From food and floral fests to community and cultural fairs, there’s no shortage of festivals to keep the summertime fun rolling. There are so many that it can be tough to keep track of them all — and no one wants to miss the event they’ve been looking forward to all year.
Enter in this guide to southeast Michigan’s summer festivals. We’ve done the digging to find details on as many metro Detroit carnivals, fairs, and festivals that we could find, along with information on a few big, can’t-miss events across the state, happening May-September, and put them all in one spot.
Flip through it now or bookmark it and pull it up when you’re looking for something to do solo, or with your brood, this summer — and be sure to let us know if we missed your favorite summertime festival in the comments so that we can add it to our list.
May | June | July | August | September
May
58th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
The Mexican Patriotic Committee of Metropolitan Detroit’s annual Cinco de Mayo event is themed “Music of our Heritage” and celebrates the bonds shared by Latino families with music and dancing. The event will feature the Cultural and Musical Festival with vendors, food trucks, musicians, mariachis, family activities and more on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, there will be a Cinco de Mayo parade that steps off at Patton Park and ends in Clark Park. Some fees apply. May 5-7. Southwest Detroit area; Facebook.com.
St. Florian Strawberry Fest
Polish culture takes center stage with performances by folk dancers, music by Polish Muslims and Kielbasa Kings, Polka dancing, Polish eats, and of course, plenty of strawberry treats. May 6-7. No cost for admission. St. Florian Roman Catholic Parish, 2626 Poland St., Hamtramck; stflorianparish.org.
Holland Tulip Time Festival
Head to the state’s west side to walk through more than millions of tulips of varying colors, ride the carnival rides, take in the live entertainment, and explore Dutch culture. May 6-14. $12 for adults, $6 for kids 3-15. Downtown Holland area; tuliptime.com.
Fiesta Detroit
Somos Culture Creators — a subsidiary of local collective We Are Culture Creators that services Detroit’s Latinx art community — and Fiesta Vibes have teamed up to organize a week of events in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. The main event, Fiesta Detroit, takes place on May 7 and features over 40 vendors, community organizations, cultural performances, International Bigtime Wrestling, taco tournament, and more. $10 for Fiesta Detroit show admission; $75 for a VIP ticket. May 7. El Club, 4114 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; eventbrite.com.
Berkley Days
Berkley is turning 100 and they are celebrating with a fireworks display, a carnival, the Vendor Village, live entertainment, and much more. May 11-14. $20-$25. Berkley Days, 2400 Robina Ave., Berkley; berkleydays.org.
Uncorked: Detroit Wine Fest
The inaugural event features more than 100 wines and bubblies from around the world, food trucks, and after-hours admission to the Michigan Science Center. May 13. $65-$80. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R. Road, Detroit; Eventbrite.com.
Art Birmingham
Originally known as the Birmingham Fine Art Festival, this juried art show is now in its 42nd year. Join more than 80,000 fair goers for art on display, art activities, food trucks, and more. May 13-14. Downtown Birmingham area; theguild.org.
Motor City Comic Con
Comic book, anime, and pop culture fans gather to meet over 250 comic book creators, writers, and artists along with special celebrity guests like David Ramsey and Laurie Holden. In addition, guests are encouraged to dress in their best cosplay for the cosplay contest, participate in art classes, sit in on panel talks, and much more. May 19-21. $30-$249 for adults, $10-$20 kids 12 and under. Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi; motorcitycomicon.com.
Greater Rochester Heritage Days
Celebrate the founding of Rochester! There will be car shows, art displays created by Michigan artists, a plant sale, and a Pioneer Playground that offers crafts and activities for kids, and much more. May 27-28. No cost for admission. Rochester Municipal Park, 400 6th St., Rochester; rochesterheritagedays.org.
Kensington Art Fair
More than 100 juried artists from across the country are showcasing their best work at this annual art show. View the work on display and maybe purchase a new piece for your home. There will also be hands-on activities and a variety of food trucks on site. No cost for admission to the event but a $10 Metroparks vehicle pass is required. May 27-29. Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford; kensingtonartfair.com.
Movement Music Festival
This electronic music festival celebrates Detroit’s contributions to the genre with six stages featuring more than 115 musical acts. Local talent is the main highlight of the annual fest, but national headliners Caribou, Basement Jaxx, and Three 6 Mafia will perform too. May 27-29. General admission tickets are $139-$279. Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit; movementfestival.com.
June
Milan Community Fair
Don’t miss the fair rides and games at the carnival. Plus, enjoy live entertainment, shop the marketplace, a Saturday magic show, and fireworks on Friday. June 1-3. $30 ride wristband. No cost for admission. Fees for rides and other attractions may apply. Wilson Park, 89 Wabash St., Milan; milanfair.com.
