When most people think of fireworks, their mind probably goes to the Fourth of July. But here in Michigan, there’s one fireworks event that happens before the holiday that’s arguably even more iconic.

I’m talking about Detroit’s Ford Fireworks.

For nearly seven decades, the massive display has lit up the Detroit River, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators and serving as a symbol of the unique connection between Detroit and Windsor in a celebration that dates back to 1959.

Today, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about this year’s Detroit fireworks, from the best viewing spots to what you can and can’t bring along.

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Dusty May to leave Michigan for NBA (WOOD-TV): University of Michigan men’s basketball coach Dusty May is reportedly leaving Ann Arbor for the NBA, with ESPN reporting he is finalizing a deal to become the next head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. May transformed Michigan in just two seasons, leading the Wolverines to a national championship this year.

ICE abandons plans for Metro Detroit detention center (ClickOnDetroit): Federal officials have abandoned plans to convert a Romulus warehouse into an immigration detention center and now plan to sell the property. The decision follows a lawsuit from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who says the case will remain active until the agreement is made official.

Second tornadic waterspout of the year confirmed (MLive): A rare tornadic waterspout touched down on Otsego Lake in Northern Michigan on June 16, becoming the state’s 22nd confirmed tornado of 2026 and damaging boats, lifts, and trees along the shoreline.

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Crowds watch the fireworks from the roof of the Miller Parking Garage next to the Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit during the 55th Annual Detroit Fireworks show on Monday, June 24, 2013. (USA Today Network)

By USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

Each year since at least 1959, the Detroit fireworks have lit up the sky over the international border between the US and Canada.

That was the first year of the Detroit-Windsor International Freedom Festival, which united the border communities in joint celebrations of the United States and Canada’s independence.

On Monday, June 22, the 68th Detroit Ford Fireworks will brighten the sky over the Detroit River beginning at 10 p.m. The show, the largest in Michigan, is produced by the Parade Company and presented by Ford Motor Co.

Rain is not in the forecast, says the National Weather Service, which predicts dry conditions but cooler-than-usual temperatures.

Popular viewing spots include Hart Plaza, Spirit Plaza, and Belle Isle. The fireworks can also be seen across the river in Windsor. This is the first year that the Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park will also be open for viewing.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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