Metro Detroit Plans Summer Events for America’s 250th Anniversary

Metro Detroit will throw a string of events this summer to mark America's 250th birthday. Things kick off in late April and run straight through July. Parades will march down streets, and concerts will fill parks with music. Historical programs will span the region.

Sunday brought the first event—a jazz brunch with Dave Bennett performing at the War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms. On May 10, author John Garrison Marks and Lance Wheeler will talk about George Washington at the Detroit Public Library.

Veterans Weekend happens May 16 and 17 at the Selfridge Military Air Museum. The War Memorial throws An Evening of Red, White & Blue on May 20, running from 5:30 until 9:30 p.m.

Auburn Hills throws its party June 18. It runs from 9 until 11 p.m. at the Auburn Hills Community Center. The 2026 Ford Fireworks light up June 22 on the Center Garage Roof in downtown spots.

Rochester Hills brings the 2026 Festival of the Hills to Borden Park on June 24. Founders Sports Park hosts America 250: Celebration of a Nation on June 25, starting at 5 and ending at 10 p.m.

Plymouth starts Independence Day with the Good Morning USA America 250 Parade on July 4. It marches from 9 until 11 a.m. Clawson also throws a Fourth of July party.

Woodhaven hosts Uncle Sam Jam from July 9 through 12. History Alive 250 comes to the Chesterfield Historical Society on July 11 and 12.

Macomb's Patriotic Cruise wraps things up on July 25. Other programs include a voting access community art installation at the library on May 19 and a luncheon honoring Marion Alger on May 17.

Residents can send information about other community events by emailing news@wxyz.com.