Neighborhood Programs

Fueling Community Empowerment Through Arts and Culture, Cross-Cultural Conversations and Economic Development

In 2026, as America marks its 250th anniversary, the Concert of Colors—Detroit’s oldest and 
largest free global music and cultural festival—will honor the nation’s enduring spirit of unity, 
creativity, and resilience. Rooted in the belief that art is a bridge between people, this landmark 
visionary series brings the sounds and stories of Detroit’s distinctive neighborhoods to life, 
connecting communities through shared heritage, dialogue, and hope. This project embraces and 
affirms the power of the arts to unite and uplift.

Aligned with the mission of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage—to connect communities across cultures, cultivating curiosity, understanding, and belonging for all people— ]this initiative upholds and celebrates Detroit’s multifaceted cultural expressions. Through research, education, and community engagement, it recognizes that cultural traditions are living systems that help communities thrive. Together, these efforts promote greater understanding and sustainability of cultural heritage across Metro Detroit and beyond.

Through partnerships with leading community-based organizations across Metro Detroit, the Concert of Colors will host a series of neighborhood events celebrating the cultural traditions that have helped shape our nation. Together, these programs remind us that the journey toward a more perfect union begins with listening, sharing, and creating solutions together.

Media Partners in Storytelling and Driving Community Impact ● Detroit PBS will broadcast three major programs statewide, ensuring that Michigan households experience the beauty and creativity of Detroit’s neighborhoods. ● WDET 101.9 FM will amplify the story with two weeks of radio features and interviews for each event. ● Marx Layne & Company, a leading PR and digital agency, will guide a vibrant campaign that highlights Detroit’s role in shaping America’s cultural identity. Together, these partnerships will elevate Detroit’s community voices, economic development, and cultural stories on citywide stages and beyond—showing America that the future of cultural and a commitment to democracy is evident in Detroit

Upcoming Events:

  • Black History Month

    Wednesday, February 25th 7PM

    In partnership with the Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO).

    Featured Artist: Russell Thompkins & The New Stylistics | Isis Damil

    Location: Detroit Association of Black Organizations, (DABO) 9928 Grand River, Detroit, MI 48204

  • Freedom Frequency Festival: Vibratory Healing

    Saturday, March 28, 2026, 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM

    Community Partner: Eastside Community Network (ECN)

    Featured Artists: De'Sean Jones and the Urban Art Orchestra

    The Clark Sisters, and Faith Evans.

    Kenny Green – Cosmic Music Therapy Kresge Art Fellow

    Location: The Shepherd, 1265 Parkview St, Detroit, MI 48214

  • The Curved Shores Concert: A Native Artists Showcase!

    Saturday, April 11th, 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM

    In partnerships with Vibes With The Tribes (VWTT)

    Featured Artist: Nataanii Means, Stuart James, Natasha Fisher, Racquel Soledad, Rose Thornberry, SouFy

    Location: Spot Lite Detroit, 2905 Beaufait St, Detroit, MI 48207

  • Echoes of Erin: Traditional Music of Ireland

    Saturday, May 23rd, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    In partnership with the Detroit Irish Music Association (DIMA)

    Featured Artist: Cathy Jordan, Kevin Burke, Eamon O’Leary, Sean Gavin, Nic Gareiss

    Location: The Gaelic League – Irish American Club of Detroit, 2068 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

  • All Humans Are Created Equal

    Saturday, June 27th, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

    In partnership with the Mexicantown Community Development

    Featured Artist: La Santa Cecelia, Sonia de los Santos

    Location: Mercado Plaza, 2826 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216

  • Caribbean Summerfest

    Saturday August 29th, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM

    In partnership with Caribbean Summerfest Caribbean Cultural and Carnival Organization (CCCO)

    Featured Artist: Mical Teja, Universal Xpression, Roots Vibrations

    Location: Marygrove College, 8425 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221

  • Pan-Asian Cultural Celebration

    Saturday September 26th, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

    In partnership with the Pan-Asian Cultural Celebration International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit (IIMD)

    Featured Artist: Madame XD (Xiao Dong Wei),Taiwan Acrobats Troupe, | Great Lakes Taiko Ensemble

    Location: Detroit Shipping Company, 474 Peterboro, Detroit

  • Italian American Heritage Month

    Saturday Oct 24, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

    In partnership with the N.O.I. Foundation (Nuovi Orizzonti Italiani)

    Featured Artist: Maestro Francesco Mamola and Alfonzo Brandi (guitarist)

    Location: Macomb Center for Performing Arts, Clinton Township

  • Still We Sing

    Saturday, Nov 14th, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    In partnership with ACCESS / Arab American National Museum

    Featured Artist: Omar Offendum “Little Syria” | Zekkereya Elmagharbel

    Location: Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126