January 11-24, 2010: North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show) - in Downtown Detroit.
official website: www.naias.com
One of the premier international auto shows in the world! Public Show is when all of us get to attend.
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2010 Auto Show Schedule
January 11-12, Press Days
January 13-14, Industry Preview
January 15, Charity Preview Gala
January 16-24, Public Show
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2011 Auto Show Schedule TBA
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January 16-17, 2010: Kalkaska Winterfest - in Kalkaska (northwest lower peninsula, near Traverse City).
official website: kalkaskawinterfest.com
"Home of the Midwest International Dog Sled Race, $6,000 purse, only race in the state with an Unlimited/Open Class". Fest also has Dog Sled Rides, Dog Pull Contest, Indoor Snowman Contest, Disc Golf Tournament, Pond Hockey Tournament, Ice Bowl, vendor/craft show, children's activities and more.
January 22-24, and 29-31, 2010: Tip Up Town USA (TUT) - at Houghton Lake (northern lower peninsula).
official website: www.tip-up-townusa.com
60th in 2010. Friday through Sunday both weekends. "Largest Winter Festival in Michigan, held annually the last two weekends in January." Grand Parade, Fireworks, ice fishing contest, polar bear dip, snowmobile display-rides-racing, coed softball on ice, ice slide, motorcycle ice racing, ice carving, ice sculpture contest, chainsaw carving, carnival rides and games, beverage tent, winter fashion show, turkey & chicken bowling, bed race, kids rides & games, garage sale, scavenger hunt, poker run, Tip Up Town Queen, Mayor and Marshall, more.
January 22-24, 2010 (fri-sun): Plymouth Ice Festival - in Plymouth, MI USA (just west of Detroit)
official website: www.plymouthicefestival.org
Annual Plymouth Ice Sculpture Spectacular "will feature over 100 ice sculptures, live entertainment, interactive family shows, winter-themed tasty treats and a variety of additional events to interest all ages. Several new event highlights include a Dueling Chainsaws Speed Carving Show and the Radio Disney Family Show."
January 27 - Feb 1, 2010 (wed-mon): Zehnder's Snowfest 2010 - in Frankenmuth (mid/east lower peninsula).
official website: www.zehnders.com/snowfest
"Zehnder's Snowfest has been host to one of the top snow sculpting events in North America for the past 19 years. Visitors have enjoyed larger-than-life snow sculptures and beautifully detailed ice carvings each year. Zehnder's Snowfest 2010 will again dazzle and excite you with snow and ice sculptures created by professional ice and snow carvers from around the world. Zehnder's Snowfest is also host to the National Collegiate Ice Carving Championship and the High School Snow Sculpting Competition. In addition, Zehnder's Snowfest will have entertainment for the entire family in the warming tent, a fireworks display, petting zoo and children's activities."
January 29 - Feb 6, 2010: Ferndale Metro Blues Festival - 9th Annual - in Ferndale (just north of Detroit).
official websites: www.ferndalebluesfestival.org and www.myspace.com/ferndalebluesfestival
Live Blues at approx 22 Venues. On Friday and Saturday nights, there will be a shuttle bus running between all the venues. Festival donates proceeds to charity.
January 29-30, 2010 (fri-sat): Ann Arbor Folk Festival - at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor.
official website: theark.org/ann_arbor_folk_festival.html
The Ark's largest annual fundraising event will celebrate its 33rd year with some of the finest in traditional and contemporary artists.
February 4-7, 2010 (thu-sun): 60th Annual Perchville USA Weekend - in Tawas (Lower Peninsula East Shoreline). info page. Kick-Off Party, Parade, Fishing Contest, "Chilly" Cook-off, Polar Bear Swim, family tent with lots of stuff for kids, hospitality tent with beer/wine and live entertainment for adults, softball games on ice, IWPA Dog Pull features dogs from all over the USA, horse-drawn carriage rides, more.
February 6, 2010 (sat): International 500 Snowmobile Race (I-500) - in Sault Ste. Marie (U.P. - Upper Peninsula).
official website: www.i-500.com
"42nd consecutive running of the world's oldest, longest, fastest and most exciting snowmobile endurance race." The I-500 will also be hosting a world class sno-cross racing event at the same time during the I-500 endurance.
February 12-14, 2010 (fri-sun): Detroit's Motown Winter Blast - Downtown at Campus Martius Park.
official website: www.winterblast.com
Admission: either a canned food item, an article of clothing, a book, or $1. Bands on stage will be performing at least three Motown Hits during their sets. Festivalgoers will be able to hear over 200 Motown songs by local musicians. Plus electronic music DJs, wine tasting, amusement rides for kids, ice skating, snow cannons, warm comfort zones, more.
February 13-21, 2010: Detroit Boat Show - 52nd Annual. - in Detroit. [info page].
The "Premier" boating event in the State of Michigan. The Detroit Boat Show is actually known as one of the best boat shows in the country in regards to size, sales, and attendance."
February 26-28, 2010 (fri-sun): Detroit AutoRama - in Detroit.
official web page: www.autorama.com/casi/show/detroit.php
57th Annual. "America's Greatest Hot Rod Show", held at Cobo Center. Includes a Bikini Contest, Pin Up Girl Contest, live entertainment, more.
