The 2026 Shelby Township Summer Fest kicks off summer and honors America250 June 26-27 at the Shelby Township Civic Center Campus at 52700 Van Dyke Ave. Presented by the Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority, the two-day event offers live entertainment, interactive activities and a community-wide celebration of America.

“On a normal year, Summer Fest is a can’t-miss event, but for America250 it’s going to be really special,” Shelby Township DDA Chair Greg Gagnon said. “With its focus on families, Independence Day and community fun, I can’t think of a better representation or celebration of America than Shelby Township Summer Fest.”

Summer Fest begins 4-11 p.m., Friday, June 26 with an evening full of family-friendly fun. Attendees can enjoy DJ entertainment, Touch-a-Truck, strolling princesses and superheroes, face painting, magicians and a petting zoo presented by the Friends of the Shelby Township Library.  A craft beer tent and food truck rally, hosted by Connect Macomb, will also be available throughout the evening, with water available for purchase from the Friends of the Shelby Township Library.

“The Friends of the Library play a vital role in making so much of what we offer possible,” Library Director Katie Ester said. “From funding programs and special events to supporting important library purchases, their impact is felt throughout the library every day. Summer Fest is a great opportunity for residents to meet the Friends, learn about the difference they make, and discover how joining helps support the library and its programs.”

New this year, the Enchanted Storybook Sing-a-Long and Dance Party invites families to join in a magical experience filled with music, dancing and interactive fun. The evening continues with a live taping of Shelby TV’s award-winning “The Treehouse,”, featuring special segments including science demonstrations and live animal encounters.

“The Treehouse is Shelby TV’s most decorated program with multiple national and regional awards, so Treehouse Live allows us to bring all of the kids from Shelby Township into the Treehouse and film an episode with host Kelsey Kobylarek,” Community Relations Director Brad Bates said. 

As the night continues, Detroit’s premier cover band, Parallel Fifth, takes the stage, bringing high-energy entertainment to close out the first night of festivities.

Summer Fest continues 6:30-10:30 p.m., Saturday, June 27 with expanded family activities and a patriotic celebration. The Kids Zone returns with a variety of attractions, including a rock-climbing wall, inflatables and backyard games, along with additional activities this year. The Kids Zone is a continuation of the support of the Friends of the Shelby Township Library and Shelby Township Parks and Recreation, with opportunities available for additional sponsors.

“Summer Fest is a great opening to the summer where families get a taste of all of the fun they can have in Shelby Township parks throughout the season,” Parks, Recreation and Maintenance Director Joe Youngblood said. “We’re happy to work with Community Relations, the Library, Police, Fire and everyone else to showcase what it means to be from Shelby Township.”

The township will again offer a sensory room in Hope Chapel, in partnership with Oakland University’s Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services, providing a quiet, low-stimulation space for those who need it during the event.

The evening’s patriotic program begins with the 1st Michigan Colonial Fife and Drum Corps, followed by a live performance from the Macomb Symphony Orchestra. The celebration concludes with a drone show set to music during the symphony’s finale, creating a memorable tribute to America. As Shelby Township continues its participation in America 250, Summer Fest highlights the community’s longstanding traditions while celebrating the nation’s history, spirit and future through music, entertainment and shared experiences.

“It’s hard to believe that this is only the third year we’ve held Summer fest,” said Township Trustee Lucia DiCicco, who serves on the DDA. “It’s still a new tradition in the township, but I can’t imagine summer without Summer Fest.”

Summer Fest is made possible through the support of the Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority and community partners. For information on how you or your business can also get involved, visit shelbytwp.org/summer or email Community Relations Assistant Director Chelsea Schneider at cschneider@shelbytwp.org.

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