Detroit has always been known as one of America’s great music cities, and this week that reputation shines on an international stage. The Concert of Colors is celebrating its 35th anniversary with five days of outstanding performances that bring together artists and audiences from around the globe—all without charging admission.
Running through Sunday, July 19, the festival transforms Midtown into one giant musical neighborhood. More than a dozen venues—including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Detroit Historical Museum, Third Man Records, the Michigan Science Center, and several additional cultural locations—host performances throughout the day and evening. Visitors can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering from venue to venue, discovering styles of music they may never have heard before.
This year’s lineup is among the strongest in the festival’s history. Legendary percussionist Sheila E. headlines alongside the internationally acclaimed Kronos Quartet. Detroit favorites such as jazz vocalist Joan Belgrave share the stage with NEA Jazz Masters Carmen Lundy and Gary Bartz, while the energetic Lemon Bucket Orkestra from Toronto promises one of the festival’s most unforgettable performances with its unique blend of Eastern European brass, folk, and theatrical energy.
One of the remarkable things about Concert of Colors is that it reflects Detroit itself. People of every age, culture, and background gather to celebrate music that crosses borders and languages. Families bring lawn chairs, students discover new artists, longtime music lovers reconnect with old favorites, and visitors experience Detroit’s vibrant cultural community firsthand.
For 35 years, this festival has demonstrated that music has a unique ability to unite people. Whether you stay for one performance or spend an entire day exploring Midtown, you’ll discover why Concert of Colors has become one of Detroit’s signature summer traditions.
Details: Through July 19 at various Midtown Detroit venues. Free admission.