February 27, 2010 (sat): Trenary Outhouse Classic - Outhouse Races - in Trenary (U.P. - Upper Peninsula).
official website: www.outhouseclassic.com
It's true - people really build and race outhouses on skis! Trophies, cash and prizes awarded for several categories including fastest times and overall appearance, kids to adults. Anyone can enter - build one out of wood and/or cardboard then race it down Main Street. Held annually on the last Saturday in Feb.
February 27, 2010 (sat): 5th Annual Winter Beer Festival - in West MI, just north of Grand Rapids.
official information: www.michiganbrewersguild.org/events.asp
Noon to 5pm. More than 35 Michigan microbreweries and brewpubs, and more than 200 different beers available to sample. Cost is $35 in advance and $40 at the gate if tickets are still available.
March 3-6, 2010 (wed-sat): Metro Times Blowout - in Hamtramck (north of Downtown Detroit).
official website: www.metrotimes.com/blowout
Annual event. Probably the largest local music fest in the U.S., showcasing about 200 Local Michigan Bands at 15 venues over 4 nights. Tickets (wristband) are just $20 each and gets you into each venue, every night including the Launch Party on wednesday. Enjoy this All Local, Big-Time, Music Slavin', Bar-Hopping good time!
March 5-7, 2010 (fri-sun): The Michigan Golf Show in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.michigangolfshow.com
Held at the Rock Financial Showplace, The Nation's Largest Golf Show. Over 400 exhibitors including local, national and world-wide resorts, retailers and specialty. Admission for Adults $10, children 12 and under get in free.
March 6-7, 2010 (sat-sun): Detroit Kennel Club Benched Dog Shows & Obedience Trials in Downtown Detroit.
official website: www.detroitkennelclub.com
Held at Cobo Convention Center. There will also be many demonstrations.
March 17, 2010 (wed): St. Patrick's Day - celebrated in just about every bar in the state. Wear something green!
March 23-28, 2010 (tue-sun): Ann Arbor Film Festival in Ann Arbor.
official website: www.aafilmfest.org
48th Annual. independent & experimental film.
April 9, 2010 (fri): Detroit Tigers Home Opener at Comerica Park in Downtown Detroit.
Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Indians, 1:05pm. Tigers detroit.tigers.mlb.com are in Major League Baseball MLB
April 2010: TEA Party Rallies - Concerns regarding High Taxes and Out Of Control Spending by Michigan Politicians and the U.S. Government. Taxed Enough Already (TEA) party rallies are on different days in many cities throughout Michigan, including Lansing. To find a TEA Party Rally near you, try → TeaPartyExpress.org and for the big day - April 15, 2010 - also try Tax Day Tea Party - Michigan. general info at TeaPartyPatriots.org
bonus links: Americans For Prosperity - AFP Michigan Taxpayer Tea Party and MichiganTeaParties.com
April 16, 2010 (fri): Detroit Music Awards 2010 - DMA Ceremony & Show - in Detroit at The Fillmore Detroit.
official website: www.detroitmusicawards.net
Public is invited with general admission only $20, RSVP's up to $1,000 for a VIP table. It's a Big Time Annual Awards Ceremony put on by the Motor City Music Foundation. This night is all about meeting and congratulating our incredibly talented local musicians in grand style! It's a glorious night of award presentations and live performances. Details and scheduled performers will be posted on website. For information regarding eligibility, submissions, registering, voting, tickets, List of Winners (Congrats!), click official website link.
TBA April 2010 (sat): SASHA Farm Animal Sanctuary 7th Annual Benefit Banquet in Berkley (a few miles north of Detroit) at Farina's Banquet Center, 2485 Coolidge Highway, Berkley, MI 48072.
full info: sashafarm.org/calendar/banquet.htm.
$60 per person, advance tickets only, no tickets at the door. SASHA (Sanctuary And Safe Haven for Animals) Farm, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the Midwest's largest farm animal sanctuary. All proceeds from the event go to helping the 200+ animals who reside happily at the sanctuary. Auction, Dinner, Guest Speaker. Donations are fully tax-deductible. For more information, visit link above or contact Bob Harvie at 248-676-2033.
TBA April 2010 (maybe): Detroit Red Wings NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Start
Wings redwings.nhl.com are in the National Hockey League NHL. home games are at Joe Louis Arena (JLA, The Joe) in Downtown Detroit.
TBA April 2010 (unlikely this year): Detroit Pistons NBA Playoffs Start
Pistons www.nba.com/pistons are in the National Basketball Association NBA. Home games are played at The Palace of Aurburn Hills located northwest of Detroit.
May 1-8, 2010 (sat-sat): Tulip Time Festival - 80th Year! in Holland, MI (West Michigan).
Holland Tulip Festival official website: www.tuliptime.com
A celebration of Dutch heritage and culture. 3 Parades, Klompen Dancers (nearly 1,700 total dancers), music and variety shows from national headline entertainers to the remarkably talented local folk, Dutch Dance performances, Dutch Food, an art and craft fair, fireworks, an outdoor carnival, children's events, trolley tours, more.
