Popular Events and Festivals in Michigan

Michigan Galaxy Pageants - Mrs. / Ms. / Miss /Miss Teen

January 6-8, 2012: International Motorcycle Show 2012 – in Novi, MI (northwest of Detroit).
info at: www.motorcycleshows.com/Novi
Annual show put on by Progressive International Motorcycle Shows - the largest motorcycle show series in the world. Powersports enthusiasts get to see the latest and greatest innovations, products and services, as well as the hottest new motorcycles, custom bikes, ATVs, scooters and more. Held at Suburban Collection Showplace (formerly the Rock Financial Showplace). Adult tickets $13 to $30 (advance, daily, 3-day). parking $5. ticket specials online.

January 9-22, 2012: North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show 2012, NAIAS 2012) – in Downtown Detroit.
official website: www.naias.com
One of the premier international auto shows in the world! Held at Cobo Center, located in Downtown Detroit at the Riverfront. Public Show is when all of us get to check out the cars.

2012 NAIAS Auto Show Schedule
January 9-10, Press Days
January 11-12, Industry Preview
January 13, Charity Preview Gala
January 14-22, Public Show

January 14, 2012 (sat): Annual Royal Oak Toy Show – in Royal Oak, just north of Detroit.
info at: candgnews.com + Royal Oak Farmers Market
Held at the Royal Oak Farmers Market, 9am - 2pm. Features antique and nostalgic toys and collectibles from different eras. It's one of the largest toy shows in the region, and "the best toy show in Michigan as far as what's presented. It's not a train show. It's not a doll show. It's a general toy show." Admission $4, free for kids under 12.

January 14-15, 2012: Kalkaska Winterfest and Midwest International Dog Sled Race – in Kalkaska (northwest lower peninsula, near Traverse City). official website: kalkaskawinterfest.com
"Featuring the Largest Sprint Race in North Americs, Purse is $7,000. It's the only race in the state with an Unlimited/Open Class". IWPA Weight Pull ($1,250 Purse) features dogs from all over the USA. Winterfest 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 20-22, and 27-29, 2012: Tip Up Town USA (TUT) – at Houghton Lake (northern lower peninsula).
official websites: www.tip-up-townusa.com + houghtonlakechamber.net/tipuptown.php + facebook
62nd in 2012. 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 20-22, 2012 (fri-sun): Plymouth Ice Festival – in Plymouth, MI USA (just west of Detroit)
official websites: www.plymouthicefestival.org + facebook
29th Annual "will feature over 100 ice sculptures, live music and entertainment, interactive family shows, winter-themed tasty treats and a variety of additional events to interest all ages. Several new event highlights include the Dueling Chainsaws Speed Carving Show, Forest Avenue Scavenger Hunt, Penniman Ave., Petting Farm & Pony Rides. An estimated 100,000 people are slated to attend the three-day event." Formerly known as the Plymouth International Ice Sculpture Spectacular.

January 25-30, 2012 (wed-mon): Zehnder's Snowfest 2012 – in Frankenmuth (mid/east lower peninsula).
official website: www.zehnders.com/promotions/festivals.htm
"One of the top snow sculpting events in North America for the past 20 years. Once again we will 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 27-28, 2012 (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 35th year with some of the finest in traditional and contemporary artists. Live music entertainment.

January 27-29, 2012 (fri-sun): Village of Rochester Hills Fire and Ice Festival – (north of Detroit), Annual.
info when available: www.downtownrochestermi.com/events/events-calendar
features an ice sculpture show, tubing hill, ice skating, TasteFest, fireworks, more.

January 27 - Feb 4, 2012:: Ferndale Blues Festival – in Ferndale (just north of Detroit).
official websites: www.ferndalebluesfestival.org and www.myspace.com/ferndalebluesfestival
Annual Blues Fest. Approximately 60 concerts, nine days, two dozen locations.

January 28, 2012 (sat): Heikinpäivä 2012 – in Hancock (U.P., northwest upper peninsula).
official info at: pasty.com/heikki/index.html
a Finnish-American celebration associated with Heikki Day (St. Henrik's day, January 19th). Has events throughout the weeks leading up to the primary festival day. Finnish crafts, music, food, films and games. Parade, Boot-throwing & Wife-carrying competitions, Tanssit (Dance), Seisovapöytä (Finnish buffet), Finnish games, Vipukelkka (whipsled), reindeer encampment, dog sled demos, Lumijuoksu (Snow Run), more.

February 3-5, 2012 (friday): Perchville USA 2012 – in Tawas (Lower Peninsula East Shoreline). info when available. 62nd Annual in 2012. Kick-Off Dinner, Parade, Fishing Contest, "Chilly" Cook-off, Polar Bear Swims, family tent with lots of stuff for kids, hospitality tent with beer/wine and live entertainment for adults, horse-drawn carriage rides, more.

February 3-5, 2012 (fr-sun): Annual Mount Clemens Ice Carving Show – in Mt. Clemens (northeast of Detroit). info when available. Live ice carving demonstrations, dozens of sculptures, and an Ice Sculpture Putt-Putt Course... a 9 hole miniature golf course incorporating ice sculptures. Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser is on friday. info: 586-469-4168.

February 4, 2012 (sat): International 500 Snowmobile Race (Soo I-500) – in Sault Ste. Marie (U.P. - Upper Peninsula).
official websites: www.i-500.com + facebook + youtube
"44th consecutive running of the world's oldest, longest, fastest and most exciting snowmobile endurance race." Anticipated Purse: $30,000. Track opens for practice on Jan 31st. Also has a Vintage Snowmobile Show on race day.

February 5, 2012: Super Bowl Sunday – New England Patriots vs New York Giants.  Super Bowl XLVI (46) Details

February 10-12, 2012 (fri-sun): Motown Winter Blast – in Downtown Detroit at Campus Martius Park.
official website: www.winterblast.com
Admission: donate a canned food item or a book (or $1) to gain entrance. Ice Skating, Ice Sculptures, Bar Blast, Bands and DJs on three stages, food, heated warm zones, more. 2012 Motown Winter Blast Logo Contest submissions are due by January 4th – 1st Place is valued at $1,500, plus your logo design will be used in Motown Winter Blast promotions and communications across Metro Detroit. also money for 2nd & 3rd place.

February 11-19, 2012: Detroit Boat Show - 54th Annual – at Cobo Center in Downtown Detroit.
two info pages: boatmichigan.org + facebook
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 16-20, 2012: UP200 Sled Dog Championship, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 – in Western Upper Peninsula.
official websites: up200.org + facebook
"The UP200 is one of America's premier 12-dog, mid-distance sled dog races, an Iditarod qualifying race, draws mushers from around the United States and Canada. Coinciding with the UP200 is the eight-dog Midnight Run, a race from Marquette to Munising. The JackPine 30 rounds out the weekend with a six-dog, 30-mile sprint from Gwinn, Michigan to Marquette."

February 17-19, 2012 (fri-sun): Shanty Days in Caseville (Thumb area).
information: www.casevillechamber.net/
20th annual in 2012. Ice Fishing Contests, Chili Cookoff, Potty Trotty outhouse race, Human Bowling, Texas Hold-Em Tournament, Raffle, Pool Tournament, Beer Tent, Live Music, Karaoke, DJ & Dancing, Snow Golf, Cold Butt Euchre, kids entertainment, Fireworks, more.

February 25, 2012 (sat): Coopersville Outhouse 500 and Chili Cook-Off – in West Michigan, northwest of Grand Rapids.
official information: www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org
8th Annual. The last Saturday of every February, the Coopersville/Polkton Firemen's Club hosts a race of outhouses down Main Street Coopersville! pre-registration required for the chili cook-off.

