
Register »

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - JUNE
2024-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
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*****UPDATE AS OF JUNE 2024! DOORS OPEN AT 6:00PM, SHOW IS AT 7:00PM!*******
The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
The What’s So Funny? showcase brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, June 27 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to ……. Nicole Melnyk, Diana Graham, Blain Hill, Alex Bozinovic, Brianna Blackburn, and headliner Ahmed Bharoocha!
This event is a benefit for Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill).
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded.
The show is intended for a mature audience and may include coarse language and subject matter. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

Smart Politics: An Election Discussion Hosted By WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn
2024-07-10 19:00 - 20:30 | The Rind, 3125 Twelve Mile Road, Berkley, 48072, United States
Tickets »
Join WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn and a panel of Michigan journalists for the second installment of Smart Politics, hosted at The Rind (attached to Mongers’ Provisions) on Wednesday, July 10! We will discuss Michigan’s effects on the 2024 presidential election and take audience questions with our panelists:

Michael Siegrist, Canton Township Clerk
Matt Friedman, Founding Partner – Tanner Friedman
Erica Peresman, Voting Rights Advocate

Food & drinks will be available for purchase, and we highly encourage enjoying dinner during our programming! To view The Rind’s menu, click here.
Seating will be on a first come first serve basis. If you have a group of 5 or larger and you’d like to request a table together, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
A $5 reservation fee will be required to secure your spot. Buy tickets HERE.
The views and opinions of each panelist are their own and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of WDET or Wayne State University.
We ask that you please respect our panelists, host, and the other attendees. Anyone displaying disruptive or disrespectful behavior may be asked to leave.
If you plan to purchase or consume alcohol, please bring a valid government issued ID.
Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant or along Twelve Mile Road.
The Rind is wheelchair accessible.
Supported by:

33rd Annual Concert of Colors
2024-07-16 - 2024-07-21
The Concert of Colors is Metro Detroit’s free annual diversity-themed music festival. Global music at its finest at this colorful, festive, upbeat coveted summer event. Housed in Culture Source a coalition of 152 arts organizations in Southeast Michigan, the Concert of Colors has become the Midwest’s biggest diversity and arts festival.
The goal of the week-long festival is to unite metro Detroit’s diverse communities and ethnic groups through music and dance from around the world – and create dialogue where participants embrace freedom of expression.
Over its rich 33-year history, the festival has blossomed into a celebrated, beloved highlight of metro Detroit’s summer festival season- one of the few remaining large scale, free-admission music festivals in the area.
The Concert of Colors was established by Ismael Ahmed (host of This Island Earth) – the former head of the human services organization ACCESS – and New Detroit in 1993 as a one-day event at Chene Park on Detroit’s riverfront. The inaugural event drew a modest crowd to Chene Park, but by 1999, some 10,000 music lovers were coming out each year. The festival expanded to three days in 2001, when it was part of the official festivities for Detroit’s 300th birthday, drawing an audience of 100,000. In 2019, the concert expanded to nine days.

In addition to music, the Concert of Colors also offers global food and merchandise vendors, movies, poetry, children’s activities and much more.

The Concert of Colors is supported by WDET. Check out some of our highlights below or click here for the full 2024 lineup:

MC5 MUSICAL TRIBUTE on Friday, July 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Detroit Historical Museum. Hosted by Ann Delisi with Peter Werbe, Leni Sinclair, Don Was and Tino Gross and Band
DON WAS DETROIT ALL STAR REVUE: PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING on Sunday, July 21 8:00-9:30 p.m. at Detroit Institute of Arts – DFT. Featuring Don Was, Marshall Crenshaw, Steffanie Chris’ tian, Milton Bennet, Herschel Boone, Carolyn Striho, Corktown Popes, Gretchen Gonzalez Davidson, Julie Benjamin, Kara Meister, MIKE

*Plus, the WDET Street Team will be on the DIA South lawn on July 20 -21. Say hello to enter to win tickets to a future comedy show!

Click here for more information about the 2024 Concert of Colors and schedule.