May 1, 2010 (sat): Victorian Day in Grand Ledge (just west of Lansing).
official website: www.victoriandays.org
10am - 5pm, annual event on the first Saturday in May. Featured this year will be: a non-motorized parade, a Teddy Bear Tea & Maypole Dance for the kiddies, a High Tea & costume show, kite flying, artisans & craftspeople, and a Civil War encampment and demonstrations.
May 9, 2010 (sun): Mother's Day
May 13-16, 2010 (thu-sun): 50th Annual National Morel Mushroom Festival in Boyne City (Northwest Lower Peninsula). official website: www.morelfest.com
Carnival, crafts show, mushroom hunts, cooking demonstrations, morel seminar, annual mushroom pole, farmer's market, two concerts, disc golf tournament, more.
May 14-16, 2010 (fri-sun): WYCD Downtown Hoedown 2010 - in Detroit at Hart Plaza.
official information will be on: wycd.com
28th Annual. 99.5 WYCD Country Music Fest includes established & new artists "and is widely recognized as the largest Country Music show of its kind in the world." List of performers and schedule will be posted on website.
May 14-16, 2010 (fri-sun): Motor City Comic Con in Novi.
official website: www.motorcityconventions.com/motor_city_comic_con
Annual "multi-media event with over 1 million comics and collectables for sale and trade. "Comic books, writers, artists, anime, gaming, special guests, and more. Convention held at the Rock Financial Showplace.
May 29-31, 2010 (sat-mon): Detroit Electronic Music Festival (Movement: Detroit) - in Downtown Detroit.
official websites: www.myspace.com/detroitmusicfest and www.demf.com
Annual internationally recognized Memorial Day weekend event produced by Paxahau. List of performers will be posted. Event was formerly known as "FUSE-in: Detroit's Electronic Movement" and "Detroit Techno Fest".
May 31, 2010 (mon): Memorial Day
To find most fireworks shows in Michigan, click: Fireworks Displays in Michigan for 2009
search by date or by city. This annually updated database is the most impressive list that Mike can find.
June 4-6, 2010 (fri-sun): Festival of the Arts - Grand Rapids (West MI).
official website: www.festivalgr.org
41st. It's an annual event known as "Festival". A FREE community showcase of the arts: visual, performing & culinary West Michigan artists. The area's bands, choirs, rock, folk, country, blues - the works. Food booths operated by area churches and nonprofit organizations. Touch art.
June 5-6, 2010 (sat-sun): Red Bull Air Race - above the Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor. Host city is Windsor, Ontario (Canada). Red Bull Air Race World Series 2009 is in only six cities worldwide. "Using the fastest, most agile and lightweight racing planes, pilots navigate a low-level aerial race track made up of air-filled pylons, reaching speeds of 400 km/h while withstanding forces of up to 10 Gs." www.redbullairrace.com.
June 5-20, 2010: Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival - in Southeast Michigan.
official website: www.greatlakeschambermusic.com
annual event. approximately 20 concerts, various locations. "Experience the artistry of world-class musicians performing classic and contemporary chamber works in beautiful venues. The Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival presents its 16th season, led by Artistic Director and pianist, James Tocco."
June 10-13, 2010 (thu-sun): Bavarian Festival - in Frankenmuth (Mid-MI).
official information: Bavarian Fest
52nd Annual. Authentically dressed German bands, rides, games, dance music, craft area, German foods and plenty of ice-cold beer - imported and domestic. Each year, over 100,000 people enjoy the annual Sunday Big Parade, which is being held on June 15th.
June 16-19, 2010 (wed-sat): Miss Michigan Pageant & Finals - in Muskegon (West MI).
official website: www.missmichigan.org
Pageant provides educational opportunities to young women across the State of Michigan. Tickets $30.
June 17-19, 2010 (thu-sat): 6th Annual Hot Blues and BBQ - in Oxford (north of Detroit). official website: www.hotbluesandbbq.com
Competition and Show, Free Admission includes a part of the Detroit Blues Challenge - a series of competitions in which winning acts advance to the next round, with the ultimate goal of sending one band from Metro Detroit to the National Blues Competition in Memphis, Tenn.
June 18 - July 11, 2010: Ann Arbor Summer Festival - Season No. 27 - in Ann Arbor.
official website: www.annarborsummerfestival.org
Jazz superstars, Motown legends, Broadway hoofers, soul revivalists, daredevil acrobats, downtown DJs, more. From alternative folk to improv comedy to experimental fringe. A variety of headlining talent alongside some of today's up-and-coming young artists. Held at various locations, need to pay admission for most performances.
June 19, 2010 (sat): 10th Annual Andy Ross Charity Motorcycle Ride - in Trenton (south of Detroit).
official website: www.andyrossrun.org
Starts at NOON sharp. This motorcycle run is hosted by the Trenton Firefighters and Police. Nearly 1,000 motorcycles show up to have a good time and support a good cause. The Ride with police escort starts at Elizabeth Park in Trenton, traveling through several of the scenic Huron-Clinton Metroparks with a halfway stop at Milan. Registration fee is $30 per rider/$55 with passenger before June 1st, afterward it is $40/$65.
TBA 2010 (sat): Cruisin' Gratiot - in Eastpointe (just north of Detroit).
official website: www.Cruisin-Gratiot.com
Annual car cruise. a week long celebration of automotive history, tradition, memorabilia, car shows, Idol Contest, Guitar Hero Contest, and family outings leading up to officially Cruisin' Gratiot, the Saturday before Father's Day.