Ypsi Pride
Wear your best rainbow garb and join in the fun of Ypsi Pride! There’s live entertainment, local food and goods vendors, and even kid-friendly fun for the entire family. More details to be released closer to the event date. June 2. No cost for admission. Depot Town, Ypsilanti; annarbor.org.
Detroit Grand Prix
This annual Indycar race returns to the streets of downtown Detroit this year. Liver performances by A-Trak, Big Boi, Z-Trip, and Steve Aoki, too. June 2-4. Ticket prices vary by day and grandstand. Downtown Detroit area; detroitgp.com.
Concert of Colors
Part one of metro Detroit’s annual diversity festival kicks off on June 3 in Mexicantown with music from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other Hispanic nations. The big event happens July 19-23 and features a wide variety of music and dance from around the world. No cost for admission. Various locations, Detroit; concertofcolors.com.
Ferndale Pride
Ferndale’s annual Pride is presented by LIV Cannabis this year and strives to recognize and support all corners of the local LGBTQ+ communities. Specifics on this year’s celebration have not yet been released, but previous years have included live musical and theatrical performances, mom hugs, food, and vendors and informational stands. June 3. No cost for admission. Downtown Ferndale area; ferndalepride.com.
Ann Arbor African American Festival
For 26 years, this event has celebrated the contributions of Ann Arbor’s historic Black Business District. Expect live jazz, pop, and dance music performances, mascot characters, and tons of vendors selling everything from food and drink to clothing, books, and beauty products. June 3. No cost for admission. Downtown Ann Arbor area; a2festival.org.
Palmer Park Art Fair
Peruse the work of 100 juried artists, take in storytelling and book readings by area authors, grab a bite off a food truck, enjoy a beer in the beer tent, and much more. Live music and dance performance and hands-on projects, too. June 3-4. No cost for admission. Palmer Park, between McNichols and Seven Mile Road, Detroit; palmerparkartfair.com.
Art on the Grand
Ceramics, jewelry, painting, photography, wood, wearable art, glass, leather, sculptures, and more are on sale at this annual art fair. June 3-4. No cost for admission. Along Grand Avenue, downtown Farmington area; artonthegrand.com.
Lyon Township International Kite Festival
Watch gravity-defying kite stunts performed by professional flyers, live entertainment, food, and kids’ games and crafts. Festival goers even get a free kite, while supplies last. June 2-4. No cost for admission, $5 parking. James Atchison Memorial Park, 58000 Grand River Ave., New Hudson; lyonevents.org.
Canterbury Village Medieval Faire
Take a step back in time to when knights, jesters, and princesses ruled the land. There will be roaming entertainment including musicians, minstrels, pipers, and fire breathers. Plus, plenty of food in the Gaelic Pub, including turkey legs. June 3-4 and 10-11. Tickets start at $14.99. Parking is $5. Canterbury Village, 2359 Joslyn Court, Orion Township; canterburyvillagemedievalfaire.com.
Michigan Pride
Gather just north of the State Capitol to celebrate all LGBTQ+ Michiganders. There will be vendors, but you’ll have to wait until the event gets closer to find out more details. June 3. Costs may apply. Downtown St. Johns area; facebook.com.
Seymour Celebration
Each day of this event offers a carnival. In addition, there’s a live music performance by Uptown All Stars on Friday and the Love Junkies on Saturday. Fireworks, too. June 8-11. $30 for ride wristbands. Downtown Seymour Lake area; oxparkrec.org.
Motor City Pride and Parade
As the largest Pride celebration in the state, Motor City pride brings more than 50,000 people downtown for a Pride parade, vendor booths, and a festival that features live entertainment, and food trucks. There’s also a kids’ area with age-appropriate activities and entertainment. June 10-11. $5 cover, free for kids 12 and under. Hart Plaza, 1 W. Jefferson, Detroit; motorcitypride.org.
Flint Art Fair
The Friends of Modern Art have been hosting this annual art fair since 1967 and has won multiple awards. It will feature up to 175 artists that work in all kinds of mediums including ceramics, painting, fiber, metal, photography, sculpture, wood, and more. June 10-11. No cost for admission. Flint Cultural Center, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint; flintartfair.org.
Chelsea Painters Art Fair
This 40th annual art fair will feature 20 award-winning artists celling their original watercolor, pastel, colored pencil, mosaic, and other work. June 10-11. No cost for admission. Chelsea Community Fairgrounds, 20501 Old US-12 Highway, Chelsea; chelseapainters.com.
Motor City Irish Fest
Don your favorite green garb to enjoy Irish-inspired music, shop Irish retail and food, taste some Irish whiskey, and more. June 9-11. $10 for adults in advance, $15 at the gate, free for kids 12 and under, free on Friday between 5-6 p.m., $5 parking. Greenmead Historical Village, 20501 Newburgh Road, Livonia; motorcityirishfest.com.