February 24-26, 2012 (fri-sun): Detroit AutoRama – in Downtown Detroit.
official web page: www.autorama.com/shows/attend/detroit-2012
Annual vehicle show held at Cobo Center. "America's Finest Hot Rods, Customs, Trucks and Motorcycles". includes Drag City USA featuring Vintage Race Cars, Motorcity Mavens 2012 Auto Art Panel Jam & Charity Auction, 18th Annual Toy-A-Rama, Autorama Pinup Girl Contest, live entertainment, more. General Admission $18, Children 6-12 $5, Children 5 & Under Free.

February 25, 2012 (sat): 7th Annual Winter Beer Festival – in West MI, just north of Grand Rapids.
official information: michiganbrewersguild.businesscatalyst.com
Noon to 5pm. More than 35 Michigan microbreweries and brewpubs, and more than 200 different beers available to sample. 2012 is Sold Out but limited tickets might available at select retail outlets, see web page.

February 25, 2012 (sat): Trenary Outhouse Classic – Outhouse Races – in Trenary (U.P. – Upper Peninsula).
official website: www.outhouseclassic.com     additional info click here
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 29 – March 3, 2012 (wed-sat): Metro Times Blowout – music fest in Hamtramck/Detroit.
official website: www2.metrotimes.com/blowout
Annual, showcases about 200 Local Michigan Bands at approx 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 in Detroit. Thursday through Saturday is all in Hamtramck. Enjoy this All Local, Big-Time, Music Slavin', Bar-Hopping good time!

March 2-4, 2012 (fri-sun): The Michigan Golf Show in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.michigangolfshow.com
Held at Suburban Collection Showplace www.suburbancollectionshowplace.com (formerly the Rock Financial Showplace). The Nation's Largest Golf Show. Over 400 exhibitors. Retailers, Resorts, Travel Destinations, Great Deals on Michigan Golf Courses, and a variety of "hands-on" activities. Admission for Adults $10, children 12 and under free. Highlights... $25,000 Hole In One Challenge, Long Drive Contests, 100 feet of Hitting Nets, Hourly Door Prizes Drawn.

March 3-4, 2012 (sat-sun): Detroit Kennel Club Benched Dog Shows in Downtown Detroit.
official website: www.detroitkennelclub.com
Annual, and are one of only five judged benched shows left in the US. Held at Cobo Convention Center.

March 14-18, 2012 (wed-sat): Clare Irish Festival – in Clare (northern lower peninsula).
official website: irish.claremichigan.com
"Fun and frivolity abound in March with Clare's four day Irish Festival extravaganza! From Leprechaun contests and parades to Irish dancing and musical performances, be prepared to immerse yourself in the finest Irish traditions at the Annual Clare Irish Festival."

March 17, 2012 (sat): St. Patrick's Day – celebrated in just about every bar and club in the state. Wear something green!

March 25-31, 2012: Laugh Detroit Comedy Festival – in Royal Oak, just north of Detroit.
official info: www.laughdetroit.com/   Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle   2011 info on facebook   myspace page
5th annual in 2012, lots of comedians, tickets available from laughdetroit.com website.

March 27 – April 1, 2012 (tue-sun): Ann Arbor Film Festival in Ann Arbor.
official website: www.aafilmfest.org
49th Annual. independent & experimental film.

April 5, 2012 (thur): Detroit Tigers Home Opener – at Comerica Park in Downtown Detroit.
Detroit Tigers vs Boston Red Sox. 1:05pm. Tigers detroit.tigers.mlb.com are in Major League Baseball MLB

April 13-15, 2012 (fri-sun): Great Lakes Art Fair – in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.greatlakesartfair.com
Indoors, held at Suburban Collection Showplace (formerly the Rock Financial Showplace). See over 200 booths of artists and displays, including sculpture, painting, ceramics, clothing, jewelry and more! Come out Friday night for Andiamo's Ladies Night Out and ladies get in for half price plus special surprises. Admission $7, FREE PARKING all weekend. 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374.

April 2012: TEA Party Rallies – Taxed Enough Already (TEA) party rallies are on different days in many cities throughout Michigan, including Lansing. For dates and more info, check out...
Tea Party Patriots   Michigan Tea Party Patriots
Americans For Prosperity (AFP)   AFP Michigan
Tax Day Tea Party - Michigan   FreedomWorks.org   FairTax.org   BigGovernment.com   Liberty Central

TBA 2012: Detroit Red Wings NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Start
Red Wings redwings.nhl.com are in the National Hockey League NHL. Wings home games are at Joe Louis Arena (JLA, The Joe) in Downtown Detroit at the Riverfront.

TBA 2012: (wed-sun): National Trout Festival – in Kalkaska (northwest MI, near Traverse City).
official website: www.nationaltroutfestival.com
Annual event has fishing contest, parade, carnival, golf outings, car show, entertainment, fireworks.

April 20-21, 2012 (fri-sun): Chefs Challenge – at Boyne Mountain, Boyne Falls, MI (northwest lower peninsula).
official website: www.chefs-challenge.com
Chefs in Michigan compete for Bragging Rights & Notoriety at this Annual Benefit for Challenge Mountain. "Based on the cult sensation Iron Chef America and the famous 'Secret Ingredient'. Chef Teams from Northern and Southern Michigan present the state's great Agricultural diversity at it's succulent finest, complimented by fine Michigan wines and micro-brews, a true premier Michigan event. All Chefs Challenge proceeds go to help Challenge Mountain, the nation's only adaptive recreational facility dedicated exclusively to people with special needs. 100% of all donated dollars go directly to our programs."

April 27, 2012 (fri): Detroit Music Awards - 21st 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 (DMF). 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, our Local Grammys. 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.

April 27-29, 2012 (fri-sun): Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival – 72nd Annual – in Vermontville (west of Lansing).
official website: www.vermontvillemaplesyrupfestival.org
"We have something for everyone. Mid-America rides, talent show, arts and crafts, flea market, two parades, petting zoo, princess pageant, various displays, games, free entertainment, a pancake derby, and arm wrestling. Our syrup producers are located throughout the village selling syrup, candies, crème and the ever popular maple syrup cotton candy." Held annually on the last full weekend in April.

April 29, 2012 (sun): Dawn Farm 3rd Annual Ride for Recovery (bicycle) in Ypsilanti, 8am – 3pm. 5k/10k up to 45 Mile and 100 Metric Century rides. Registration fee is $25 until April 15, 2012, registration after April 15 will be $30. Suggested fundraising donation is $50. fundraising is appreciated but optional. people are welcome to walk/run/ride/participate without fundraising. Dawn Farm is the only residential treatment program in the area, and funds raised from this event will help defray treatment costs for individuals who have no other resources. Dawn Farm, 6633 Stoney Creek Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197-6609. phone 734-485-8725.

April 30 – May 5, 2012: Blossomtime Festival Week – in Southwestern MI.
official website: www.blossomtimefestival.org
Annual event has related events that start in March. The big week features parade, pageants, queen, run, more.

May 3-6, 2012 (thu-sun): Michigan International Women's Show – at Surburban Collection Showplace in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
information: www.southernshows.com/wde

May 5, 2012 (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. Features high Tea, Maypole Dance, Civil War Re-enactors, Art & Craft Demonstrators, more.

May 5-12, 2012 (sat-sat): Tulip Time Festival – in Holland, MI (West Michigan).
Holland Tulip Festival official website: www.tuliptime.com
For over 80 years, it's 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 11-13, 2012 (fri-sun): Mesick Mushroom Festival – 53rd Annual – in Mesick (northwest MI, south of Traverse City).
official website: www.mesick-mushroomfest.org
Mesick, MI is the mushroom capital in the United States. Event features a Grand Parade, Carnival rides, contests for mushroom hunters, lots of food, beer tent, 5 K walk/run, Mug bog racers, crafts and hobbies, flea market, horseshoe toss, horse pull, more.

