Exploring Metro Detroit: Top Things to Do in August offers a vibrant snapshot of city life that proves why living in Metro Detroit feels like a year‑round celebration and why so many are moving to Metro Detroit for its unbeatable mix of culture, community, and excitement. From the roar of classic engines at the Woodward Dream Cruise to the immersive pageantry of the Michigan Renaissance Festival, August brings block parties, waterfront spectacles, and family‑friendly fun to every corner of the region. Music lovers can catch chart‑topping tours at Little Caesars Arena and outdoor concerts under the stars, while sports fans cheer on hometown teams or marvel at soaring aerobatics during the Oakland County Air Show. Whether you’re craving hands‑on history, live performances, or simply a picnic by the river, this guide will help you navigate the best of Metro Detroit’s late‑summer lineup, and discover why no other place delivers this much energy in a single month.
Concerts
Theatre
Comedy
Sports
Metro Detroit Events
Main Events
For even more ideas on seasonal celebrations, check out our Summer Fun in Metro Detroit: Festivals and Events You Need to Experience guide.
Concerts
Little Caesars Arena
2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Katy Perry
Date: Aug 3, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $53-$269+
Website: Katy Perry
Linkin Park
Date: Aug 14, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $61-$309+
Website: Linkin Park
Benson Boone
Date: Aug 27, 2025
Time: 8:00pm
Ticket: $110-$592+
Website: Benson Boone
Jonas Brothers
Date: Aug 28, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $43-$360+
Website: Jonas Brothers
Pine Knob Music Theatre
33 Bob Seger Dr, Village of Clarkston, MI 48348
Cyndi Lauper
Date: Aug 1, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $48-$240
Website: Cyndi Lauper
Barenaked Ladies
Date: Aug 2, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $36-$160+
Website: Barenaked Ladies
The Doobie Brothers
Date: Aug 4, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $59-$325+
Website: The Doobie Brothers
Thomas Rhett
Date: Aug 8, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $89-$458+
Website: Thomas Rhett
Nelly
Date: Aug 9, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $76-$294+
Website: Nelly
Toto, Men at Work & Christopher Cross
Date: Aug 11, 2025
Time: 6:45pm
Ticket: $36-$283+
Website: Toto, Men at Work & Christopher Cross
Rod Stewart
Date: Aug 12, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $49-$447+
Website: Rod Stewart
Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts
Date: Aug 13, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $80-$344+
Website: Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts
Little Big Town
Date: Aug 15, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $36-$258+
Website: Little Big Town
Styx, Kevin Cronin & Don Felder
Date: Aug 16, 2025
Time: 6:45pm
Ticket: $40-$238+
Website: Styx, Kevin Cronin & Don Felder
Volbeat
Date: Aug 19, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $37-$209+
Website: Volbeat
The Black Keys
Date: Aug 21, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $43-$282+
Website: The Black Keys
Hardy
Date: Aug 22-23, 2025
Time: 6:30pm
Ticket: $37-$38+
Website: Hardy
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony & Three 6 Mafia
Date: Aug 24, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $44-$192+
Website: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony & Three 6 Mafia
Billy Idol & Joan Jett
Date: Aug 28, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $40-$330+
Website: Billy Idol & Joan Jett
Dierks Bentley
Date: Aug 30, 2025
Time: 5:30pm
Ticket: $72-$350+
Website: Dierks Bentley
Ford Field
2000 Brush St, Detroit, MI 48226
Chris Brown
Date: Aug 7-8, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $61-$404+
Website: Chris Brown
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre
14900 Metro Pkwy, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Slightly Stoopid
Date: Aug 3, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Ticket: $44-$125
Website: Slightly Stoopid
CAKE
Date: Aug 13, 2025
Time: 8:00pm
Ticket: $49-$264+
Website: Cake
Goo Goo Dolls
Date: Aug 16, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $142-$610+
Website: Goo Goo Dolls
Chevelle
Date: Aug 19, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $49-$182+
Website: Chevelle
Coheed & Cambria and Taking Back Sunday
Date: Aug 22, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $38-$148+
Website: Coheed & Cambria and Taking Back Sunday
Simple Plan
Date: Aug 23, 2025
Time: 6:30pm
Ticket: $44-$210+
Website: Simple Plan
Rob Thomas
Date: Aug 24, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $54-$295+
Website: Rob Thomas
Indigo Girls & Melissa Etheridge
Date: Aug 26, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $49-$237+
Website: Indigo Girls & Melissa Etheridge
Ice Nine Kills
Date: Aug 29, 2025
Time: 6:30pm
Ticket: $49-$217+
Website: Ice Nine Kills
MIX 92.3’s White Concert
Date: Aug 30, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $80-$306+
Website: MIX 92.3’s White Concert
Ted Nugent
Date: Aug 31, 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Ticket: $43-$221+
Website: Ted Nugent
The Fillmore Detroit
2115 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
The Struts
Date: Aug 4, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $36-$113
Website: The Struts
Greensky Bluegrass
Date: Aug 21, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $41-$118
Website: Greensky Bluegrass
District 142
142 Maple St, Wyandotte, MI 48192
Whitey Morgan & The 78’s
Date: Aug 3, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $31.41-$156.33
Website: Whitey Morgan & The 78’s
The Cardinal
44045 Five Mile Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170
Imagine Dragons
Date: Aug 23, 2025
Time: 10:15am
Ticket: Starts at $55.11
Website: Imagine Dragons
Swedish House Mafia
Date: Aug 24, 2025
Time: 10:00pm
Ticket: $88
Website: Swedish House Mafia
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Theatre
Fisher Theatre
3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202
Beetlejuice The Musical
Date: Aug 5-10, 2025
Time: Tue-Thur (7:30pm) | Sat (2:00-7:30pm) | Sun (1:00pm-6:30pm)
Ticket: $64.80-$204.75
Website: Beetlejuice The Musical
Royal Oak Music Theatre
318 W 4th St, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Yo Gabba Gabba Live!
Date: Aug 11, 2025
Time: 5:00pm
Ticket: $49 -$142.33
Website: Yo Gabba Gabba Live!
