Embracing Change: Goodbye Only Child

By

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October 23, 2016

A few months ago I saw a picture while scrolling through Facebook. Perhaps you saw it. The picture showed a pregnant woman in what appeared to be a hospital embracing a young child who was sitting on her baby bump. Intrigued I clicked on the article to read what it was all about. The woman in the picture was indeed in the hospital, preparing to be induced. The child was her first born, and her photographer captured the moment of the mother saying goodbye to her child. It went on to explain how heartbreaking it is to say goodbye to that only child status. While it was a very touching moment, it made me stop and think.

Wait.

Does everyone feel like that? Does everyone feel so overwhelmingly sad? Was there something wrong with me that I didn’t feel like this?
When we welcomed our second daughter, Autumn, I don’t remember being sad that my first, Annabelle, wouldn’t be an only child. Don’t get me wrong, I knew that it would be a huge change, but I was overjoyed that Annabelle was getting a sibling.

As an only child I always knew that I wanted a big family, so sadness was not a major emotion I remember feeling. Was I curious how our lives would change? Of course. Was I worried how Annabelle would handle sharing her mom? I would be lying if I said I wasn’t. But, did I feel an incredible sadness that Annabelle would no longer be an only child? Nope.

When we brought Autumn home from the hospital, it was a change, but Annabelle was a champ. She loved on her sister like no ones business. If Autumn cried, she was the first to say “Autumn crying. Pick her up!” She showed Autumn toys, and helped me whenever possible. As Autumn grows it is obvious Annabelle still loves “her Autumn” (well maybe not quite as much when she touch’s Annabelle’s toys). Plus, as much as Annabelle loves Autumn, Autumn simply adores her sister. The look on her face when she spies Annabelle is one of pure joy. I love watching their relationship grow and strengthen, and can’t wait for what the future holds (although with how much Autumn already steels her sister’s shoes, I’m a bit worried as well).

Seeing the love they share is why I think I was never sad that Annabelle wasn’t going to be an only child any longer. Why instead of sadness, I felt joy.

What about you? How did you feel when you added a second or third child to your family?

I Used To Judge Your Mommy Skills.

By

Meredith Weston-Backaitis

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October 20, 2016

I remember when my first son Charlie was two weeks old. My husband and I had taken him out to a nice little Italian restaurant. Charlie, being a normal newborn was in a milk coma and sleeping peacefully in his car seat. Two tables down, a couple was wrangling an impatient two-year-old. He was whining, not sitting still and making a scene. I smugly looked down at my little angle and thought: “We are really good parents. Our child would never act like that. He’s being so quiet and sweet.”

I’m not kidding. I honestly thought because of my superior parenting skills, my two-week-old was ‘behaving’ in a restaurant.

My 'perfect' angles. — My ‘perfect’ angels.

I was horrified when my friend bought her three-year-old a personal electronic device for Christmas. Why wouldn’t they choose to read books to them? I read to my infant several books a day. They must not care as much as I do about my child.

And don’t get me started about sugar for babies. Pure poison. I actually shuttered at a play date when my friend gave her eight-month-old daughter a tiny taste of frosting on a cupcake. How could she do that to her child? She must not be as good of a parent I was.

I didn’t judge other parents purposfully. I had just been force-fed through parenting books, parenting classes, parenting blogs and everything else I was supposed to be reading that there was a certain (i.e. right) way to raise your children. If you didn’t they will probably grow up to be dumb, overweight and most likely be in jail by they time they turn eighteen.

Let me fast forward several years and add in another little boy. Charlie, now four, has his own kids Kindle and head phones. It makes road trips a magical time. I can read a magazine and my husband can listen to a podcast. Everyone is happy. He still has to ask permission to use it and we monitor closely what he watches.

My one-year-old, Henry, LOVES ice cream. Whoops. I just can’t bear to watch him look at his big brother with puppy dog eyes as he enjoys a scoop of chocolate ice cream after dinner.

We still go to restaurants. But, we pick wisely and eat quickly. And, often kids Kindles and iPhones will be brought out, so my husband and I can enjoy ten minutes of conversation. My rule is, if the restaurant has high chairs it’s fair game.

So to all the moms I used to roll my eyes at and audibly gasp at (not kidding- I wanted you to hear my disgust in your poor parenting), I’m sorry. As I’ve learned the hard way this is not an easy job. Most of us don’t have the money, time or energy to be as perfect as all those blogs and books want us to be. As much as I thought I wanted to be that perfect blog-like mommy, I realized that it does not make me happy.

Yeah, I’ll be the first one to admit I’ll make my family pose for thirty takes to get that perfect Facebook picture and I still try to feed my kids healthy homemade foods most days, but some days I’m getting by on three hours of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and cereal for dinner.

It’s all about balance, right?

Family Friendly Tailgating Ideas

By

Angela Amman

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October 19, 2016

I spent my first Big 10 tailgate wandering between parties with friends, wrapping gloved hands around cans of beer that didn’t need ice to stay cold, and hoping the snow would wait until after the fourth quarter. It didn’t, but tailgating love sank into my cold bones anyway. I’d been to games, of course, but the energy of eating, drinking and socializing on a buzzing campus hours before the stadium even opened was another experience entirely.

