Belle Isle will open to vehicle traffic at 2 p.m. for Detroit's Ford Fireworks

Consistent with past practice and in alignment with the city of Detroit's security plan, Belle Isle Park will open to vehicle traffic at 2 p.m. Monday, June 22, for the annual Detroit Ford Fireworks display (set to begin at 10:06 p.m.). 

The island will open at 5 a.m. for all pedestrian and bicycle traffic. 

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DNR staff and volunteers will direct traffic to designated parking areas, located throughout the island. Parking also is available in the paddock area, located near the intersection of Casino Way and Central Avenue. 

Parking is free in designated locations. A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle access to the island. Once island capacity is reached, no additional vehicles will be admitted to the park. Parking is not permitted on the MacArthur Bridge. 

"Parking is allowed only in designated areas," said Karis Floyd, manager of Belle Isle Park and Milliken State Park and Harbor. "It's important for public safety to keep roadways open so all vehicles, especially emergency vehicles, can quickly navigate the island." 

To ensure that each visitor has the opportunity to enjoy Detroit's popular fireworks display, the public is reminded that:

  • Alcohol consumption is prohibited on the island except by use permit, which can be obtained from the park supervisor with a shelter or event rental.
  • Tents and canopies should be 9 feet by 9 feet or smaller with no more than two tents or canopies per group.
  • Consumer fireworks are prohibited on the island, a standard rule for all Michigan state parks.

Standard park hours are 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., but Belle Isle will remain open until the fireworks display is completed. The park will close immediately after the fireworks.

A Recreation Passport grants vehicle access to any Michigan state park, boat launch, state forest campground or nonmotorized state trailhead parking. Residents can purchase the Passport for just $11 ($5 for motorcycles) at the time of Michigan license plate renewal through the Secretary of State. Forgot to check "YES" during renewal? Residents and nonresidents can purchase a Recreation Passport window sticker during regular business hours at state parks. A non-Michigan registered vehicle permit is $31. A Recreation Passport can be purchased on Belle Isle at the visitor contact station, located immediately after the MacArthur Bridge, for both Michigan and non-Michigan registered vehicles. Learn more about how the Recreation Passport supports state parks and local outdoor recreation opportunities at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.