8 ways to enjoy the weekend

OKTOBEER FESTIVAL

9 Mile Rd. and Woodward Ave., Downtown Ferndale  
Friday, October 6 from 5pm-12am, Saturday, October 7 from 12pm-12am, Sunday, October 8 from 12pm-10pm 

Kick off the weekend with this festival in the heart of downtown Ferndale! The Oktobeer Festival will feature dozens of beers, hard ciders, and soft drinks by sponsor Samuel Adams. Other activities include live entertainment, games, and food.
 

MILES FOR MISSIONS 5K

River Bends Park, 5700 22 Mile Rd., Shelby Township 
Saturday, October 7, 9am-11am

Run for a cause, as organization Mission Youth Detroit is hosting this 5K to raise funds for underserved communities. Registration is $30 per person, and free for children eight years old and younger. 
 

SELF HELP FESTIVAL

Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, 14900 Metropolitan Parkway, Sterling Heights 
Saturday, October 7, 2pm-11pm

Alternative rock bands will flock to this all-day festival! The lineup includes bands A Day to Remember, Rise Against, Pierce the Veil, Falling in Reverse, and more. Tickets start at $49.50.
 

RUN THE RACEWAY

M1 Concourse Race Track, 1 Concourse Dr., Pontiac
Saturday, October 7, 7am-11am

This is the first 5K and 10K run for the M1 race track! After the run, participants can enjoy test driving several 2017 vehicles around the speedway, listen to live music, and grab something to eat from a food truck. Registration is $50 per person. Proceeds will go towards Genyouth, an organization dedicated to creating programs to keep students healthy and active.
 

TRANSGENDER YOUTH EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOP

Orchard Methodist Church, 30450 Farmington Rd., Farmington Hills
Saturday, October 7, 10am-4pm

Catered for youth between the ages of 12 and 22, this workshop will feature activities and speakers that focus on the struggles of coming out, substance abuse, support, and sexual health. Activities such as improv, art therapy, and meditation will also be provided. Parents of transgender children are also welcome to attend, as there will be sessions specifically for them. Admission is free for children and young adults, and $25 for parents.
 

FERNDALE FALL FESTIVAL

Detroit Curling Club, 1615 E. Lewiston, Ferndale 
Saturday, October 7, 11am-3pm

This family-friendly event will feature hayrides, carnival games, obstacle courses, live music, and more! Wristbands are $5 for children under 16 years old, and $2 for those over 16. 
 

MSU TOLLGATE PUMPKINFEST

MSU Tollgate Farm, 28115 Meadowbrook Rd, Novi 
Saturday, October 7 and Sunday, October 8 from 11am-5pm

Sponsored by Vibe Credit Union, this event will feature food, music, animals, and educational activities for the entire family. Parking is $5.
 

MILLFORD FALL FESTIVAL

Kensington Metropark, 2240 Bruno Rd, Milford
Saturday, October 7 and Sunday, October 8 from 11am-4pm

This two-day festival will feature a horse-drawn hayride, food and craft vendors, and a pumpkin patch for kids! Admission is $10 per vehicle. 
Enjoy this story? Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.

Read more articles by Micah Walker.

Micah Walker is a Metro Detroit-based journalist.