Opening Day for the Detroit Tigers is Thursday, April 6, and no city celebrates the rollout of a new MLB season quite like Detroit. Tailgating, bar hopping, and loads of parties are all on the docket as fans get to see the Tigers on home turf for the first time in months. Thousands of people will invade Downtown Detroit to bask in the festivities together at the many events being thrown in honor of the new season.
Usually, the weather on Opening Day is not the best. The past few years have brought cold temperatures, rain, and even snow to the roofless Comerica Park stadium. Fortunately, Michiganders are ready for whatever mother nature will bring and plan to flood the streets in blue and orange regardless. Last year fans started tailgating as early as 3 a.m. to claim good spots and allow time to assemble their elaborate set ups.
“It’s just a vibe to be down here, downtown for Opening Day,” Tiger’s fan Mike told WXYZ last year. “Because everybody loves tailgating and everyone loves the Tigers.”
The Detroit Tigers will take on the Boston Red Sox. The team has 6 games on the road split between Tampa and Houston before heading back home. Anticipation is thicker than usual as fans prepare to see beloved designated hitter Miguel “Miggy” Cabrera take the field for his 20th and final home Opening Day game. It is expected the Opening Day Crowd will show support by wearing Miggy’s #24 Jersey.
While many are looking forward to a beer, hot dog, and peanuts at the ballpark, here are a few options outside of the stadium that will give that true Detroit Opening Day experience.
Where to go
The first pitch is scheduled to be thrown at 1:10 p.m., but the party will begin much earlier. Many events are listed to start at 9 a.m. with celebrations lasting into the night at select locations.
Detroit Tigers Opening Day Tailgate
The official Detroit Tigers Opening Day Tailgate is at Grand Circus Park. This free event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will include food trucks, games, giveaways, music, and more. The best part is the celebration amongst fans and appearances from Tigers players.
If you are not afraid of being outdoors and interested in variety and comradery this event is for you. Tailgate participates are encouraged to dress warm and have supplies that will last all day. Most on site setups include fire pits, coolers for beverages, food, grills, and TVs to watch the game.
Grand Slam Festival
Notably one of the biggest annual parties for Opening Day, the Grand Slam Festival is bringing loads of fun and a variety of music for fans to enjoy. The outdoor event will be held on the festival grounds at the Music Hall Amphitheater from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The festival will feature 15 DJs and a full bar for dancing and libations. Fans will be able to enjoy the game on massive LED screens and view the live pre-game broadcast that will be filmed at Woodward Sports.
Attendees must be 21+ with valid ID for entry. Tickets can be purchased at allevents.in.
Detroit Tigers Opening Day Kickoff
Popular Detroit party promoter Justin Floyd is backing the Opening Day Kickoff Party at Bleu Night Club. Celebrations are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for enthusiasts looking for a fun indoor option. The event will have music, food, giveaways, and a thrilling crowd to party with. This Day party is sure to entertain during the game and is in a prime location to be in the mist of all of the Downtown excitement.
Good Thursday Celebration
Floods Bar and Grill will be celebrating Opening Day in style. If you are interested in an indoor event the Good Thursday Event is a good option. Along with space inside, Floods will also have a heated tent with a photobooth and other interactive activities. The event is from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. and will be the perfect spot to either watch the game or keep the party going after its over.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite with limited early bird free admission tickets available.
Other events
There are many other events taking place around Detroit on Opening Day, so be sure to check out the full schedule and find something that interests you. With so much to do, it’s sure to be a day that you’ll never forget.