It’s almost time for city’s favorite summer tradition: Livonia Spree. For more than half a century, the Spree has been the week when neighbors, families, and friends come together in a way that only Livonia knows how to do — with laughter, music, and a whole lot of good food. If you haven’t been, let me give you a taste of what you’re missing. And if you’re a Spree regular, well… you already know this is the best party in town.

Born back in 1970 as a way to bring our city together, Spree has grown from a simple community picnic into a full-on festival that takes over Ford Field at the end of June. It’s our birthday party and everyone’s invited!

Let’s start with the sights and sounds. Each day, the festival grounds are alive with the smells of classic fair food (if you don’t leave with powdered sugar on your shirt, you’re doing it wrong), the glow of carnival rides, and the buzz of thousands of happy voices. Whether you’re here for the thrill of the rides, the games, or just an ice-cold lemonade on a hot afternoon, there’s something for everyone.

The Beer Tent is a Spree classic. It opens every evening with local brews and national favorites, but the real draw is the live entertainment. We bring in bands that know how to get a crowd moving, so don’t be shy about hitting the dance floor. This year’s lineup covers everything from rock to pop to country, and the energy is contagious.

For families, the Kids Tent is a can’t-miss. We pull out all the stops: magic shows, petting farms, foam parties, crafts, and even pig and duck races (yes, real pigs, real ducks, and it’s as adorable as it sounds). Our entertainers are pros at getting kids laughing, singing, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Throw in a few rounds on the giant slide or tilt-a-whirl, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect summer day.

We haven’t forgotten about the friendly competition, either. The Cornhole Tournament draws serious talent and plenty of first-timers. Whether you’re tossing beanbags for the top prize or just for bragging rights, you’ll find a welcoming crowd. And if you’d rather compete on foot, the Spree 5K Run is a community favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just out for a stroll, the 5K is a great way to kick off the weekend.

Food lovers, you’re in for a treat. From pizza night (where families gather for slices and stories) to the legendary Pancake Breakfast, Spree’s food vendors fill the park with everything you crave. We showcase local favorites as well as festival classics. Think elephant ears, corn dogs, and anything you can eat on a stick.

Car enthusiasts, make sure to swing by our Car Show. There’s always a lineup of classic rides, muscle cars, and a few surprises. It’s a stroll through automotive history, and the owners are always happy to swap stories.

For those looking to connect on a deeper level, we offer Church Services on Sunday morning. A chance to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the community we share.

And, of course, we close out Spree the way we always have: with a fireworks show that lights up the Livonia sky. It’s the kind of display that makes you forget to blink, and the perfect grand finale to a week of celebration.

So whether you’re a Livonia native or just passing through, I hope you’ll join us this year at the Livonia Spree. It’s not just a festival, it’s a homecoming. I’ll see you there, powdered sugar and all.

For more details, check out LivoniaSpree.com. Let’s make this year’s Spree the best one yet.