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.
"We'll meet again, Don't know where, Don't know when, But I know we'll meet again, Some sunny day." — Vera Lynn (1939)
Kick-Off Our SummerFest Concert Series!
We’ll kick off our 2026 season on July 15th with 15-piece dance band, the Rhythm Society Orchestra, performing a WWII/1940’s-esque set list in Army Air Force uniforms worn by the Glenn Miller band. Take a step back in time and enjoy this 1940’s-esque vintage swing set on the War Memorial Terrace.. We’ll be sure to leave lawn space open for a dance floor
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 Rhythm Society Orchestra
The Rhythm Society Orchestrais a 15-piece dance band specializing in true vintage swing music. Their sound is heavily influenced by Count Basie and Harry James. Although based in Detroit, this band covers top venues throughout the Midwest and has been featured on numerous television and radio programs.
Crooner Paul King describes his style as "a mixture of Mel Torme, Joe Williams, and Frank Sinatra - with a dash of Cab Calloway thrown in". Detroit's Metro Times jokes "His voice has been banned in some nightclubs for inducing public displays of affection on the dance floor."
The Rhythm Society Orchestra has been featured at many of the Midwest's largest swing dance events including dance workshops with some of the world's top instructors.