Detroit birthday party in the works as city celebrates 317 years

Detroit's 317th birthday is coming up, and the city is throwing a two-day party.

The celebration,  hosted by Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, D-Detroit, with support from the city and the Detroit Medical Center, will take place throughout the city.

The free events are scheduled for Tuesday, July 24 -- the anniversary of the city's founding -- and July 27.

Tuesday's schedule includes a 13-mile run, walk and bike ride at 5 a.m. starting at the Spirit of Detroit statue at 2 Woodward Avenue and ending at the River Bistro Detroit, 18456 Grand River.

On July 27, festivities will start at 8 a.m. at the Crowell Recreation Center in Hope Park,16630 Lahser Road.

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 “The goal is unity … knowing our history; knowing where we come from,” said Gay- Dagnogo.

The celebration also will include food, music, balloon art, kids’ corner and more. 

Celebrity guests will include radio host Mildred Gaddis, Miss Universe Carol Gist, and Fox 2’s Maurielle Lue. 

The mission for Detroit 317th birthday is to highlight Detroit small businesses and bring to light topics such as funding for education, and affordable water.

Gay-Dagnogo said the city's birthday is used to show the “rebirth of community – 317 years of our resilience.”

Register on the Facebook event page or on-site Tuesday.

Reach Payton Wells at pwells@freepress.com