Comedy
Little Caesars Arena
2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Shane Gillis Live
Date: Aug 15, 2025
Time: 8:00pm
Ticket: $61-$121
Website: Shane Gillis Live
Fisher Theatre
3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202
Aziz Ansari
Date: Aug 16, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: Starts at $87.40
Website: Aziz Ansari
Royal Oak Music Theatre
318 W 4th St, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Chris Fleming
Date: Aug 15, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: Starts at $61
Website: Chris Fleming
Chris Distefano
Date: Aug 22, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: Starts at $46
Website: Chris Distefano
Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle
310 S Troy St, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Craig Robinson
Date: Aug 21-23, 2025
Time: 9:30pm
Ticket: $47.30-$83.35
Website: Craig Robinson
Sports
Detroit Tigers Schedule
Comerica Park | 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Detroit Tigers vs Minnesota Twins
Date: Aug 4-6, 2025
Time: Mon-Tue (6:30pm) | Wed (1:10pm)
Ticket: $31-$259
Website: Detroit Tigers vs Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers vs Los Angeles Angels
Date: Aug 8-10pm
Time: Fri (7:10pm) | Sat (6:10pm) | Sun (1:40pm)
Ticket: $33-$284
Website: Detroit Tigers vs Los Angeles Angels
Detroit Tigers vs Houston Astros
Date: Aug 18-20, 2025
TIme: Mon-Tue (6:40pm) | Wed (1:10pm)
Ticket: $29-$259
Website: Detroit Tigers vs Houston Astros
Detroit Tigers vs Kansas City Royals
Date: Aug 22-24, 2025
Time: Fri (7:10pm) | Sat (Sat (6:10pm) | Sun (1:40pm)
Ticket: $32-$141
Website: Detroit Tigers vs Kansas City Royals
Detroit Lions – Preseason Game Schedule
Detroit Lions vs Atlanta Falcons
Date: Aug 8, 2025
Time: 7:00pm
Ticket: $5-$139+
Website: Detroit Lions vs Atlanta Falcons
Detroit Lions vs Miami Dolphins
Date: Aug 16, 2025
Time: 1:00pm
Ticket: $50-$264+
Website: Detroit Lions vs Miami Dolphins
Detroit Lions vs Houston Texans
Date: Aug 23, 2025
Time: 1:00pm
Ticket: $50-$256+
Website: Detroit Lions vs Houston Texans
Monster Truck Throwdown
Fowlerville Family Fair | 8800 W Grand River Ave, Fowlerville, MI 48836
Date: Aug 8-9, 2025
Time: TBA
Ticket: Starts at $71
Website: Monster Truck Throwdown
LIV Golf Team Championship
The Cardinal | 44045 Five Mile Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170
Date: August 22-24, 2025
Time: Fri (10am-12:15pm) | Sat (8am-10:15pm) | Sun (11am-1:05pm)
Ticket: Starts at $145 for a 3-day pass
Website: LIV Golf Team Championship
For families considering a relocation, see our ranking of the 10 Best Places to Live in Metro Detroit for Families, Jobs and Lifestyle
Allen Park Street Fair, Facebook
Metro Detroit Events
Allen Park Street Fair
Date: August 1–2, 2025 (10 AM–9 PM)
Between Southfield Rd. & Roosevelt Ave | Allen Rd, Allen Park, MI 48101
Admission: Free (open to the public)
Website: Allen Park Street Fair
Downtown Allen Park transforms into a lively festival zone during this two-day street fair. Over 200 vendors line Allen Road, selling everything from local artwork and handmade crafts to boutique clothing and home décor. Food trucks and a beer tent keep everyone fed and refreshed, while a dedicated kids’ zone offers activities for the little ones. Live bands hit the stage in the evenings (music runs until about 11 PM), adding a block party vibe that brings out the whole community. It’s a classic summer street fair with an easygoing Downriver feel, a perfect stop if you’re craving that hometown festival atmosphere. The best part: admission is free, so you can stroll, shop, and soak up the fun without spending a dime.
Frankenmuth Flower Festival
Date: August 1–3, 2025 (10 AM–7 PM)
Grandpa Tiny’s Farm | 7775 Weiss St., Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Admission: $17.75 general (includes one sunflower; ages 4 & under free)
Website: Frankenmuth Flower Festival
Just north of Metro Detroit in Michigan’s Little Bavaria, the Frankenmuth Flower Festival offers a blooming spectacle across three days. The headline attraction is over 25 acres of towering sunflowers, a breathtaking golden sea you can walk through, take photos in, and even snip a bloom to take home. But there’s far more than flower fields here. Each day is packed with unique activities: yoga sessions in the sunflower fields, a sunflower-themed color run through the countryside, hands-on crafting workshops (think pressed flower jewelry and sunflower canvas painting), and even an exclusive “Dinner in the Sunflowers” farm-to-table meal amid the blooms (by reservation). Families will enjoy meeting whimsical costumed characters making floral crowns with kids, browsing craft vendors, and grabbing local bites from food trucks while live music plays. General admission includes access to the fields and one U-pick sunflower. Note: All tickets are sold online ahead of time (no walk-up sales at the gate), so plan accordingly. This festival brings together fitness, food, art, and agriculture, all with a stunning sunflower backdrop that’s pure Michigan summer magic.
