The festival is held in the New Center area of the city. It began in 1989 as a fundraiser for the New Center Council and was originally called the Detroit Tastefest. The event has grown tremendously with attendance averaging over 500,000 people.
Photo of New Center Park. Credit: New Center Council, Inc.
The New Center area is located on the northern edge of dowtown Detroit. Business leaders in the early part of the 20th century helped to transform the neighborhood into the business district it is today. The Fisher brothers, automotive visionaries who designed the closed carriage, built the New Center and Fisher Buildings which have become Detroit landmarks.
These buildings are the backdrop of this popular event which has kept its Tastefest tradition by offering taste tickets for sale that are good for samples at over 30 participating food vendors and restaurants. During the festival, there is even a section set aside called Dessert District. What heaven!
One of the biggest attractions is the music which ranges from well-known national performers to homegrown talent – all performing free. Jazz, blues, rap, and rock are just a few of the musical choices to enjoy.
As of 2009, the Modern Skate & Surf Park is back to delight hardcore skateboard enthusiasts. If extreme skateboarding isn’t your thing, then go shopping in the Detroit LISC Market for arts, crafts, cultural items and Detroit memorabilia. If you’re looking for a bit of history, take a tour of the beautiful Fisher Building or go for a ride on a Model-T.
This is a kid-friendly event with free attractions including a games and fitness area and a petting zoo. Comerica Cityfest is a perfect way to try something new and get your summer off to a exciting start. Admission to the event is free. For more information, visit the 2009 Comerica Cityfest website.
References:
2009 Comerica Cityfest.
Fogelman, Randall. Brief New Center History. Exerpt hosted on the New Center Council – Detroit, MI website.
