If you want to see what create, connect and inspire looks like in action, mark September 26 on your calendar for Northville Nite and get ready to party!

From 6–9 p.m., Northville Parks and Recreation is transforming Marv Gans Community Park into a lively celebration with food trucks, inflatables, yard games, live music, giveaways and a short but powerful brand reveal moment.

That reveal will showcase Parks and Recreation’s new look and attitude. It’s debuting a fresh logo, new eye-catching bold colors and revitalized messaging – brought to life with help from placemaking expert Destination by Design. Northville Nite attendees will be the first folks to get a peek at it. It’s more than a rebrand – it’s a symbol of the department’s renewed commitment to the community.

“This is a new era for us and our incredible community,” said Northville Parks and Recreation Director Derek O. Smith. “We will showcase just how much we can accomplish when we connect with one another. We hope Northville Nite becomes a tradition that neighbors look forward to year after year.”

Northville Parks and Recreation, which serves both Northville Township and the city of Northville, has doubled down on injecting passion into every task. This year’s energy is reflected in the numbers. Participation in registered programs rose 20 percent in 2024, with senior programming up 81 percent. Revenue climbed 7 percent from 2023 and 16 percent from 2022, and the growth continues into 2025.

Beyond the event, Northville Nite also is a showcase of progress. Legacy Park’s Phase II trail system, which boasts walking paths and mountain biking trails for all skill levels, is now complete. Developed with help from the Motor City Mountain Biking Association, the trails will be maintained and programmed through this ongoing partnership. They are ready to use and enjoy. Access the trails through the Essential Services Complex parking lot on Seven Mile Road and park near the restroom/Trailhead building. Wayne Avenue is closed through September for construction.

Phase III remains on track to open this fall, bringing advanced hiking and biking routes to southern Michigan’s premier trail destination. With its 350 acres, Legacy Park is poised to become a recreation gem dedicated to personal and environmental health. Its new master plan reflects residents’ voices and a shared vision for well-being, connection, reforestation and nature.

Northville Parks and Recreation welcomed new tools, too. It transitioned to using CivicRec registration software to make it easier for participants to sign up for programs.

Furthermore, more team members are available to assist with the care, maintenance and programming for the park system. It added a park specialist position to care for the growing park system. It also formed three partnerships to enter into a new era for its soccer program, giving athletes a full pathway from beginner to elite competition without leaving Northville. They are:
• Northville FC Recreational Soccer – fun, inclusive play for beginners
• ENVY FC Soccer – competitive training for developing athletes
• Michigan Jaguars FC Northville – premier-level travel soccer opportunities

On September 26, all of these milestones will come together in one night – a chance for the community to gather, celebrate and look forward to what’s next.

Pre-registration for Northville Nite is $4 per person or $16 per family, with day-of prices slightly higher. Marv Gans Community Park is at 15801 Beck at Five Mile Road.

“Northville Nite is shaping up to be one of those evenings where you don’t want to leave,” Director Smith said. “From the first bite at the food trucks to the last song of the night, it’s all about neighbors coming together to have fun and see what’s new in their community.”