Dearborn Homecoming Festival
Date: August 1–3, 2025 (12 PM–10:30 PM daily)
Ford Field Park | 22051 Cherry Hill St., Dearborn, MI 48124
Admission: Free (concerts and fireworks included)
Website: Dearborn Homecoming Festival
The City of Dearborn’s annual Homecoming Festival is a three-day summer celebration that truly offers something for everyone. By day, Ford Field Park is filled with carnival rides, midway games, community tents, and mouthwatering food vendors spanning many cultures. Kids will find plenty to do, from fishing derbies and kids’ sports tournaments to magic shows and craft activities, while adults can enjoy bocce ball competitions, cultural pavilions, and two stages of non-stop music. Each evening features major concerts by national and local acts: this year’s lineup includes soulful Michigan duo The War and Treaty and multi-platinum rock band Third Eye Blind (with indie favorite Tigers Jaw opening) among others. And every night ends with a bang, literally, thanks to spectacular fireworks lighting up the summer sky. Dearborn Homecoming is free to attend (yes, even the concerts and fireworks), making it one of the most budget-friendly ways to enjoy big entertainment. Tip for visitors: parking can fill up, so arrive early or consider the shuttle options. This festival has been bringing the community together for over four decades, and the hometown pride is palpable.
Belle Isle Art Fair
Date: August 2–3, 2025 (Sat 10 AM–7 PM, Sun 11 AM–5 PM)
Belle Isle Park | 99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI 48207
Admission: Free with Michigan Recreation Passport
Website: Belle Isle Art Fair
Set against the iconic backdrop of Belle Isle’s marble fountain and the Detroit River, the Belle Isle Art Fair is arguably Detroit’s most scenic art festival. Over 100 juried artists set up booths along the island’s waterfront, showcasing works in painting, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, glass, and more. It’s an easygoing, browse-at-your-leisure event beneath the trees – you’ll wander between artist tents while enjoying gentle live acoustic music and the sound of the fountain in the background. Local food vendors are on site serving ice cream, lemonade, and snacks, so you can make an afternoon of it. There are also interactive art stations hosted by the DIA and youth art organizations, where kids and curious adults can try their hand at creative projects (think communal murals or DIY crafts to take home). Parking on Belle Isle fills up fast, so it’s wise to arrive early. Remember that entry to the island requires a Michigan Recreation Passport (the annual state park pass) or a small vehicle fee at the gate. Once you’re in, the art fair itself has no admission charge. This event offers a relaxing blend of culture and nature, perfect for art lovers or anyone looking to spend a summer day by the water.
ARRIBA! Latino Festival
Date: August 2–3, 2025 (2 PM–11 PM)
Hart Plaza | 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: Free (open to all, kids 12 & under free with parent)
Website: ARRIBA! Latino Festival
Hart Plaza on the Detroit riverfront turns into a high-energy celebration of Latin culture during the debut of the ARRIBA! Latinos Festival. For two days, Detroit’s waterfront will pulse with live Latin music, including everything from reggaeton and Latin hip-hop to regional Mexican and salsa rhythms. The performance lineup had promised big-name artists, Waka Flocka Flame, Régulo Caro, Noel Torres, C-Kan, and more, reflecting a mix of international stars and local talent. In between sets, festival-goers can catch colorful folkloric dance performances and explore cultural exhibits highlighting Latino art, history, and community organizations. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Latin festival without amazing food: expect a mouth-watering array of Latin American cuisine from various food trucks and vendors (tacos, empanadas, arepas, you name it). Family fun is a priority too, there’s a kids’ zone with activities for children, so feel free to bring the whole familia. Admission is free for everyone (with children 12 and under admitted free with an adult, for safety). Insider Note: As of late summer, organizers announced an unexpected postponement of this festival. If you were excited to attend, keep an eye on the official website or social pages for new dates, when it does happen, it’s sure to be one vibrant fiesta on the riverfront that Detroit has awaited for decades.
Cheers to Chesterfield Festival
Date: August 7–10, 2025 | Thur (3-6:30pm) | Fri (3-6pm, 10pm Fireworks) | Sat (12-6pm) | Sun (12-5pm)
Brandenburg Park | 50050 Jefferson Ave., Chesterfield, MI 48047
Admission: Free
Website: Cheers to Chesterfield Festival
This four-day lakefront festival in northern Macomb County packs a little bit of everything into one action-filled weekend. Set along the Lake St. Clair shoreline at Brandenburg Park, “Cheers to Chesterfield” coincides with a major national fishing tournament, the Bassmaster Elite Series, and offers an outdoor experience that blends local community fun with big-league sports excitement. Each day has a different flavor:
- Thursday (Aug 7) afternoon kicks off at 3 PM as pro anglers bring in their catches at the Bassmaster weigh-in stage, followed by the opening of food trucks, vendor booths, and even an outdoor family movie night by the water to cap the evening.