June 20, 2010 (sun): Father's Day
TBA 2010 (sat): World's Longest Breakfast Table and Cereal Festival - in Battle Creek (Southwest MI).
official website: www.worldslongestbreakfasttable.com
150+ breakfast tables, parade, entertainment, karaoke idol contest, more.
TBA 2010 (thu-sat): Benny's Bike Rally - in Midland (Mid-MI).
official website: www.bennysbikerally.org
Annual three day motorcycle rally held rain or shine. Flat Track Motorcycle Race, Rebel Girls Bikini Contest, $500 Poker Run, American Hellriders Wall of Death, bike games, live bands, more. weekend tickets $65 advance $55, daily $25, camp sites also available/extra. part of the proceeds go to charity.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Belleville National Strawberry Festival - in Belleville (west of Detroit).
official website: www.nationalstrawberryfest.com
33rd annual. parade, carnival, car show, music and other entertainment, arts & crafts, marathon race and more every Father's Day weekend.
TBA 2010 (fri-sat): Island Festival - in Downtown Kalamazoo (West MI).
official websites: www.islandfestkalamazoo.com and www.myspace.com/islandfestival
14th Annual in 2009. Reggae music includes "international, national, regional, and local talent and is the largest celebration of the Caribbean culture in Michigan."
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Detroit River Days - in Downtown Detroit at the Riverfront.
official website: www.detroitriverdays.com
music stage, parade of lights, kids zone, Coast Guard Days, more.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Arab American International Festival - in Dearborn (west side of Detroit).
information website: www.americanarab.com/festival
14th Annual. 3-day event is a free, family-centered cultural celebration that will attract over 300,000 people from Michigan, the Midwest, and Canada. It boasts a great number of amusements, live musical acts-both local and international, 30 international food booths, coffee cup readings, henna, arts and crafts, a children's tent, artisans, Arab merchandise, a giant old-fashioned Ferris wheel, more.
TBA 2010 (sat): International Tug Boat Race - on the Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor.
official website: www.tugrace.com
Annual. "As many as 30 tugs of all sizes race in a mad dash for the finish line. Tugs ranging in length from 45 to 140 feet compete at the same time, all muscling for the best position. Some of the larger tugs are actual working tugs with more than 2,000 horsepower, the Detroit River boils as the tugs create a huge wake."
TBA 2010 (wed): Detroit Fireworks (51st Annual Target Fireworks) - in Downtown Detroit on the Riverfront.
official info: www.theparade.org/riverdays.php
Michigan's largest fireworks display. This was originally scheduled for Monday, June 22nd, but moved to Wednesday the 24th. Including across the river in Windsor, Canada, about one million people will see this fireworks display.
June 25, 2010 (fri): JobbieNooner (Jobbie Nooner I) at Gull Island on Lake St. Clair (northeast of Detroit).
info: jobbienooner.com [for adults only, must be 18+] and www.myspace.com/jobbienooner
Annual Mardi Gras style boats and island party. Jobbienooners are Adult, 18yrs and older events. It's a wild good time traditionally held on the 1st Friday of Summer.
Need Mardi Gras Beads for JobbieNooner? See a great selection including Glow Beads → Click Here
June 25-27, 2010 (fri-sun): Gold Cup (Unlimited Hydroplane Boat Race) on Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor. official website: www.gold-cup.com
Big-Time Annual event, official title: Chyrsler Jeep Superstores Detroit APBA Gold Cup. Unlimited Hydroplane Boat Racing on the Detroit River includes other hydroplane classes.
June 25-27, 2010 (fri-sun): Michigan Challenge Balloonfest - in Howell.
official website: www.michiganchallenge.com
25th Annual. One of the premier summer-time activities in Michigan with balloon launches and entertainment for the entire family.
June 26, 2010 (sat): Cruisin' Downriver - 11th Annual - just south of Detroit.
official website: www.cruisindownriver.com
Cruise Fort Street through the cities of Lincoln Park, Riverview, Southgate, and Wyandotte. Over 500,000 car buffs and enthusiasts are expected.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Stars and Stripes Festival - in Mount Clemens (north of Detroit).
official website: www.starsandstripesfest.com additional info: www.myspace.com/funfestproductions
Annual Festival is FREE to the public and features a full carnival, nationally known and local music acts, art displays, fireworks, food vendors, more.
TBA 2010 (sun): Livonia Spree Grand Finale Fireworks Extravaganza - in Livonia, just west of Detroit.
official website: www.livoniaspree.com/Spree/Fireworks.html
Annual 30-minutes fireworks show concludes a week long celebration of founding of the city. Night includes live bands, daytime has a carnival.
TBA 2010: Detroit Festival of the Arts in Detroit - skipped 2009, might be back in 2010.
official website: www.detroitfestival.com
2009 cancelled due to area construction but the 22nd will return in 2010. Annual family friendly festival presents outstanding visual and performing artists from around the world, while showcasing the city's premier arts and cultural institutions clustered within its boundaries.