TBA 2012: (thu-sun): Oxford Hamburger Festival – in Oxford, northwest of Detroit.
official website: www.oxfordhamburgerfestival.com
Carnival Rides, Best Burger Contest (restaurants only), Burger Bistros, Local Burger food vendors, Tap Beer Tent with Bands and Dancing, Sidewalk Vendors, Kids Games, Community Garage Sale and more. Festival takes place on M-24 about 5 miles north of The Palace of Auburn Hills.

May 13, 2012 (sun): Mother's Day

May 17-20, 2012 (thu-sun): MorelFest – National Morel Mushroom Festival – in Boyne City (Northwest Lower Peninsula).
official website: www.morelfest.com
50th Annual. Carnival, crafts show, mushroom hunts, cooking demonstrations, morel seminar, annual mushroom pole, farmer's market, two concerts, disc golf tournament, more. always the weekend after Mothers Day.

May 18-20, 2012 (fri-sun): Motor City Comic Con – at Suburban Collection Showplace 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.

May 25-28, 2012 (fri-mon): St. Mary's Polish Country Fair – in Orchard Lake (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.stmaryspolishcountryfair.com
In 2011, this annual event has become "The Largest Country Fair in Michigan". More than 45 Carnival Rides including an 80-foot rollercoaster (The Crazy Mouse), Authentic Polish and All-American Food, Las Vegas Tent with Black Jack, Casino Games and No Limit Texas Hold 'Em, plus a Bingo Tent. Live Music by the Howling Diablos, Fifty Amp Fuse, Bugs Beddow, Big Daddy & the La De Das, Polish Muslims, Toppermost, Persuasion, other bands. Dancing (dance floor is larger this year), raffle with chance to win $10,000, Kids Area, more. Free admission, onsite parking on the grounds of St. Mary's is $10.

May 26, 2012 (sat): Petoskey Stone Festival – in Eastport, Antrim County (northwestern MI).
www.petoskeystonefestival.com
Celebrating Michigan's state stone. Beach hunt for stone treasures, stone skipping contest, gemstone vendors, local foods and music, more. 10am-4pm, Free admission.

May 26-28, 2012 (sat-mon): Movement 2012 – Electronic Music Festival (Movement Detroit) – in Downtown Detroit.
official information and tickets: www.movement.us
Annual internationally recognized Memorial Day weekend music fest. List of performers will be posted. Event was formerly known as "FUSE-in: Detroit's Electronic Movement" and "Detroit Techno Fest".

May 28, 2012 (mon): Memorial Day

To find most fireworks shows in Michigan, click → Fireworks Displays in Michigan
search by date or by city. This annually updated database is the most impressive list that Mike can find.

June 1-3, 2012 (fri-sun): Detroit Grand Prix [Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix]
official website: www.detroitgp.com
Chevrolet Indy Grand Prix presented by shopautoweek.com will be held on Belle Isle, Detroit, MI. 2.1 mile course. And there will be three support races. For information and tickets, go to official website.

June 1-3, 2012 (fri-sun): Festival of the Arts Grand Rapids (West MI).
official website: www.festivalgr.org
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 1-3, 2012 (fri-sun): 3 Minutes in Lyon Film Festival – in Lyon Township and South Lyon (west of Detroit).
official website: www.lyonfilmfestival.org
"family friendly event where people of all ages are encouraged to create and enter a video. Whether it is video from your cell phone, a funny spoof on a current event or video on an important cause, create it, enter it and have fun with it!"

June 2, 2012 (sat): Ionia Classic Car, Truck and Bike Show – in Ionia (Mid/Western MI, northwest of Lansing).
official website: www.ioniaclassiccar.com
9am-3pm, rain or shine. 6th Annual in 2012. 25+ Classes plus Best of Show, Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Interior, Committees Choice. 1st and 2nd Place Trophies for All Classes. $10 registration fee. There will be food, oldies music, fun for the whole family. Proceeds to benefit the Ionia Area Food Banks.

TBA 2012 (sat-sun): Red Bull Air Race – above the Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor. These races are taking a one year break, will resume in 2012. "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." info at www.redbullairrace.com

June 7-10, 2012 (thu-sun): Bavarian Festival - in Frankenmuth (Mid-MI).
official information: www.frankenmuthfestivals.com/index.php/bavarian-fest
53rd Annual. Authentically dressed German bands, midway rides and 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 12th.

June 8-9, 2012 (fri-sat): Battle Creek Cereal Festival with World's Longest Breakfast Table – in Southwest MI.
official information at: bcfestivals.com/
Parade on Friday, Breakfast Table on Saturday. Annual event in Battle Creek. 150+ breakfast tables, entertainment, karaoke idol contest, more.

June 8-10, 2012 (fri-sun): Downtown Hoedown – WYCD Country Music Fest in Downtown Detroit.
official information will be on: wycd.radio.com
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.

June 8-10, 2012 (fri-sun): National Asparagus Festival (NAF) – in Hart (West Michigan).
official website: www.nationalasparagusfestival.org
Some of the annual events include a Grand Parade, Family Activities, Arts & Crafts Fair, Motorcycle Run, 5k Run, Asparagus Food Show, Asparagus Queen and much more. Held every year during the second weekend of June.

June 9, 2012 (sat): Mount Clemens 21st Annual Car Show – in Mount Clemens (northeast of Detroit).
official information: www.mountclemenscruise.com
Pre-show events lead up to the big show. Open Cruise is later on August 4th.

June 9-24, 2012: Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival – in Southeast Michigan.
official website: www.greatlakeschambermusic.com
annual event. 2012 Theme is White Nights, Celebrating the music of Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky, Glinka Prokofiev and Shostakovich. approximately 20 concerts, various locations. "Experience the artistry of world-class musicians performing classic and contemporary chamber works in beautiful venues."

June 14-16, 2012 (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 15-17, 2012 (fri-sun): Belleville National Strawberry Festival – in Belleville (west of Detroit).
official website: www.nationalstrawberryfest.com
Annual Strawberry Festival celebrates the strawberry season with free special events for the entire family. Parade, Two Midways with Carnival Rides and Games, Beer Tent, Music and Concerts, Strawberry Idol contest, Strawberry Treats, magnificent food, Bingo, car show, crafters, a Children's Area. held every Father's Day weekend.

June 15-17, 2012 (fri-sun): Arab International Festival 2012 – in Dearborn (west side of Detroit).
information on: www.americanarab.com/
Annual event. 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. formerly called Arab American International Festival.

June 15 – July 8, 2012: Ann Arbor Summer Festival 2012 – in Ann Arbor.
official websites: www.annarborsummerfestival.org + facebook
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 16, 2012 (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 17, 2012 (sun): Father's Day

TBA 2012 (thu-sun): Art & Orchard Festival – in Washington Twp (north of Detroit).
info when posted: www.washingtontownship.org    [2011 Flyer with Festival Details pdf]
2nd Annual in 2011. Carnival and Amusements, "Made In Michigan" Art Show, live entertainment, beer tent, antique sale, Cycle For Life, 5k & 10k fun run, classic car show, BBQ, square dance, outdoor movie, fireworks show, more. Located on Van Dyke Rd north of 26 Mile. See flyer for specific events days and times.

TBA 2012 (thu-sat): Island Festival – in Downtown Kalamazoo (West MI).
official websites: www.islandfestkalamazoo.com and www.myspace.com/islandfestival
Annual event. Reggae music includes "international, national, regional, and local talent and is the largest celebration of the Caribbean culture in Michigan."

TBA 2012 (thu-sun): Hamburg Family Fun Fest – in Hamburg Township (west of Detroit).
www.hamburgfunfest.com
Annual event. Amusement rides, live music, Hometown Idol, fireworks, more.