For years, tailgating involved food, drinks, games and good-natured trash-talking with visiting fans. I walked past the areas where kids tossed mini-footballs without a second glance. We were college students, then newly graduated fans and didn’t need to worry about the logistics of family friendly tailgating. Until, in a blink, my friends and I were married — or not — with kids and a whole new set of responsibilities and expectations for Friday nights and Saturday mornings.

Suddenly family friendly tailgating didn’t seem as far-fetched as I’d once thought. Some tailgates don’t need to be changed too much to welcome kids — but some do. Personally, I like knowing when kids will be hanging around before the game and if mine are welcome if we’re attending a friend’s tailgate. There’s a million things you can do to shift your tailgating plans from college-ready to kid-friendly, but these 5 tips will definitely help.

Find the right location

At some schools, you’re assigned a tailgating spot when you buy your tickets. At others, parking lots and other areas on campus operate on a first come-first serve basis. If at all possible, choose a location where other families tailgate or where you’ve seen relatively low-key celebrations taking place.

Many big schools have definite student tailgating areas, hotbeds of flip cup and flying curse words. I prefer to steer clear of those sections of campus for extended periods of time, since my kids have developed bionic hearing and powers of repetition when it comes to inappropriate language.

Decide how to handle food

Chips, dips, burgers, brats, desserts and more span tables at most tailgates. Before your kids start grabbing fistfuls of their favorite snack foods, plan how you want to handle what they eat. You might trust them to graze. If you want to monitor what they’re eating, mention that to at least a few other people. They’ll let you know if they see little hands reaching for a second — or fourth — cookie.

Still nursing or bottle feeding? Find a shady spot to sit and relax — or a warm one once the cold weather begins. Be thankful you’re not trying to explain to a threenager why she can’t have yet another helping of cheese dip.

Bring activities for the kids

You might think the campus energy and the corn hole game your best friend totes to every game will be enough to keep your kids busy. It won’t be. Take a trip to the dollar store before you leave for Nerf balls and containers of bubbles. Pull them out when the kids seem to be losing interest in the tailgate and be everyone’s hero.

Make them feel like they’re part of the day

Kids change the tailgating experience, but they can change it for the better. Seeing your beloved alma mater through their fresh eyes can make little details seems special again: graffiti on a rock, the first strains of the marching band practicing and the spontaneous chorus of the fight song echoing around the campus. Don’t just bring them to your established tailgate. Help them to feel like they’re important participants. Deck everyone out in your school colors, get face tattoos and teach them at least a line or two of the fight song.

Keep traffic in mind

Whether you’re treating your kids to the full game day experience, ducking out around halftime or skipping the game all together and listening to the play-by-play on the drive home, you’ll want to be honest with how your kids will react to possible traffic issues on the way home. Get in a final bathroom break or diaper change. Make sure water bottles are full and stash away a snack or two for traffic jam meltdowns. If the football fairy is on your side, they’ll be exhausted from all the fun and nap on the way home.

If you’re taking your kids to the game, be sure to check out this post for some tips for making the most of the day.

A Letter to My Children’s Daytime Mama

By

nikkidockery

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October 18, 2016

daytime-mama — A few of the crafts the boys made with their daycare mama.

Dear Amazing Selfless Woman,

Do you know how much I love you? Do you know how much my children love you? Do you know that I could not do what I do without you in our lives?

It’s unlikely you even think about these things because let’s face it: you are undoubtedly one of the most selfless and caring individuals I have ever met. Day in and day out you go above and beyond for tiny humans who do not belong to you, but to whom you gently mother from 9am – 5pm.

Your days are filled with things that I could not imagine doing for children who are not my own. You are chasing angst filled toddlers, wiping noses, helping with potty breaks, changing diapers, feeding hungry bellies, teaching life lessons about sharing and kindness, sharing neighborhood walks and park visits, giving cuddles when my babies are sick and kissing boo boos when I’m not there.

Saying a simple “thank you” just doesn’t seem to suffice. How could I ever fully thank the woman who cares for my children when I can’t? You are there when I have to be gone and I couldn’t be more grateful they have a person like you in their lives to guide them, shape them and keep them happy while I am at work all day.

On the days I drop off a feisty, teething one-year-old and an angry two-year-old who is mad he has to be there, you so gently nudge them in the door and say, “They’ll be okay.” Just like that. Not a hint of aggravation in your voice, not a shimmer of annoyance. You love them even when they are quite unlovable.

And while we’re being honest it’s safe to say that working and being gone from my children isn’t an easy choice I make everyday. I choose it because I have to and not always because I want to. But knowing that I have you to care for my little ones and nurture them while I’m away eases the burden on my already heavily burdened shoulders.

The guilt I have lessens a bit knowing that you are providing the best care I could ever ask for in this situation. I’m constantly questioning if I’m doing the right thing by working full-time and leaving them in someone else’s care because isn’t their mother the best care taker they could have? But my children are loved by you (and your family) as if they were your own, they go to a clean and fun environment every day to learn and play with their friends and knowing that releases my guilt on those really hard days.

On the days I have to work late or the weekends I have to travel you accommodate us and our schedules with no second guessing or hesitation. You are readily available to take on the extra hours and days with them without a thought. My appreciation could move mountains because there’s simply no way our life would function so smoothly as it does without you in it.

