Detroit's Best Outdoor Music Festivals and Concerts This Summer

After an especially long Detroit winter, it’s finally the time of the year where you can actually enjoy yourself outdoors without a bubble jacket -- and what better way to make the best of your summer than with some music in the sweet sweet sunlight? To make your concert-going life even easier, we’ve gathered the best outdoor concerts and festivals in Metro Detroit into one ultimate calendar. Here's every fresh-air summer show you need to know about in the Motor City.

Movement Electronic Music Festival
Movement Electronic Music Festival

Movement

As the birthplace of techno, it only makes sense that Detroit’s annual electronic music festival never disappoints. This year, headliners include Diplo, Maceo Plex, and -- oh yeah -- the reunion of the one and only Wu-Tang Clan!
Cost: $85 for a one-day pass, $195 for a three-day pass

Paul Simon

Whether or not you think this “Homeward Bound -- Farewell Tour” is actually Simon’s true retirement from touring, you’re probably better off feeling safe than sorry, right?
Cost: $35-175

Kendrick Lamar

As if the opportunity to see the biggest name in rap and the newest recipient of the Pulitzer Prize wasn’t enough, TDE: The Championship Tour boasts an insane roster of special guests, including SZA, ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and more.
Cost: $39.50-149.50

Detroit Music Weekend

Only in Detroit could your headliner be the freakin’ Jackson family; plus, this gigantic Saturday festival now has a gigantic MotorCity Market to showcase Detroit artisans.
Cost: Free on Saturday; ticketed events sold out
 
Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu | Nikola Spasenoski/Shutterstock.com

Erykah Badu and Nas

Different as their musical styles are, Badu and Nas have remained strong, powerful creative forces since they each came into their respective spotlights in the '90s. The onstage combo of these two pioneers will surely not be one to miss.
Cost: $56-100

Roger Daltrey, featuring the Detroit Symphony Orchestra

The Who’s frontman is performing the iconic rock opera Tommy in full in only 10 cities, and Detroit’s lucky enough to be on the list. Add Pete Townshend’s younger brother and the entirety of the DSO into the mix, and the show becomes truly unmissable.
Cost: $42.50-126

Styx and Joan Jett & the Blackhearts

Is this an unexpected and slightly weird musical combination? Absolutely, but it’s hard to pass up the opportunity to have back-to-back sing-alongs of “Bad Reputation” and “Mr. Roboto.”
Cost: $29.50-99.50

Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson

Anything that calls itself the Twins of Evil tour is already an attention-grabber, but the pairing of these rock icons seals the deal. Whether you're a "Living Dead Girl" or one of "The Beautiful People," be sure to mark this one on your calendar.
Cost: $29.50-99.50
Pig & Whiskey
Pig & Whiskey

Pig & Whiskey

What more could you ask for than a festival that combines BBQ, whiskey, the outdoors, and great music? The rock-centric lineup includes big-time local favorites like Laith Al-Saadi, Electric Six, and Frontier Ruckus. Plus, don’t forget the after-party at the Loving Touch!
Cost: Free

Ms. Lauryn Hill

It’s hard to believe that the iconic album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill turns 20 years old this year. What better way to celebrate than with a performance of the album in full, courtesy of Ms. Lauryn Hill herself?
Cost: $27-99.50

The Roots and Common

It’s the Roots! What more do you need? The combination of Questlove, Common, and Chene Park’s riverfront view sounds almost too good to be true.
Cost: $41-66

Sidewalk Detroit

The Sidewalk Festival is a unique outdoor festival located around one of the most colorful areas in town. Enjoy local favorites in the realm of music, art installation, dance, and more.
Cost: Free

I Love the '90s Party

105.1 The Bounce’s Birthday Bash is back in spectacular style, this year boasting Salt-n-Pepa as its headliner. If that wasn’t enough, you can also look forward to sets by Montell Jordan, Kid ‘n Play, Tone Loc, Rob Base, and Young MC.
Cost: $25-85
Earth Wind & Fire
Earth Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire and Sheila E.

Earth, Wind & Fire are undeniable kings of funk. Add in a percussionist from Prince’s band, and you’re in for a treat. Any night where you’ll dance to both “September” and “The Glamorous Life” is a good night -- assuming Taylor Swift isn't involved.
Cost: $55-126

Arts Beats & Eats

As the name suggests, Arts Beats & Eats is a juried fine arts show, music festival, and taste festival all rolled into one huge weekend. And, historically speaking, the music lineup is never one to miss.
Cost: Depends on entry time and day, from free to $7
Detroit Jazz Fest
Detroit Jazz Fest

Detroit Jazz Fest

Detroit’s jazz fest always draws a great mix of local favorites and icons from across the globe for you to watch right on the river. This year’s artist-in-residence is legendary keyboardist Chick Corea.
Cost: Free

Dally in the Ally

Anything that calls itself “Detroit’s largest community festival” is not to be missed. This one-day extravaganza floods Midtown with food vendors (like Delectabowl and Union Street) and upwards of 30 grade-A local bands.
Cost: Free
 

DIY Street Fair

What better way to celebrate the “do it yourself” spirit than with a free street fair as summer turns to fall? Join local bands, artists, and food vendors for one last hurrah.
Cost: Free

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