More than 40,000 classic, muscle, custom and collector cars will rumble down Woodward Avenue through Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills on Saturday, Aug. 15, as the 31st Annual Woodward Dream Cruise draws an expected 1 million-plus spectators to the 16-mile route.
Here's what local residents need to know to make the most of the day.
Birmingham Cruise Event: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Birmingham Shopping District's marquee event takes over South Old Woodward Avenue from Maple Road to Lincoln Street. Nearly 200 classic cars will line the street alongside sponsor exhibits from Chevrolet, food vendors and a live broadcast from WOMC 104.3 FM.
New this year: a limited number of exotic cars join the lineup.
Chevrolet plans to showcase the 2027 Silverado at the Triangle area at the south end of downtown, according to the Detroit Free Press.
BSD Executive Director Erika Bassett said in a statement that the event "offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages," calling it a celebration of Michigan's automotive heritage and the city's vibrant downtown community.
Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills
Dodge will set up at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 43816 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Township, with five or six current vehicles, airbrush tattoos and T-shirts.
On Friday, Aug. 14, The Kingsley at 39475 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills hosts a pre-cruise party starting at 10 a.m. with live music, a mechanical bull, kids' activities including face painting and a rock wall, and a best-in-show award. Tickets are required; prices vary.
Getting there and parking
South Old Woodward will be closed to vehicle traffic between Maple and Lincoln for the Birmingham event. Birmingham's five downtown parking structures offer the first two hours free, and metered spots throughout downtown accept credit cards and Parkmobile.
Drivers coming from the east should note that eastbound I-696 ramp connections to and from Woodward remain closed through fall 2026 due to construction, according to Fox 2 Detroit.
Free SMART shuttle
SMART will run free shuttle service along Woodward between the Jason Hargrove Transit Center and downtown Pontiac. Board at any red SMART or FAST stop along the avenue. The first southbound shuttle leaves Huron and Perry at 9 a.m.; the first northbound shuttle departs the Hargrove center at 10 a.m. Service ends at 10 p.m.
Regular Woodward bus routes will detour between the Hargrove center and downtown Pontiac all day. Standard fares still apply on scheduled service.
Rules and tips
Spectating is free. The Oakland County Blog advises arriving early with lawn chairs, staying hydrated and shopping local restaurants and patios along the route. Burnouts, unauthorized lane closures and alcohol outside licensed areas are prohibited; local police will enforce cruise rules strictly.
What's on TV
WXYZ-Channel 7, the official broadcast partner, airs a primetime special Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m., also streaming on its app.
Upcoming community calendar
- Saturday, Aug. 15: 31st Annual Woodward Dream Cruise, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Woodward Avenue
- Saturday, Aug. 15: Birmingham Cruise Event, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., South Old Woodward (Maple to Lincoln)
- Saturday, Aug. 15: Dodge display at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 43816 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Township
