the Hoedown

The Hoedown is a music event that starts our summers off in Detroit with a bang. The musical event takes place in the middle of May and has become a tradition. The Hoedown goes down every year at Detroit’s Hart Plaza. It is a great place to catch new upcoming artists, as well as locals who love to perform as well. Over the years the stage has been graced with famous performers, such as Lee Ann Womack and Willie Nelson.

I have a special love for country music, so this concert is by far my favorite of the year. Last year, I attended the venue with a friend who hated country music. Being a good friend, and a friend who was only in town for the weekend, he decided to join me so we could spend some time together, knowing I would never miss the Hoedown. As we drove away from the event, he explained to me that he had a new appreciation for the country genre and the artists who make it possible.

The mood set from the beginning of the event is one all its own. The whole point of bringing the city together is to enjoy the music, and enjoy each other. Everyone there wants to be your friend. No matter which direction you turn, you are greeted with smiles and waves. Chris was not used to this type of musical event, since he’s more of a heavy metal kind of guy. There are no mash pits, no people yelling or fighting, it’s an event all about love and appreciation.  

The great part about the event is that you’re able to watch your favorite performers on stage, and you feel as if you are hanging out with them having a backyard bash. It’s also amazing to watch the local performers shine on the stage as if they are famous too. For a lot of the performers, they are being given the opportunity to interact with their idols, and you can see that from the crowd as you watch the stage. It’s awesome to literally watch these people’s dreams come true.

Like most of the even I’ve talked about, the Hoedown is a great musical event for the whole family. Although there may be a drunken cowboy stumbling here or there, it is a great, safe place to bring the kids, and enjoy family day. Music lovers of all ages are encouraged to come and sing along.

It’s important that we keep the love of music alive in Detroit, and this event is a great way to do that. Every year people from all over the state come to watch, dance and sing along. It’s also cool to see people who feel completely out of their element when they arrive dancing and singing along at the end, completely carefree having fun. Chris may never want to go back to the Hoedown with me, but I know he had a good time in the moment when he was a part of it.

If you’re in the Detroit area in May, and you’re looking for something fun to do, this would be a great way to get your musical string pulling for the start of summer. This year let’s celebrate the 30^th anniversary of the Hoedown together! Come support the people who have helped save the music in the Motor City and also support those who are looking to change the world with the music they are bringing to the Hoedown.