Things To Do in Detroit This Weekend: March 20-March 22

Detroit's weekend runs the full spectrum, from the refined elegance of Orchestra Hall to the deep-rooted soul of Fox Theatre and the full-throttle spectacle of Ford Field. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra brings Romantic masterworks to life, the Motor City Blues Festival delivers Southern soul royalty, and Monster Jam sends 12,000-pound trucks flying through the air. Whatever your idea of a great night out looks like, the city has it covered and then some.

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra presents "Mendelssohn and Schumann," a program built around two Romantic masterworks and a contemporary voice. DSO Concertmaster Robyn Bollinger takes the solo role in Mendelssohn's beloved Violin Concerto, a work rich in lyricism and virtuosic display. Schumann's "Spring" Symphony, buoyant and celebratory, anchors the second half with music that revels in seasonal renewal. Composer and conductor Jörg Widmann opens the evening with one of his own works, which he describes as channeling Beethoven's fury and rhythmic insistence.

The 18th Annual Motor City Blues Festival returns to Fox Theatre as part of the "Blues is Alright Tour," bringing together a lineup that blends old-school storytelling with the smooth grooves of contemporary Southern soul and modern blues. King George, Pokey Bear, Lenny Williams, West Love, Mike Clark Jr., and EJ Jones headline the night, with Henry Welch serving as host. It's music born from Saturday night dance floors and Sunday morning truth-telling, a sound that has evolved while keeping its soul intact. Comerica Bank is the exclusive presenting partner.

Monster Jam returns to Ford Field for a weekend of gravity-defying stunts, high-speed racing, and freestyle competition featuring 12,000-pound trucks and world-class drivers. Adam Anderson brings the legendary Grave Digger, Jamie Sullivan pilots the bold Sparkle Smash, and reigning two-wheel skills champion Tristan England drives JCB DIGatron, among 12 drivers competing for the Stadium Championship Series East title. Fans can arrive early for the Pit Party, offering autographs, selfies, and an inside look at the trucks, while the Trackside Experience features driver interviews and giveaways before the action begins.

March in Detroit means hockey, laughs, and a celebration of local strength — sometimes all at once. The city's weekend card is stacked, and there's no wrong choice.

Detroit doesn't take weeknights lightly. The city's midweek calendar punches well above its weight, with enough variety to make staying in feel like a missed opportunity.