Thank you from the depths of my heart for loving, hugging and caring for my children every day like you do. You make my life as a working mom a little easier by being a part of our village. I will never have enough words to express my gratitude, but I hope you know how irreplaceable you truly are and what a lasting impact you have made on our lives. We love you.

Sincerely,
A Working Mom

**A note from the writer

Since writing this I have become a stay at home parent, however, my heart and passion toward working parents and all those who make it possible for working parents to do what they do has not changed.

Helping After an Unexpected Tragedy

By

Amy W.

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October 16, 2016

I’m a helper. Give me any problem and I will find you a solution, or at a minimum, a silver
lining. I deal best under pressure and I take pride in keeping calm when things go awry. I am strong and brave in the face of tragedy. That changed last year when my dear friends lost their son at 24 weeks. I was rocked to my core. They were literally living every parent’s worst nightmare, one that is all too familiar to many mothers and fathers.

Earlier this year, my beautiful sister and brother-in-law had an adorable baby boy. There were complications at birth and he couldn’t breath on his own. He was hooked up to machines and tubes, and she couldn’t hold him or nurse him. It wasn’t the most dire situation, but it was scary and there were far more questions than answers. Things like this happen to parents every day.

In both of these instances, my instinct told me to help. But what could I do? Flowers, food, cards, all seemed so trivial, so menial compared to the magnitude of loss and uncertainty. No doubt they would appreciate these things, but in my mind, there was nothing that could come close to being appropriate for the grave loss my friends had suffered. Their son is gone and I’m going to send cookies? My nephew’s future is uncertain and I’m going to feed my sister’s dog and bring a casserole? It doesn’t seem right, it doesn’t seem like enough.

Guess what though? It is enough. Anything you say or do is enough. Any effort or acknowledgment, no matter how small, is enough. Because there are many other sisters and friends who feel the same way you do – scared they will say or do the wrong thing or that what they will do is not enough – so they do nothing. That’s right – nothing. And in these instances, doing something is most definitely better than doing nothing. Doing nothing won’t change the circumstances and it won’t help your friend or your sister.

A parent coping with unexpected tragedy needs to know that it is alright to be sad or scared. Anything you can say or do to acknowledge those feelings will be enough. A mother who has lost a child desperately wants to keep their child’s memory alive. And by saying or doing anything, you are keeping the child’s memory alive. That is enough. A mother dealing with a child’s medical crisis wants some semblance of normalcy and hope. So anything that gives her a piece of that is enough. Just be a friend: send a text, make a call, plan a visit, send a card, give a meal, don’t let your friend or sister shut you out with their grief or fear, it is all enough.

So the next time you are uncertain as to what you should do to help a friend, just be sure you do something. It will be enough.

Forever Loved

By

Detroit Mom

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October 15, 2016

1.2014 – Baby Piper

2.28.2010 – Nicholas

2.2011 – Baby M

3.22.2013 – Grace

4.1.2008 – Isabella Jean

4.25.2011 – Anna Labadie

5.2014 – Baby H

5.6.16 – Baby J

6.2008 – Baby M

7.2.2011 Charlotte Allen

7.9.2015 – Baby D #3

7.28.2016 – Eloise Ruth Morian Schoonover

10.2013 – Lily Grace

If you would like to add your child to this page in memory, please click HERE to submit your child’s name and date.

We will keep this post linked on our sidebar for the month of October, but you can always find it in the drop down menu underneath “Home” in our menu bar.

Fall Family Festival Event at Cranbrook Institute of Science

By

Elizabeth Lewis

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October 15, 2016

We are beyond thrilled to present our Fall Family Festival on October 29, 2016 at Cranbrook Institute of Science from 11am – 2pm. This event is focused towards all families. Whether you have tiny babies or growing tweens this event is for you! Grab the whole family and explore the world of science while hanging with superheroes, princesses, facepainting, firetrucks, crafts and so much more! If you’ve never been to Cranbrook now is the time. They are truly amazing and the facility is exceptional. Your whole family will walk out in awe at everything they learned about science. Plus, Cranbrook is giving you the opportunity to hang out even after the event is over!

Ticket Information

General Admission :: $8

event admission
snacks & drinks
superheroes + princesses
facepainting
science experiments
firetruck fun
admission to Cranbrook for the entire day
trunk or treat
and much much more…

Tickets go on sale Monday, October 17th at 9pm.

Make sure you join the Facebook event page to stay up to date with all of the details.

Entertainment Sponsor

Fairytale Entertainment knows how special birthdays and other events are. They truly pride themselves in being one of the best character party entertainers around. You can find almost any character your child is absolutely in love with. They will do everything they can to make sure your child has an experience of a lifetime. Are you ready to watch your child’s face light up when they meet one of their beloved superheroes?! Click here to see all of the characters they have to offer.

Co-title Sponsor

Come learn all things {swim} from one of our favorite swim schools in the area! Goldfish Swim School constantly amazes us with their love for teaching children the importance of knowing how to swim. As a parent this is something SO important. Goldfish Swim School’s tropical facility offers a welcoming and fun learn-to-swim experience that is both inviting and built to help kids develop strong swimming skills. Their shiver-free 90 degree pool, flexible class schedules, and easy enrollment process all combine to give your family a true Golden Experience.