TBA 2012 (fri-sat): West Michigan Chalk Art Festival (WMCAF) – in Byron Center, MI (South of Grand Rapids).
official websites: www.wmcaf.com + facebook
Artists are invited to display their creativity and imagination and demonstrate the many varieties of chalk art. We invite children, adults, families and businesses to create their own art using chalk. 1st Prize is $1,000. Registration is $12. The WMCAF is sponsored by Byron Community Wellness Foundation a not profit corporation.

TBA 2012 (sat): Andy Ross Charity Motorcycle Ride – in Trenton (south of Detroit).
official website: www.andyrossrun.org
Annual 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 2012 (thu-sun): Detroit River Days – in Downtown Detroit at the Riverfront.
official website: www.riverdays.com
"Admission is $3. River Days is a celebration of Detroit's RiverWalk with activities on land and water. Tall ships, jet-ski demos and riverboat tours to live music, sand sculptures, bike tours, kids activities, delicious eats and much more!"

TBA 2012 (fri): JobbieNooner (Jobbie Nooner I) – at Gull Island on Lake St. Clair (northeast of Detroit).
info: jobbienooner.com [for adults only, must be 18+].
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.
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TBA 2012 (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."

June 20-24, 2012 (wed-sun): Annual Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival – in New Baltimore (northeast of Detroit).
official info at: www.bay-rama.com
Annual event includes a parade, fireworks, midway, talent show, live music, a DJ, Miss Bay-Rama and Her Court, eating contests and much more.

June 22-24, 2012 (fri-sun): Opa! Fest 2012 (Greek Festival) – in Troy (north of Detroit).
official website: www.opafest.com
Annual event. "Metro Detroit area's largest ongoing celebration of Greek culture. Enjoy traditional Greek food, music and dancing, cooking demonstrations and cultural exhibits." Kids area has rides and activities. Held at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 760 Wattles Rd, Troy, MI 48098.

June 22-24, 2012 (fri-sun): Michigan Challenge Balloonfest – in Howell.
official website: www.michiganchallenge.com
Annual event. One of the premier summer-time activities in Michigan with balloon launches and entertainment for the entire family.

June 25, 2012 (mon): Detroit Fireworks (54th Annual Target Fireworks) – in Downtown Detroit on the Riverfront.
official info: www.theparade.org/riverdays.php
Michigan's largest fireworks display, recently held during Detroit River Days. Including across the river in Windsor, Canada, about one million people will see this fireworks display. Rain Date TBA.

TBA 2012 (sat): Cruisin' Downriver – 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 2012 (sat): Lapeer Road Country Cruise – car cruise through 4 villages/cities northwest of Detroit.
official website: www.lapeercountrycruise.com
Annual cruise held on an 25 mile stretch of Lapeer Rd through Lake Orion, the Village of Oxford, the Village of Metamora and the City of Lapeer. Classic Cars, BBQ's and Cookouts, 1950's Metamora Village Sock Hop featuring Hula Hoop, Limbo, Twist Contests and live entertainment, Benefit to help fund new flags for fallen soldiers graves.

TBA 2012 (sun): Livonia Spree and Fireworks Extravaganza – in Livonia, just west of Detroit.
official websites: www.livoniaspree.com + facebook
Spree is an annual week-long city birthday party with carnival, live music, more. 30-minutes Grand Finale Fireworks show on sunday night concludes the celebration.

June 30 - July 3, 2011 (thu-sun): Electric Forest Festival - in Rothbury at the Double JJ Ranch (Western MI).
official website: www.electricforestfestival.com
This four day outdoor music festival is the successor to the former Rothbury Music Festival. Many music genres, local and national music acts including REO Speedwagon. tickets $199 to $239.50 plus fees.

To find most fireworks shows in Michigan, click → Fireworks Displays in Michigan
search by date or by city. This annually updated database is the most impressive list that Mike can find.

TBA 2012 (fri-mon): Stars and Stripes Festival – in Mount Clemens (north of Detroit).
official website: www.starsandstripesfest.com
Annual Festival is FREE to the public and features a full carnival, nationally known and local music acts, art displays, fireworks, food vendors, more.

July 4, 2012 (wednesday): July 4th – Independence Day USA

July 7-14, 2012 (sat to sat): National Cherry Festival – in Traverse City (northwest lower peninsula).
official website: www.cherryfestival.org
Annual. Lots of events including a Million Dollar Hole-In-One Golf Contest, Royale Parade, Cherry Pie Eating Contests, Cherry Pit Spit Contest, Cherries Grand Buffet, rides on the midway, beer tent, Arts and Crafts Fair, Air Shows, Music Stage, Cherry Idol, Car Show, National Cherry Queen Coronation, Fireworks Finale, much more.

TBA 2012 (wed-sun): Blissfield River Raisin Festival – in Blissfield (lower part of Southeast MI).
official website: www.blissfield.net
28th Annual in 2011. River Racin', Parade, Live Music, DJs, Car & Bike Show, Motorcycle Poker Run, Miss River Raisin Festival Pageant, 5K Run, much more.

TBA 2012 (thu-sun): Uncle Sam Jam - 1st Annual – in Woodhaven (Downriver, south of Detroit).
info currently at : www.funfestinc.com/new/bbq - future website: www.unclesamjamfest.com
FREE Admission. A patriotic event that celebrates what makes summertime great. Attractions for Uncle Sam Jam 2010 include a spectacular Firework Display, Carnival Rides and Games, petting farm and Camel Rides, exotic animal exhibit, reptile encounter, the World's Tallest Pinball Machine, and FREE national music entertainment each night including Eddie Money (fri) and Confederate Railroad (sat).

July 9-15, 2012 (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 13-14, 2012 (fri-sat): Michigan Elvisfest 2012 – 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 13-15, 2012 (fri-sun): Detroit APBA Gold Cup Races (Unlimited Hydroplane Boat Race) – on Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor. official website: www.gold-cup.com
official title: Detroit APBA Gold Cup. Big-Time Annual event, Unlimited Hydroplane Boat Racing on the Detroit River includes other hydroplane classes.

July 8-10, 2011 (fri-sun): Trenton Mid-Summer Festival – in Trenton (south of Detroit).
website: www.trentonmid-summer.com
36th Annual in 2011. Join over 150,000 visitors, over 200 artists and craftsmen, and live entertainment on West Jefferson in the Riverfront Business District.

TBA 2011 (sat): Michigan Vet Fest / Cruisin' Michigan Ave / Harley Bike Run – in Dearborn.
official websites: www.michiganvetfest.org and www.myspace.com/vetfest
Annual Michigan Vet Fest has Free admission, 100% of proceeds goes to help veterans in need. Entertainment features at least 14 Live bands on 2 stages. There will be ceremonies honoring Michigan Veterans, many special guests, prizes, raffles, giveaways and more. Festival starts at noon, held at the Dearborn Elks Club Post 1945 located at 25000 Michigan Ave, between Telegraph Rd and Beech Daly. Fest 2010 includes the Michigan Harley Riders Bike Run and is associated with the Cruisin' Michigan Ave car cruise.

July 9, 2011 (sat): Cruisin' Michigan Ave Car Cruise – www.cruisinmichigan.com - 4th Annual goes through the cities of Wayne, Westland, Inkster, Dearborn Heights and Dearborn and is associated with the Michigan Vet Fest.

