In early March the bars and nightclubs of the enclave city (within Detroit) of Hamtramck collectively host hundreds of bands in an event known as the Hamtramck Blowout.  It's an Indie music lover's dream.  The White Stripes, The Dirtbombs and Brendan Benson have played the Blowout.

Beginning with Memorial Day most of what is advertised or widely known about are the festivals that are either in Hart Plaza, downtown Detroit, or on the main streets of our suburbs. When actually there are several street festivals in different neighborhoods of Detroit which showcase the diversity and the pride of our local neighborhoods. In August there is the Fourth Street art fair/festival whatever you call it. It features local bands, artists and a unique close knit neighborhood that has cook-outs, fundraisers and entrepreneurs in the local area. In July is the Broadstreet parade, located on the Northwest side of Detroit which features middle school aged children displaying their musical skills to all of their neighbors and anyone else who is in the audience.

On most summer weekends the unique Eastern Market has an activity or vendor display of a home and garden type of flea market and in the surrounding shops are the rare and hard to find spices, world foods (at reasonable prices), bulk candy and intimate restaurants. Walking around that area will immerse you into the underlying culture of Detroit: the food. On the west side of downtown is Mexicantown. The venues on Bagley Street offer a festive atmosphere usually every weekend.  Most of the restaurants have either outside loudspeakers or live bands playing. Because it's close to the Ambassador Bridge, many Canadians can be counted among those who frequent the restaurants adding to the international feel of the festivities. The restaurants on Bagley attract mostly tourists and suburbanites. Authentic restaurants patronized by local residents can be found a few blocks northwest. The Mexicantown Bakery on Vernor Hwy and Clarkdale sells delectable pastries and fresh bread daily.

On Labor Day weekends, the streets surrounding the magnificent Fisher Building play host to the TasteFest.  Dozens of Detroit's restaurants offer selections from their menus for visitors to sample.  Additionally, local, national and international bands play throughout the weekend on one of several stages.  There is no charge for admission to the TasteFest, but you have to pay to sample the food that's on offer.