9 Can’t Miss Detroit Festivals That Show You The Heart Of The Motor City
By Sophie Boudreau
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Published May 12, 2018
There’s no denying it: we Detroiters love a good celebration, and we’re pretty skilled at setting up an amazing party. Throughout the year, our city comes to life with unique gatherings and fun events for every member of the family. If you’re ready to start plotting out your adventures for the next few months, take a look at these nine awesome festivals in Detroit.
1. Detroit River Days (June 22-24)
This annual celebration takes place along the beautiful Detroit Riverfront and offers activities for each and every member of the family. From live music to mouthwatering food to a show by the talented Tuskegee Airmen, there’s endless excitement to be had. Find out more on their website
here .
2. Detroit Jazz Festival (August 31-September 3)
Music has always been at the very heart of the Motor City, and this annual jazz festival is the perfect place to express your love for the beloved genre. This year’s lineup is undeniably fantastic, featuring artists like Chick Corea, Tia Fuller, and the Emmet Cohen Trio. For more information about this incredible (and free!) festival, click
here .
3. African World Festival (August 17-19)
Make your way to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for the annual African World Festival, which features all sorts of unique events and entertainment meant to celebrate African culture. From handicrafts to traditional eats, you’re sure to find something to love. Learn more by clicking
here .
4. Detroit Kite Festival (July 15)
We’ve featured this unique festival, now in its second year, in a
previous article - but it’s just too wonderfully whimsical to resist mentioning again! Venture to Belle Isle and observe a stunt kite performance, make your own kite at the DIY booth, or simply marvel at the vibrant colors that fill the sky. For further information, click
here .
5. Ann Arbor Summer Festival (Various dates, June-July)
Venture to Ann Arbor for endless fun during the months of June and July. From an outdoor movie series and fantastic live music to delicious eats and demonstrations, the Summer Festival is a fixture in this college town. The schedule is vast and exciting, so check out the festival’s website
here for details.
6. Michigan Rib Fest (July 6-8)
Here's another fantastic festival that we
featured recently , but it deserves to be mentioned again. You’ll have to journey slightly outside the Motor City for this one, but the 20-minute drive to Royal Oak is well worth it for the tasty eats you’ll encounter at this celebration. Dig into a hearty serving of BBQ, sip on a pint of craft beer, and listen to live music as you stroll through downtown Royal Oak. This is one of the tastiest festivals you’ll ever attend. For more information, click
here .
7. Dally in the Alley (September 8)
The Cass Corridor District hosts this beloved festival each year on the Saturday after Labor Day, drawing in hundreds of attendees for a day filled with live music, delicious food, handicrafts, art, and an unforgettable sense of community. It’s pretty much impossible to attend this fantastic event without having a blast. Find out more by clicking
here .
8. Michigan State Fair (August 30-September 3)
If you’re searching for a classic carnival experience, the Michigan State Fair truly can’t be beaten. This annual event in Novi, situated approximately one hour from Detroit, is sure to be a blast for the whole family. From animals to thrill rides to deliciously unhealthy food options, the fair has something memorable for everyone. To learn more, click
here .
9. Woodward Dream Cruise (August 18)
They don’t call us the Motor City for nothing! Each year, the Woodward Dream Cruise brings in countless classic and vintage cars for a day of fun and history. Watch as the cars make their way through town, enjoy learning more about each vehicle, and snap a few photos - what’s not to love? Click
here for further details about this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise.
Have you visited any of these amazing celebrations in years past? Which Detroit-area festival is your all-time favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below!
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