Detroit, Michigan, November 7, 2025
Detroit has unveiled Nick Gilbert Way, a pedestrian-focused plaza between two downtown skyscrapers that enhances walkability and brings festive lighting and seasonal programming to the city center. The plaza features vendor carts with local artisans, a French-inspired café truck, family activities like a Letters to Santa mailbox and visits from holiday characters, and a life-size interactive ballerina installation. The Bear collectible plush will be available with proceeds supporting local charitable causes. Designed as both a tribute and a community gathering space, the plaza aims to boost downtown activation, support small local businesses, and create a welcoming holiday destination.
Detroit Unveils Nick Gilbert Way with Festive Enhancements
Detroit, Michigan – The city has inaugurated Nick Gilbert Way, a pedestrian-friendly plaza situated between the Hudson’s 12-story building and the adjacent skyscraper along Woodward Avenue. This development introduces improved walkways and festive lighting, adding holiday charm while supporting urban revitalization and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Opening Celebration and Holiday Programming
The grand opening of Nick Gilbert Way took place on Friday afternoon, with the plaza opening to the public shortly thereafter. From November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, the area will host holiday-themed programming, including vendor carts featuring local artisans, live music performances, and visits from beloved holiday characters. A highlight of this year’s festivities is The Bear at Hudson’s, a collectible plush toy created in memory of Nick Gilbert, son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert. A portion of proceeds from each bear benefits NFX and The Gilly Project, supporting important causes in Nick’s name.
Seasonal Experiences on Nick Gilbert Way
- A French-inspired café truck from Un Deux Trois, operated by Café Sous Terre, serving coffee, espresso, Parisian hot chocolate, and pastries.
- Vendor carts with local favorites such as POST and Halie & Co., plus holiday ornaments, puzzles, and postcards.
- Lucia, an interactive life-size ballerina box created by Anne Lagacé & Gonzalo Soldi.
- A “Letters to Santa” mailbox for kids to drop off their Christmas wishes.
- Freshly made donuts, roasted nuts, and greenery bouquets to enjoy while you shop.
- Visits from Mrs. Claus and her elves for extra holiday cheer and family photo ops.
Holiday programming and events on Nick Gilbert Way run from November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, with the following hours:
- Thursdays & Fridays: 4pm to 8pm
- Saturdays: 12pm to 8pm
- Sundays: 12pm to 6pm
- Extended hours begin Monday, December 15
Background on Nick Gilbert Way
Nick Gilbert Way honors the late Nick Gilbert, son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 26 from neurofibromatosis. The plaza serves as a tribute to his legacy and a catalyst for community engagement and urban revitalization in downtown Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nick Gilbert Way?
Nick Gilbert Way is a pedestrian-friendly plaza located between the Hudson’s 12-story building and the adjacent skyscraper along Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. It features improved walkways and festive lighting, adding holiday charm while supporting urban revitalization and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
When did Nick Gilbert Way open?
The grand opening of Nick Gilbert Way took place on Friday afternoon, with the plaza opening to the public shortly thereafter. From November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, the area will host holiday-themed programming.
What events are planned for the holiday season at Nick Gilbert Way?
During the holiday season, Nick Gilbert Way will host vendor carts featuring local artisans, live music performances, and visits from beloved holiday characters. A highlight of this year’s festivities is The Bear at Hudson’s, a collectible plush toy created in memory of Nick Gilbert, son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert. A portion of proceeds from each bear benefits NFX and The Gilly Project, supporting important causes in Nick’s name.
What are the operating hours for Nick Gilbert Way during the holiday season?
Holiday programming and events on Nick Gilbert Way run from November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, with the following hours:
- Thursdays & Fridays: 4pm to 8pm
- Saturdays: 12pm to 8pm
- Sundays: 12pm to 6pm
- Extended hours begin Monday, December 15
Who is Nick Gilbert, and why is the plaza named after him?
Nick Gilbert was the son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 26 from neurofibromatosis. The plaza serves as a tribute to his legacy and a catalyst for community engagement and urban revitalization in downtown Detroit.
Key Features of Nick Gilbert Way
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Between the Hudson’s 12-story building and the adjacent skyscraper along Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. |
| Opening Date | Grand opening took place on Friday afternoon, with the plaza opening to the public shortly thereafter. |
| Holiday Programming Dates | November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026. |
| Operating Hours | Thursdays & Fridays: 4pm to 8pm; Saturdays: 12pm to 8pm; Sundays: 12pm to 6pm; Extended hours begin Monday, December 15. |
| Signature Event | The Bear at Hudson’s, a collectible plush toy created in memory of Nick Gilbert, with a portion of proceeds benefiting NFX and The Gilly Project. |
| Tribute | Honors the late Nick Gilbert, son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 26 from neurofibromatosis. |
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