Our Generous Sponsors

Science Experiments

We hope you’re as excited as we are about the science experiments Cranbrook will be making with your family!

Bat Launch

Make and take straw rockets

Hissing Cockroaches

Up close with Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches

Chromatography

Create colorful leaves using the process of separating colors

Megalodon Mobiles

Cut, color and string some amazing prehistoric images

Pumpkin Chunkin’

Make and take mini catapults – how far will your pumpkin go?

Emma Burcusel Photography

We strongly encourage you to bring your phone or camera fully charged to document the afternoon {And when you do, be sure to tag your posts and pictures and follow along using #DMBdoesCranbrook + #DMBFallFamFest!} However, please know that we will also have the incredibly talented Emma Burcusal Photography on hand to help capture the afternoon too. She’ll capture you in a way you’ll absolutely love!

Get Your Tickets HERE

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Make Holidays Happen with Costco {$20 off a MEMBERSHIP}

By

Elizabeth Lewis

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October 14, 2016

I am that crazy girl that can’t get enough of holidays. I, by nature, love to entertain. Like I may be a little obsessed with it! So when the holidays roll around I am truly in my happy place. I am ready to bust out the decorations {maybe a little too early} and invite the girls over for what I feel is a much deserved celebration. But what doesn’t agree with my insane desire to entertain is my bank account or my husband. Thankfully we’ve found a compromise. Say hello to my compromise – Costco!

Costco is sponsoring this event but we genuinely love Costco and are thrilled to partner with them!

Let me start by saying that I get overly excited shopping at Costco. Even the thought of heading to Costco makes my mouth water and heart happy. They have everything. From diapers to pot pies. You name it, they have it!

Now let’s talk holidays with Costco. They have YOU covered!

Hosting & Entertaining

Whether it’s a dinner party or overnight guests, Costco has exactly what you need and it’s all budget friendly. Need new sheets? They’ll ask flannel or cotton. Need gourmet cheese? They’ll ask Manchego or Goat Cheese. Need wine? They’ll ask Chardonnay or Cabernet. The best part is that their house brand, Kirkland, costs a fraction of the price and tastes just as good! One of our favorite appetizers when entertaining is meat, cheese and wine (wine’s an appetizer, right?!). They have a HUGE selection of cheeses and wine. Can you ever have enough cheese?

Gift Giving

Costco has the best selection of toys, books, pajamas, underwear + socks (who doesn’t love new socks and undies for the holidays?!). Their book prices are absolute best. Titles that are hot off the press, and the cookbook selection will keep your favorite cook happy for years. Make sure to check out their books for your upcoming book club selection. New pajamas for Christmas is a must in our house. We make our annual Jammie Trip every year and let them pick out comfy + cozy pjs for the Christmas morning.

Caring for Others

This is something that makes my heart happy. I love giving to others. Especially around the holiday season. Costco makes helping others so easy. Their pre-made dinners are SO good! Hello Chicken Pot Pie that will feed a tiny army! And lets not forget the lasagna. I love that everything is made right there! Moving onto the bakery. Personally my favorite section! The baked breads, muffins and cookies! These are perfect for any party or a little sweet treat for your co-workers. The possibilities are endless.

Family Favorites

Rotisserie 3lb Chicken – this is by far the best deal around!
Kirkland Animal Crackers & Applesauce Pouches
Kirkland Organic Eggs (18 eggs for the price of 12)
Kirkland Organic Beef (we stock up on this)
Organic Produce – the strawberries and raspberries are our weekly staples.
Wine (no explanation needed)
Kirkland Diapers & Wipes – the best diapers EVER!
Kirkland Makeup Remover Clothes
Tampons (Why are those things SO expensive?!)
Coats and Activewear
Kirkland Chocolate Covered Almonds
Kirkland Coffee

Do you think we love Costco or what?!

Hosting & The Who, When, Where & Why

Who :: All Detroit area moms and kids. We won’t turn husbands away if they want to tag along.

When :: Friday, November 4th from 9am – 10am (before the store officially opens)

Where :: Bloomfield, Lakeside, Pittsfield Twsp and Roseville

Why :: If you’ve been considering joining Costco – now is the time to check it out! On November 4th, we invite you to our Costco Mom Hour at the Bloomfield, Lakeside, Pittsfield Twsp and Roseville locations. This event is absolutely FREE! Costco has graciously agreed to not only open their doors an hour early for DMB readers and their friends, but they will also be offering an exclusive membership special for new members where those who sign up will receive a $20 Costco cash card PLUS over $40 in valuable coupons! For members who bring a non-member friend – if that friend joins – you will receive a $10 Costco cash card (you must be present with your friend to get the gift card).

Not only that, but the first 100 moms who show up will receive a swag bag from Costco, chock full of some of their most popular Kirkland Signature brand items for YOU to try! There will also be special samples specifically chosen for moms and their kids, along with a continental breakfast (coffee, juice, water, muffins, danishes, fruit, etc!) AND they will be doing three amazing giveaways at each warehouse… TWO $100 Costco Cash Cards and a full year of Tide Pods!

