Free Concerts, Outdoor Movies, and Summer Nights Return to The War Memorial with SummerFest 2026
GROSSE POINTE FARMS, June 10, 2026 – Free concerts, outdoor movies, and summer evenings on the shores of Lake St. Clair return this July as The War Memorial launches SummerFest 2026, a five-week celebration of music, movies, and community gathering.
From the vintage swing sounds of the Rhythm Society Orchestra and the timeless music of Simon & Garfunkel to family movie nights and a performance by Detroit blues legend Thornetta Davis, this year's lineup offers something for every generation.
As part of the nationwide commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, SummerFest 2026 highlights music and stories that reflect the American experience. From the big-band sounds that boosted morale during World War II to the folk revival of the 1960s and the blues traditions that helped shape modern music, the series celebrates the diverse cultural influences that continue to bring people together.
Highlights include a screening of the beloved baseball classic The Sandlot on July 22 and a family movie night featuring The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on August 5, complete with pre-show activities for all ages.
"SummerFest has become one of the ways we welcome people onto our campus and create opportunities for connection," said Jennifer Sutton, Director of Public Programs and Special Events. "Whether you're attending with family, meeting friends, or discovering The War Memorial for the first time, these evenings are about sharing great experiences together in a beautiful lakeside setting."
The War Memorial gratefully acknowledges the generous support of SummerFest sponsors George Johnson & Company and Pointe Alarm, whose commitment helps ensure these free community events remain accessible to all.
Concert and Movie Schedule (Grounds open at 6pm; Movies begin at 7pm; Concerts begin at 7:30pm)
Wednesday, July 15 - SummerFest Concert: Rhythm Society Orchestra The 2026 SummerFest season opens with the Rhythm Society Orchestra, a 15-piece dance band performing a WWII-era repertoire while dressed in Army Air Force uniforms inspired by those worn by the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Audiences will enjoy the sounds of the swing era on The War Memorial Terrace.
Wednesday, July 22 - SummerFest Movie Night: The Sandlot An outdoor screening of the beloved baseball classic The Sandlot celebrates America's favorite pastime. The film's memorable cast of neighborhood friends brings nostalgia, humor, and summertime adventure to the lakefront lawn.
Wednesday, July 29 - SummerFest Concert: 1981 The Concert – A Simon and Garfunkel Tribute Featuring the music of Simon & Garfunkel, one of America's most celebrated songwriting partnerships, this tribute recreates the duo's legendary 1981 Concert in Central Park. The performance celebrates the enduring songs that helped define a generation of American music.
Wednesday, August 5 - SummerFest Movie: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, and Bowser reunite in this action-packed sequel. Pre-show activities will add to an evening of family-friendly entertainment.
Wednesday, August 12 - SummerFest Concert: Thornetta Davis Detroit's own Thornetta Davis, widely recognized as the Queen of the Blues, closes the season with a performance celebrating one of America's most influential musical traditions.
Beyond SummerFest - More Events to Explore This Summer:
Wednesday, June 17 - Low Country-style Shrimp Boil The War Memorial's Executive Chef Joe Paxton leads this lakeside culinary event inspired by the traditions of a classic Low Country shrimp boil, bringing the flavors of the American South to the shores of Lake St. Clair.
Thursday, June 25 - Film Screening DETROIT’S FORT WAYNE: Guarding | Serving | Enduring
A free screening of DETROIT'S FORT WAYNE: Guarding | Serving | Enduring explores the history of one of Michigan's most significant military landmarks. Historic Fort Wayne has played an important role in the state's military and economic history since the mid-19th century.
Picnic & Play by the Lake
Held on the fourth Thursday of each month from June through August, Picnic & Play by the Lake offers families a free opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and time together on The War Memorial's lakefront lawn.
Tuesday, July 14 - VetConnect Seminar Series: Daytrip to Selfridge Military Air Museum
Participants will travel to the Selfridge Military Air Museum following lunch at The War Memorial. The experience includes a guided tour exploring aviation and military history.
More Information
SummerFest concerts and movies are free to attend with registration. Guests looking to enhance their experience may purchase VIP tickets, which help support The War Memorial's commitment to providing accessible arts, cultural, and family programming throughout the year. VIP tickets are only $45 each and include reserved seating on the Alger Center balcony, padded chairs, a private bar, and a complimentary beverage. To learn more and register for events, visit The War Memorial’s SummerFest page by clicking www.warmemorial.org/summerfest.
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is a nonprofit cultural and community center dedicated to honoring veterans, enriching lives, and bringing people together through meaningful experiences. For more than 75 years, The War Memorial has welcomed thousands of guests annually for arts and cultural programming, patriotic observances, educational opportunities, community events, and private gatherings across its historic lakefront property.
As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to fostering community engagement through accessible programs that recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and provide opportunities that spark connection, learning, creativity, and civic engagement. The organization proudly upholds this legacy of service while creating a sense of belonging for everyone from everywhere.
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org