Summer time has officially come to a close with the passing of Labor Day weekend and the beginning of the school year.  With the Ford Arts, Beats and Eats festival taking place over the weekend in Royal Oak, the yearly event allows visitors a chance at summer indulgence.

“I have family in town from St. Louis here with me, it’s been a great way to celebrate the holiday weekend,” said Patricia Hill of Allen Park.

The Ford Arts, Beats and Eats festival takes place every Labor Day weekend, offering a mixture of Metro Detroit culture from art to clothing exhibits and even karaoke.

“I think what continues to bring people out here every year is that we try to keep it fresh,” said Jon Witz, executive producer of the Ford Arts, Beats and Eats festival.

Witz said he feels an obligation to bring something new to the community, and along with other organizations, to display the best Detroit has to offer in entertainment and culture.

“Every year we try to add more fun and excitement working with over 60 non-profits dealing with admissions, all sales benefits organizations such as the American Red Cross and March of Dimes,” Witz said.

The organizations involved have not only raised over $325,000 on average for the last two years, but also look to provide a life experience for those facing difficult times.

On Saturday and Monday, these non-profit organizations participated in a program for over 400 children with autism to provide a day full of activities involving free parking, admissions, food and beverages for their families, according to the official press release.

Other events, such as the Zumbathon for the Karmanos Cancer Institute, a Deaf Arts Festival and a Radiothon for the Children’s Miracle network all played a hand in providing an enjoyable experience for those in the community.

“We try to open our doors however we can to try and bring people out to help the community in any way necessary,” Witz said. “Bringing people together from the Metro area is the best part of the whole event.  In this region there is plenty of culture, along with the activities … food, and art to continue to help get people to come out.”

Organizations like Ford Motor Company continue to play a huge role in the success of this event every year, providing activities and opportunities to give back.

“Our intention was to reach out to those in the area and be a representative of what the Metro Detroit area stands for,” said Wendy Carter, logistics director for all Ford displays at the Arts, Beats and Eats festival.

There were a variety food choices from over 60 different establishments around the metro area.

 

Contact Staff Intern Allen Jordan via email at [email protected]