You do no not need to be a member to attend (only to shop), although once you are there and see what they have to offer, chances are you will want to take advantage of their membership special! Please use the link below to register so we know how many to expect! This is part of a national event (98 warehouses nationwide so share with your friends in other cities!) Also, if you want just the membership special but cannot attend on the 4th – you will be able to register just for that (select Non-Attendee Membership Special)

And stay in the know with our Facebook event page!

More Reasons to Love Costco

•Competitive pricing on quality merchandise meets or exceeds local competitors.

• Kirkland Signature products are rated higher than most leading brands.

• Free demos and samples on a daily basis.

• Costco is leading the nation in organic sales.

• The environment in Costco speaks for itself with its cleanliness and well-lit warehouse shopping experience.

• Costco offers many services in and outside of the warehouse: Auto Buying, Check Printing, Travel and Car Rentals, Insurance, Mortgage Financing, Water Delivery, Leaf Guard, Flooring and Windows, Identity Protection, Pharmacy, Hearing Aid, Optical, and Photo Lab.

• Discounts to restaurants, movies, spas, and many more.

• They offer a 100-percent member satisfaction guarantee and will refund your membership if at any time you are not satisfied.

• Free healthy heart screening, osteoporosis screening to all members and non-members.

• They offer pet meds for your fur babies.

• Costco’s meat department is USDA Choice grade or better.

• They have the best Rotisserie 3-pound chicken for $4.99 – no preservatives, MSG free, gluten free, and USDA grade.

• Contacts ladies! They will beat any price out there. We paid half the price for daily contacts that every one else was charging. What I saved paid for my membership and then some.

Registration

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Baby’s First College Football Game

By

Kelsie Rodriguez

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October 13, 2016

Fall is for cider mills, Halloween, pumpkin spice lattes, and most importantly: football. My husband and I fall somewhere between “dedicated” and “obsessed” on a scale of college football fandom. I grew up watching Michigan play every fall Saturday and witnessing my family cry tears of joy when they won the Rose Bowl (and therefore, the national championship) in the 1997 season. My husband was, by comparison, a latecomer, but he took an interest when he arrived at college and never looked back; now he reads football blogs and follows recruiting as if it’s his job. Our Saturdays revolve around watching the big games, not just our own team’s, but other teams in our conference, potential national championship contenders, or anything that seems to be leading to an exciting finish. We even DVR the Michigan games to re-watch them, play by play, on Sunday mornings.

We’re more than a little excited to share the college football experience with our son. He was born last August, so we got off to an early start exposing him to our favorite pastime. (Can you say “indoctrination?”) At three months old, he had already tailgated three separate Saturdays in Ann Arbor (watch for our post on family-friendly tailgating, coming soon!) and attended a football game where Michigan handily defeated their opponent.

Baby's First Football Game 1 — Fast asleep after a Michigan victory.

According to several online message boards, taking an infant to a college football game is absurd. We did it anyway. Here are some considerations in deciding if this is a viable option for you.

1. Consider the cost. Big Ten policy requires a ticket for everyone, no matter what age, so we had to buy a third ticket for our baby. Sure, the extra seat allowed us to stretch out a little on those cramped bleachers, but depending on the cost of the ticket (say, for a big rivalry game), this may not make sense.

2. Consider the weather. We chose a mid-September game and had a perfect 70-degree day with a light breeze. We had hats, blankets, and sunscreen on-hand for Baby, just in case, as well as layers of clothes.

3. Consider the schedule. We went to a non-conference game early in the season so that we were mentally prepared to leave, if necessary. I couldn’t imagine the struggle of leaving early to calm a crying baby and missing a game-winning touchdown. Of course your child’s needs come first, but don’t make it harder on yourself.

4. Plan what you can bring into the stadium. Check the stadium policy online ahead of time. We had diapers and wipes in a gallon-size Ziploc bag because diaper bags aren’t allowed in Michigan Stadium. (Don’t get me started on that.) It wasn’t convenient, but it worked.

5. Bring noise-canceling headphones for Baby.

Baby's First Football Game 2 — Over one hundred thousand cheering fans can get really, really loud.

6. Consider the developmental stage of your child. An energetic toddler probably won’t sit still for more than two minutes and you may spend the game chasing them around the concourse, while a younger baby who isn’t mobile yet might be content to sit in your lap. Which brings me to my last point…

7. Baby-wear, if you’re into that sort of thing.

It took some advance planning, and it wasn’t as relaxed as going to a game baby-free, but we are glad we did it. We can’t wait to tell our son he went to his first Michigan game was when he was 6 weeks old. And as a bonus, a fellow fan sitting behind me said I was a great mom for breastfeeding my son right there on the bleachers. Go Blue.

30+ Family-Friendly Detroit Halloween Events

By

Amber Cross

-

October 13, 2016

Eeeeeeekkkkk it’s the season of festivals, haunted houses, and pumpkin patches! From trunk or treat stops to Fall Festivals, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Fall Season in + around Detroit. {And get multiple uses out of that costume for your kids!} We’ve got your guide to family-friendly Halloween events around Detroit, and you don’t want to wait long to get started! You’ll notice them arranged by dates, then we included a roundup at the end of places open all season long!!

Thursday, October 13th

Monster Mash

Location :: Wixom Community Center
Date :: Thursday, October 13, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Cost :: $8/person, age 2 and under are free!

Family fun night! Come dressed in your best costumes. Pizza dinner, cookies, punch and a DJ are just some of the delights that await you! Pre-registration required by 10/11!