- Friday (Aug 8) features another weigh-in and the expansion of festivities: a beer tent and kids’ zone open with bounce houses and shows, leading into live music at night and a fireworks show over Lake St. Clair to finish the day with a bang.
- Saturday (Aug 9) starts at noon with a kids’ fishing tournament (letting local youngsters join the fun). All day there are food vendors, craft booths, and family activities, plus the Bassmaster pros’ final qualifying weigh-in. Come evening, one of the region’s biggest nights of live music rocks the park, past years have seen tribute bands and local rock acts drawing big crowds on the lawn.
- Sunday (Aug 10) wraps up the festival with more family activities, the Bassmaster final championship weigh-in at 3 PM, and closing ceremonies by 5 PM.
Throughout the festival, you’ll also find lawn games, cornhole tournaments, and plenty of space to picnic and enjoy the lakeside views. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast eager to see the pros or just looking for a day at the park with live entertainment and great food, this festival offers a unique combo. And since there’s no admission fee, you can drop by any time. Don’t forget sunscreen and lawn chairs, you’ll likely end up hanging out by the water longer than you planned, soaking in this perfect slice of summer fun.
Sail Detroit Tall Ships Festival
Date: August 8–10, 2025 (10 AM–6 PM)
Detroit Riverfront – Port Detroit Dock | 130 E. Atwater St., Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: $25 adults | $15 children (12 & under)/seniors | Family 4-pack $60
Website: Sail Detroit Tall Ships Festival
The Detroit Riverfront will be a sight to behold as a fleet of majestic tall ships sails into town for the Sail Detroit 2025 festival. For one weekend, the waterfront by the Port Authority terminal becomes a nautical wonderland celebrating the city’s maritime heritage. Historic sailing ships from around the world will be docked along the river’s edge, their towering masts and billowing sails offering endless photo ops against the downtown skyline. Festival-goers can step aboard many of these vessels with a general boarding ticket, explore the decks, meet the crew dressed in period uniforms, and hear seafaring tales of the Great Lakes. In addition to the ship tours, there will be plenty of on-shore attractions: maritime and Great Lakes history exhibits, live music with a nautical twist (sea shanties, anyone?), local food trucks (expect seafood chowder and other sailor-inspired eats), and kid-friendly educational activities (like toy boat building and knot-tying demos for aspiring young sailors).
For those craving even more adventure, special sail-away cruises are offered on one tall ship (the 3-masted schooner Alliance), ticket holders can actually set sail on the river for a 90-minute cruise, feeling the wind in the sails. The general festival day pass covers the dockside tours and entertainment from 10 AM to 6 PM (Friday through Sunday). Tickets run roughly $20–$25 for adults (with discounts for kids, seniors, and military), and family packages are available. Insider tip: Even if you don’t spring for a ticket, you can still catch a glimpse of the tall ships from the RiverWalk. But for history buffs and families looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Sail Detroit is definitely worth boarding, it’s not every day you can step back in time aboard a tall ship right in downtown Detroit!
Dexter Summer Festival
Date: August 8–9, 2025 (Fri & Sat, 9 AM–11 PM)
Monument Park, Main St. & Central St. area | Downtown Dexter, MI 48130
Admission: Free
Website: Dexter Summer Festival
A beloved small-town tradition since the 1970s, the Dexter Summer Festival (formerly known as Dexter Daze) lights up downtown Dexter for one high-spirited weekend. This festival brings big energy to a quaint village setting, offering a jam-packed schedule of activities from morning until night. Over 100 artists, crafters, and local vendors fill Monument Park and the surrounding streets, turning downtown into an open-air marketplace of Michigan-made goods, tasty treats, and unique finds. Families will find an Action Zone on Broad Street loaded with kids’ entertainment, we’re talking bounce houses, magic shows, balloon animals, and games running all day long. Meanwhile, adults can grab a cold beverage in the Social District and enjoy continuous live music on multiple stages. The musical lineup spans genres (classic rock, blues, country, pop covers) and showcases both regional bands and local talent, you’ll hear tunes from the gazebo in Monument Park and from pop-up stages near the beer tent.
Don’t miss the special events: Friday night features a classic car show that brings polished vintage rides into the heart of town, and at dusk on Friday a fireworks display (sponsored by a local business) bursts over Dexter, drawing oohs and aahs from the crowd. Saturday morning at 10 AM, the Dexter Parade makes its triumphant return, complete with marching bands, festive floats, and kids riding decorated bikes through Main Street. The parade really captures that nostalgic small-town feel and is a highlight for many longtime attendees. The festival wraps up late Saturday night with more live music and a true community-party atmosphere under the summer stars. Admission is free, and parking can be found at nearby lots with shuttle service provided. If you’re looking for a festival that blends hometown charm with plenty of excitement, Dexter hits the spot, it’s the kind of event where neighbors meet up, visitors feel welcome, and everyone leaves with a smile (and maybe a new craft treasure or two).
