This cross-border festival was started in 1959 when Detroit and its Canadian neighbour, the city of Windsor on the other side of the Detroit River, decided to join forces to celebrate Independence Day and Canada Day. Today most of the carnival events take place on the Windsor side of the river, but Detroit still offers several parties and organises the spectacular fireworks display, billed as the largest in north America, that is the centrepiece highlight of the entire festival. Another popular event is the cross-river tug of war between teams from each city.

Venue: Hart Plaza, Detroit and Dieppe Park, Windsor, Ontario

Date: 22 - 24 June 2012

Website: www.riverdays.com