Salute to America

Experience Salute to America in Greenfield Village, where an evening of masterful musical performances unfolds across 250 years of American history.

Presented in partnership with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for more than 30 years, Salute to America showcases the enduring power of music — echoing the culture, creativity and progress that continue to shape the nation.

To mark this milestone moment, Greenfield Village comes alive with the sounds and traditions that have defined American life. Take in the sights and sounds of the Village after hours with food trucks along Main Street, the music of our historic 1913 Herschell-Spillman carousel, presenters in period clothing strolling through the streets and performance ensembles tucked into every corner. Across seven historic districts, a quintessential American soundtrack unfolds, from choral singing and ragtime to Motown, blues and jazz.

Once the sun sets, the world-renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra takes center stage for a triumphant musical performance featuring orchestral music selections in honor of America's 250th anniversary, anchored by Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, cannon fire and a brilliant fireworks finale.

Under the direction of Jader Bignamini, Music Director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the ensemble brings both precision and expressive depth to this annual tradition. Since joining the DSO in 2020, Bignamini has built a strong connection with musicians and audiences alike, guiding performances that are both technically masterful and deeply engaging. His approach reflects a belief in music's ability to bring people together.

This year's program by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra brings together familiar favorites and contemporary works, including music by John Williams, DSO Composer-in-Residence Michael Abels and American Mosaic by Peter Boyer — a multimedia work created for America's 250th that combines live orchestra, narration and large-scale visuals in a single, immersive experience. The second half continues with the time-honored traditions audiences expect, featuring Bernstein's Candide Overture, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and Sousa marches. Together, the program reflects themes of perseverance, creativity and shared history, offering a moment of reflection within this commemorative year.

• Grand stage performance by Detroit Symphony Orchestra at 8:30 p.m.
• Rotating performance groups, including brass, ragtime piano, Motown, blues, jazz and more
• Holiday theming and decade vignettes
• Military fife and drum parade
  
• Summer street food, cold treats and craft beer
• Performance of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" with cannon fire
• Celebratory fireworks finale
• FREE carousel rides

Due to high demand, we recommend purchasing tickets to Salute to America in advance online. Tickets go on sale May 20 for members and May 27 for the public.

Ticket purchasers can join an online queue at 8:30 a.m. EDT for first access to tickets starting at 9 a.m. EDT on both member and public on-sale dates.

Enhance your evening at Salute to America with the new Orchestra Circle dining and lounge experience — designed to bring you closer to the music and the moment.

Enjoy an elevated buffet and exclusive access to The Lodge at Christie & Main, offering a comfortable retreat throughout the evening with indoor seating, air conditioning, dedicated restrooms and a cash bar. When the performance begins, take your place in a reserved seating section near the grand stage for a closer view of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Package also includes VIP parking in Eagle Lot.

Tickets to the Orchestra Circle Experience are available to purchase in advance online or by calling our Contact Center at 313.982.6001. Orchestra Circle tickets cannot be purchased on-site or day-of.

The best way to experience Salute to America is as a member of The Henry Ford. Save 15% on event admission, then use your membership for free general admission to the museum and village all year long, plus free parking and other perks. Limit of 25 tickets per member.