Celebrate Summer in Metro-Detroit’s Backyard

For many Metro-Detroit families, summertime means family fun on the lake — and at The War Memorial, that means SummerFest! Our annual summer fun series returns this year with family-friendly concerts on our lakefront lawn.

Concert Line-Up Free and Open to All!

All SummerFest events are free and open to everyone from everywhere! Bring your lawn chair, blanket, or enjoy the festival from your boat. Concerts are rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, outdoor concerts will take place in the War Memorial Ballroom. While tickets are free, we do ask that you register with us at the link below.

SUMMERFEST LINE-UP
SummerFest Concert: Dave Bennett Band
Jul 10
SummerFest Concert: Dave Bennett Band

On July 10th our SummerFest Concert series opens with a War Memorial favorite, the Dave Bennett Band! With his special blend of rockabilly and jazz, it’s sure to be a night to remember.

SummerFest Concert: Cancel Monday
Jul 24
SummerFest Concert: Cancel Monday

On July 24th our SummerFest Concert series continues with Cancel Monday Band! Kick off your shoes and get ready to dance with Metro-Detroit’s premier party band!

SummerFest Concert: Thornetta Davis
Aug 7
SummerFest Concert: Thornetta Davis

On August 7th join us for a special evening featuring international singer, songwriter, recording artist, and “Detroit’s Queen of the Blues”, Thornetta Davis!

SummerFest Concert: Air Margaritaville
Aug 21
SummerFest Concert: Air Margaritaville

On August 21, join us as we close out our SummerFest season with the laid-back yet exhilarating Caribbean vibe of Air Margarittaville - a beloved staple of SummerFest for years. A Jimmy Buffett tribute band, Air Margarittaville is sure to please “Parrotheads” young and old!

NEW THIS YEAR! VIP TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

New this year!  While SummerFest concerts are completely free to the public, you can support The War Memorial’s commitment to providing low-cost family friendly programming by purchasing a VIP ticket!  VIP tickets are only $40 each and include reserved seating areas on both our balcony and near the front of the stage, so you can leave your chairs at home. VIP area also includes a private bar, and a ticket for a complimentary beverage.  We appreciate your support! 

GREAT EATS

No summer festival would be complete without awesome eats, and SummerFest features a mouth-watering menu comprised of both local food trucks and The War Memorial’s own hospitality team, led by Chef Joe Paxton, delivering our own spin on classic Americana.  

Please note, while picnics, picnic blankets and chairs are welcome, no outside beverages are permitted. 

Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship opportunities are still available! If you are interested in adding your name to our biggest event of the summer, contact the Development Department at 313.332.4026 or email mhanoian@warmemorial.org