July 12-17, 2011 (tue-sun): Oakland County Fair – in Davisburg (northwest of Detroit).
official websites: www.oakfair.org and www.facebook.com/pages/Oakland-County-Fair/122409024436937
Carnival, Circus, Monster Trucks, Demolition Derby, Figure 8 Race, Battle of The Bands, Dirt Bike Globe of Death, Horse Shows, Large Animal Livestock Sale, Poultry and Rabbit Auction, Dog Judging, 4-H exhibitions, Miracle of Birth Barn, Lawn Mower Rodeo, Bullmania Rodeo, lots of contests including a Husband-Calling contest and Watermelon Eating contests, Bump and Rune Car Race, Classic Car Show, Exotic Petting Zoo, free bike drawings, exhibits ranging from photography to aerospace, food and much more. Held at Springfield Oaks County Park.

July 13-16, 2011 (wed-sat): Wyandotte Street Art Fair – in Wyandotte (Downriver, south of Detroit).
official website: www.wyandottestreetartfair.org
50th Annual in 2011. Over 300 artist booths, a workshop, Riverfront & Street Entertainment, food, children's activity areas, more.

July 14–17, 2011 (fri-sun): Concert of Colors - Diversity Festival – in Detroit.
official website: www.concertofcolors.com
18th annual, FREE musical celebration of Metro Detroit's cultural diversity. It features musical acts from around the world with a wide range of global musical styles. Music from Detroit area includes the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Don Was Detroit All-Star Revue featuring 15 music acts.

July 14–17, 2011 (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 14 to August 7, 2011: Michigan Shakespeare Festival – in Jackson (west of Ann Arbor).
official website: www.michiganshakespearefestival.com
Festival has been presenting the timeless themes and glorious language of William Shakespeare since 1995, growing each year into a premier regional event that draws respected actors from across the nation, and satisfied audiences from throughout the Midwest. individual tickets are $36 and $30, subscriptions available.

July 15-17, 2011 (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 16-17, 2011 (fri-sun): Quake on the Lake – in Waterford. (northwest of Detroit)
official website: www.quakeonthelake.org
For the past ten years nearly 350,000 spectators and fans have gathered along the shoreline of the Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area to witness some of the world's fastest Inboard Hydroplane races. These exciting races take place on a one-mile stretch across Pontiac Lake. This popular event highlights 10 different racing classes and has become the ultimate summer celebration in Oakland County. In addition to hosting the Eastern Divisional Championships, Quake on the Lake will also have a carnival and national music acts each night, with a wakeboarding competition on Saturday.

July 19-28, 2012: Ionia Free Fair (Ionia Fair) – in Ionia (northwest of Lansing).
official website: www.ioniafreefair.com
Annual. "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.

July 20-23, 2011 (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 20-23, 2011 (wed-sat): National Baby Food Festival (NBFF) – in Fremont "Baby Food Capital of the World" (West MI, north of Grand Rapids).
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 21-23, 2011 (thu-sat): The Blue Water Fest – in Port Huron (northeast of Detroit)
official website: www.thebluewaterfest.com
Formerly known as Boat Week (see July 17 Mackinac race). Carnival, magnificent display of boats, local and national music from many genres on four stages, juried fine art fair, a film festival, the Physician HealthCare Network Kid's Zone, the Meijer Kids' Stage, arts and crafts, food, a party, and more.

July 22-23, 2011 (fri-sat): Annual Summer Beer Festival – in Ypsilanti.
official info on: www.michiganbrewersguild.org
tickets $30-$35 per-day advance, $35-$40 at gate if available. Drink Michigan Beer!

July 22-24, 2011 (fri-sun): Roar On The River – in Trenton (south of Detroit).
official website: www.trentonroarontheriver.com
Outboard powerboat races, SST 120 and SST 45 UIM/APBA World Championships. Festivities include Jet Ski stunt show, live entertainment and Roar In The Park Car Show. Annual event.

July 23, 2011 (sat start date): Bayview Mackinac Race 2011 (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.
Follow the Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Race online via GPS positions and more on www.michigan.org/bayview.

July 23, 2011 (sat): Telegraph Cruise (Annual Telegraph Tomorrow Cruise / Telegraph Car Cruise) – on Telegraph Rd in Taylor, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Redford, just west of Detroit. info at: WOMC. It goes from Eureka Rd in Taylor (south end) to Puritan Rd a little north of 5 Mile in Redford (north end).

July 23-24, 2011 (sat-sun): Thunder Over Michigan – Air Show in Ypsilanti (Southeast Michigan, near Ann Arbor).
official information: www.yankeeairmuseum.org/airshow
"Gathering of Fortresses Legends" held at the Yankee Air Museum. Event features the largest gathering of WWII Heavy Bombers, plus Fighter Planes, Stunt Plane, B-17 Rides, more. General advance tickets and admission on day of show range from $20 to $30, special seating up to $190, parking $5 to $10.

July 26-31, 2011 (tue-sun): Traverse City Film Festival – in Traverse City (northwest lower peninsula).
official website: www.traversecityfilmfest.org
6th Annual in 2010. 80 films and 40 shorts from over 25 countries at 135 screenings, plus a film school, free panel discussions and six outdoor movies.

July 28-30, 2011 (thu-sat): Sterlingfest Art and Music Fair – in Sterling Heights (just north of Detroit).
info on: www.sterling-heights.net
Festival features continuous entertainment throughout the day on three sound stages, nightly concerts, a refreshment tent, food from local restaurants, a family midway, Kidzfest Tent, and a juried arts and crafts fair.

July 28-31 2011 (thu-sun): Munger Potato Festival – in Munger (East/Mid MI, near Bay City).
official website: www.mungerpotatofest.com
Entertainment tent, carnival, Figure 8's & Demolition Derbies, Parade and FREE POTATOES.

July 29-31, 2011 (thu-sat): Meijer St. Clair Riverfest – in St. Clair (northeast of Detroit).
official website: www.stclairriverfest.com
FREE admission. Held on the banks of the St. Clair River, event will consist of world-class recording artists Friday and Saturday nights, as well as the hottest regional and national acts performing on an elaborate riverfront stage. Other attractions include a petting farm, carnival midway and Sunday's main attraction, the thunderous offshore boat races brought to us by the Blue Water Offshore Racing Association.

July 29-31, 2011 (fri-sun): Yale Bologna Festival – in Yale (located in Michigan's thumb).
official info at: yalechamber.com/Bologna%20Festival.html
"a gathering of over 20,000 Bologna starved party-goers! A tradition in Yale since 1989, this festival has grown considerably since its humble beginnings. The festival draws people from all around Michigan as well as other states, eager to see who will be the next King and Queen of Bologna. The Bologna Festival includes such events as the famed outhouses races, a street dance, fireworks and a parade down Main Street that continues to grow each year."

July 29 - August 7, 2011: Coast Guard Festival – in Grand Haven (West MI).
official website: www.coastguardfest.org
Annual event Dedicated to the Men & Women of the United States Coast Gaurd. Ships and Ships Tours, Carnival, Grand Parade, Fireworks Extravaganza, Waterfront Entertainment with Skiing Show and Live Music Shows, Cruise-In Car Show, Street Dance, Craft Fair, National Memorial Service, much more.

July 30-31, 2011 (sat-sun): Arab and Chaldean Festival – in Downtown Detroit at Hart Plaza.
official website: www.arabandchaldeanfestival.com
Annual festival serves as a multicultural program for people of all cultures to enjoy. Music, art gallery, fashion show, children's fair, middle eastern food, more.

July 30-31, 2011 (sat-sun): Maker Faire - Detroit 2011 – in Dearborn at the Henry Ford
official website: makerfaire.com/detroit/2010
Metro Detroit is glad to be a host to one of these few exhibitions/shows held in the United States. Check out unusual inventions from the very cool to off-the-wall, and their inventors. Maker "is a growing DIY (Do It Yourself) movement of people who look at things a little differently and who just might spark the next generation of scientists, engineers and makers." Tickets range from $19 to $50, Children (4 and under) free.