Hamburg Family Fun Fest
Begin your summer with carnival rides, a petting zoo, ice skating, live entertainment, a circus, stunt shows, wood carving demonstrations, hands-on activities, and much more. There will even be fireworks to close out Friday and Saturday. June 14-17. No cost for admission, $5 for parking, $25 for a ride wristband. Hamburg Township Library, 10311 Merrilll Road, Whitmore Lake; hamburgfunfest.com.
Liberty Fest
The city of Canton is celebrating Independence Day with a marketplace to shop, food vendors to try, carnival rides, midway games, two stages of live entertainment, and fireworks on Friday night. June 15-17. No cost for admission. Fees for rides and other attractions may apply. Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton; canton-mi.org.
Riverview Summerfest
There’s something for everyone at this summertime festival. Find everything from fireworks and a midway filled with carnival games and rides to a beer tent, live music, and even helicopter rides. There’s also vendor booths and nightly performances by popular local bands. June 15-17. No cost for admission. Fees for rides and other attractions may apply. Young Patriots Park, 14300 Library Drive, Riverview; cityofriverview.com.
Opa!Fest
This 30th annual celebrates all things Greece through authentic cuisine and folk dancing, cultural events, church tours, cooking demonstrations, a kids’ play area, and more. June 16-18. Three canned goods to donate to Gleaners or $3 per person, $10 per family. Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 760 W. Wattles Road, Troy; facebook.com.
Arts and Acts
Contemporary artwork, handicrafts, and other pieces by fine artists from Michigan and across the U.S. will be on display at the juried art fair. Be sure to check out the event’s Chalk Festival. June 16-18. No cost for admission. Northville Art House, 215 W. Cady St., Northville; northvillearthouse.org.
Madison Heights Juneteenth Celebration
This event celebrates freedom with free concerts — including the headliner Smoke Jones Detroit Band — food trucks, vendor booths, educational exhibits, and fun activities like a climbing tower and bounce houses. June 17. No cost for admission. Civic Center Park, 360 W. 13 Mile Road, Madison Heights; Eventbrite.com.
Great Lakes Woodworking Festival
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute team up on this fest, which celebrates all things woodworking. Enjoy live demonstrations and hands-on activities as well as a stunning collection of furniture and décor created by local woodworkers. June 17-18. $5 per person. Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute, 1375 N. Main St., Building 41, Adrian; greatlakeswoodworkingfestival.com.
Juneteenth Freedom Fest
The City of Detroit, the Detroit branch of the NAACP, Juneteenth Jubilee, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance, DPSCD, Detroit Means Business, Black Leaders Detroit, and the Eastern Market Development Corporation have teamed up on this event, which features live entertainment, kids’ activities, Black Bottom Row, and much more. June 18. No cost for admission. Eastern Market, 2934 Russell St., Detroit; Eventbrite.com.
Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival
Celebrate the stinky bugs that invade metro Detroit each summer with a parade, festival games, midway rides, a demolition derby, live entertainment, and more. June 21-25. No cost for admission. Downtown New Baltimore area; bay-rama.com.
Electric Forest
This year’s four-day, multi-genre music festival will feature performances by Odesza, Gorgon City, Fletcher, Chris Lake, Chromeo, Above & Beyond and many others. It all happens at a campground in Rothbury, so pack and plan accordingly. June-22-24. $477 for a four-day pass, other ticketing options available, additional fees may apply. 5900 S. Water Road, Rothbury; electricforest.com.
Taylor Summer Festival
The Gin Blossoms, Uva Under Fire, Danielle Bradbery, and Frankie Ballard will perform during this annual summer soirée. Plus, a carnival, fireworks, food, and more. June 22-25. Cost varies by event. Downtown Taylor area; cityoftaylor.com.
Michigan Challenge Balloonfest
This 38th annual event is a giant celebration of hot air balloons. The festival features a carnival filled with games and rides and an open-air market, along with hot air balloon rides and displays, fireworks, hands-on activities, food and much more. June 23-25. $5 per person (cash only), $10 for a weekend pass, kids under 3 are free. Howell High School, 1200 W. Grand River Road, Howell; michiganchallenge.com.
The Original Michigan Lavender Festival
This fest boasts being the largest lavender festival on the east coast and features more than 200 artists and makers selling all things lavender. You’ll also find food trucks, car shows, and educational workshops. June 23-25. $8 single-day admission, $20 weekend pass, free for kids under 12, free parking. Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds, 195 Midway St., Imlay City; themichiganlavenderfestival.com.
Trenton Summer Festival 2023
Kick off summer with hundreds of crafters, vendors, and musicians. The event features family-friendly activities, a beer tent, fireworks, and more. June 23-25. No cost for admission. Downtown Trenton area; trentonmi.org.
