Shelby Township is gearing up for a summer extravaganza like no other June 28-29 for the 2024 Shelby Township Summerfest. Set against the backdrop of the municipal campus at 52700 Van Dyke Ave., the first Shelby Township Summerfest presented by the Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority combines the Shelby Township Summer Kick-off and the Shelby Township DDA Independence Day Celebration for two days packed with excitement and entertainment for families and individuals alike.
"We have a very patriotic community in Shelby Township with a lot of veterans and active-duty families here," Township Trustee Lucia Di Cicco said. "It's one of the many reasons Shelby Township is the best place to celebrate Independence Day in metro Detroit, and this year's festivities will further cement that honor.” The Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority is the presenting sponsor for the 2024 Shelby Township Summerfest, adding a summer celebration to its other outreach initiatives, such as the annual Shelby Township Christmas Aglow.
“Supporting the local economy on the Van Dyke Ave. corridor is our focus with everything we do, and bringing 5,000-10,000 people to our municipal campus this summer should help," DDA Chair Greg Gagnon said. Kicking off on June 28, attendees enjoy an array of activities to keep everyone entertained. Summerfest starts with something for everyone from Touch-a-Truck to strolling princesses and superheroes, face painting, magicians, and a petting zoo.
Don't miss the highlight of day one, a live taping of Shelby TV's award-winning "The Treehouse," featuring special segments like science demonstrations from Mad Science of Michigan and animal encounters from Wildlife Safari. And what better way to end the day than with an outdoor movie screening under the stars. “How many kids can say they co-starred in the nation's best government access children's show on their summer vacation,” said Community Relations Director Brad D. Bates. “We’re blessed to have host/producer Kelsey Kobylarek and her team bring our children's programming into residents’ homes with 'The Treehouse.' And Treehouse Live allows those kids to leave the house and meet Kelsey in her treehouse.”
The fun continues on June 29 with a patriotic extravaganza featuring a spectacular Macomb Symphony Orchestra live performance. Accompanied by a grand finale drone show, this promises to be a stirring salute to our nation's independence, leaving audiences of all ages in awe. "The team at Firefly is excited to bring a drone light show to the Shelby Township Summerfest this year,” Ryan Sigmon of Firefly Drone Shows said. “This show will be synchronized to the Macomb Symphony Orchestra and customized around Summerfest. We’re excited to celebrate our nation with you, so enjoy the show!"
Throughout both days, visitors can indulge their taste buds with delectable delights from various food trucks, enjoy the craft beer tent and shop vendors from Connect Macomb. Connect Macomb also offers businesses the chance to get involved by becoming a sponsor of the 2024 Shelby Township Summerfest. Businesses can align their brand with one of the most anticipated events in the community and demonstrate their commitment to family-friendly entertainment and community engagement by contacting Connect Macomb at 586-731-5400.
“The 2024 Shelby Township Summerfest is a testament to the vibrant spirit and unity of our community,” Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis said. “By bringing together cherished traditions and exciting new experiences, this event embodies everything that makes Shelby Township a better place.”