July 31, 2011 (sun): Concours d'Elegance of America – in Plymouth (west of Detroit).
information and relocation article on: sportscardigest.com   Plymouth location: www.stjohnsgolfconference.com
Formerly held at Meadow Brook in Rochester Hills, Concours d'Elegance is relocating to The Inn at St. John's starting in 2011. Annual Exhibition of Antique & Classic Collector Automobiles. High-end cars and motorcycles vie for coveted trophies and awards. Plus there is an annual auction of rare vehicles.

TBA 2013 – yes, next in 2013! Tall Ship Celebration – in Bay City (East/Mid MI)
official website: tallshipcelebration.com
An Official host port in Michigan for the American Sail Training Association's Tall Ships fleet. Magnificent Tall Ships will line both sides of the Saginaw River in Downtown Bay City.

August 3-6, 2011 (fri-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.

August 4, 2012 (sat): Mount Clemens 21st Annual Car Cruise – in Mount Clemens (northeast of Detroit).
official information: www.mountclemenscruise.com
Open Cruise.

August 4-7, 2011 (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!"

August 5-6, 2011 (fri-sat): 34th Annual Bay Port Fish Sandwich Festival – in Bay Port (located in Michigan's thumb).
official info at: www.bayportchamber.com/events/2005%20festival/fish_sandwich_festival.htm
Fish sandwiches and dinners, fireworks, crafter show, entertainment, lawn mower races, petting zoo, bingo, more.

August 5-7, 2011 (fri-sun): Humungous Fungus Fest – in Crystal Falls (U.P., upper peninsula).
official website: www.humungusfungusfest.com
Annual festival, Free Admission. Fest Parade, Mushroom Cook-off, Humungus Pizza Cooking, Strong Man Competition, Motocross races, Live Music, Street Dance, Pie Social, various tournaments, raffle, City Wide Rummage Sale, more. The Humungous Fungus "weighs roughly 11 tons and covers 37 acres. This makes it the largest mushroom (fungus) in the world. Based on the average rate of growth through the soil, the Humongous Fungus is probably more than 1,500 years old."

August 5-7, 2011 (fri-sun): Buy Michigan Now Festival – in Northville (west of Detroit).
information at: www.buymichigannow.com/events.php
3rd Annual. BMN is striving to help Michigan's economy by educating consumers about products and services based in Michigan. This funfest is a 3-day celebration of of our great state featuring sidewalk sales, vendors, exhibits, and live entertainment. Together we will revitalize the economy, one product, one purchase, one person at a time.

August 6, 2011 (sat): Mount Clemens Cruise Part II – in Mount Clemens (northeast of Detroit).
official information: www.mountclemenscruise.com
Part II is devoted to one thing: cruisin' at their Open Car Cruise.

August 7, 2011 (sun): Clinton Township Gratiot Cruise – annual car cruise north of Detroit.
official website: www.ctgratiotcruise.com + on facebook
Many official pre-cruise events. Main cruise area is the Gratiot Ave at Metropolitan Parkway (16 Mile Rd) area.

August 12-14, 2011 (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 12-14, 2011 (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 12-14, 2011 (fri-sun): St. Johns Mint Festival – 27th Annual – in St. Johns City Park (Mid-MI).
official website: www.clintoncountychamber.org/mint
in Clinton County. 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 12-21, 2011: Cheeseburger in Caseville - 12th Annual – (Caseville is in Michigan's thumb).
festival info on: www.casevillechamber.net/History.html and 2010 event schedule
City is "transformed into Key North for this 10 days festival that celebrates the lifestyle and music made popular by Jimmy Buffett." Carnival, Parade of Tropical Fools, Caribbean Street Dance, Live Entertainment, Vintage Motorcycle Show, Classic Car Show, Craft Show, Texas Hold'em Tournament, Golf Scramble, Beautiful Baby Contest, Lots of Cheeseburgers and more.

August 14-18, 2012 (tue-sat): Back to the Bricks Car Cruise (B2B 2012) – in Flint.
official website: backtothebricks.org + facebook
8th annual in 2012. car shows, swap meets, lots of cruisin. 13 mile route, and you don't have to register. The entire event is 'free' to all show car owners.

August 15-21, 2011 (mon-sun): Armada Fair - 139th Annual – in Armada (northeast of Detroit).
official website: www.armadafair.org
"A True Country Fair" with a Grand National Tractor Pull, Figure 8 Race, Demolition Derby, Armada Fair Queen and her Court, more. Ticket prices vary, see website.

August 18, 2011 (thu): Gleaners Iron Chef Competition – in Brighton (north of Ann Arbor). Annual charity and bragging rights Culinary Competition between local top chefs held at Bordine Nursery in Brighton, MI. details on Gleaners Food Bank website. Includes a silent auction. Proceeds to supply meals to hungry families. tickets approx $50.

August 18-20 2011 (thu-sat): Mendon Riverfest – in Three Rivers (Southwest MI).
official website: www.mendonriverfest.com
Annual event. "Inflatable" games, Free entertainment, children's activities, competitive events, Riverfest Idol, various vendors and a Fireworks display over the river. Held annually on third weekend in August.

August 19-21, 2011 (fri-sun): Howell Melon Festival (Watermelon Fest) – in Howell (east of Lansing).
official website: www.howellmelonfestival.com
Annual event with Watermelon Eating Contest, Melon Toss Competition using homebuilt Trebuchets and Catapults, Watermelon Skiing, Biggest Howell Melon Weigh-in, Michigan Made Arts & Crafts show, kids activities, live entertainment, more.

August 18, 2012 (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. Draws around one million people.

Check out Madman Mike's WDC Info Page → Handy List of WDC Events, Highlights, Car Clubs in Michigan, more

August 18 to September 30, 2012: Michigan Renaissance Festival – in Holly (northwest of Detroit, south of Flint).
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!"

August 20-21, 2011 (sat-sun): Selfridge Air Show – in Mt. Clemens (north of Detroit).
official website: www.selfridgeairshow.org
Next show is in 2011. previous one was in 2009.

August 26-27, 2011 (fri-sat): 28th Street Metro Cruise 2011 - in Grand Rapids (West MI).
official website: www.28thstreetmetrocruise.com
Annual Cruise is free and open to all types of vehicles, and spans an area along 15 miles of the famed 28th Street. There will be a family Safety City area with children's rides, Beer Tents with live entertainment, Metro Million Display with high end classics rarely seen, Automotive Swap Meet, more. Event features over 15,000 cars and 300,000 spectators.

August 27-28, 2011 (sat-sun): Peoples Arts Festival (PAF) - in Detroit.
official website: www.peoplesartsfestival.com
4th Annual in 2010. 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 2011 (fri-sun): Wayne Wheelfest 2010 - in City of Wayne at Goudy Park (west of Detroit).
official information: www.ci.wayne.mi.us/wheelfest.shtml
Carnival, Parade, Live Entertainment, car show, bingo, more.

TBA Aug 2012 (fri-sun): Lebfest (Lebanese Festival) – in Rochester, MI (north of Detroit).
official websites: www.lebanesefestival.org + on facebook
Skipping 2011. Mediterranean Music, Food & Arts Festival. Features Authentic Lebanese Cuisine, International Artisans, Live Entertainment, Shows, Dancers, Ethnic Bazaar, Cultural Displays, more.

Michigan Renaissance Festival – in Holly, MI, continues through September 30th. see listing above.
Festival takes you back in time to the renaissance era with knights and old villager attire.

August 31 – September 3, 2012 (fri-mon): Detroit Jazz Fest – DJF 33rd Annual – in Detroit on the Riverfront.
official website: www.detroitjazzfest.com
Detroit International Jazz Festival held at Hart Plaza. Free Admission. Six stages, Jazz & American music.

