The Memorial Day Weekend is kicking off a summer filled with massive events in Detroit.
From Movement to the Grand Prix -- and then the Rocket Mortgage Classic and the Ford Fireworks -- this summer could be unlike any other for the Motor City.
Read: How to survive Movement Detroit this weekend
After Detroit’s record-breaking turnout for the NFL Draft, city officials want to capitalize on the buzz.
“It’s putting Detroit in a national spotlight that we haven’t seen in decades. We want to keep that momentum going,” said Chris Moyer, with Visit Detroit. “Last year we had 17 million visitors, $10.5 billion economic impact, we’re not satisfied, our goal is to get to 25 million visitors per year.”
The Movement Electronic Music Festival will kick off Saturday, May 24. It’s one of the longest-running techno festivals in the world and it’s expected to bring thousands to Detroit.
“This is the best summer we’ve had,” said Lanita McCotter-Tate. “Everybody gets you vibing, people say come and dance, you get with it, it’s hot they put the mists on, and you’re just into it!”
Lee Xiong and his family came to Detroit from Georgia. They were eager to take in all the sights.
“I’m so excited for the weekend, you don’t know how long I’ve been waiting for the summer,” Xiong said. “This is their first time in Detroit, so they’re excited.”
Of course, Memorial Day weekend is about honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Tina William, who comes from a military family, said the parades and tributes are incredibly meaningful.
“It’s important to give them some recognition and appreciation in whatever way we can,” William said.
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