Milford Memories, Facebook
Milford Memories Summer Festival
Date: August 8–10, 2025 (Fri–Sun)
Main St. & Central Park area | Downtown Milford, MI 48380
Admission: Free (fees for food, games, etc.; some activities require tickets)
Website: Milford Memories Summer Festival
Historic downtown Milford turns into a playground of summer fun during the Milford Memories festival, a highlight of Oakland County’s summer and an event that routinely draws tens of thousands (over 200,000 visitors in past years!). For three days, this festival combines the best elements of an art fair, street fair, and community carnival all in one. Art lovers can browse 300+ artist booths lining Main Street, featuring everything from fine art and photography to handmade jewelry and decor. Foodies will have a field day with the array of food trucks and vendor booths dishing out classic fair treats and international eats, you might start with elephant ears or kettle corn, then sample barbecue, Greek souvlaki, or fresh-squeezed lemonade as you wander. Live music is a major draw: a main stage in Central Park hosts bands each afternoon and evening, and you’ll find smaller acoustic sets or street performers on the sidewalks adding a soundtrack to the festivities. Genres range from rock and pop covers to country and jazz, often spotlighting popular local bands that get the crowd dancing.
Milford Memories is very family-friendly as well. Kids can enjoy activities like face painting, balloon art, and the dedicated “Kid’s Central” area with crafts and games. There’s usually a beer tent for adults (21+) to unwind with a craft beer while listening to music, and organized events like a classic car show and a 5K/10K run add to the fun (check the schedule for specific times). One of the unique traditions is the Milford Rotary Duck Race, where hundreds of rubber ducks float down the Huron River in a quirky fundraising competition. Festival hours typically run from the morning (around 10 AM) until early evening; Friday often kicks off with an opening ceremony or concert around 5 PM, and Saturday is the longest day of festivities stretching into the night. Parking is free throughout town and at designated lots with shuttles, and entry to the festival grounds costs nothing. Bring some cash for snacks or kids’ rides, but otherwise you can spend an entire day here enjoying the sights and sounds without an admission fee. Milford Memories is the perfect blend of small-town hospitality and big-crowd energy, by the time Sunday rolls around, you’ll understand why it’s a summer favorite that people return to year after year.
Ribs R&B Music Festival
Date: August 8–10, 2025 (11:30 AM–11 PM)
Hart Plaza | 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: Free entry before early afternoon; $15 per person later in day
Website: Ribs R&B Music Festival
Nothing says summer in the city like the mouthwatering aroma of barbecue and the smooth sounds of R&B echoing off the Detroit River. The Ribs R&B Music Festival (also known as the Ribs and Soul Festival) takes over Hart Plaza for a weekend dedicated to great eats and groovy beats. Dozens of award-winning BBQ pit masters and rib grill teams from around the country set up shop, each vying for the title of best ribs, and trust us, you’ll want to sample as many as you can. The food vendors offer a variety of barbecued meats, soul food sides, and refreshing drinks, creating a BBQ lover’s paradise.
On the music side, the festival features an impressive lineup of live performers across two stages, delivering a mix of R&B, soulful jazz, gospel, and old-school funk. It’s not unusual to catch a gospel choir lifting spirits in the afternoon, followed by a funk band or R&B legend getting the crowd dancing in the evening. In between sets, DJs might lead the crowd in line dancing sessions, don’t be shy if you see folks doing the Electric Slide or Cupid Shuffle! There’s also a Family Zone with kids’ crafts and activities, making this a multi-generational affair. Official festival hours are roughly 11:30 AM until 11 PM each day, so you can swing by for lunch, dinner, or make a whole day of it.
Oakland County International Air Show
Date: August 10, 2025 (Sunday, 9 AM–4 PM)
Oakland County Int’l Airport | 6500 Patterson Pkwy, Waterford, MI 48327
Admission: Free (including parking and all exhibits)
Website: Oakland County Air Show Info
For aviation enthusiasts and families alike, the Oakland County International Airport Open House & Air Show is a high-flying highlight of August. This one-day event, also known as the Festival of Flight, turns the airport into a giant playground of airplanes and excitement. From 9 AM to 4 PM, visitors can stroll right out onto the tarmac for an up-close look at a wide range of aircraft. You’ll see everything from huge military cargo planes and historic WWII-era warbirds to sleek corporate jets and small general aviation planes on static display. Pilots and crew members are on hand to answer questions, let kids peek into cockpits, and share their passion for flying.
The real thrill, of course, is the air show in the afternoon. Starting around 1:30 PM (weather permitting), all eyes turn to the sky as skilled pilots perform jaw-dropping aerial stunts and routines. The lineup changes yearly, but you can expect heart-pounding attractions like aerobatic biplanes doing loops and rolls, modern military fighter jet flyovers that roar overhead, precision formation flying teams painting patterns in the sky, and perhaps even an all-female skydiving troupe jumping from a plane with colorful parachutes. One fan-favorite act is the jet-powered truck or car racing a plane down the runway, a burst of flames and noise that always wows the crowd.
Howell Melon Festival
Date: August 14–17, 2025 (Thu–Sun)
Downtown Howell | 1415, Howell, MI 48843
Admission: Free general entry (select carnival areas $5 admission, kids under 12 free; ride wristbands $30/day)
Website: Howell Melon Festival
For 65 years and counting, the Howell Melon Festival has been a late-summer staple in Livingston County, celebrating the town’s famous cantaloupe-like Howell melons. This four-day festival brings old-fashioned charm and plenty of melon-themed fun to downtown Howell. Throughout the weekend you’ll find a classic carnival midway complete with a Ferris wheel, spinning rides, and games lining the streets. Kiddie rides and bounce houses keep younger visitors happy, while parents can browse dozens of vendor booths featuring crafts, local products, and of course fresh produce. Live music is a given, expect to hear local bands and solo artists playing rock, country, and pop hits from the main stage in the evenings, adding a lively soundtrack as you explore.