Saturday, October 15th

Funtober

Location :: Hess-Hathaway Park, 825 S. Williams Lake Rd., Waterford, 48237
Date :: Saturday, October 15, 1:00-6:00 p.m.
Cost :: $6 per person, under 2 – Free

Enjoy a local color tour on a hayride through the park. Take a tour with a farmer to see the animals. Top it off by warming yourselves by the fire and roasting marshmallows for s’mores! Pumpkins will be available for purchase and concessions will be open!

Ghost Night at the Mansion

Location :: Governor Warner Mansion, 33805 Grand River Ave., Farmington, 48331
Date :: Saturday, October 15, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Cost :: $10 per person in advance, $12 per person at the door

Recommended for ages 8 & up, this event promises the scary stories of the Warner family mansion, Young Frankenstein the movie, palm readings, haunted classic cars and best of all – cider and donuts!!

River Bends Park Halloween Spectacular

Location :: 5700 22 Mile Rd., Shelby Charter Township, 48317
Date :: Saturday, October 15, Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Games and goodies galore! Come celebrate Halloween with a trunk-or-treat, hayrides around the park, crafts and family fun! This event is held rain or shine.

The Friendly Forest

Location :: Clintonwood Park, 6000 Clarkston Rd., Clarkston, 48348
Date :: Saturday, October 15, 3:00-6:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10 per person

Dress the kids in their Halloween costumes and parade them around at trick-or-treating stations featuring their favorite cartoon/movie/superhero characters! Also enjoy a picture station, a hay maze, wagon rides and juice and donuts.

Fall Festival in the Woods

Location :: Hawk Woods Nature Center, 3799 Bald Mountain Rd., Auburn Hills, 48326
Date :: Saturday, October 15, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free entrance and shuttle

Nature activities – Hay Rides – Petting Farm – Pumpkin Carving – Live Music – Free Cider & Donuts – And More!

Sunday, October 16th

Spooky Story Time in the Park

Location :: 910 Merrill Plaisance St., Detroit, 48203
Date :: Sunday, October 16, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.Cost :: Free

Families are invited to Palmer Park for Spooky Story Time. Meet near the Palmer Park gardens off of Merrill Plaisance near the splash park lot! Bring your own blankets or chairs to sit on. Enjoy the autumn park scenery and interactive stories read aloud and performed around the theme of SPOOKY STORIES. Park at parking lot off of Merrill Plaisance near the splash park. Gather by the Palmer Park vegetable gardens

Wednesday, October 19th

Pumpkin Paradise

Location :: Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, 333 N. Hill Cir., Rochester 48307
Date :: Wednesday, October 19, 4:30-6 p.m.
Cost :: $15 for non-members, $12 for members

Come see how many ways you can decimate a pumpkin! With use of a catapult and several other methods, pumpkins will be smashed and the seeds will be collected for roasting!!

Friday, October 21st

Halloween Hoopla

Location :: Macomb Township Recreation Center, 20699 Macomb St., Macomb, 48042
Date :: Friday, October 21, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10/non-resident, $5/residents

A full evening of activities and attractions are planned for the entire family to experience. Families will have the opportunity to take in a magic show, walk the vendor sponsored Trick or Treat Trail, stroll through the haunted house, dance the night away at Monster Studio 54, get your hair and nails done at the Freaky Hair Salon & Spa or make crafts at our “Boo-tique”. Concessions and picture packages available for an extra fee. No tickets at the door! Get them in advance.

RP’s Annual Monster Mash

Location :: Rochester Play, 380 E. 2nd, Rochester, 48307
Date :: Friday, October 21, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.Cost :: $12 per child/$6 per sibling
*Members just $5 per child

Join us for a kid friendly Halloween Party at your favorite indoor play place. This year our annual Halloween Monster Mash will offer even BIGGER fun with the addition of our new dance party room! This year we will start with our annual costume contest and prizes followed by the cake walk game and limbo!

WBA 3rd Friday Fall Festival

Location :: Downtown Wyandotte, 3200 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte
Date :: Friday, October 21, 5:00pm – 10:00pm
Cost :: Kids Festival Package – $5 ($2 off with canned good), Chili Sampling – $10

Join the Wyandotte Business Association for Trick or Treating, Cider & Donuts, Pumpkin Decorating, Hayrides, Family Costume Contest and the Sarah Sherrard Band.

Saturday, October 22nd

Fisk Farm Haunting

Location :: Fisk Farm, 9180 Highland Rd., White Lake Twp., 48383
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Cost :: $2 per family

So many fun things for the family! Games in the barn, refreshments and entertainment in front of the campfire, tea leaf reading, costume contest and parade!

Halloween Fun in Downtown Rochester

Location :: Downtown Rochester
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 3:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free – Spaghetti dinner to benefit Rochester Area Youth Assistance $10 per person and $5 per child 10 and under

The fun starts with a trick-or-treat along the streets of the downtown Rochester, then a costume parade on the corner of Water St. and University. Finish up the night with some firehouse fun at the Rochester Fire Department.

Halloween Science at Cranbrook

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield, 48303
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10 for members, $15 for general public

This is the Institute’s most popular annual event. Join for one of three sessions as we investigate the science behind the spooky through demonstrations, interactive activities, and more. Each session features all ages, not-too-scary experiences, and attendees are encouraged to don their costumes for this event.