August 31 – September 3, 2012 (fri-mon): Arts, Beats & Eats Festival – in Royal Oak (just north of Detroit).
official website is now on facebook    (www.artsbeatseats.com site suspended as of Jan 19, 2012).
Annual fest held every Labor Day Weekend. General Admission $10, parking extra. Oakland County's Summer Festival, 150+ music acts, 150 artists, many restaurants.

Labor Day Weekend 2012: Michigan Peach Festival of Romeo – in Romeo (north of Detroit).
official website: www.peachfestromeo.com
Annual event that begins the Thursday before Labor Day and runs through Labor Day. Parade, Peach Queen, Carnival Rides, Car Show, Bed Races, 5K Run, various sports tournaments, flea market, arts & crafts show, Las Vegas Games, Golf Classic, Baby Photo Contest, KidFest, more.

TBA: Great Lakes Agricultural Fair – in Oakland County (northwest of Detroit).
official information not available as of Jan 19, 2012.
Originally scheduled for Sept 2-5, 2011, fair got postponed till 2012. It will have many acres dedicated to livestock, a major music lineup, various competitions, more.

September 3, 2012 (mon): Labor Day

Check Out Madman Mike's Michigan Haunted Houses Attractions Events page - The most extensive annually updated linked listings of Haunted Houses and Attractions in Michigan all on one page. Many open in September. Also on that page is a list of Real Ghost Hunters and Paranormal Investigators in Michigan.

September 9-11, 2011 (fri-sun): Art & Apples Festival – in Rochester (north of Detroit).
official website: www.artandapples.com
Annual event. Over 120,000 attend The National City Art & Apples Festival which is Michigan's second largest juried fine arts festival and voted one of the Top 20 in the nation. Includes over 280 fine art exhibitors, Apple Pie & Apple Baking Contest, a variety of food, local and national live entertainment, and kids 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.

September 10, 2011 (sat): Dally in the Alley - in Detroit.
official website: www.dallyinthealley.com
Annual. "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 11th.

September 10, 2011 (sat): Annual 9-11 Memorial Run (Motorcycle Charity Run) - in Oxford (north of Detroit).
official website: www.911memorialrun.com
Held rain or shine, $20 donation per bike, all bikes and vehicles welcome. "A Show of Patriotism - American Bikers Unite For Our Fallen Heroes on 9-11-01." On Sept 8th, there is an additional trip to New York.

September 10, 2011 (sat): JobbieNooner 2 (Jobbie Nooner II) – 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.
Need Mardi Gras Beads for JobbieNooner? See a great selection including Glow Beads → Click Here

September 9, 2012 (sun): Dawn Farm Anniversary Jamboree in Ypsilanti. 39th Anniversary Jamboree. Annual family event with Free Admission and free activities for all ages, including great live music all day by a popular local band, hayrides, animals to pet, pony rides, lots of activities for children, tours of the 74 acre farm, and live and silent auctions and a gift table with a variety of donated goods and services, many at bargain prices! Dawn Farm is the only residential treatment program in the area, and funds raised from this event will help defray treatment costs for individuals who have no other resources. Dawn Farm, 6633 Stoney Creek Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197-6609. phone 734-485-8725

September 15-18, 2011 (thu-sun): Troy Daze Festival 2011 – in Troy, north of Detroit.
official website: www.troymi.gov/troydaze
It's back and now expanded to three days [details]. Usually attended by about 100,000 people.

September 16-18, 2011 (fri-sun): Paul Bunyan Festival & Great Lakes Chainsaw Carving Championship – in Oscoda (east/northeast MI). information at: www.oscodachamber.com
15th Annual. "Chainsaw carvers turn logs into intricate sculptures, Lumberjack Show, Arts and Crafts Fair, Classic Car Show, Pony Rides, Kid's Games, Inflatables, Bunyan Games (Axe-throwing, Greased-Pole climb for cash, Timberjackshows, kid's relay races and more), Live Bands, Tug-O-War Challenge, Beer Tent, Great Food, and much more for the whole family!"

September 16-18, 2011 (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".

September 16-18, 2011 (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.

September 17, 2011 (sat): Deaf Arts Festival – in Brooklyn, MI (southwest of Ann Arbor).
websites: deafartsfestival.org + facebook
5th Annual in 2011.

September 18, 2011 (sun): Detroit Lions First Home Game of the 2011 Season
official website: www.detroitlions.com
Detroit Lions vs Kansas City Chiefs. 1pm. Home games are at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit. Lions are in the National Football League NFL

September 16-18, 2011 (fri-sun): DIY Street Fair (Do-It-Yourself) – in Ferndale (just north of Detroit).
official websites: diystreetfair.com and www.myspace.com/diystreetfair
"Annual 2-day, 3-night event which celebrates do-it-yourself creative, innovative and entrepreneurial endeavors occurring throughout Detroit and surrounding communities. It features a DIY Marketplace with over 100 artists, crafters, entrepreneurs and innovators as well as more than 40 live, original musical acts, 14 Michigan Brewers, 6 Local Restaurants, 1 Kids Zone."

September 21 to October 9, 2011: ArtPrize – in Grand Rapids (West MI).
official website: www.artprize.org
ArtPrize is a radically open competition. Open to any artist in the world who can find space. Open to anybody in Grand Rapids, Michigan who wants to create a venue. Approx 1,713 Artists at 192 Venues, $450,000 in prizes, top vote getter wins $250,000 (public can vote).

September 23 & 24, Sept 30 & October 1, 2011: Red Flannel Festival – in Cedar Springs (West MI, near Grand Rapids).
official websites: www.redflannelfestival.org + on facebook
Red Flannel Day is Oct 1, 2011. Two weekend festival includes selecting a Red Flannel Queen, Prince and Princess, a grand parade, Keystone Cops, bed race, street rod car show, antique tractor pull, arts and crafts fair, live entertainment, food and more. Annually on the first Saturday of October.

September 23-25, 2011 (fri-sun): Clinton Fall Festival – in Clinton (lower southeast MI).
official website: www.clintonfallfestival.com
37th Annual. Features a Grand Parade, over 250 Arts and Craft booths, Car Show exceeding 500 entries, raffle, much more. In Lenawee County, near the Ohio border.

September 23-25, 2011 (fri-sun): American Sewing Expo (ASE) – in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
official website: www.americansewingexpo.com
"The Largest independent consumer sewing show in the country." Held at Suburban Collection Showplace. Admission is $12 in advance, $14 at the door, good for one day. special packages and pre-show workshops seminars are available for an additional charge.

September 30 – October 1, 2011 (fri-sun): Trenton Scarecrow Festival – in Trenton (Downriver, south of Detroit).
official website:www.scarecrowfestival.net
Features Carnival Rides, Scarecrow Contest, music entertainment including a Battle of the Bands broadcast live on the Internet, Scarecrow Idol contest with finalists competing live on the Internet. Plus CLASH Wrestling, Just Hearsin' Around car club show, Tug-O-War Competition, Hot Dog Eating contest, Pony Rides, Arts & Crafts, Dog Costume contest, children's games, more.

October 1-2, 2011 (sat-sun): South Lyon Area Pumpkinfest – 27th – west of Detroit.
official website: www.southlyonpumpkinfest.com
Mile long parade, Great Pumpkin (Giant Pumpkin) Contest, Pie Eating Contest, Scarecrow Decorating Contest, live music, face painting, dancing, craft show, road run, movie night, children's activities, more.

October 6-9, 2011 (thu-sun): Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival 2011 – in Alpena (northeast lower peninsula).
official website: www.lighthousefestival.org
"Annual Four day event provides activities for the young and old including lighthouse tours (aerial, boat or personal vehicle), entertainment, and vendors. The festival boasts over 100 maritime related vendors including lighthouse preservation groups, artists, authors and more. There is no other festival like it in the United States. The organizers have done a fantastic job of drawing both vendors and lighthouse buffs from around the globe to what has become the largest and best lighthouse festival in the nation."