Melon-themed activities take center stage here. Ever tried melon ice cream? Howell’s is locally legendary, a creamy, sweet treat made with the special melons and available only once a year during this festival (people literally line up for it!). There are also quirky contests like the melon seed spitting competition and melon carving contests that bring out some creative (and competitive) spirit. Families can enjoy field day-style games on Sunday, and kids often participate in events like a kids’ melon toss or pie-eating contests, sticky fun for everyone. Community traditions are strong: Friday evening usually features a classic car show and cruise through downtown, followed by a lighted parade that kicks off the festival with marching bands and floats. Saturday night, they light up the sky with a fireworks display to celebrate the harvest and the community. And on Sunday, a Melon Run 5K race in the morning gets folks up and running through town (often with participants wearing melon-themed outfits for laughs).
Michigan State Fair
Date: August 28 – September 1, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
Suburban Collection Showplace | 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI 48374
Admission: $10 general (ages 3+) | kids 2 & under free | $42 for unlimited rides pass
Website: Michigan State Fair
The Michigan State Fair returns over Labor Day weekend, bringing the full county-fair experience to Metro Detroit with an urban twist. Held at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, this five-day extravaganza is an ideal blend of nostalgic fair traditions and modern entertainment. You’ll find a midway packed with carnival rides, from kiddie carousels to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, and plenty of classic games where you can try to win a stuffed animal prize. There’s literally something for all ages: toddlers can enjoy gentle rides and visit the petting zoo (meet farm animals like goats, sheep, and bunnies up close), while thrill-seekers head for the giant Ferris wheel or spinning thrill rides on the midway.
Inside the expansive expo center, livestock exhibitions and 4-H displays showcase prize-winning cows, pigs, chickens, and more – a great chance for city folks to see farm animals and even watch live competitions (ever seen a sheep shearing or a rabbit judging contest?). Nearby, you’ll discover Home Arts competitions with Michigan’s best pies, preserves, and quilts on display, keeping those state fair roots alive. Shopping stalls feature Michigan-made products, from artisan cheeses to custom artwork, in an indoor marketplace so you can cool off while browsing.
Entertainment is around every corner. The fair hosts live music and performances daily, including local bands on small stages, cultural dance troupes, magic shows for kids, and daredevil stunt shows. In fact, a big draw is the “Dialed Action Sports” stunt show – a BMX and freestyle Motocross exhibition where pro riders perform high-flying tricks on bikes and motorcycles
michiganstatefairllc.com
(free to watch with an admission or included in the ride pass). On the outdoor grandstand, you might catch a monster truck show, demolition derby, or tractor pull (check the schedule for which days these high-octane events happen). These big shows typically come in the evenings and really amp up the excitement with roaring engines and cheering crowds.
Romeo Peach Festival
Date: August 28 – September 1, 2025
Downtown Romeo & Romeo Lions Field, Romeo, MI 48065
Admission: $5 per person (ages 13+) | kids 12 & under free | unlimited ride wristbands $30/day
Website: Romeo Peach Festival
Wrapping up August with small-town flair, the Romeo Peach Festival is Michigan’s longest-running festival (94 years strong in 2025) and a cherished Labor Day weekend tradition. For five days, the village of Romeo in Macomb County bursts with peach-themed festivities and old-fashioned fun. The downtown streets come alive with carnival rides spinning and twinkling lights at night, a big parade or two marching through (in fact, Romeo holds three parades over the weekend, including a nighttime lighted parade and the famed Peach Parade on Labor Day morning featuring floats, bands, and the newly crowned Peach Queen). At the Romeo Lions Field festival grounds, your $5 admission (kids free) opens up a world of entertainment. There’s the Peach Festival carnival midway with rides for all ages, from a gentle merry-go-round for the kiddos to a full-size Ferris wheel and whirling thrill rides for teens and adults. A $30 wristband lets you ride unlimited all day. You’ll find live music concerts each evening under the big tent, with genres ranging from country to rock (wristband or admission gets you into the concert area, and 21+ can enjoy beer and “Beers Around the World” in the refreshment tent). Families will love the KidsFest area with inflatables, games, and kid-friendly shows during the daytime.
This festival also showcases Romeo’s agricultural roots and community spirit. The aroma of freshly baked peach pie and peach cobbler fills the air as local churches and vendors sell homemade peach desserts – make sure to taste a slice of peach pie or grab a cup of locally famous peach cider. Traditional events include a classic car show that brings antique and muscle cars downtown, a country western rodeo (watch cowboys ride bulls and barrel-race on horseback), and even monster truck shows and a demolition derby that draw crowds to cheer on the smashing action. There are peach pit spitting contests, craft shows with artisans from around Michigan, and the Little Miss Romeo Peach Pageant where adorable kids vie for a tiny tiara. With multiple venues and events, the Peach Festival truly offers “something for everyone.” One minute you might be on a carnival ride, the next watching a tractor pull or browsing a craft fair for peach jam.
