DETROIT – Summer officially kicks off in the Motor City on Monday with the 68th Ford Fireworks.
“I say this every year: this show is going to be bigger and better than we’ve ever done it,” Tony Michaels, president and CEO of the Parade Company, said Thursday. “We do that every single year.”
If you’re planning to come downtown to watch the Ford Fireworks on Monday, you’ll need to arrive early. This year, spectators will have plenty of places to choose from.
Traditional viewing locations, including Hart Plaza, Belle Isle and Spirit Plaza, will once again be available.
Belle Isle will open to vehicle traffic at 2 p.m. Monday. Pedestrians and cyclists can access the island throughout the day. Visitors should remember that a Recreation Passport is required to enter Belle Isle, and stopping on the MacArthur Bridge to watch the fireworks is prohibited.
Erma Henderson Park on Jefferson Avenue, a new viewing location this year, has a capacity of 1,500 people and serves as a less-crowded alternative to other downtown viewing spots.
Officials recommend visitors:
- Arrive early. Many viewing locations are expected to fill up during the afternoon, and access could be restricted by 6 p.m.
- Bring chairs, blankets and umbrellas. Most parks are also pet-friendly.
- Expect heavy traffic and street closures throughout downtown. Detroit police may also implement additional traffic restrictions.
- Consider using the People Mover, DDOT buses or the QLine instead of driving directly to the riverfront. Parking lots will be available, but visitors should be prepared to pay and may want to bring cash.
The city will also begin enforcing its newly implemented curfew Monday night for unaccompanied minors ages 17 and younger. The curfew begins at 8 p.m. and remains in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday.
For those unable to make the trip downtown, the 68th Ford Fireworks will air live on Local 4 and stream on Local 4+ beginning at 8 p.m. Monday.