Canterbury Taco Fest
Lucha libre wrestling and performances by metro Detroit’s best bands are in store, but that’s not all. There’s also a pepper eating contest and a cutest chihuahua contest, margaritas, tequila cocktails, and of course, a wide variety of tacos and Mexican desserts. June 23-25. $5 per person in advance, $10 per person at the gate, free for kids under 3. Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Road, Lake Orion; canterburytacofest.com.
Cars Under the Stars
Park your car at the concourse to watch a spectacular fireworks display. Live entertainment, food trucks, and craft beer, too. June 25. $20-$100. M1 Concourse, 1 Concourse Drive, Pontiac; m1concourse.com.
Ford Fireworks
Head downtown for the spectacular annual fireworks display — brought to you by the same people that produce America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. June 26. No cost for general admission. On the Detroit River, Detroit; theparade.org.
Clawson Fourth of July
This annual tradition first started back in 1933. Today, it offers five days of Fourth of July fun including the 5K Freedom Run on June 26, a concert in the park on June 29, a kiddie parade on July 2, and an arts and craft fair on July 3. On Independence Day proper, there will be a mile run, parade, arts and craft fair, food trucks, and fireworks. Midway and ride fees apply. Clawson Park, 935 N. Custer Ave., Clawson; clawson4thofjuly.org.
2023 Festival of the Hills
The full line-up of events has not been released yet, but last year’s event included musical entertainment, fireworks, and an outdoor movie. June 28. No cost for admission. Borden Park, 1400 E. Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills; rochesterhills.org.
Royal Oak Taco Fest
Start your summer off with a healthy helping of tacos, Cervesa, and tequila. The street food fair will offer eats from more than 50 taquerias and other eateries, margaritas, a kids’ area, and five stages of live entertainment, including lucha libre wrestling. June 30-July 4. $5.25+. Downtown Royal Oak area; royaloaktacofest.com.
July
Light Up Livernois Fashion, Art, and Design Festival
This event celebrates the creative influence along Livernois. Shop more than 300 merchants, watch the fashion show, check out art galleries, and try local eateries. July 1. No cost for admission. Along the Avenue of Fashion, between Six Mile and Eight Mile Roads, Detroit; Eventbrite.com.
Independence Fest 2023
This Fourth of July celebration has been going strong for more than 25 years. Expect live entertainment by Leave Those Kids Alone and American Ages, a “high impact” dog show, the Michigan market, food, and more. A fireworks display closes out the event. July 1. No cost for admission. Clintonwood Park, 6000 Clarkston Road, Clarkston; indtwp.com.
Sterling Freedom Festival
Celebrate 50 years of Hip Hop with iconic live performances by a variety of chart-topping artists like Master P, 2 Chainz, Tech N9ne, and others. July 1. $50+. Michigan Lottery Amphitheater, 14900 Metro Parkway, Sterling Heights; 313presents.com.
National Cherry Festival
Traverse City is known as the cherry capital of the world, and they prove they’ve earned the title with this annual festival. The event will feature a classic car show, a farmers market, a carnival with games and rides, and plenty of cherry goods and treats. July 1-8. Ticket prices vary by event. National Cherry Festival, 521 S. Union St., Traverse City; cherryfestival.org.
Uncle Sam Jam
Buckcherry, Everclear, and a Garth Brooks tribute are among the bands lined up to perform this July 4th celebration. Plus, monster truck rides, a petting zoo, carnival midway, and fireworks. July 6-9. No cost for admission but fees may apply for the carnival and other attractions. Woodhaven Civic Center Park, 23101 Hall Road, Woodhaven; unclesamjamfest.com.
The Saline Celtic Festival
The fun kicks off on Thursday with a sneak peak of the grounds. On Friday, there will be live entertainment by Brother Crowe and Whorled & The Y-Town Hoolies, a beer tent, jousting, and the Mr. Pretty Legs kilt contest. Saturday brings more live entertainment including pipe and drum bands and the Saline Fiddlers. Find Highland Games and dance competitions, food, and kids’ activities. July 7-8. $5-$8 on Friday, $5-$18 on Saturday, $30-$75 ticket packages, free for kids 5 and under and active military. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor; salineceltic.org.
Michigan Elvisfest
Fans of the King of Rock n’ Roll gather to see some of the world’s leading Elvis tribute artists like Robert Washington, Matt King, Eddie Lampert, and others. Ronny Craig emcees the event. Kids activities, a car show, and raffles, too. July 7-8. $25 on Friday, $45 on Saturday, $60 for a weekend pass. Wayne County Fairgrounds, 10871 Quirk Road, Belleville; mielvisfest.com.