Detroit Jazz Festival
Date: August 29 – September 1, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
Hart Plaza and Campus Martius | 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226 & 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: Free (no tickets required for any performances)
Website: Detroit Jazz Festival
For jazz lovers, music aficionados, or anyone looking to relax outdoors with amazing live music, the Detroit Jazz Festival is an absolute gift. Spanning four days over Labor Day weekend, this is the world’s largest free jazz festival, and it has been a beloved Detroit tradition for over 40 years. Multiple stages are set up downtown, primarily at Hart Plaza on the riverfront and a few blocks north at Campus Martius Park, creating an urban concert experience like no other. You can wander from stage to stage catching performances that range from straight-ahead jazz and big band swing to soulful blues, fusion, and global music influences. The lineup is truly world-class: 2025’s roster features legendary names (expect Grammy-winning artists and international jazz icons) alongside Detroit’s own homegrown talent and up-and-coming young musicians. Whether it’s an evening headliner like Branford Marsalis blowing his sax on the main stage, or a midday set by a hot local ensemble, the quality is top-notch across the board.
Despite “jazz” in the name, the festival’s musical diversity keeps things interesting; you’ll also hear flavors of soul, gospel, funk, and blues throughout the weekend. And it’s not just concerts: there are often late-night jam sessions at nearby venues, artist meet-and-greets, and educational workshops or panel discussions for those who want a deeper dive into the music. Families are very welcome, the atmosphere is festive yet laid-back, and during daytime shows you’ll see kids playing or dancing on the grass while parents lounge on blankets.
Arts, Beats & Eats
Date: August 29 – September 1, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
streets surrounding 6th & Main | Downtown Royal Oak, MI 48067
Admission: $7 advance / $10–$12 at gate
Website: Arts, Beats & Eats
Capping off the summer in Metro Detroit is Arts, Beats & Eats, Royal Oak’s massive four-day festival of, you guessed it, art, music, and food. Taking place over Labor Day weekend across several downtown blocks, this festival is an all-in-one celebration that truly offers something for every taste.
First, the “Arts”: over 200 juried artists from around the country set up galleries along the streets, turning downtown Royal Oak into a huge art fair. You can wander past booths filled with fine paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and mixed media pieces. Whether you’re browsing casually or looking to buy a piece of art for your home, you’ll be impressed by the quality and variety. This is one of Michigan’s premier art shows of the year.
Next, the “Beats”: music is everywhere at Arts, Beats & Eats. There are nine stages dotting the festival, featuring 200+ live performances over the weekend. The lineup spans every genre imaginable, you’ll catch national rock and pop acts on the main stage in the evening, local indie bands and tribute bands on secondary stages, plus jazz ensembles, R&B groups, electronic DJs, and even cultural dance performances on smaller stages. Past headliners have included big names like Salt-N-Pepa, Collective Soul, Flo Rida, 311, and more, so keep an eye on the schedule as the 2025 lineup is announced. What’s great is that one minute you might be dancing to ’90s alt-rock hits, and the next you’re watching a high-energy Bollywood dance troupe or a local youth choir, the eclectic mix is half the fun. The festival typically hosts a special preview concert or charity event (in 2025 it’s hinted there’s a preview party on Aug 21), but the main event runs Aug 29–Sept 1, with music starting in the late morning and going into the night each day.
And of course, the “Eats”: bring your appetite because around 40 local restaurants and food trucks set up shop at the festival, offering a true tour of Metro Detroit’s dining scene. You can munch on everything from Detroit-style pizza and BBQ pulled pork sandwiches to Middle Eastern shawarma, Asian dumplings, Mexican street tacos, and vegan Buddha bowls. Save room for dessert like mini donuts or frozen custard. The culinary options are diverse and delicious, essentially a giant food court of the region’s favorites. There’s also a beer tent and wine garden area when you need to relax with a drink and take a break.
A few more features make Arts, Beats & Eats special: a large Kids Zone with inflatables, crafts, and kid-friendly entertainment so families can make a full day of it; cultural displays and performances curated by the Detroit Institute of Arts and other cultural institutions, adding an educational element; and fun contests like a cornhole tournament that invite a little friendly competition among festival-goers. The event is well-organized with plenty of parking and shuttle options (Royal Oak offers shuttle lots to ease the downtown parking crunch). General admission is $7 in advance online, or $10 at the gate (slightly higher on Sunday and Monday, around $12), a small price for access to so much entertainment. Note that admission proceeds often benefit local charities, so you’re partying for a good cause. Once inside, you pay as you go for food or carnival rides, but browsing the art and enjoying the concerts doesn’t cost anything extra. If you’re planning to attend multiple days, you can grab a weekend pass, or go on Family Days when there are discounts.
The Official Page of the Woodward Dream Cruise, Facebook
Main Event
Woodward Dream Cruise
Date: August 16, 2025 (9 AM–9 PM)
16‑mile stretch of Woodward Avenue, from downtown Pontiac to Ferndale
Admission: Free
Website: Woodward Dream Cruise
What began in August 1995 as a modest Ferndale fundraiser for a community soccer field has grown into North America’s largest one‑day automotive spectacle. The inaugural event drew an astounding 250,000 visitors, nearly ten times the expected turnout, and set the stage for what would become a summer tradition unlike any other. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Woodward Dream Cruise attracts over one million spectators and more than 40,000 classic, custom, and collector vehicles from across the globe. Cruisers and onlookers alike honor Detroit’s car‑culture heritage by lining the boulevard with folding chairs, snapping photos of gleaming chrome, and sharing stories of automotive passion.
