How the Woodward Dream Cruise became a beloved Michigan tradition – and why cruising is about more than just cars

(WWJ) -- It’s no secret that Detroit is the city that “put the world on wheels.”

So it’s safe to say the Woodward Dream Cruise has solidified its place as a quintessential Michigan event.

The Dream Cruise -- which is scheduled for this Saturday, August 17 -- first started 29 years ago as a small fundraiser to raise money for a soccer field in Ferndale. Nearly three decades later, and it has become the largest single-day car event in the world.

Via WoodwardDreamCruise.com : "In August 1995, Nelson House and a group of volunteers looked to relive and recreate the nostalgic heydays of the 50s and 60s, when youth, music and Motor City steel roamed Woodward Avenue, America’s first highway. That year, 250,000 people participated—nearly ten times the number expected. The rest, as they say, is history."

These days, the beloved Metro Detroit tradition draws about 1.5 million people to Oakland County, with around 40,000 cars taking to Woodward Avenue, and some cruisers visiting from as far away as Australia and Japan.

Even before Saturday, car enthusiasts head out early all week to cruise the infamous avenue, and take in the sights and sounds of the Motor City -- all while reserving themselves a spot in the center of the action.

But as many know, you don't have to be an automotive expert to enjoy the Woodward Dream Cruise, as the tradition has transcended cars to become a touchstone of our local community.

On a 2023 episode of The Daily J podcast , host Zach Clark went cruising to find out why so many people love the event, and spoke with Metro Detroiters about their favorite Dream Cruise memories.