Art in the Park
This “signature Michigan event” will welcome more than 400 U.S. artists that work in paintings, sculpture, ceramics, fiber, photography, and more for its 43rd year. There will also be juggling shows by John Park, visits with Princess Caroline, musical performances by vibraphonist John Davis and Reggae Band Roots Vibration. Plus, a children’s mural, a chalk mural, and a living mural, children’s activities, and theater shows. July 7-9. No cost for admission. Downtown Plymouth area; artinthepark.com.
Oakland County Fair
An off-road derby, microwrestling, rodeo, and monster truck displays are among the grandstand events at this year’s fair. Safari Petting Zoo, racing pigs, the K9s in Flight Dog Show and Hot Glass Academy and others will also set up shop. Plus, a midway full of games and carnival rides, animal displays, and live entertainment. July 7-16. $25-$30 for daily ride wristbands or $85 for a 10-day Fair Mega Pass, $15-$35 parking. Oakland County Fair Grounds, 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg; oakfair.org.
Hippie Fest in the Village
Shops at this festival of “Peace, Love and All things Groovy” will be selling everything from unique jewelry and clothing to themed items and crafts. The weekend will also offer live music, tarot readers, and more live entertainment. July 8-9. No cost for admission. Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion; facebook.com.
African World Festival
Join the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for this 40th annual cultural fest. An expected 25,000-plus people will gather for live entertainment and more than 125 vendors selling food, clothing, art, and more. July 14-16. Free for museum members. Fees apply for non-members and will be announced at a later date. Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit; thewright.org.
Faster Horses
Luke Bryan, Shania Twain, Dustin Lynch, Blanco Brown, and Hailey Whitters are just a few of the headliners at this annual country music festival. Tickets are valid all three days of the festival. Single-day tickets are not available. July 14-16. $249-$729. Next to the Michigan International Speedway, 12626 U.S. Highway 12, Brooklyn; fasterhorsesfestival.com.
Festa Italiana
It’s a three-day celebration of Italian heritage. Enjoy authentic Italian food, wine, and beer, along with national and local entertainment, kids’ activities, fireworks, and much more. July 14-16. No cost for admission, additional fees may apply. Freedom Hill County Park, 14900 Metro Parkway, Sterling Heights; facebook.com.
Blake’s Lavender Festival
You can pick your own lavender in the fields, shop an open-air market featuring more than 200 artisans, try lavender lemonade, ice cream, and cupcakes, and enjoy workshops and DIY projects. July 14-16. $10 for general admission. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada; blakefarms.com.
Detroit Festival of Books
Shop used, rare, and unusual books, vinyl records, comic books, creative arts, vintage board games, and much more at this 6th annual event. July 16. No cost for admission. Eastern Market Shed 5, 2810 Russell St., Detroit; Eventbrite.com.
Ann Arbor Art Fair
The largest art fair in the U.S. is split into three independently juried fairs that attract more than 1000 artists and span 30 city blocks. In addition to art on display and for sale, the event includes live musical performances and other entertainment, art projects, art demonstrations, and food. July 20-22. No cost for admission. Downtown Ann Arbor area; theannarborartfair.com.
Farmington Founders Festival
The Fido Festival dog agility event will happen on Friday and Saturday as will the crafters market and kids’ activities in the Kids area. Other entertainment includes a 5K Color Run, a festival parade, a beer tent, and farmers market. July 20-22. No cost for admission. Downtown Farmington area; foundersfestival.com.
Michigan Summer Beer Festival
Michigan’s finest breweries will be on site with samples of hundreds of Michigan beers. Food will be on sale alongside the drinks. Live music by local bands, too. July 21-22. $50-$65. Riverside Park, 2 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti; annarbor.org.
The Festival of Chariots
This 38th annual celebration of Indian culture returns with a parade of chariots, including a 40-foot chariot, Indian food, live entertainment including dancing and music, vendors, and kids’ activities. July 23. No cost for admission. Novi Civic Center, 45175 W. 10 Mile Road, Novi; facebook.com.
Fowlerville Family Fair
Celebrate summer with an old-school-style family fair that includes carnival games and rides, a vendor market, 4-H animals, and grandstand events such as a demolition derby, rodeo, and a performance by Granger Smith featuring Earl Dibbles Jr. and special guest Chase McDaniel. July 24-29. $5 for general admission, free/kids 4 and under, free parking. Fowlerville Fair Grounds, 8800 W. Grand River Ave., Fowlerville; fowlervillefamilyfair.com.
Sterlingfest
Tackle carnival rides, play midway games, shop the vendor market, enjoy live entertainment, and more in celebration of the Sterling Heights. July 27-29. No cost for admission, additional fees may apply. Sterling Heights Park and Recreation, 40555 Utica Road, Sterling Heights; facebook.com.