Don Was Motor City Playlist 3-Year Anniversary Bowling Party
2024-07-22 17:00 - 21:00 | The Garden Bowl, 4140 Woodward Ave, Detroit
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Join WDET along with hosts of the Motor City Playlist, Ann Delisi and Don Was on July 22 at the Garden Bowl to celebrate the show’s 3 year anniversary! This event will feature music, food, and bowling and has three ticketing tiers:

Your $50 ticket purchase includes an hour of bowling, bowling shoes and a ball, and pizza courtesy of Sgt. Pepperoni’s.
*****SOLD OUT***** For the purchase of a $250 VIP ticket, you’ll receive the above, plus an event-exclusive bowling shirt and the chance to bowl on either TEAM ANN or TEAM DON! VIP tickets are extremely limited and will be available on a first come first serve basis. *****SOLD OUT*****
If you’d like to enjoy the festivities, but would prefer not to bowl, you’re also welcome to purchase a spectator ticket for $25, which will include pizza.

Buy Tickets »
Additional event information below:
Doors for this event open at 5 p.m.. When you arrive, please check in at the front desk to receive your lane assignment and any additional information.
There are three general admission bowling times you are able to sign up for. Please note your bowling time on your ticket purchase when checking out and please respect the reservation times of your fellow bowlers.
A cash bar will be available for all attendees.
Lanes will be assigned based on the time frame you sign up for. If you’d like to bowl on the same lane as another ticket purchaser, please email Nicole Amine at nicole.amine@wdet.org. Please note there are six spaces per lane and we will be assigning parties to lanes to fully maximize available tickets.
Pizza will be served courtesy of Sgt. Pepperoni’s. Vegetarian options will be available. Due to the nature of this event, we are unable to guarantee the accommodation of all dietary restrictions. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Street parking is recommended.
If you have any additional questions, please email Nicole Amine at nicole.amine@wdet.org.
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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 that 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, listeners hear commentary about Detroit and its rich musical and cultural histories.
This year, the show celebrates its third year on Detroit’s airwaves and we hope you’ll join us to celebrate!

THE DON WAS MOTOR CITY PLAYLIST 3 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY IS SUPPORTED BY FENDER, KLIPSCH AND E-L-S STUDIO 3D

Cassandra Wilson: A Tribute to Ed Love with Ralphe Armstrong
2024-07-24 19:30 - 22:30 | Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, 2600 Atwater St, Detroit, MI, 48207, United States
Celebrating WDET’s own Ed Love, Cassandra Wilson and Ralphe Armstrong present a tribute at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre along the Detroit Riverfront. The Aretha is a majestic, 6,000-person waterfront venue, recognized as one of the top 100 concert venues in the world.
Longtime “Destination Jazz” host Ed Love.
Ed Love will be honored for his impact in the studio, as mentor and promoter of musicians far and wide, and his commitment as a cultural torchbearer and multigenerational voice for the tradition of jazz here in Detroit and throughout the world.
Buy Tickets »

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - JULY
2024-07-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
Buy Tickets »
The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
What’s So Funny? brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, July 25 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to MELANIE HEARN, JASON JAMERSON, MARY SPENCER, WES WARD, RYAN BROWN, AND SAM RAGER.
This event is a benefit for 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded. No pets are allowed.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Show starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. The show will be approximately two hours long.
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill).
Want a guaranteed seat? Start a monthly sustaining donation of $40 at wdet.org/give or call 313-577-4550. As a token of our appreciation, we’ll have a WDET Festival chair waiting just for you. You can also select this option as an “ADD ON” when purchasing your ticket. Email Baraka Macharia with questions: baraka.macharia@wdet.org.
This is an uncensored comedy event. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

WDET Presents: Sounds Like Detroit 2024
2024-08-15 18:00 - 22:00 | New Center Park, 2998 West Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Tickets »
Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET presents the 2024 Sounds Like Detroit showcase, featuring the top five, listener-voted Tiny Desk Contest participants!
Join us on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at New Center Park for a musical showcase of Detroit Tiny Desk Contest talent hosted by WDET’s MI Local host Jeff Milo!
The Sounds Like Detroit Showcase will feature five listener-chosen acts during our online voting:

Drey Skonie & The kLOUDs

C3theartist
Elspeth Tremblay & The Treatment
Chris Lanard & One Band Global
Isis Damil

Gates open at 6 p.m. and music starts promptly at 7 p.m.
Food trucks and beverages will be on-site.
This is a BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR OR BLANKET-style event. Seating is not guaranteed.
The show is located at New Center Park, 2998 W Grand Blvd in Detroit. Street parking is available.
Sounds Like Detroit is supported by 8 Mile Vodka and Henry Ford Health.

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - AUGUST
2024-08-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
Buy Tickets »
The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
What’s So Funny? brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, August 29 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove, weekdays 12-3p) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to Jacob Barr, Finn St. John, Ms. Joyce, Zach Martina, Kathy Ryan and headliner Josh Adams!
This event is a benefit for 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. ***THE OLD MIAMI IS A 21+ VENUE. A VALID ID IS REQUIRED FOR ENTRY*** Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded. No pets are allowed.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Show starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. The show will be approximately two hours long.
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill). Outside food and drink is not permitted.
This is an uncensored comedy event. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

Detroit Jazz Festival 2024
2024-08-30 - 2024-09-02 | Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, 48226, United States
<< All Events

Detroit Jazz Festival 2025

The Detroit Jazz Festival returns to the city Friday, Aug. 29th through Monday, Sept. 1st, and Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET is teaming up with Paxahau as an official media partner to bring you special coverage and programming.
For over 40 years, the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation has celebrated Detroit’s rich history of jazz music by providing year-round concerts and educational programming, and of course, organizing the world’s largest free jazz festival, featuring world-class talent, over Labor Day weekend.
With the support of corporate sponsors, philanthropic organizations, individual donors and volunteers, the Detroit Jazz Festival is free to music fans looking to revel in the artistry and improvisation of jazz legends, rising stars, legacy and homecoming artists. Each year’s lineup of more than 60 performances as remarkable and diverse as the genre itself, as well as spontaneous late-night jam sessions, offers something for everyone.
The Detroit International Jazz Festival was founded in 1980 by Robert McCabe and the Detroit Renaissance. Along with the Detroit Grand Prix and the International Freedom Festival, the Festival was intended to bring people into the city and to provide all segments of the population with world-class entertainment.
Stay tuned for more information about WDET’s special on-air coverage and programming and be sure to stop by our table at the festival and say hello!

NPR's Morning Edition reporting from WDET
2024-10-07 - 2024-10-10 | On Air, Online, or on the WDET App
Leila Fadel host of Morning Edition, as well as NPR’s morning news podcast Up First will host NPR’s Morning Edition from WDET studios in Detroit on the following dates:

Monday, October 7th
Wednesday, October 9th
Thursday, October 10th

Tune into WDET 101.9FM, wdet.org/live, or stream on the WDET app throughout the week to hear the show!

Detroit Story Fest
2024-10-10 19:00 - 22:00 | The Detroit Film Theatre, 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
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WDET is partnering with Back Pocket Media to bring the best stories from our city to one stage.
About the Event:
Detroit Story Fest brings journalists and locals together for a night of art, entertainment and storytelling by and for the people of Detroit. Think of it as a podcast, but live and on stage. And it’s happening on October 10th at the Detroit Film Theatre in the Institute of the Arts.
Storytellers:
Journalists from the Free Press, Michigan Public, BridgeDetroit, WDET, Chalkbeat Detroit, the Metro Times, Planet Detroit, Model D and more will go behind the scenes of their reporting, inviting readers into a world they’ve only observed from the outside. Artists and local raconteurs will also share surprising and hysterical stories live from the stage. Host and Senior News Editor Quinn Klinefelter will represent WDET as a storyteller, sharing about his relationship with T.C. Latham and his reporting on cash-strapped cities struggling to bury their dead.

