January
North American International Auto Show - Detroit is called the "Motor City." What did you expect? In addition to millions of patrons and thousands of American journalists and TV networks, reporters from 68 foreign countries will be attending this sensational, multi-cultural event. The symbol of automobile excellence, the North American International Auto Show is 1 million square-feet of pure entertainment. From games and prizes, to celebrities and shopping, and every car imaginable, plus plenty of concept vehicles, the show offers something for everyone. Whether you are a teenager with no idea how to change a car's oil, or you are an expert mechanic, you will find something to love at the greatest car show on Earth.

February
Detroit's Winter Blast - This event spans 11 city blocks and features a 200-foot snow slide, as well as ice sculpture, dog sledding and snowshoeing. Also featured are food vendors, live bands and family activities.

March
Detroit Kennel Club Dog Show - An event that speaks for itself, this very popular show features championship dogs from across the country competing in a number of different events. Visitors also can patronize a shopping area which sells anything from dog food to doggie jewelry, and K-9 experts are on-hand to answer any and all questions about dogs and dog shows.

April
Detroit Tree-Planting Celebration - Watch as children plant 100 large trees and also give away hundreds of seedlings to residents.

Carmageddon - This artistic event features pinewood derby cars designed by artists. The exhibits are a fun way to appreciate art.

May
Movement - A massive three-day event, Movement, Detroit's electronic music festival, is the largest of its kind in the world. Taking place every Memorial Day weekend, the free concert features more than 70 bands and artists integrating music with visual artistry and state-of-the-art technology.

Downtown Detroit Hoedown - This three-day free event features live performances by famous country music artists. The event also offers food, beverages and, of course, dancing.

June
International Freedom Festival - Celebrating the friendship between the citizens of Windsor, Canada, and the citizens of Detroit, the International Freedom Festival, held on June 29 every year since 1959, is a massive event complete with a jaw-dropping spectacle of a parade, KART racing, outdoor concerts, dancing and even a tug across the Detroit River. The night is capped off with some of the most impressive fireworks in both countries, witnessed by more than a million people.

Detroit Festival of the Arts - This free festival features a juried fine arts and crafts market, as well as visual and performing artists. You will see exhibitions and demonstrations, and children will enjoy the children's fair. Food and drink from local Detroit restaurants will be served.

July
Comerica CityFest - This five-day outdoor food and music festival features international, regional and local musicians on four different stages. Local restaurants offer the area's finest food and beverages. Other features include a marketplace, artists, extreme sports and children's activities.

Spirit of Detroit Music Festival - Held at the Michigan State Fairgrounds, national and local musicians play jazz, blues, rock, R&B, country and hip-hop. The festival also features food vendors, an open-air market and an art show. Kids will also enjoy games, storytelling and other activities.

August
Michigan State Fair - Begun in 1849, this is the oldest state fair in the country. It features rides, entertainment, food and children's activities. Also offered are livestock and agricultural displays.

African World Festival - This celebration of African culture features performances, food, exhibitions and arts and crafts.

September
Detroit International Jazz Festival - This free festival takes place over four days and has 2 million square-feet of music. Listen to six stages of national, regional and local artists playing jazz, blues and soul. The festival also includes fireworks and children's activities.

October
Trick or Treat at the Mall - Between October 29 and Halloween day, six separate malls in Detroit are having huge Halloween bashes. Kids get bags of candy, grown-ups enjoy give-aways and all the family can take delight in the costume contests, arts and crafts, face painting, balloons, movies, haunted house party shows, pumpkin carving and much more.

November
America's Thanksgiving Parade - Broadcast all over the world, America's Thanksgiving Parade has become a staple of Thanksgiving celebration. People from all over the country tune in to watch it broadcast live on television. Famous celebrities, great music and massive floats are all crowd-pleasing favorites. New events have recently been added as well, such as the Turkey Trot, Michigan's longest 10-mile run, and Hob Nobble Gobble, a black-tie fundraising gala.

Sources:
(http://www.lonelyplanet.com)

(http://www.fraserlawfirm.com/Employment/LivDet.html)

(http://Detroit.about.com/od/localtours/tp/beforeyoudie.htm)