Arts & Entertainment - Events

July 2008

EVENTS

National Cherry Festival: This annual festival began in 1926 as a formal blessing of the cherry blossom. Since then the event has turned into a weeklong celebration that includes volleyball tournaments, an amusement park, bingo, air show, and more. July 5-12. Traverse City; cherryfestival.org.

Comerica Cityfest: Formerly known as the “Taste-fest,” the four-day festival includes a mix of food, culture, and music. Admission is free and food tickets are $10 for 16 tickets. 11:30 a.m.- 11 p.m. July 2-5. 11:30 a.m.- 8 p.m. July 6. West Grand Boulevard, between Cass and Third, Detroit; newcenter.com.

Garden Walk: Enjoy six gardens in one afternoon with the Country Garden Club of Northville. The 15th annual event also includes garden vendors, music, refreshments, and historic buildings. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. July 9. $10. Northville; cgcnv.org.

Gold Cup Hydroplane Boat Races: This year marks the 100th year of this prestigious event. Come watch as hydroplanes race at speeds up to 200 mph to win one of the oldest motor sport trophies in the world. July 11-13. Detroit River, east of the MacArthur (Belle Isle) Bridge; gold-cup.com.

Art in the Park: More than 350 artists will line the streets of downtown Plymouth to display their crafts and fine art. The weekend will also include entertainment and food. 12 p.m.- 8 p.m. July 11. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. July 12. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. July 13. The streets surrounding Kellogg Park, downtown Plymouth; artinthepark.com.

Sample Sale: Save up to 70 percent at the Michigan Design Center Sample Sale. Selections include brand-name furniture, rugs, lamps, and home accessories. 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. July 25. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. July 26. $7. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Gilda’s Club of Detroit. Michigan Design Center, 1700 Stutz Dr., Troy; 248-649-4772.