A Legacy of Wheels and Community
What started as a simple fundraiser for a soccer field in Ferndale has grown into one of the most anticipated automotive events in the country. The Woodward Dream Cruise, an annual 16-mile joy ride that begins in Ferndale and ends in Pontiac, has become a 30-year tradition. Known for its unique display of cars—both historic and modern—the event invites all drivers to join in the celebration on Saturday, August 16.
The Dream Cruise is more than just a car show; it’s a vibrant community event that spans from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Along the route, there are several stops featuring car shows, live music, and other activities where drivers and spectators can enjoy the festivities.
What is the Woodward Dream Cruise?
The event began in 1995 with the goal of raising money for a soccer field in Ferndale. That first year, over 250,000 people attended, and today, more than a million people come to witness the sea of cars traveling down Woodward Avenue. Michael Lary, a local enthusiast, says the event is special because of the stories each car owner shares and the artistry they showcase.
“There’s a lot of imagination out there that you don’t get to see on a regular basis, and during the Dream Cruise, you get to appreciate it,” Lary said.
When is the Woodward Dream Cruise 2025?
The 2025 Woodward Dream Cruise will take place on Saturday, August 16. However, many metro Detroit communities will host events throughout the day on both Friday, August 15, and Saturday, August 16.
Where is the Woodward Dream Cruise?
The event takes place along Woodward Avenue (M-1), primarily from Pontiac to Ferndale, with various events and displays taking place along the entire route.
Parking Information
Birmingham
According to the Dream Cruise website, all events in Birmingham are within walking distance of downtown parking decks. Some options include:
- Peabody Parking Structure at 222 Peabody St.
- Chester Parking Structure, 180 Chester St.
- Pierce Parking Structure at 333 Pierce St.
- North Old Woodward Parking Structure, 333 N. Old Woodward Ave.
Ferndale
All downtown parking lots will be available in Ferndale. Nearby options include:
- 221 W. Troy St.
- 141 E. Nine Mile Road
- 141 Vester Ave.
- 156 Breckenridge St.
Pontiac
Downtown Pontiac has plenty of garages and lots. Closest options include:
- 10 Water St.
- 34 W. Lawrence St.
- 59 N. Saginaw St.
Royal Oak
Options include:
- South Lafayette Parking at 514 S. Lafayette Ave.
- Sixth St Parking Lot at 150 W. Sixth St.
- Lafayette Avenue Parking Structure at 290 S. Lafayette Ave.
- Lot 7 at 163 W. Sixth St.
For additional parking information, check out the Woodward Dream Cruise Facebook page.
Things to Do During the Dream Cruise
Berkley
On Friday, August 15, there will be a Cruisefest Classic Car Parade from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by concerts, movies, and other activities from 7:30 to 11 p.m. A merch tent will be open all day.
Birmingham
On Saturday, August 16, the Birmingham Cruise Event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at South Old Woodward Avenue from Maple Road to Lincoln Street. These streets will be closed for the event.
Ferndale
On Friday, August 15, there will be an Emergency Vehicle Show from 1 to 7 p.m. and a Formula 1 and muscle cars event from 1 to 8 p.m. At 5 p.m., there will be an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate 30 years of the Dream Cruise. Following that, a lights and sirens cruise parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. Later, R&B and Motown star Martha Reeves will perform. A kids’ play zone will be open all day, and the 30th anniversary Dream Cruise merch tent will be available.
On Saturday, August 16, there will be “Mustang Alley” and “Bronco Corral” car shows from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Live entertainment, a Kid Zone, and a merchandise tent will be open all day.
Royal Oak
On Friday, August 15, there will be a Performance Park Classic Car Show from noon to 7 p.m. A merch tent will be open all day.
On Saturday, August 16, the Performance Park Classic Car Show will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. A merch tent will also be open all day.
Pleasant Ridge
On Saturday, August 16, a merchandise tent will be available at Woodward and Oakland Park Boulevard.
Pontiac
On Saturday, August 16, a block party on North Saginaw Street will feature live music and entertainment at several locations, including the Flagstar Strand Theater Marquee, Hidden River Park, Kegger Burger, Sunset Island, El Piqasso Art Cafe and Gallery, and Charlene’s Theater Bar.
Transportation Tips
SMART is offering free rides from Ferndale to Pontiac on Saturday, August 16, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Riders can board at any RED SMART or FAST bus stop along Woodward Avenue.
Streaming the Dream Cruise
If you can’t attend in person, tune in to WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) for a live broadcast of the event. The Woodward Dream Cruise Special will air on WXYZ at 7 p.m.