To find most fireworks shows in Michigan, click: Fireworks Displays in Michigan for 2009
search by date or by city. This annually updated database is the most impressive list that Mike can find.
Rothbury Music Festival Cancelled for 2010 www.rothburyfestival.com
July 3-10, 2010 (sat-sat): National Cherry Festival in Traverse City.
official website: www.cherryfestival.org
84th. over 150 events, including free air shows over the Bay, colorful parades, music shows, sporting events, marching bands, rides on the midway, pie-eating contests, loads of luscious cherries prepared every way you can imagine and a world record attempt to host the world's largest cherry pancake breakfast!"
July 4, 2010 (sun): Independence Day USA
TBA 2010 (wed-sun): Comerica CityFest [formerly called Comerica TasteFest] - in Detroit.
official website: www.newcenter.com/cityfest/info.htm
Annual event has lots of food, with national and local music performers.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Taylor Summer Festival in Taylor (south of Detroit).
official information: www.cityoftaylor.com/summerfestival
annual event. Free music concerts, plus a Carnival with rides, charity barbecue cook-off, Vegas Games including a No-Limit Texas Hold'em, 5K Run and Walk, mud volleyball tournaments, charity softball tournament, Four big-screen TVs for gaming, dunk tank, Ladder Golf, cup stacking, tug of war, basketball shoot-out competition, a DJ, kids activities, more.
July 9-10, 2010 (fri-sat): Michigan Elvisfest 2010 in Ypsilanti.
official website: www.mielvisfest.org
Annual event. One of The Largest Elvisfest Concerts in North America. This not a contest but a true concert with spectacular performances by the best professional Elvis Tribute Artists in North America.
July 10, 2010 (sat): 4th Annual Michigan Vet Fest - at the Dearborn Elks Club Post 1945 (west side of Detroit).
official websites: www.michiganvetfest.org and www.myspace.com/vetfest
Michigan Veterans Festival starts at noon. Free admission, 100% of proceeds goes to help veterans in need. Fest 2010 features the Cruisin Michigan Ave/Michigan Harley Riders Bike Run, at least 14 Live bands on 2 stages, many special guests, Ceremonies honoring Michigan Veterans, Prizes, raffles, giveaways and more. Elks Club is located at 25000 Michigan Ave, between Telegraph Rd and Beech Daly.
July 12-18, 2010 (mon-sun): Common Ground Music Festival in downtown Lansing.
official website: www.commongroundfest.com
"The featured component of Common Ground - top-shelf, national musical performers - will occupy two (2) main stages each night. Keeping with the design of the event, the headline shows will spotlight numerous contemporary musical formats including: Country, Classic Rock, New Rock and R&B. While the best available national talent will top-off each night of the festival, a variety of local, regional and other national performers will ignite other festival stages with non-stop music of all kinds throughout the Festival."
July 15-18, 2010 (thu-sun): Annual Venetian Festival in St. Joseph (Southwest MI)
official website: www.venetian.org
Fireworks, canival rides, concerts & live entertainment, food: "Taste for Southwest Michigan", Lighted Boat Parade and judging, Classic Boat Display and judging, juried crafts show, classic car show, various competitions, kids area, more.
July 16-18, 2010 (fri-sun): Jackson Hot Air Jubilee (Balloon Festival) in Jackson (Southwest MI).
official website: www.hotairjubilee.com
Annual event. 65-70 Hot Air Balloons, morning launches, Balloon Night Glow at Dusk - Tethered balloons put on a spectacular light show. Plus Arts and Crafts show, car show, stunt kite demonstrations, Kids' Kingdom, kiddies carnival rides, radio controlled airplanes and cars, static aircraft displays, antique military displays, live entertainment.
July 16, 2010 (fri): Boat Night in Port Huron - Port Huron to Mackinac Island prerace bash.
July 17, 2010 (sat start date): 2010 Bayview Mackinac Race (Port Huron To Mackinac Sailing Race)
official website: www.byc.com - Mackinac Race info page - future dates
86th sailing of the Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Race is one of the greatest freshwater yacht races in the world and has a 298 statute mile course. It is also known as the Bayview Mackinac Races, Port Huron to Mackinac Island Yacht Race.
New last year → Follow the Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Race online via GPS positions and more on www.michigan.org/bayview.
July 21-24, 2010 (wed-sat): Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair in Ann Arbor.
official web page: www.theguild.org/art_fair_summer.html
Annual Event. "award-winning juried fair features ceramics, painting, jewelry, sculpture, photography, glass, wood, fiber and much more. Fairgoers can also enjoy lively street corner entertainment, artists' demonstrations, children's activities and the distinctive shops and restaurants of Ann Arbor." For information about additional art fairs sponsored by the Michigan Guild, click here
July 22-25, 2010 (wed-sat): National Baby Food Festival 2010 (NBFF) in Fremont ("Baby Food Capital of the World"). official website: www.babyfoodfest.com
Annual event, features a Grand Parade, Children's Parade, Carnival, Baby Food Cook-Off with cash prizes, the Baby Crawl, a daily Kid's Zone with arts and crafts activity, contests, musicians, clowns, more. Grown-Ups: Karaoke Contest, Headliner Entertainment, Bed Race, 5 and 10K run, Arts and Crafts Show, Car Show, Adult Baby Food Eating Contest, more.