More about Quinn:
Quinn Klinefelter is a host and Senior News Editor for 101.9 WDET, anchoring midday newscasts and preparing reports for WDET, NPR and the BBC. Klinefelter joined WDET in 1998 after earning a M.A. from the nation’s top-ranked journalism school, the University of Missouri-Columbia, and working as a sports correspondent for BBC Radio 4 and as a talk show host, anchor and reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio.
He has won over 50 awards for his work from groups including CBS Radio, the Associated Press, the Wisconsin and Michigan Association of Broadcasters and the Society of Professional Journalists. He has covered government and politics for WDET, including interviewing numerous presidential candidates, Michigan governors and every Detroit mayor elected in the 21st century. He also regularly reports on sports and entertainment, including covering 20 editions of the Indianapolis 500.
Registration:
Early bird tickets are only $17! Reserve Here
Sponsors: Detroit Story Fest is sponsored by the Knight Foundation and the Friends of the Detroit Film Theatre.
Interested in supporting Story Fest? Email sponsorships@backpocket.media
More About Back Pocket Media:
Back Pocket Media is a team of journalists, artists, and storytellers who create experiences around the country.
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Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking: TAKOI
2024-10-13 17:30 - 20:00 | Takoi, 2520 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI, 48216, United States
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Join us for the next installment of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking at TAKOI on Sunday, October 13! Chef Brad Greenhill will prepare a special 5-course meal with a beverage pairing for guests to enjoy as part of TAKOI’s Ten-Year Anniversary Tour!
Poster by Blake Juras Design
Located in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, TAKOI is known for modern Thai cooking accented with Michigan seasonality, a DIY mentality, and a penchant for local food production. As a core pillar of our mission, TAKOI operates HiO Farm which is located just a mile north of the restaurant. During the height of farm season, the restaurant highlights dishes prepared with HiO produce utilizing the techniques and flavors inspired by Thailand and beyond.
TAKOI, originally KATOI, began as a food truck in 2014, evolved into an Ann Arbor pop-up, and landed as a proper restaurant at 2520 Michigan Avenue in March of 2016. After being open for 11 months, having a slew of fun, and garnering a handful of awards — including a James Beard ‘Best New Restaurant’ nomination— KATOI was brought back down to earth when it was subjected to arson in February 2017. The day after the fire, the rebuild began, and we opened as TAKOI exactly six months later in August 2017.
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Due to the nature of this event, there will be no menu substitutions. If you have a severe food allergy that needs accommodating, please contact Takoi directly.
Seats will be assigned to maximize space due to limited availability. If you’d like to be seated with a separate ticket buyer, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
There is one seating for this event: 6:00PM. Doors will open at 5:30PM.
Tickets are $150 and directly support WDET and Takoi. Ticket price includes food and beverage pairing. Additional beverages will be available for purchase.
Takoi is wheelchair accessible.
We recommend the paid street parking located along Michigan Ave.

Detroit Public Schools Board Candidate Forum
2024-10-15 17:30 - 20:00 | Eastside Community Network, 4401 Conner St., Detroit, MI, 48215, United States
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Get to know candidates running for the Detroit Public Schools Community District board before the November 5th election with a forum hosted by Chalkbeat, WDET, BridgeDetroit and other partners on October 15th. WDET’s own Sascha Raiyn will be participating as part of the in-person forum at Eastside Community Network in Detroit.
Students and journalists will ask candidates about their plans to guide the school district over the next four years. Most questions will be centered around the issue of chronic absenteeism. (Under Superintendent Nikolai Vitti, the district has invested resources in improving attendance that have contributed to declines in the rate of chronic absenteeism in the last two school years, but the rate is still well over 60%). Candidates will discuss additional issues as well as take audience questions.
This is a free event, but please RSVP via EventBrite as space is limited.

When: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 5:30 to 8 p.m. ET
Where: In-person at Eastside Community Network, 4401 Conner St., Detroit, MI
Live Stream: This event can also be attended virtually via Facebook Live.