Mad Scientist Lab Day

Location :: Indian Springs Metropark, 5175 Indian Trail, White Lake, 48386
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 1:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per participant and $10 park entry fee without park pass

Take science to a crazy level this Halloween with some spooky experiments!! Ages 8 & up. You must preregister for this event!

Smashing Pumpkins

Location :: The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak, 48067
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 2016, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Cost :: FREE with Zoo admission

Come and watch the zoo animals enjoy seasonal munchies – including pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks and other fall harvest goodies – as part of its comprehensive program of ensuring environments for animals that are ever-changing and appropriately complex.

Under the Big Top Spooktacular

Location :: Franklin Athletic Club, 29350 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield, 48034
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free

A fun event for the whole family, promising a dance party, a costume parade and contest, face painting, princesses and superheroes, exotic animal show, fortune telling and much, much more!

HarvestFest Detroit

Location :: The Dequindre Cut, Detroit
Date :: Saturday, October 22, 12:00-5:00 p.m
Cost :: Free

Face painting, hayrides, giveaways, bounce houses, Detroit Tigers mascot PAWS, live music, princesses and superheroes and MUCH MORE!

Sunday, October 23rd

End of Season Birmingham Farmers Market Fun

Location :: Birmingham Farmers Market, Parking Lot #6 Old Woodward
Date :: Sunday, October 23, 9:00-2:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Fall fun event with hayrides, corn shelling, live music, pumpkin crafts and pumpkin carving demonstrations all day! The perfect way to wrap up the season!

Hoots & Haunts Halloween

Location :: Indian Springs Metropark, 5715 Indian Trail, White Lake, 48386
Date :: Sunday, October 23, 1:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per child, $10 entry fee without park pass

A little Halloween party for all of your little ghosts and goblins! Halloween costumes are a must!! Ages 10 and under. Preregistration is required!

Spooky Skating

Location :: Berkley Ice Arena, 2400 Robina, Berkley, 48072
Date :: Sunday, October 23, 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free for those who come in costume!

Halloween-themed skating event.

Kids Trick-or-Treat and Hayride

Location :: Scarefest Scream Park, 34111 28 Mile Rd., New Haven, 48048
Date :: Sunday, October 23, 1:00- 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free for kids 12 and under

Take a free hayride through the forest and get candy from some of the friendly monsters! Kids over 12 will be $5. Costumes encouraged but no masks for children over 12.

Tuesday, October 25th

Halloween Spooktacular

Location :: 1099 Lone Pine Rd., Bloomfield, 48302
Date :: Tuesday, October 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free to attend, but registration may be required.

Fun for all ages! Monsters and mayhem will take over the library with spooky stories, ghoulish games and frightening fun! Costumes are highly encouraged. Contact the library for further details regarding registration for the event.

Wednesday, October 26th

Halloween Stories and Parade

Location :: Downtown Lake Orion
Date :: Wednesday, October 26, The parade line up will begin at 5:45p.m. at the Ehman Center, corner of Lapeer & Elizabeth Street. The parade starts promptly at 6:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Calling all ghosts, ghouls, goblins, and anyone else who wants to venture into Downtown Lake Orion! This annual event is a Lake Orion tradition! Children of all ages are invited to wear their costumes and walk in the parade through historic downtown Lake Orion. Trick-or-Treat, cider and donuts to follow in Children’s Park.

Thursday, October 27th

Spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat Event

Location :: Garden City Business Alliance, 5805 Central St., Garden City, 48135
Date :: Thursday, October 27, 5:30-7:00 p.m.Cost :: Donate non-perishable food items for a local food pantry!

Mark your calendars for this event and use your imagination to decorate those vehicles. Bring the kids the grand kids and the neighbors kids! We hope to hear from you soon, and see you there!!

Fun on the Farm Halloween Party

Location :: Kensington Metropark Farm Center, 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford, 48380
Date :: Thursday, October 27, 10:00 a.m.
Cost :: $5 per participant, $10 park entry fee without annual pass

Geared specifically toward toddlers, a trick-or-treat around the farm, a Halloween game or two, a friendly haunted barn and photo opportunities with the big jack O’lantern!

Friday, October 28th

Monster Mash @ Orchard Mall

Location :: Orchard Mall, 6445 Orchard Lake Rd., Bloomfield Twp., 48322
Date :: Friday, October 28, &:00 – 9 :00 p.m.Cost :: $3.00 per person

Orchard Mall is excited to host a Monster Mash for children of all ages. Goodie bags will be given one per child at the door (while supplies last). Children will have fun dancing the night away with chances to earn prizes for “best costume”. All proceeds/donations and ticket sales will be donated to the Greater West Bloomfield Community Coalition.

Saturday, October 29th

Boo Bash

Location :: Main St., Downtown Milford
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Bring the little ones downtown for trick or treating at your hometown merchants! Step in line at any location. Have fun! Sponsored by the Milford Business Association.

Detroit Moms Blog Fall Family Festival

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, Bloomfield Hills
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 11:00am – 2:00pm
Cost :: $8/per person

Dress the kiddos up and head to Cranbrook for plenty of fall fun! You’ll enjoy science experiments, superheroes, princesses, facepainting, a fire truck, snacks, sponsors and spend the day at Cranbrook even after the event is over. Get ready!

