Greater pop, and a longer show — that’s how the folks behind the annual Ford Fireworks are promoting Monday’s fireworks over the Detroit River.
CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF FIREWORKS IN MICHIGAN
Produced by The Parade Company, the Ford Fireworks are set to kickoff at 9:55 p.m. More than 10,000 pyrotechnics have been packed, and prepared to showcase this year’s theme: “Detroit! Right Now!”
“The Ford Fireworks is a special community celebration that allows people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the renewed energy coming from our great city,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund. “Ford is proud to show our ongoing commitment to Detroit and southeast Michigan by supporting this iconic tradition that has been going on for nearly 60 years.”
This marks the 59th year for the show.
WHERE TO WATCH
Hart Plaza is a fan favorite for firework viewing. This year it’s expected to be one of the biggest parties. Entrance will not be permitted until 2 p.m. Those who plan to attend should plan to arrive early, once capacity is reached the grounds will be sealed off. If you leave, you won’t be allowed to re-enter.
Tents are not allowed, neither is alcohol, drones, pets or weapons. Cooking is prohibited inside Hart Plaza. Police note that backpacks and coolers will be searched.
Belle Isle opened to pedestrian traffic early Monday morning, but will be closed to vehicle traffic until 2 p.m. Those who drive onto the island will need a Recreation Passport, if you do not have one you can purchase one for $11.
Only 3,000 vehicles will be allowed entrance onto Belle Isle. Alcohol consumption is prohibited on the island, however tents and canopies will be allowed. RV parking is available on the paddock area near the casino.
If you can’t make it to Hart Plaza or Belle Isle a trio of parks are worth checking out: Mt. Elliot Park, Owens Park and Erma Henderson Park are all good viewing spots.
Not that the Riverside Park and the RiverWalk between Yzerman Drive and Joseph Campau will be closed.
WHERE TO PARK
Parking meters will not be enforced after 5 p.m. on June 26. Drivers will still have to observe normal parking restrictions, such as, parking in front of fire hydrants, blocking alleys, or parking in designated handicap zones without proper credentials.
MPD will offer parking at a number of city-owned garages and lots throughout the city including:
* Ford Underground Garage located at 30 E. Jefferson ($10 to park)
* Joe Louis Arena Garage located at 900 W. Jefferson ($10 to park)
* Millennium Garage located at 32 W. Congress ($10 to park)
* Grand Circus Park Garage located at 1601 Woodward Avenue ($10 to park)
WHERE/WHEN TO AVOID TRAFFIC
Road closures will begin in the downtown area near the high-traffic watching areas around 6 p.m.
Woodward Avenue between Fisher Freeway and Congress will be shutdown for everyone except emergency vehicles and SMART bus coaches.
Jefferson ill close between I-375 and Griswold, traffic will be routed to the Chrysler Service Drive. West Jefferson will be shutdown at Cobo Center.
Gratiot Avenue will become a one-way street between I-375 and Randolph for northbound traffic, while Madison will be shutdown. Monroe Street will similarly be barricaded and closed between Randolph and Woodward.
Third Street at West Jefferson will be closed to the public. Fort Street traffic between Cabacier and Rosa Parks Boulevard will be restricted to residents of the Riverfront Tower Apartments.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
A curfew will be in place for the downtown area beginning at 6 p.m.
Minors are welcome to view the Ford Fireworks from any approved public area, but they must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or adult (age 21 and up) if they choose view the fireworks from the downtown area.
Minors are allowed to travel to and from work ,school, church or organized activities.
If a minor is picked up by police for violating the curfew on Monday night they will be taken to the Coleman A. Young Recreation Center on Bradby Drive. A parent or guardian will need to pick up any minor that is taken in for skipping curfew - a parental responsibility violation ticket may be written.
