Detroit’s Centennial Park Opens With $1M Pistons Gift and Star-Packed Celebration

The Pistons donated $1 million for two basketball courts at the new Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park. The 22-acre space opens October 25 on Detroit's waterfront, as per DBusiness.

Each court will shine with glass backboards and top-grade outdoor flooring. Players can shoot hoops while friends watch from nearby seats and activity zones.

"Our basketball courts initiative has provided kids and Detroiters of all ages with healthy environments to stay active," said Tom Gores, Pistons owner, in a statement, as reported by DBusiness. "We are excited to join the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy on this transformative project that will provide two open-air basketball courts and gathering areas that can be used to foster recreation and community connection."

Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CEO Ryan Sullivan praised the partnership, according to DBusiness. "We're grateful to Tom Gores and the Detroit Pistons for helping bring these courts to the riverfront because we know that they are going to be a popular draw both for people living in Detroit and for those living all over Southeast Michigan," Sullivan said in a statement.

Music fills the air as The Jacksons kick off the two-day bash October 25 at 4:00 p.m. Three stages will pulse with local talent from across Metro Detroit.

At the Michigan Lottery Southwest Stage, Ballet Folklorico Detroit spins and twirls, while COMPÁS and Gabriel Duran bring their beats. Larry Lee & the Back in the Day Band, Alise King, and Detroit House Collective take over the Soaring Eagle 8th Street Stage.

Kids can zip down the giant 20-foot Berenstein Bear Slide or splash in the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden. The William Davidson Sport House stands ready for action, while the DTE Foundation Summit's green space waits for music fans.

A pop-up Coffee House hosts Michigan Lion Dance and Sean Blackman, plus paint-along sessions with Elton Monroy. Cafecito Alvarez serves fresh brews all weekend, as per WXYZ.

Gates open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Join the kick-off at 10 a.m. Saturday. Thirty-plus food trucks roll in with tasty bites throughout both days.