Celebrate Summer in Metro-Detroit’s Backyard!
Our free outdoor summer series returns, this time with a patriotic theme that honors America’s 250th Anniversary. These diverse performances represent different aspects of the music that moves us, combining in a showcase that is uniquely American. Each concert is free, but registration is required, and VIP tickets on our private balcony are available for purchase to support the show.
Bring your blanket and chairs and we’ll provide the fun. We can’t wait to spend the best Wednesday nights of the year with you, here on the lake.
“They’ve all come to look for America.” Paul Simon, America (1968)
Continuing Our SummerFest Concert Series!
Our second concert of the series features the music of Paul Simon, one of America’s greatest and most celebrated songwriters. Join us on our lakefront lawn on July 29th as we travel back in time to Central Park in 1981, and enjoy a recreation of Simon & Garfunkel’s famous Concert in Central Park.
Your Evening
6:00pm: Grounds Open for seating, Food Stand & Bar Opens for Service
7:30pm: Concert Begins
9:00pm: Concert Concludes
No summer festival would be complete without awesome eats, and SummerFest features a mouth-watering menu from The War Memorial’s own hospitality team, led by Chef Joe Paxton, delivering our own spin on classic Americana.
VIP Tickets Available
While SummerFest concerts are completely free to the public, you can support The War Memorial’s commitment to providing low-cost family friendly programming by purchasing a VIP ticket! VIP tickets are only $45 each and include reserved seating on the Alger Center balcony, padded chairs, a private bar, and a complimentary beverage. We appreciate your support!
General Admission is free and open to all — registration is required.
This event is free and open to all. In the spirit of accessibility and community support, we’ve introduced a “Pay What You Wish” option. While there is no cost to attend, your contribution—of any amount—helps offset the expenses of this program and supports future community offerings at The War Memorial. Thank you for helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone.
Please note, while picnics, picnic blankets and chairs are welcome, no outside beverages are permitted.
About 1981 The Concert – A Simon and Garfunkel Tribute
Nick Foresman is a singer/songwriter who has been performing professionally for over 25 years. Originally from the Detroit area, he was raised in Traverse City and got his start playing in the local bars and clubs around East Lansing while attending Michigan State University.
Nick has been a featured act in many popular establishments around the state of Michigan and has performed nationally from Chicago to Atlanta, Nashville to Los Angeles. He has shared the stage with many popular regional acts like Domestic Problems as well as opening up for national acts including Heart and the Verve Pipe.