The city of Detroit is a master at throwing great events, from celebrating the automobile to acknowledging the region’s cultural diversity and musical contributions. It is famous for unique events and major festivals that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
January
Detroit Auto Dealers Association’s annual event, The North American International Auto Show showcases some of the most innovative automotive designs. Since its inception in the early 1900s, this event has steadily grown and expanded beyond its original audience of automotive suppliers. NAIAS, which attracts people from far away than the Detroit area to see the show, is one of the most prestigious international auto shows. Awards ceremonies, entertainment, theme attractions and appearances from auto-racing drivers are some of the special events that take place during the NAIAS show.
In January, Plymouth International Ice Sculpture Spectacular features an awe-inspiring display featuring frozen art weighing more than 400,000 lbs. More than 100 sculptures are carved out of one single block of frozen ice. This is North America’s oldest and largest annual ice carving festival. Visitors are able to watch the whole process of carving, from stacking the blocks through the finishing step.
February
Detroit has a rich African American heritage. Black History Month is held at The Henry Ford every February. It examines ideas and innovations from the Civil Right Movement using music, drama, hands-on activities and other media. Through tours, workshops performances, lectures and films, The Charles M. Wright Museum of African American History offers expanded programming that addresses the African American quest for emancipation.
Also, February sizzles at Detroit’s Winter Blast. This unique mix of fun and hip winter events is centered around Campus Martius Park as well as indoor events all over Detroit. There are many activities like ice skating and snowboarding as well as ice sculptures for kids.
March
Joe Louis Arena is home to the Super 6 Championship match of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association, which features the best college hockey in the country. The Super 6 Championship game of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association is a fantastic event.
March Madness begins at Ford Field, where the NCAA Men’s Basketball Regional Games will be held. Two sessions of the Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament include two Sweet Sixteen games, one Elite Eight and one game that determines which four teams will make it to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Regional Games.
Mai
Budweiser Downtown Hoedown has become the most prominent showcase of established, local and emerging country acts. It is also the biggest free country music festival. On Memorial Day weekend, the music action continues with Detroit’s Electronic Music Festival. This free event is held at Hart Plaza. In the city where it was born, this event celebrates Techno music, which is the most popular form of new music.
June
Detroit Festival of Arts, the unrivaled regional international arts festival features everything. From hot Latin rhythms and the comedy antics of international Street Theater to a 75-ton Sand sculpture. This event showcases the best cultural institutions in the city and features outstanding performers from all over the globe.
International Freedom Festival Fireworks, the largest international-border celebration with fireworks and other festivities is held at Hart Plaza in Detroit and Windsor (Ontario).
July
More than 500,000 people gather each year to witness aerodynamic, piston- or turbine-powered hydroplanes compete at breathtaking speeds in the Chrysler Jeep Detroit APBA Gold Cup Hirdroplane races. The oldest trophy for motor sports is up for grabs.
August/September
Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance, or “gathering of elegance,”Oakland University presents over 250 luxury classic cars at its plush course. Entertainment, automobile art, and food tents are all part of the activities.
August is the month of the best golf. The PGA Championship takes place at Oakland Hills Country Club. While the Buick Grand Open takes places in Grand Blanc.
Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix is where the IndyCar Series and American Le Mans Series teams come together to race in the Motor City’s top motor racing events. The Detroit International Jazz Festival is another outstanding Labor Day event.
November
America’s Thanksgiving Parade is held on Thanksgiving Day. It features bands, equestrian units and floats. Onlookers eagerly wait for Santa to arrive.
December
Detroit celebrates the holidays with many festivals, programs, and events.