Things To Do in Detroit in August
Story by Amelia Ritter
August is the perfect time to explore Detroit and its metro area, as the city buzzes with events and things to do. From cultural festivals to historic automotive events, visitors can experience the history and traditions of Detroit. The summer sun makes outdoor activities and sightseeing ideal for tourists and locals alike, discovering hidden gems and what the city has to offer. Whether you're interested in arts, music, food, or sports, August in Detroit has a packed calendar filled with fun!
Woodward Dream Cruise – August 17
The Woodward Dream Cruise spans much of the avenue: classic vehicle drivers cruise through nine participating communities (Pontiac, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge, and Ferndale) in Oakland County, Michigan. Spectators and cruisers travel to Metro Detroit, the birthplace of the American automobile, to participate in an event that celebrates all things automotive.
Afro Nation - August 12
The 2024 Detroit edition of Afro Nation will bring together the best artists in Afrobeats, Hip Hop, RnB, Dancehall, Amapiano, Afro House, and more across two stages. Expect world-class production, iconic live performances, and DJ sets over two days.
Detroit Jazz Festival – August 30-September 2
For over 40 years, the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation has celebrated Detroit’s rich history of jazz music by providing year-round concerts and educational programming, and of course, organizing the world’s largest free jazz festival, featuring world-class talent, over Labor Day weekend.
Michigan State Fair at Suburban Collection Showplace – August 29-September 2
The Michigan State Fair is a beloved annual event celebrating the state's agricultural heritage with livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and delicious fair food, making it a cherished summer experience for all.
Ribs and R&B Music Festival – August 5
The festival features an outstanding lineup of local barbecue experts and grilling gurus serving up tasty ribs, brisket, and chicken, as well as show after show featuring a variety of talented R&B and soul singers.
That's just a taste of some exciting events this August. You can also look forward to the Belle Isle Art Fair, Powwow in the D, Jazz on the Ave, Dearborn Homecoming Festival, and Blues Brews and Barbecue, just to name a few! For a list of events happening this weekend, click here.
The whole world knows it – Detroit is THE Motor City. From Henry Ford to the Dodge Brothers, Detroit is widely known to put the world on wheels. If loud engines, car cruisin’ and car history are your thing, then Detroit is your place. Cruise through the Motor City with us.
August in Detroit means car shows and cruises! Most famously, the Woodward Dream Cruise! But car enthusiasts can also enjoy the Woodward Dream Show, Birmingham Cruise, Cruisin' Hines, the 5th Annual Classic Car Gathering, and Roadkill Nights.
Celebrate a Tigers win at Comerica Park, catch a concert at The Fox, and enjoy endless entertainment options on your visit to Detroit.
July is a great time to catch a concert, with tons of live music in Detroit and the metro area! Catch names like Dan + Shay, Sammy Hagar, John Fogerty, The Struts, Blink-182, Missy Elliot, Childish Gambino, Rob Zombie, and Alice Cooper, just to name a few!
For more summer fun head to metro Detroit area shopping malls and downtowns for fun finds, free live music, and more! You can find nearly a dozen malls with a variety of stores in the area, each featuring its own exciting calendar of events.
Take advantage of the warm weather and get outside on the water! You’re never too far from the water when you’re in metro Detroit, and with that, there are many ways for people to enjoy the water. Even if you don’t own a boat, there are plenty of places to rent kayaks, canoes, boats, jet skis, and more. If you’re looking to enjoy being out on the water in metro Detroit, find some of the best places here.
Catch some rays and get outside at the Huron Clinton Metroparks. There are 13 parks throughout metro Detroit with 25,000 acres of woods, water, and recreational facilities. Each park offers a variety of hiking trails, biking trails, playgrounds, and more, but some of the parks feature more unique activities like beaches, golfing, waterparks, boating, and a farm.
With all of the non-stop fun, you’ll surely work up an appetite. Enjoy Detroit staples like pizza and coney dogs, or hop on over to the Detroit Brew Trail. If you need a reprieve from the heat, try a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts, Michigan Science Center, or the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
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