MichMash: Live in Lansing!
2024-10-16 19:00 - 20:30 | UrbanBeat, 1213 Turner Rd, Lansing, MI, 48906, United States
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MichMash, a podcast partnership between Gongwer News Service and WDET Detroit Public Radio, is taping the show live in Lansing on Wednesday, October 16 as part of WDET’s Smart Politics to discuss the 2024 election. Join us and listen to co-hosts Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben from Gongwer and Cheyna Roth from WDET share their insights and interview guests about all things politics as the November election nears. Enjoy the discussion, see friends and have fun at UrbanBeat in Lansing’s Old Town.
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Unjumble Michigan politics with MichMash. Each week, Cheyna Roth, Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben interview lawmakers and politicos, and unpack the statewide issues that affect you. MichMash is produced by WDET Detroit Public Radio in collaboration with Gongwer News Service. Part of the NPR Network.
Listen and subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and NPR.
MichMash airs on:

WDET 101.9 FM Detroit
WKAR 90.5 FM Lansing
WCMU 89.5 FM Mount Pleasant
WVPE 88.1 FM St. Joseph
WMUK 102.1 Kalamazoo

Have a question about Michigan politics you’d like to ask Cheyna, Zach and Alethia? Email us >>> michmash@wdet.org

WDET x Batch 'It's So Kölsch in the D' Beer Release Party
2024-10-18 19:00 - 23:00
Tickets »
Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and Batch Brewing Co. present a collaborative brew called “It’s So Kölsch in the D.”
Join us on Friday, Oct. 18, from 7-11 p.m. at Batch Brewing in Corktown Detroit to celebrate the release of “It’s So Kölsch in the D,” hosted by In the Groove host Ryan Patrick Hooper!
Featuring live performances from:

Sugar Tradition
Winestoned Cowboys
Allen Dennard Trio

Come join us for an evening of music and mingling to celebrate our brand new WDET beer on the eve of WDET day!
Event Details

Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased right at eventbrite.com
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 outdoors in a covered area. Please dress accordingly for the weather.
A portion of every beer purchased at this event will directly benefit WDET.
Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Batch’s menu. To view Batch’s current food menu, click here.

WDET Member Exclusive
Prior to the evening event, WDET will host a VIP party for WDET members as Ryan Patrick Hooper broadcasts live from Batch Brewing from noon-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18! Be one of the first people to taste “It’s So Kölsch in the D” before the general public! All you need to do is become a WDET member at $50 a month and select the Batch Brewing VIP party as a thank you gift. Give now at wdet.org/give.
VIP Access »Beer can label and logo designs courtesy of Blake Juras Design.

WDET's Rock and Roll Horror Show II hosted by Jon Moshier
2024-10-25 19:00 - 23:00 | Cadieux Cafe, 4300 Cadieux Rd., Detroit, MI, 48224, United States
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On Friday, October 25, Jon Moshier’s annual Halloween special will crawl out of the grave and onto the stage for the second annual ROCK AND ROLL HORROR SHOW! Garage rock royalty The 3-D Invisibles and Eastside Elvis & the Motor City Mafia will curse us with undead performances under the moonlight on the outdoor stage of the Cadieux Cafe. Join us for a night of spooks and scares, and wear your best costume to be featured on stage as best dressed! Plus, tarot readings by Moon Club

Doors at 7PM, show at 8PM.
Cadieux Cafe opens at 4PM for dinner service.
This event will be OUTDOORS. In the event of serious weather, we will cap capacity and move indoors.
Tickets are $25 and will directly support WDET and the performers.
This is a 21+ event. NO EXCEPTIONS! Photo ID required for entry.
No outside food or beverage is allowed at the Cadieux Cafe.
The Cadieux Cafe is wheelchair accessible.
Winner of the mid-show costume contest will receive a special prize basket courtesy of WDET.
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NPR's 'Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!' Live at the Fox Theatre
2024-11-14 19:30 - 22:30 | Fox Theatre Detroit, 2211 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
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Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!, the NPR comedy news quiz show is coming back to Detroit after years away! WDET and Michigan Public are thrilled to welcome the Peabody Award-winning comedy news quiz show to the Fox Theatre on Thursday, November 14. Host Peter Sagal will lead a panel of comedians, writers, listener contestants and a secret celebrity guest through a rollicking review of the week’s news. Contestants vie for the most coveted prize in all of public radio: a custom-recorded greeting by any of the cast members for their voicemail.