July 22-31, 2010: Ionia Free Fair 2010 (Ionia Fair) in Ionia (northwest of Lansing).
official website: www.ioniafreefair.com
"the 49th Largest Fair in the Nation". Ionia Idol Competition, concerts from national and local acts, contests, carnival rides, national championship horsepulling, extreme bull riding, Demo scramble & derby, more.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Quake on the Lake in Waterford. (northwest of Detroit)
official website: www.quakeonthelake.org
9th Annual. Inboard hydroplane boat races.
TBA 2010 (fri-sat): Annual Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti.
official website: www.michiganbrewersguild.org
12th Annual. tickets $25-$30 per-day in advance, $30-$35 at gate if available. Drink Michigan Beer!
TBA 2010: Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven (West MI).
official website: www.ghcgfest.org
Annual event Dedicated to the Men & Women of the United States Coast Gaurd.
TBA 2010 (sat): Telegraph Tomorrow Classic Car Cruise (5th Annual Telegraph Cruise / Cruisin Telegraph) just west of Detroit in Taylor, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Redford. Telegraph Car Cruise info at: City of Taylor - WOMC. This cruise was formerly called "Cruizin' Telegraph".
TBA 2010 (thu-sat): Sterlingfest Art and Jazz Fair in Sterling Heights (just north of Detroit).
Sterlingfest website
28th Festival features a juried arts & crafts fair, jazz and blues stage, main national headliner stage, Suds'n'Sounds stage, Kidzfest children's activities and entertainment stage, a family midway, Balloon Launch, food.
July 29 - Aug 1, 2010 (thu-sun): Woodtick Music Festival in the U.P. (upper peninsula)
official website: www.woodtickfestival.com
annual "Woodtick Music Festival is a home-grown, Upper Peninsula style shindig featuring a variety of regional and not so regional bands who all have one thing in common .... they're damn good!"
Michigan State Fair - No Longer Exists. This annual celebration for 103 years had its last one in 2009.
Detroit Grand Prix - Cancelled - formerly held in Detroit on Belle Isle (Detroit River).
official website: www.detroitgp.com
2009 and 2010 cancelled due to poor economy. Next possible date might be in 2011. This former auto racing event started with American LeMans Series racing then culminating with the IndyCar® Series Grand Prix.
TBA 2010 (sat): Riverfolk Music & Arts Festival in Manchester (a little southwest of Ann Arbor).
official website: riverfolkfestival.org
Annual. Traditional folk, bluegrass and world music that continues to evolve, new creative artists, an array of music and dance workshops, old time fiddle contest, giant mural paintings, stage shows and wonders for the kids that include instrument-making, face painting, water maze, origami and craft work area, rain sticks, drum circles, a kids' parade, more. Festival features an art show with visual artists sharing creations of jewelry, painting, instrument making, stained glass, pottery, more.
TBA 2010 (sun): Clinton Township Gratiot Cruise - annual car cruise north of Detroit.
official website: www.ctgratiotcruise.com
Also has a car show. Takes place around the Gratiot Ave and 16 Mile Rd (Metropolitan Parkway) area.
TBA 2010 (sun): Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance in Rochester Hills (north of Detroit).
official website: www.meadowbrookconcours.org
30th. The World's Best Exhibition of Antique & Classic Collector Automobiles. Not just a car show - it is an entire week of events that celebrate the lifestyle and legacy of our automotive heritage. 30th Anniversary show will feature "The Best of Detroit", The 100th Anniversary of Morgan and a celebration of British Sports Cars, "The Class of 1959", Hispano Suiza, Packard V-12, 40th Anniversary of McLaren Engine Race Cars, Featured Museum – The Gilmore Museum, Swoopy Coupes and British motorcycles.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Great Lakes Folk Festival - in East Lansing.
official website: www.greatlakesfolkfest.net
Annual FREE festival "showcases the traditional cultural treasures of the nation's Upper Midwest and a sampling of the best of traditional artists from around the country and the world, encourages cross-cultural understanding of our diverse society through the presentation of musicians, dancers, cooks, storytellers and craftspeople. includes 100 musicians or dancers in groups, five performance stages."
August 13-15, 2010 (fri-sun): Milford Memories Summer Festival - in Milford (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.milfordmemories.com
Annual event. Juried Art show with over 260 artists and crafters from across the United States and Canada displaying and selling their work. Lots of Live Music and Entertainment, Kid Central Activity Area, Beer Tent, Civil War Encampment, 5K & 10K Run, Hot Pepper Eating Contest, Cold Butt Euchre, Blind Canoe Race, more. Event has Shuttle Bus service.
August 13-15, 2010 (fri-sun): St. Johns Mint Festival - 26th Annual - in St. Johns City Park (Clinton County, Mid-MI).
official website: www.clintoncountychamber.org/mint
Grand Parade, over 200 arts & crafts and flea market vendors, quilt show, new & old car shows, 5 sports events, kids games, laser tag, inflatables, free daily and evening entertainment, Classic K9 Dog shows, Mint Eating & Cooking Contests, much more. phone 989-224-7248.