Sounds & Sights Festival
Celebrate summer with a classic car show, art market, chalk art displays and competitions, food, kids’ activities, and more. July 28-29. No cost for admission. Additional fees may apply. Downtown Chelsea area; chelseamich.com.
Stony Creek Art Fair
Purchase artwork for your home at the juried art fair, create your own art with hands-on activities, try some eats from a food truck, and more. July 29-30. No cost for admission, a $10 Metroparks parking permit is required. Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Drive, Shelby Township; stonycreekartfair.com.
Orchard Lake Fine Art Show
Shop wall art, sculptures, home décor, wearable art, and jewelry created by artists from the Orchard Lake and West Bloomfield areas, along with nationally renowned artists. Live musical performances and food, too. July 29-30. No cost for admission. Orchard Lake Fine Art Show, 6900 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; artsandeducationinc.org.
Arab & Chaldean Festival
Explore and celebrate Arab and Chaldean culture, art, and fashion in the art gallery or at the fashion show. Shop the vendor booths on site selling food and dry goods and enjoy music and dance performances. Kids’ activities, too. July 29-30. No cost for admission. Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit; arabandchaldeanfestival.com.
August
Buy Michigan Now Festival
Celebrate Michigan-based entrepreneurs by shopping this annual vendor fair, which features Michigan businesses exclusively. Local musicians will perform, kids’ activities are available, and there will be food, too. Aug. 4-6. No cost for admission. Downtown Northville area; buymichigannow.com.
Dearborn Homecoming
The 42nd go-around of this annual community celebration will offer a carnival, musical performances, a beer tent, Vendor Village, Food Truck Corridor, art installations and two days of fireworks displays. Aug. 4-6. No cost for admission, additional fees apply. Ford Field Park, 22051 Cherry Hill St., Dearborn; dearbornhomecoming.com.
Ann Arbor Pride
Tree Town is celebrating Pride a little later than usual, with the event officially happening in August. If past years are any indication of what’s going on this year, expect food, drag performers, musical entertainment, vendor booths, and more. Aug. 5. Costs may apply. Downtown Ann Arbor area; annarborpride.com.
Belle Isle Art Fair
Juried artists set up their best work in the shadow of the beautiful Scott Fountain on Belle Isle. Guests can explore the art, of course, but there’s also art projects to do, a beer tent, and music. Aug. 5-6. No cost for admission; a $13 State Park pass is required. Belle Isle, Detroit; belleisleartfair.com.
Jazz on the River
National and international jazz artists will perform at this 31st annual. Watch out for the release of a fill list of acts closer to the event. Aug. 5-6. No cost for admission, $5 cash parking. Elizabeth Park, 4651 Elizabeth Drive, Trenton; waynecounty.com.
Gratiot Cruise
This summertime tradition sees a wide variety of classic cars drive along Gratiot Ave. in Clinton Township. In addition to the cars, families will enjoy the Family Fun Zone, which features food and art vendors, crafts, inflatables, and live entertainment. Aug. 6. No cost for admission. Along Gratiot, Clinton Township; ctgratiotcruise.com.
Dexter Daze Festival
Entertainment kicks off at 11 a.m. on Friday and noon on Saturday with children’s music by Kevin Devin and Janet Marie & m’Archibald, respectively. Country and Rock performances, too. Plus, fireworks, food, and vendors. Aug. 11-12. No cost for admission. Additional fees may apply. Monument Park, Dexter; dexterdaze.org.
Saline Summerfest
There will be both electric vehicle and classic car shows, live entertainment by Atomic Radio, Ann Arbor School of Rock, and others. Peruse the Arts & Craft Show, too. Aug. 11-12. No cost for admission. Additional fees may apply. Downtown Saline area; salinesummerfest.org.
Blake’s Sunflower Festival
Take a walk through the sunflower field to cut your own sunflowers and take insta-worthy photos. Then, shop more than 100 artisans, enjoy a sunflower class or demonstration, and make-and-take sunflower crafts. Aug. 11-13. $10 for general admission. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada; blakesfarms.com.
Milford Memories Summer Festival
Among the activities at this summer event are a blind canoe race, cornhole tournament, 5K races, the Art in the Village art fair, a beer tent, live music, and so much more. Aug. 11-13. No cost for admission. Downtown Milford area; milfordmemories.com.
Shelby Township Art Fair
This year marks the 40th for this annual event, which attracts some 15,000 visitors to a marketplace with more than 120 artists and vendors. Catch live music, interactive art displays, and free crafts, too. Aug. 12-13. No cost for admission. River Bends Park, 5700 22 Mile Road, Shelby Township; shelbyartfair.org.
Canterbury Village Dog Fest
You and your four-legged friends are invited to the village for dog-friendly activities and entertainment. Look for paw prints around the village to exchange them for a prize. Aug. 12-13. No cost for admission. Canterbury Village, 2325 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion; facebook.com.
