10 Festivals and Fairs to Round Out The Summer in Metro Detroit

As the warm days of summer come to a close, Metro Detroit comes alive with a vibrant array of festivals and fairs, perfect for rounding out the season. Whether you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, these events offer an exciting blend of culture, music, food, and entertainment. From the soulful sounds at the Detroit Jazz Festival and the delicious tastes at the Cider Dayze Festival, to the rich cultural celebrations at A Taste of Greece Cultural Festival, there is something for everyone. Embrace the region's unique traditions and community spirit through these 10 must-visit festivals and fairs, each promising unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

armandafair, instagram

Armada Fair

Date: Aug 12-18 (8am-12am)
Armada Fair Grounds | 74280 Fair St., Armada, MI 48005
Admission: $10 ages 13 and up | $5 kids aged 10-12 (Free for kids 9 and under)
Website: Armada Fair

The Armada Fair, a staple in the community for over 152 years, offers a week of thrilling events and family-friendly activities. From demolition derbies and tractor pulls to a lively carnival and parade, there's something for everyone. The fair also includes a livestock sale and nightly entertainment in the beer tent, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.

Woodward Dream Cruise

Date: Aug 17 (9AM-9PM)
Woodward Avenue, from Pontiac to Ferndale, MI
Admission: Free
Website: Woodward Dream Cruise

The Woodward Dream Cruise is the ultimate celebration for car enthusiasts, transforming Michigan's iconic Woodward Avenue into a showcase for classic cars from around the globe. This annual event invites spectators to experience a parade of automotive history, featuring a diverse array of vehicles cruising along the famous route. It's a free, must-attend event for anyone with a passion for cars and Michigan summers.

A Taste of Greece Cultural Festival

Date: Aug 17-20 (Thur 6-10pm | Fri 5-11pm | Sat 12-11pm | Sun 12-6pm)
Nativity of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 39851 West Five Mile Road, Plymouth, MI 48170
Admission: $4 (Free children under 12)
Website: A Taste of Greece Cultural Festival

The "A Taste of Greece Cultural Festival" is an immersive experience into Greek culture and traditions, held at the Nativity of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Plymouth. This three-day festival offers a delightful array of authentic Greek food, vibrant traditional dances, live music, and a bustling marketplace. Visitors can also enjoy church tours and a Kids' Corner, making it a perfect family outing. The festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of the Greek community in Michigan.

Emerge! Art Festival

Date: Aug 24 (12PM-8PM)
Hannan Center | 4750 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201
Admission: Free
Website: Emerge! Art Festival

The Emerge! Art Festival, hosted by the Hannan Center, celebrates emerging artists aged 55 and older, showcasing their creativity and talents. This year's festival introduces the Next Generation Awards, recognizing artists aged 54 and younger. The festival features a variety of art forms, including performance art, poetry, ceramics, and painting, with cash prizes and recognition from prominent art professionals. It's an enriching cultural event in Detroit's vibrant Midtown district.

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Cider Dayze Festival

Date: Aug 24-25 (12-5pm)
BLAKE’S ORCHARD & CIDER MILL | 17985 Armada Center Rd, Armada MI 48005
Admission: $48.25 - $53.50
Website: Cider Dayze Festival

Blake's Apple Orchard and Cider Mill hosts the annual Cider Dayze Festival, a delightful event for cider enthusiasts and festival-goers alike. The festival features a silent disco, live music, and the opportunity to sample a wide range of beverages from breweries and cider mills across Michigan. This late summer celebration is the perfect prelude to autumn, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with dance, music, and the best ciders the state has to offer.

Detroit Bourbon & Blues Festival

Date: Aug 25 (12-6:30PM)
Eastern Market Shed 5 | 2810 Russell St, Detroit, MI 48207
Admission: VIP Bloozy Brunch $55 | Gen Ad Session 1 & 2 $35 each
Website: Detroit Bourbon & Blues Festival

The Detroit Bourbon & Blues Festival is a unique event celebrating American-made whiskey and live blues music. Set in the historic Eastern Market Shed 5, this festival offers guests living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit the chance to sample over 75 different bourbons and whiskeys while enjoying performances from talented blues musicians. The event features a VIP Bloozy Brunch with exclusive tasting opportunities, food trucks, and a vibrant marketplace. It's an immersive experience perfect for whiskey aficionados and music lovers alike.

2024 Detroit Jazz Festival

Date: Aug 30-Sep 2 (Fri 6-10:30pm | Sat 11:30am-10:30pm | Sun 11:30am-10:30pm)
Hart Plaza | 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: Free
Website: 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival

The 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival, renowned as the world's largest free jazz festival, is set to offer an exceptional lineup of performances over Labor Day weekend. This year's Artist-in-Residence, Brian Blade, along with The Fellowship Band, will headline the event. The festival will also feature the One-World Jazz Orchestra, a collaboration between the Berklee Global Jazz Institute and Wayne State University's Jazz Program, among other esteemed artists. The lineup showcases a dynamic mix of next-generation and legacy jazz musicians, highlighting the diverse evolution of jazz. The festival promises a vibrant and eclectic experience, celebrating the rich tapestry of jazz music.

Hamtramck Labor Day Festival

Date: Aug 31-Sep 2 (12-10pm)
Joseph Campau Street, MI 48212
Admission: Free
Website: Hamtramck Labor Day Festival

The Hamtramck Labor Day Festival celebrates its 44th anniversary with a variety of exciting events for all ages. Highlights include the traditional yacht races down Joseph Campau, carnival rides, and wrestling matches. The festival also offers live music, delicious food, and the vibrant Hamtramck Labor Day Parade. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a rich cultural experience in the heart of Hamtramck.

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Michigan Renaissance Festival

Date: Aug 17-Sep 29 (Open weekends only 9am-7pm)
Village of HollyGrave | 12600 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI 48442
Admission: Adults 13+ $24.95 | Child 5-12 years $13.95 | (Child 4 years and under Free)
Website: Renaissance Festival

The Michigan Renaissance Festival offers an immersive journey into the 16th century, featuring a European-style village with 16 stages of lively entertainment, over 250 artisans displaying handcrafted goods, and a variety of delicious foods. Guests can enjoy live armored jousting, themed weekends, and interactive encounters with costumed characters. This event is a perfect family outing, providing games, rides, and unique experiences over seven weekends. The festival is a celebration of history, fantasy, and fun, making it a beloved annual tradition.

Water Lantern Festival

Date: Sep 7 (Gates open at 5:00 PM | Lantern launch from 8- 9PM)
Lake St. Clair Metropark | 31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Township, MI 48045
Admission: Early Bird (until July 31) $28.33 | Regular $35.99 | Late $45.99 | Day of Event $55.99
Website: Water Lantern Festival

The Water Lantern Festival offers a serene and unforgettable evening, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors to create lasting memories. This event features food trucks, music, and the enchanting sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the water. Each ticket includes a floating lantern kit, an LED candle, and more. The festival is committed to sustainability, ensuring all lanterns and any litter are cleaned up after the event. It's a magical night that celebrates hope and community.

As summer draws to a close, the diverse range of festivals and fairs in Metro Detroit offers a perfect way to celebrate the season's end. Whether you're living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, these events showcase the area's vibrant culture and community spirit. From the Ribs and R&B Music Festival's soulful rhythms to the family-friendly fun at the Renaissance Festival, each event provides a unique opportunity to connect with local traditions and festivities. Don't miss out on these 10 exceptional experiences that highlight the best of what Metro Detroit has to offer, making your summer memorable and fulfilling.