Metro Detroit is home to a diverse set of cultures and communities. Luckily for food lovers, festival season is filled with opportunities to not only experience but taste something new.
This summer, head to a local fest and spend the day sampling different taco creations or trying out Chaldean street food. Check out small-town festivals for their own spin on foods like lavender lemonade and melon ice cream made with locally grown ingredients.
After a summer spent exploring, you might find your family’s new favorite dish, or the kids might not turn their noses up at the dinner table anymore (fingers crossed).
July
Royal Oak Taco Fest
Royal Oak, through July 4
Taco options abound at this festival; there’s more than 50 spots to choose from. Plus, it has a KidZone with a bounce house and crafts.
Festa Italiana
Sterling Heights, July 14-16
Celebrate the world of Italian food at Freedom Hill County Park. Food vendors include Pizza Del Nino and Vegano Italiano for those looking for vegan options. Grab a slice and try your hand at the bocce ball courts.
Blake’s Lavender Festival
Armada, July 14-16
While lavender hand creams and candles might make a little one yawn, the U-Pick lavender fields, ice cream and lemonade will surely catch their attention. There’s a children’s activity tent, too. Kids under 10 enter free.
Sounds & Sights Festival
Chelsea, July 28-29
Downtown Chelsea’s annual festival is a huge draw for families and foodies alike. Stop by for a Big Kahuna Burger and typical fair favorites like elephant ears and corn dogs. Find family-friendly entertainment and activities in the KidZone and TeenZone.
Arab and Chaldean Festival
West Bloomfield, July 29-30
Food is integral to Arab and Chaldean culture. Stop by this family-friendly cultural festival for a variety of incredible ethnic food options.
August
Canterbury Barbecue Festival
Lake Orion, Aug. 4-6
Get your fill of BBQ and other treats. Check out the five stages of entertainment and activities.
Howell Melon Fest
Howell, Aug. 18-20
The standout from this festival is the melon ice cream. All proceeds go to support Howell Rotary Youth programs and other community projects.
St. Rafka Church Festival
Livonia, Aug. 18-20
Indulge in Middle Eastern favorites like chicken shawarma, falafel, tabbouli, Lebanese ice cream and other Lebanese sweets while celebrating Middle Eastern and American culture. Plus, there are inflatables, Arabic dancing and henna tattoos.
Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.