Thunder Over Michigan Air Show
Turn your eyes to the sky for two days of aerial shows. Included in the line-up are a P-51D Mustang “Swamp Fox” demonstration, an F-22 Raptor demonstration, a P-47 D Thunderbolt demonstration, and a 357th Fighter Group Salute. Guests can also take a ride in C-47 Hairless Joe, UH-1H Huey Greyhound, and B-25 Rosie’s Reply. Proceeds from the event go to support the Yankee Air Museum. Aug. 12-13. $175-$285 for all-day passes, $99-$299 for single-show passes. Yankee Air Museum, 47884 D. St., Belleville; yankeeairmuseum.org.
Armada Fair
The Armada Fair has been offering fun to southeast Michiganders for 151 years. This year, expect a 4-H show and livestock sale, grandstand events including a monster truck show and demolition derby, a midway games and rides, live entertainment, and much more. Aug. 14-20. $4-$19 for kids, $9-$24 for adults. Armada Fairgrounds, 74280 Fair St., Armada; armadafair.org.
GreekFest 2023
Taste popular Greek food and pastries and enjoy music and dance performances. Families will enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, and magic shows. There will also be a vendor fair, with vendors from both the U.S. and Greece, selling unique items and gifts. Aug. 17-20. $3 general admission, free for kids 12 and under. Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores; assumptionfestival.com.
Afro Nation Detroit
The world’s biggest Afrobeats festival is coming to Detroit! Celebrate African music and entertainment with performances by some of the biggest names hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, reggae, and other African, Afro-Caribbean, and African-American genres. Check the website regularly for updates on the line-up and additional festival details. Aug. 19-20. Bedrock’s Douglass Site; detroit.afronation.com.
Howell Melon Festival
It’s all things melon at this 63rd annual festival. Race in the 46th Melon Run, play the Melon Classic Golf Scramble, enjoy dueling pianos and a sit-down dinner at the Melon Ball, and enjoy live music and entertainment at the Mainstage Concert. Aug. 18-20. No cost for admission. Downtown Howell area; howellmelonfestival.com.
St. Rafka Church Summer Festival
The Jessie-James Band, Basheer Twal & Band, and DJ Sal will make an appearance as entertainment at this celebration of Middle Eastern and American Culture. In addition, find dancing, food, and kids’ activities. Aug. 18-20. No cost for admission. St. Rafka Church, 32765 Lyndon St., Livonia; saintrafkafestival.com.
Woodward Dream Cruise
Line up along Woodward from Ferndale to Pontiac to see classic and sports cars drive by. Each community decides on special events and activities that run alongside the event. Participating communities are Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, Berkley, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, and Pontiac. Aug. 19. No cost for admission. Along Woodward in Oakland County; woodwarddreamcruise.com.
Michigan Renaissance Festival
Take a trip back in time to a 16th century European Village that offers 17 stages for music, magic, juggling, and jousting performances. There will be more than 100 artisans at the marketplace and memorable characters including mermaids, fairies, knights, and more. Each weekend during the event features a different theme. Weekends Aug. 19-Oct. 1. $11-$18 for general admission, $50-$150 for a season pass, free parking. Michigan Renaissance Festival, 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly; michrenfest.com.
Chelsea Community Fair
Take on some fun fair rides and watch traditional grandstand events such as the figure 8 derby, demolition derby, tractor pulls, and more. There will be animal displays and shows, a parade, and more. Aug. 22-26. $10 for a day pass, $30 for a season pass, free parking. Chelsea Community Fair, 20501 W. Old US Highway 12, Chelsea; chelseafair.org.
Macomb County Pride Summer Sashay
The 3rd annual event offers a full day of good vibes and tons of fun. It will feature a street fair filled with more than 70 vendors and food stalls, along with live entertainment, visits from elected officials, Drag Queen Storytime, and much more. Aug. 25-26. No cost for admission. Downtown Mount Clemens area; macombcountypride.com.
Lincoln Park Days
Swing by the annual community celebration for live entertainment and more. Aug. 25-27. Fees may apply. Downtown Lincoln Park area; facebook.com.
Saline Community Fair
Elliott’s Amusements will be on site with their best rides and games for fair goers to enjoy alongside livestock and animal displays, live entertainment, and grandstand events like the tractor pull. Aug. 30-Sept. 3. $5-$10 general admission, $18-$30 for ride wristbands. Saline Community Fair, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor; salinefair.org.
Michigan State Fair
The midway offers all kinds of rides including a Zipper, Tilt-A-Whirl, Ferris Wheel, and more. If rides aren’t your thing, there’s also a wide variety of fair games, grandstand events and the Shrine Circus. Don’t miss the livestock shows and “Beginning of Life” animal displays. Plus, crafts, a dog show, musical performances, and so much more. Aug. 31-Sept. 4. $10 for general admission, $42 for ultimate admission, $20 for special events admission, other fees may apply. Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi; michiganstatefairllc.com.