Hallohaven

Location :: Woodhaven Community Center, 23101 Hall Rd, Woodhaven, 48183
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Cost :: FREE

Enjoy a Costume Parade, Trick or Treat Village, Farmer John’s Barnyard Express, Petting Zoo, Animal Shows, Crafts & Balloons and much more… Check their page for times.

Pumpkin Pool Party

Location :: Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy, 48083
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 5:00- 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: Residents $10 / Non-Residents $12—with pumpkin
Residents $5 / Non-Residents $6—NO pumpkin

Pumpkins will be numbered and floating for you to find your pumpkin pal. One pumpkin per registration. Bring your bathing suit and towel for a family night out! Enjoy decorating your pumpkin, doing crafts, and watch it float! There will be a very special visit from the tooth fairy! She will be handing out treats thanks to Bright Side Dental. All family members need to register to participate!

Zombie Apocalypse Survival

Location :: Kensington Metropark Nature Center, 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford, 48380
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 1:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per participant and $10 park entry fee without annual pass

Fun for ages 8 and older, this equips participants with the skills to survive a zombie attack and other survival emergencies!

Howl-a-Ween!

Location :: Howell Nature Center, 1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell, 48843
Date :: Saturday, October 29, 4:00-7:00 p.m.
Cost :: Adults/ $5 Children/ $10 $25/family of 4

Come celebrate with the Wild Wonders Wildlife for a spooky night of fun! Trick or Treat our Wildlife Park (candy provided), come dressed to impress for our critter costume contest and enjoy a Free Live Creepy Critter Display! Children’s Crafts, Hayrides, and Refreshments all included! Halloween fun fit for all ages, a merry not so scary good time!

Sunday, October 30th

Day of the Dead

Location :: Novi Civic Center, 45175 Ten Mile Rd., Novi 48375
Date :: Sunday, October 30, 2:00- 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Learn about this amazing Mexican cultural event and enjoy festive music, refreshments, a Mexican folk dance demonstration and more! There will be several hands on stations to make your own sugar skull, paper flowers, and papel picado, as well as a station to try on authentic traditional dance costumes! This program is open to all ages.

Spooky Skate

Location :: Novi Ice Arena, 42400 Nick Lidstrom Dr., Novi 48375
Date :: Sunday, October 30, 3:00-4:50 p.m.
Cost :: $5

A Halloween-themed skating event featuring a costume contest. Halloween costumes strongly encouraged!

Halloween Boo Bash

Location :: David Shepherd Park, 24198 Church St., Oak Park, 48237
Date :: Monday, October 31, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: Contact Oak Park Department of Parks and Recreation at 248-691-7400 for pricing information

Everyone remembers what it was like to dress up and trick or treat. Today, it’s about finding a safe haven to take the kids where they are surrounded by community members, fun and great activities. This year’s annual Halloween Boo Bash is planned for outdoors in the David H. Shepherd Park. The bash will feature a slightly haunted hayride through the outdoor nature trail, trick-or-treat street around the park, and the Boo Bash Monster Mash under shelter one. We are taking our beloved annual Boo Bash to the next level! Come enjoy this enhanced event with opportunities for festive sight-seeing, trick-or-treating, and light refreshments in the park. If inclement weather, we will take the event indoors.

>> Ongoing Detroit Halloween Events <<

Bat Zone Tours at Cranbrook

Location :: 39221 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303-0801
Date :: Saturdays, 12:30 & 2:30 p.m.
Cost :: check website for updated information

Take a personal, behind-the-scenes tour with a bat expert at the Bat Zone: experience bats in flight, amazing animal facts, and the world’s largest species of bat, the Malayan Flying Fox!

Boo Bash Camping

Location :: Addison Oaks County Park, 1480 West Romeo Road, Leonard, MI 48367
Date :: October 7, 8, 14 & 16, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for pricing.

Frightful fun with costume contest for all ages, campground trick or treating, Halloween face painting, inflatables, haunted house, family games, costumed DJ dance, campsite decorating contest, Halloween crafts and wagon rides.

Zoo Boo

Location :: The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak, 48067
Date :: October 7-9, October 14-16, October 21-23, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $9/person in advance. Walk-up tickets will only be sold between 6:45 and 7:45 p.m, first come first serve

The Detroit Zoo’s annual “merry-not-scary” Zoo Boo celebration features a festively decorated trick-or-treat trail through the front of the Zoo. Live stage show, jugglers, pumpkin carving are more and featured! An awesome annual event.

Plus, don’t miss these helpful fall posts too…

Ultimate Fall Bucket List In + Around Detroit

2016 Detroit Pumpkin Patch Round-Up

Guide to Cider Mills in Metro-Detroit

Guide to Apple Orchards in Metro-Detroit

And if you want to stay in the know with all things Detroit and all things mom, be sure to like us on Facebook!

Please Note :: While we make every effort to crosscheck current links and event details on our guides, we always encourage you to do the same when researching options and making plans too! If details are missing or incorrect, please let us know so that we can make every attempt to correct them. And if you know of any other Detroit Halloween events, please include those in the comments as well!!