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Livonia Spree at Ford Field
This annual family festival celebrates the birth of a city. Catch the food, rides, contests and fireworks the week of June 19-June 24, 2012.
Did you know the very first Spree was actually Spree 23? That's right: Back in 1970, Livonia began celebrating its birthday with a big bash – and started the count at "23," since that was the 23rd year since the city was incorporated.
Now, Livonia Spree 61 is back in town June 19-June 24, 2012, when it'll host some 400,000 people over six days. This fun festival – complete with rides, food, games, contests, fireworks and more – is a perfect opportunity for families to bond as the school year comes to a close.
Wondering this year's Spree hours? Here's a glance:
- Tuesday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Wednesday-Friday: 2-11 p.m.
- Saturday-Sunday: noon-11 p.m.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, which is Family Fun Day, complete with a parade at 12:30 p.m., plus races, contests and games galore.
Also for kids, the local Observer & Eccentric Newspapers are sponsoring a pie-eating contest for ages 7-12. Children will also enjoy the clowns, popular Hot Dog Pig Racing and comedy magic of Ken and Austin Dumm. New this year is the Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo, where tykes can pet furry friends. Catch ballet, martial arts and Polish dancing performances, too.
The free child identification program also returns – a festival staple for over a decade. Not only can parents bring their kids to the Livonia Spree for fun; they can also get a bit of protection and peace of mind.
For parents, the Labatt Blue Tent hosts a beer and wine tasting event 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday. Admission is $7 in advance online; $10 the day-of. See music performances 7-11 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, too, by country, rock and tribute bands, including Annabelle Road, Jill Jack and The Mega 80's. There's also a casino tent Thursday-Saturday to benefit the Livonia Jaycees Charity.
Always wanted to live the rock dream? Don't miss Battle of the Bands Tuesday, over in the Bright House Networks Tent. Pre-register your band for the competition – or just check out the show.
Sunday, eat pancakes for only $4 a person, 8:30-11 a.m., in the Eddie Edgar Arena. This all-you-can-eat meal supports Spree memorial scholarships. This year's scholarships will be presented at the breakfast!
Also for the family, catch the Spree Run (1 mile, 5K, 10K run and walk) and classic car show are on Sunday.
And, of course, the Spree concludes Sunday with its traditional 30-minute fireworks extravaganza, which starts at 10:15 p.m.
General admission is free! Spree 61 armbands for rides are $15; Spree 62 armbands cost $22. The Spree 61 band offers most of the benefits of this year's band, but is not valid for rides on Sunday. The discounted armbands are available through the June 20.
Parking is limited. There will be a free shuttle to take you to and from the grounds.
See the Metro Parent listing for more on the 2012 Livonia Spree at Ford Field.