Cruise Weekend Rhythm
While Saturday, August 16 is officially “Cruise Day” (9 AM–9 PM), the real magic spills over into Friday. By midday, early‑bird enthusiasts stake out prime viewing spots in communities like Royal Oak and Birmingham, turning every intersection into a mini‑celebration. Performance Park in Royal Oak hosts a classic car show from 12 PM to 7 PM on Friday and continues Saturday with live entertainment and vendor villages. Along the 16‑mile route, passing Pontiac, Bloomfield Hills, Berkley, and Ferndale, each city puts its own spin on the festivities with emergency‑vehicle displays, live music stages, kids’ zones, and specialty merchandise tents.
Insider Logistics & Tips
Parking near the main hotspots fills quickly; many visitors opt for SMART’s free Woodward shuttle service, which runs from 9 AM to 7 PM along the route, allowing for stress‑free hopping between communities. If you prefer to drive, early arrival (before 8 AM) can secure a spot in public lots and garages. Bring essentials, folding chairs, sunscreen, water, and snacks, because once you claim your perch, you’ll want to savor the full nine‑hour parade of metal and horsepower. For a lively social scene, Duggan’s Irish Pub in Royal Oak offers rooftop viewing with food and drink specials, while Mustang Alley in Ferndale gives you a front‑row look at Ford’s finest classics.
Make It Yours
Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or simply love the spectacle of Detroit’s car culture, the Dream Cruise delivers an unforgettable day. Car clubs, families, and selfie‑seekers all collide in a high‑energy celebration of horsepower and history. Mark your calendar for August 16, plan your route, and share in the comments which Woodward community you’re staking out. This is Detroit summer at its most nostalgic and vibrant, don’t miss the roar.
Michigan Renaissance Festival
Date: Weekends August 16–September 28, 2025 (+ Labor Day & Festival Friday) (9 AM–7 PM)
12600 Dixie Highway, Holly, MI 48442
Admission: Gate: Adult $27.95 | Child (5–12) $18.95 | Senior (65+) $25.95 | Early‑Buy discounts available
Website: Michigan Renaissance Festival
Since its first weekend in 1979 on a small Clarkston farm, the Michigan Renaissance Festival has grown into one of the nation’s premier Renaissance fairs, entertaining an average of 240,000 guests each season. In 1985 it moved to its current 30‑acre Hollygrove site in Holly, Michigan, transforming rolling woodlands into a vividly detailed 16th‑century English village. Today, permanent stone‑wall gateways, themed taverns, and 17 stages await visitors who arrive in costume, royalty, rogues, and villagers alike, to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Elizabethan era.
Eight Themed Weekends of Adventure
The 2025 season opens August 16–17 with Pirates and Pups, featuring swashbuckling sword fights and canine costume contests, before sailing into Highland Fling (Aug 23–24) where caber‑tossing and bagpipe bands fill the air. Labor Day weekend hosts the boisterous Viking Invasion (Aug 30–Sept 1), complete with horn‑toasting contests and axe‑throwing demonstrations. Subsequent weekends spotlight Wonders of the World, Shamrocks and Shenanigans, and Harvest Huzzah, leading up to a special Festival Friday on September 26 with exclusive performances and smaller crowds. Each day’s gates swing open at 9 AM and stay alive with activity until 7 PM, ensuring every moment is packed with interactive fun.
Marketplace, Merriment & Mayhem
Stroll through the bustling marketplace where over 150 artisans peddle handcrafted leather goods, blown glass, chainmail, and period jewelry. Street performers, fire‑breathers, stilt walkers, and jugglers, interact with passersby, while 17 open‑air stages host juggling shows, live animal demonstrations, comedy duels, and nonstop musical performances on lutes, fiddles, and drums. The centerpiece is the Royal Arena, where three full‑contact jousts occur daily, each a muddy, thunderous spectacle that commands the attention of cheering crowds. Children delight in fairy scavenger hunts, puppet shows, and knight training, and families reunite for boisterous tavern games and guided pub crawls through themed drinking halls.
Plan Your Festival Quest
Parking is free on site, but lots fill fast, especially on themed weekends, so consider the complimentary Holly shuttle from downtown or arrive before 8 AM to snag a spot. Festival tickets are best purchased online in advance for discounted Early‑Buy rates. Costumes are highly encouraged (rental shops are on site), but casual dress is fine; just be prepared for dusty or muddy paths after rain. Download the official festival app for interactive maps, real‑time show schedules, and surprise “pop‑up” performances.
Answer the Call of Adventure
Whether your heart belongs to knights in shining armor, mischievous rogues, or crafty artisans, the Michigan Renaissance Festival offers a fully committed escape into fantasy and history. Pick your favorite theme weekend, gather your companions, costumed or otherwise, and prepare for eight weekends of unforgettable revelry. Ready your tankard and sharpen your wit; the gates of Hollygrove await.
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As the dog days of summer wind down, August in Metro Detroit offers an unbeatable blend of high‑octane excitement and family‑friendly fun that showcases why living in Metro Detroit means embracing community spirit and cultural richness every weekend. Whether you’re chasing chrome at the Woodward Dream Cruise, stepping back in time at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, or soaking up world‑class music and air shows, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences to savor before fall arrives. For those moving to Metro Detroit, this lineup provides a perfect introduction to the region’s vibrant calendar and a glimpse at the neighborhoods and lifestyles that make this area so special. Don’t let another summer slip by: mark your calendar, explore these top events, and discover firsthand why Metro Detroit remains one of the country’s most dynamic places to call home.
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