Events & Festivals in Detroit

One of the world's premier auto shows, showcasing the latest vehicle innovations, concept cars, and industry technology from global manufacturers. Expect interactive displays, vehicle reveals, and a glimpse into the future of mobility.

A city-wide culinary celebration where dozens of top restaurants offer prix-fixe menus at special prices. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience Detroit's acclaimed and diverse dining scene at a value.

A large winter festival held downtown featuring ice sculptures, ice skating, zip-lining over the ice, snow slides, live music, and warming huts with food and drinks from local restaurants.

A romantic evening exploring Detroit's lively jazz and blues clubs in neighborhoods like Midtown and Downtown. Multiple venues host performances with a single ticket or pass.

Celebrates the rich cultures, art, history, and contributions of the African diaspora. Features live music, dance performances, a marketplace with vendors, educational exhibits, and authentic cuisine.

Detroit's long-standing parade celebrates Irish heritage with marching bands, bagpipers, colorful floats, dance troupes, and community groups. A festive, family-friendly event drawing huge crowds.

An internationally recognized, adults-only festival celebrating erotic art in all mediums—painting, sculpture, performance, and film. It's avant-garde, provocative, and draws a diverse, artistic crowd.

A beloved Detroit tradition marking the start of the MLB season. The city comes alive with excitement as fans pack Comerica Park to cheer on the Tigers. Festivities extend into the surrounding bars and streets.

The largest single-day farmers' market in the U.S., transforming Eastern Market into a breathtaking sea of color. Vendors sell flowers, plants, herbs, and garden supplies. Includes food, music, and family activities.

An iconic, internationally renowned festival held during Memorial Day weekend, celebrating Detroit's techno heritage. Features top DJs and electronic artists across multiple stages with cutting-edge production.

A solemn and patriotic parade honoring fallen U.S. military personnel. Features veterans' groups, marching bands, military units, and community organizations marching through downtown Detroit.

Detroit's PGA TOUR event, attracting the world's top golfers. The tournament focuses on community impact and features fan zones, concerts, and interactive golf experiences beyond the competitive play.

One of the nation's largest annual fireworks displays, synchronized to music and launched over the Detroit River. Draws over a million spectators to the riverfront and surrounding areas.

A powerful celebration of gospel music held on the riverfront, featuring local and national choirs, soloists, and ensembles. A day of uplifting music, community spirit, and joyful celebration.

The world's largest free jazz festival, presenting a stellar lineup of international, national, and local jazz legends and emerging artists across multiple downtown stages.

A beloved, free, community-run festival in the Cass Corridor. Features multiple stages of local music (rock, folk, electronic), over 150 artists and vendors, food trucks, and a dynamic, bohemian atmosphere.

The public-facing portion of the auto show, now held in the summer/fall. Features indoor and outdoor displays, ride-and-drive opportunities, concept cars, and family-friendly activities focused on the automotive experience.

A lively, colorful celebration honoring deceased loved ones. The parade features elaborate altars, giant puppets, Catrinas, and traditional dancers. A festival with food, music, and art follows.

The Detroit Lions often host home games during the Halloween season, with Ford Field and fan tailgates embracing spooky decorations and costumes. A combination of professional football and festive fun.

A Halloween-themed event where the zoo is decorated with thousands of carved pumpkins. Features animal enrichment with pumpkins, spooky music, treat stations for kids, and festive photo opportunities.

The weekly Saturday market transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring seasonal produce, handmade gifts, holiday decorations, wreaths, Christmas trees, and festive food and drink to get into the holiday spirit.

One of the country's oldest and largest Thanksgiving parades. Features giant helium balloons, marching bands from across the nation, elaborate floats, celebrity performers, and Santa's arrival.

A massive, free holiday open house across Midtown's cultural institutions. Includes live music on multiple stages, horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa, art activities, shopping, and building tours.

A family-friendly countdown to the New Year at Detroit's downtown heart. Features an early-evening fireworks display over the ice rink, live music, and a festive atmosphere in the park.