October 7, 2011 (fri): Detroit Red Wings 2012-2013 Season Home Opener – in Detroit.
Red Wings vs Ottowa Senators, 7pm. official website: redwings.nhl.com
Home games are at Joe Louis Arena (JLA, The Joe) in Downtown Detroit. Red Wings are in the National Hockey League NHL

October 9, 2011 (sun): Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff and Motorcycle Show – in Plymouth (west of Detroit). information on: www.plymouth48170.com. 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 14-16, 2011 (fri-sun): Great Lakes Art Fair – Fall – in Novi (northwest of Detroit).
official websites:www.greatlakesartfair.com + www.facebook.com/GreatLakesArtFair
the Midwest's Premier Indoor Art Fair. Located inside Suburban Collection Showplace, it offers patrons of the artists a unique opportunity to experience over 200 booths of the region's finest artists and craftspeople in a single, upscale, indoor location. $7 for Adults, Free for Children 12 & under, no parking charge.

October 16, 2011 (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.

October 31, 2011 (mon): Halloween Day. Trick or Treat!

November 4-6, 2011 (fri-sun): Snowmobile USA Show – at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, northwest of Detroit.
official website: www.snowmobileusa.com
Annual. "Show is equal to 6 football fields. And every square foot will be filled with 'pure snowmobiling' action." $10 for Adults (12 & over), Children 12 and under Free. $5 parking.

November 15-30, 2011: Deer Hunting Season (Regular Firearm) [official info].

November 17-19, 2011 (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. No one under 21 allowed, tickets $15.

New to Michigan? Just Visiting? Here is a timely "Heads Up" from Madman Mike.
Annually During the Holiday Season, 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!

See Mike's  CHRISTMAS IN MICHIGAN  page. It has information about Christmas Attractions, Holiday Season Light Displays, Santa, sleigh rides and more.

November 17 to December 31, 2011:  Wayne County LightFest – just west of Detroit. You are invited to join us at Wayne County Lightfest 2011. From November 17th to December 31st (closed December 25th), 7pm-10pm, the Wayne County Lightfest will turn Hines Drive into the Midwest's longest drive-through holiday light display. $5 per car. Viewers will enter an enchanted world of colorful rainbows, snowflakes, and candy canes. Display begins at Hines Drive and Merriman Road in Westland and proceeds one way and exits onto Warren Avenue near Telegraph Rd in Dearborn Heights. Food concessions, photos with Santa (November 23th – December 23rd) and restrooms are at the end of the Lightfest at Warrendale Picnic Area. For more information on Lightfest, call 734-261-1990.

November 18-27, 2011 (fri): Christmas Wonderfest – at Campus Martius Park in Downtown Detroit
website: www.christmaswonderfest.com + www.campusmartiuspark.org
fest opens with the Annual Lighting of Detroit's Holiday Tree on Nov 18th. Santa and the North Pole, Carousel, Ferris Wheel, 1600 feet of real Germen Octoberfest fun with uuthentic beers and treats, Motor City Marketplace and more.

November 24, 2011 (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-maché heads, lots of clowns, Santa, more.

December 4, 2011 (sun): Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade in Rochester, MI. north of Detroit.
information: Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce 2011 Parade Info + facebook
Parade begins at 1:45pm. "Since 1951, the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade has been delighting residents of all ages as dignitaries, bands, non-profit groups, children's groups and local businesses join in bringing the holiday spirit to downtown Rochester. Starting as a small community event, the parade is now one of the largest in the state of Michigan and has the greatest number of viewers watching along the parade route and on WXYZ-TV Channel 7's live broadcast."

December 25, 2011 (sun): Christmas Day – Merry Christmas To Everyone!

December 27, 2011 (tue): Little Caesars Pizza Bowl – at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.
Western Michigan vs Purdue. for info & tickets, see official website → www.littlecaesarspizzabowl.com

December 31, 2011 (saturday night): New Year's Eve Midnight Ball Drops and Fireworks in Michigan

Motor City New Year's Eve THE DROP – a giant lighted "D" will drop about 100 feet at midnight in Campus Martius Park in Downtown Detroit. Official party is in the Compuware atrium and Hard Rock Cafe. Two main stages, DJs. tickets available from website or call 313-355-0413.  facebook

Ludington Light up the Lake NYE Ball Drop 2012 (West MI) – Light up the Lake Ball Drop is an annual New Year's Eve celebration in Downtown Ludington for locals and visitors alike to enjoy–for FREE! Come celebrate in the streets of Downtown Ludington the coming of a New Year with music, an entertainment tent, Michigan's largest New Year's Eve ball dropped at midnight followed by a fireworks salute!

Traverse City New Year's Eve CherryT Ball Drop – Downtown Traverse City, 3rd annual CherryT Ball Drop. Right before Midnight a large illuminated cherry will be lowered to signify the coming year. Starts at 9pm with live entertainment, DJ, a visit from the Coast Guard and other surprises!

New Year's Fest in Dowtown Kalamazoo (Southwest MI) – features the Crystal Ball Drop, the first ever sustainable ball drop from nearly 200 feet. The ball consists of high efficiency LED lighting, recycled products, and power via sugar based ethanol. Various types of live entertainment starts at 5:30pm, plus you can ride on a trolley drawn by Belgian horses.

Marquette New Year's Eve Ball Drop (U.P.) – 23rd annual Ball Drop in Downtown Marquette.

Midland New Year's Eve Ball Drop – be part of the action, Mid-Michigan style, with the Great Lakes Bay Region's FIRST New Year's Eve Ball Drop. on Main Street in Midland, MI. Activities start at 3pm.

Hot New Year's Eve Party and Ball Drop in Grand Rapids (Southwest MI) – by 105.3 HOT-FM and Fifth Third Bank. live bands, headliner is The Romantics.

"Eve on the Ave" in Jackson (Lower MI) – Come to Jackson's only New York style celebration with a Ball Drop from the top of city hall and a magical fireworks display at the stroke of midnight. There is a warming tent for your event enjoyment.

Hastings New Year's Eve 2011 Ball Drop (Southwest MI) – Ball-Drop, Illumination and Sound Show at Midnight. Disc Jockey, Jazz Orchestra, warming tent.

New Year's Eve Gala and Fireworks Display in Mount Clemens (north of Detroit) – activities, entertainment, 50/50 raffle, fireworks at midnight.

List of New Year's Eve Parties in Southeast Michigan → Metro Times NYE 2011 Listings

Champagne Explosion NYE in Dearborn at the Hyatt Regency – 5 event rooms with Talent entertainment Band & DJs, Karaoke room with MC, Stand Up comedy show, Live Illusionists, Arial Acrobats, FREE Giant Photo Booth for group pics, FREE Taro and Fortune tellers, LIVE Time-Square Footage on multiple giant video screens, more. tickets $109 to $513.

next in 2012 (sat-sun): Red Bull Air Race – above the Detroit River between Detroit & Windsor. Host city is Windsor, Ontario. Event skipped 2011.

Michigan Antique & Collectible Festivals – in Midland, MI. 2010 Dates: June 5-6, July 24-25, Sept. 25-26.
website: www.miantiquefestival.com phone 989-687-9001.
Over 80 Acres of Treasures & Memories. 1000+ Vendors! Antiques, Collectibles, Coin & Sports Memorabilia, Classic Car Show, Autoparts Swapmeet, more. Held at Midland County Fairgrounds, 6905 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48642.

FunFest Productions – pre-announces dates on myspace blog for several popular events before event official sites get updated.

Michigan State Fair – No Longer Exists. This annual celebration for 103 years had its last one in 2009. However, there is talk about bringing it back.