“Every week, Wait, Wait…. Don’t Tell Me! records in front of a live audience, then carefully edits out all the raunchy, inappropriate, shocking and hilarious stuff so we can broadcast something that doesn‘t get NPR in trouble… well, more trouble. The only way you can find out what our panelists and guests really think about the news is to come see for yourself. And please — don’t tell NPR. Also, we’re all much more attractive than we sound.” -WWDTM

As part of our continued 75th anniversary celebration, WDET is excited to offer a package for 4 that includes a tickets plus a VIP strolling meet & greet reception with Peter Sagal after the show! Donations of $100/month or more are eligible to select this thank you gift on our donation page. Click here or the button below to make your gift now!*
Make a Donation »
*In order to ensure your spot when making your gift, please select WWDTM/Wait Wait from the drop down menu under Thank You Gift. Available while supplies last. VIP Reception will include dessert, coffee, and a cash bar. Thank you for supporting WDET!

WDET Travel - Canadian Rockies by Train Zoom Presentation and Q&A
2024-11-18 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
Register »
Join us on November 18th at 6PM for a No Obligation* information session about our upcoming Travel with WDET: Canadian Rockies trip! We’ll discuss travel itinerary and take questions from attendees.
Trip Description:
From the lush green Pacific coast of Vancouver, board VIA Rail’s The Canadian for a once-in-a-lifetime overnight train journey. Relax in the dome car and experience panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, rushing rivers and the sheer unspoiled wilderness of Canada. Arrive in Jasper and see the dramatic Maligne Canyon and its picture-perfect lake. Journey along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway. Marvel at Athabasca. Discover the natural beauty of Moraine Lake and the powerful Bow Falls. Experience a day on a ranch in the Alberta plains, complete with a wagon ride in search of buffalo and a BBQ lunch in the great outdoors. End your journey in cosmopolitan Calgary. Discover the natural beauty only found in the Canadian Rockies.
Registration:
This session will take place via Zoom. Please follow this link or click the button above to register.

*Registering does not commit you to participating in the trip nor guarantee a spot on the trip. If you’d like to view the travel page and book your trip, click here.

Smart Politics III: An Election Discussion Hosted By WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn
2024-11-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Shield’s Midtown, 5057 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
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Join WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn and a panel of experts for the third installment of Smart Politics, hosted at Shield’s of Midtown on Tuesday, November 19! We will reflect on Michigan’s effects on the 2024 presidential election, explore what worked and what didn’t, and take audience questions with our panelists:

Dennis Darnoi – Founder, Densar Consulting, LLC
Matt Friedman – Co-Founder, Tanner Friedman
Darci McConnell – President & CEO, McConnell Communications

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Food & drinks will be available for purchase, and we highly encourage enjoying dinner during our programming! To view the Shield’s Midtown menu, click here.
Seating will be on a first come first serve basis. If you have a group of 5 or larger and you’d like to request a table together, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn (right) speaks with panelists (from left) Michael Siegrist, Matt Friedman, and Erica Peresman during Smart Politics II on July 10, 2024 at The Rind in Berkley
A $5 reservation fee will be required to secure your spot. RSVP via Eventbrite here.
The views and opinions of each panelist are their own and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of WDET or Wayne State University.
We ask that you please respect our panelists, host, and the other attendees. Anyone displaying disruptive or disrespectful behavior may be asked to leave.
If you plan to purchase or consume alcohol, please bring a valid government issued ID.
Shield’s Midtown is wheelchair accessible.
Supported by:

2024 political coverage on WDET is supported by Ruby Duffield, Mary Ann & Carl Fontana, and listeners like you. Thank you!