August 21, 2010 (sat): WOODWARD DREAM CRUISE - on Woodward Ave from Detroit's north border to Pontiac.
official website: www.woodwarddreamcruise.com
THE World's Biggest, Best and Most Famous Car Cruise, the greatest one-day car event in the world. The WDC is held annually every third saturday in August, is 16 miles long and goes through several cities just north of Detroit. Event is now about 9 days long with many associated and pre-cruise events all over Metro Detroit and draws over one million people each year.
Woodward Dream Cruise associated and related links ...
Ferndale Dream Cruise Retrofest - at 9 Mile & Woodward, friday through sunday of WDC.
Cruisin' MotorCities - whole week of the WDC, various events and places.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): African World Festival - Annual - in Downtown Detroit. info when available. 2009 joint festival combines the African World Festival and the International Caribbean Festival & Parade. Annual event held the third weekend of August at Hart Plaza.
TBA 2010: Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.michrenfest.com
Annual event. Festival is held on weekends and Labor Day, rain or shine. "visitors may also partake in games of skill or enjoy non-stop entertainment where belly dancers, sword swallowers, musicians, comedians and sword fighters provide merriment for all ages. The Festival is best known for it's awe-inspiring full-contact armored jousting tournaments where gallant knights defend their honor until the last man is standing!"
TBA 2010: Selfridge Air Show in Mt. Clemens (north of Detroit).
official website: www.selfridgeairshow.org
Free admission and free parking. Features the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
TBA 2010 (fri-sat): Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise® in Grand Rapids (West MI).
official website: www.28thstreetmetrocruise.com
The event is free and open to all types of vehicles, and spans an area along 15 miles of the famed 28th Street. A high end Metro Million car display, the #12 Futurliner display, a family Safety City area with children's rides, Beer Tents with live entertainment, the Freedom Riders, and much more. Last year's event featured over 15,000 cars and 300,000 spectators.
TBA 2010 (sat-sun): Peoples Arts Festival (PAF) in Detroit.
official website: www.peoplesartsfestival.com
Free Admission, held at the Russell Industrial Center, 1600 Clay St, Detroit, MI 48211. More Than 100 Visual Artists and Craftspeople, over 60 Bands and Performers, plus Film and Fashion. Festival is devoted to all aspects of the art community, encompassing art, music, film and the rebirth of Detroit.
TBA 2010 continuing: Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly. see listing above.
Festival takes you back in time to the renaissance era with knights and old villager attire.
TBA September, 2010 (fri-mon): Detroit International Jazz Festival in Detroit on the Riverfront.
official website: www.detroitjazzfest.com
Free Admission. 29th Annual Detroit Jazz Fest. Six stages, Jazz & American music.
TBA September, 2010 (fri-mon): Arts, Beats & Eats Festival in Royal Oak (just north of Detroit).
official website: www.artsbeatseats.com
12th annual in 2009, $2 Admission each day. Oakland County's Summer Festival, 150+ music acts, 150 artists, many restaurants. held every Labor Day Weekend. Festival moves from Pontiac to Royal Oak in 2010.
TBA 2010 (fri-mon): Hamtramck Labor Day Festival - 29th Annual in Hamtramck (within Detroit).
website: www.hamtramcklaborday.com
Hamtramck Festival has more than 500,000 annual visitors, live music on two stages, carnival rides, Polish Day Parade, samplings of ethnic food, cultural dancers, children's activities, more.
September 6, 2010 (mon): Labor Day
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Art & Apples festival - 44th Annual in Rochester (north of Detroit).
official website: www.artandapples.com
Over 100,000 attend The National City Art & Apples Festival which is Michigan's second largest juried fine arts festival and includes over 250 fine art exhibitors, a variety of food, live entertainment, and free kids art activities. It's held annually on the weekend following Labor Day in the scenic 30-acre Rochester Park and serves as a principle fundraiser for Paint Creek Center for the Arts (PCCA), a non-profit art center.
TBA 2010 (sat): Dally in the Alley in Detroit.
official website: www.dallyinthealley.com
32nd, "The Greenest Festival in Detroit". A performing arts festival and street fair held annually the Saturday after Labor Day. "One of the only non-corporate sponsored community festivals in the United States". It includes a Local Artist Gallery and features a lot of live music on 4 stages. note: rain date is the next day Sept 13th.
TBA 2010 (sat): Jobbienooner II (Jobbie Nooner 2).
TBA 2010 (thu-sun): Troy Daze Festival in Troy (north of Detroit).
official website: www.troymi.gov/troydaze
In Boulan Park, on Crooks Rd between Big Beaver (16 Mile) and Wattles Rd. Amusement Rides, Carnival Games, Live Entertainment, various contests, talent show, pony rides, petting zoo, student art, kids activities, Fireworks Show on Sunday, much more.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Michigan Irish Music Festival in Muskegon (West Michigan).
official website: www.michiganirish.org
"Featuring all things Irish... a wide variety of music, the pub tent, market place merchandise, authentic Irish food and beverages".
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Northville Victorian Festival in Northville (a little northwest of Detroit).