Romeo Peach Festival
This festival has been a Labor Day weekend tradition for more than 90 years. There will be tons of peach treats and goods, of course, but guests will also enjoy a parade, carnival, live entertainment, and more. Aug. 31-Sept. 4. No cost for admission. Additional fees may apply. Downtown Romeo area; romeopeachfestival.com.
September
Soaring Eagle Arts, Beats & Eats
More than 200 acts perform across nine stages. National musicians include Chevelle, Beatlemania Live!, and Flo Rida, among others. There’s also a juried art show and plenty of food trucks to choose from. Saturday and Sunday offer fun for families, and there’s a kids’ zone filled with art activities and age-appropriate performances. Sept. 1-4. No cost for admission until 5 p.m. on Friday, $10 after 5 p.m. on Friday, $5 before 3 p.m. and $10 after 3 p.m. Saturday-Monday. Downtown Royal Oak area; artsbeatseats.com.
Hamtramck Labor Day Festival
Kiss summer goodbye with a weekend of music, food, vendors, carnival rides, games, special events, and more. Sept. 2-4. No cost for admission. Joseph Campau area; hamtownfest.com.
Detroit Jazz Festival
The world’s largest free jazz festival in the world will feature performances by Regina Carter, the Melissa Aldana Quartet, Lizz Wright, Johnny O’Neal and Sullivan Fortner, Samara Joy, Papo Vazquez, and others. Sept. 1-4. No cost for admission. Downtown Detroit area; detroitjazzfest.org.
CorvetteFest
Help raise funds to support Leader Dogs for the Blind as you enjoy more than 150 Corvettes on display at this 18th annual event. Sept. 2. No cost for admission. Canterbury Village, 2357 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion; canterburyvillage.com.
Art on the Bay
This arts and crafts show hosts vendor booths to highlight local artisans and businesses. Sept. 2-3. No cost for admission. Walter & Mary Burke Park, 36300 Front St., New Balitmore; artonthebay.com.
Dally in the Alley
This annual community event celebrates life in the Cass Corridor with vendor booths, music performances, art displays, food, and fun. Sept. 9. No cost for admission. Cass Corridor area, Detroit; dallyinthealley.com.
Smokin’ Jazz & BBQ Blues Festival
The setlist at this 16th annual includes performances by Straight Ahead, Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones, Third Coast Swing, Thornetta Davis, and others. Plus, ride the mechanical bulls, participate in the cornhole tournament, take on the obstacle course, and sample delicious ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, specialty mac n’ cheese, and more. Sept. 9-10. Fees may apply. Downtown Brighton area; brightoncoc.org.
2023 Art & Apples Festival
Head to the 30-acre Rochester Municipal Work to shop the works of over 200 fine art exhibitors. There will also be a wide variety of food trucks, live entertainment, art demonstrations, and art activities. Sept. 8-10. No cost for admission. Rochester Municipal Park, 400 6th St., Rochester; pccart.org.
North American International Auto Show
The main draw is a variety of auto displays and demonstrations, but this annual also offers encounters with more than 80 dinosaurs, a drone show, and rides in an F-150 Lightning. Ten food trucks will be on site to keep you satiated and there’s a full schedule of music performances and other live entertainment. Sept. 16-24. $20 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for kids 3-12, and $50 for a family pass for two adults and three kids. Various locations, downtown Detroit. Main car displays at Huntington Place, 1 Washington Blvd., Detroit; naias.com.
Funky Ferndale Art Fair and the DIY Street Fair
More than 100 juried artists and 30 authors will gather in downtown Ferndale to display and sell their work at the Funky Ferndale Art Fair. Hop over to the DIY Street Fair, which run concurrently, for live music, food trucks, vendor booths, adult drinks, and more. Sept. 22-24. No cost for admission. Downtown Ferndale area; funkyferndaleartfair.com and ferndalediy.com.
Victorian Festival
Close out the last few days of summer at this celebration of Northville. There will be live music and theater performances, Victorian reenactors, vendor booths, and educational presentations. Sept. 22-24. No cost for admission. Mill Race Historical Village, 215 Griswold St., Northville; northville.org.
Great Lakes Bat Festival
Learn why bats aren’t as scary as you think through hands-on bat activities, bat identification tests, and bat crafts. You’ll even learn how you can support bats living in your backyard. Sept. 23. No cost for admission, $10 Metroparks parking pass. Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center, 31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Township; metroparks.com.
Did we miss your favorite summertime festival in metro Detroit? Tell us about it in the comments so we can add it to our list.
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