[info] Annual event. Streets will be closed to automobile traffic as townspeople, artists, and business owners turn back the clock and transform themselves into a Victorian Village complete with period costumes, parade, free trackless train and horse and carriage rides, storytellers, magicians, musical entertainment, more.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Clinton Fall Festival - 36th Annual in Clinton (lower southeast MI).
official website: www.clintonfallfestival.com
Features a Grand Parade that starts with an air show, free stage entertainment, a talent search, over 250 Arts and Craft booths, Car Show exceeding 500 entries, Motorcycle Show, kids events, 5K Run/Walk, raffle with $10,000 first prize, more. In Lenawee County, near the Ohio border.
Most Halloween Events are on Madman Mike's Michigan Haunted Houses Attractions Events 2009 List - The most extensive annually updated linked listings of Haunted Houses and Attractions throughout all of Michigan all on one page. It also has links to local Halloween events, Real Ghost Hunters and Paranormal Investigators in Michigan, plus other interesting information.
TBA 2010 continuing Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly. www.michrenfest.com
Festival started August 15th, click month of August or September to see description.
TBA 2010 (fri-sun): Trenton Scarecrow Festival 2009 - in Trenton (Downriver, south of Detroit).
official website:www.scarecrowfestival.net
Features a Scarecrow Contest, local and national musical acts including a Battle of the Bands broadcast live on the Internet, Scarecrow Idol contest with finalists competing live on the Internet, Tug-O-War, Hot Dog Eating contest, Strongman Competition, Arts & Crafts, Dog Costume contest, children's area with games/rides, and more.
TBA 2010 (sun): Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff and Motorcycle Show in Plymouth (west of Detroit). For official information: click here. Annual event has streets packed with people. Chili Cook-Off Competition, Restaurant Chili Challenge, Bike Show, Chili Ride, Live Entertainment, Salsa Competition, Children's Activities, proceeds benefit local charities.
October 17, 2010 (sun): Detroit Free Press / Flagstar Bank Marathon - Annual running festival in Detroit.
official website: www.freepmarathon.com
Over 10,000 participants, it features a full marathon, a half marathon and other assorted runs. Future plans have it on the 3rd Sunday in Oct through 2009.
TBA 2010 (sat): International Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum Induction and Awards in Detroit.
official websites: www.igmhf.org and www.myspace.com/igmhf
13th Annual Induction and Awards Celebration held at the Max M. Fisher Music Center. Tickets are $75 in advance and $100 at the door. To purchase tickets call 313-592-0017 or visit www.igmhf.org.
October 31, 2010 (sun): Halloween Day. Trick or Treat!
TBA 2010 (thu-sat): Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival - in Grand Rapids, West MI.
official website: www.showspan.com/GRW/Home.aspx
The largest wine and food festival in Michigan, it's an annual Pre-Holiday event and one of the premier events of it's kind in the Midwest for the celebration and tasting of the finest foods, wines, beers and spirits.
TBA 2010#58; Deer Hunting Season (Regular Firearm) [official info].
TBA 2010 (fri): Annual Lighting of Detroit's Holiday Tree - at Campus Martius Park [info when available].
TBA 2010 (sat): Motown 50 Golden Gala - at the Detroit Marriot on Detroit's Riverfront. Tickets $350 to $1,000. Hosted by comedian and actor Sinbad. Dinner, Honors and Special Guest Performances, featured performance by The Temptations. download full information or call 313-875-2264.
November 25, 2010 (thu): Detroit's Thanksgiving Day Parade (America's Thanksgiving Parade) in Downtown Detroit. official website: www.theparade.org
9:20am till noon. Nationally televised parade filled with award-winning floats, larger than life balloons, marching bands, celebrities, antique papier-mâché heads, lots of clowns, Santa, more.
TBA 2010: Wayne County LightFest - just west of Detroit. 7-10pm daily (closed Christmas Day). The Midwest's longest drive-through holiday light display. Four miles of of giant animated displays and nearly a million lights for a $5/car donation. Enter at Hines Drive off Merriman Rd, 2 1/2 miles south of I-96 between Ann Arbor Trail and Warren Ave in Westland. For more information or to register a bus/limo, call 734-261-1990.
Motown 50 (Motown's 50th Anniversary Celebration) ends in December 2009.
website: www.motown50.com
A year long national celebration of the start of Motown Records on Jan 12, 1959, in Detroit and the following success of its many music artists. Surprisingly, no big events in Detroit area for the average fan have been announced - just the usual Hitsville tours and book signings. There was a Motown 50 Gala on November 21st, but it was not for the average fan since tickets started at $350 each and went up to $1,000 per-person.
Looking for Real Reindeer? Enjoy Sleigh Rides? Want to see Santa and Elves?
Madman Mike hooks you up! Get in touch with: Carousel Acres in South Lyon (west of Detroit).
New to Michigan? Just Visiting? Here is a timely "Heads Up" from Madman Mike.
Annually This Time of Year, the Outstanding and Amazing People of Michigan are known to ...
Do Good Deeds, Be Extra Nice, Spread Goodwill To All, Visit Family and Friends, Do A LOT of Shopping, Impressively Decorate Their Homes, Attend Many Christmas Parties and Wildly Celebrate on New Year's Eve!
Michigan Christmas Holiday Events are listed on Mike's Christmas And Santa page.
December 25, 2009 (friday): Christmas Day - Merry Christmas!
December 31, 2009 (thursday): New Year's Eve parties everywhere.
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