Michigan: Join The Festivities At The Ragtime Street Fair

Ragtime music, deemed as America´s original popular music can be described as having an uneven or ragged rhythm. Musicians such as Scott Joplin and Charles L. Johnson integrated European music with syncopated African and Latin American rhythms to create a unique sound that became popular in the 1890´s, and also paved the way for the Swing era of the 1930´s, and 40´s, and Rock and Roll of the 1950´s and 1960´s.

During the Ragtime Street Fair live performances, dance, and historic food the entire village will portray the African-American musical form that defined American culture, and open the door to the "jazz age."

"Ragtime Street Fair is a great fit for Greenfield Village because it already captures the essence of the early 20th century," said Jim Johnson, senior manager of creative programs, The Henry Ford. "Ragtime music broke the traditional ballroom bust and merged diverse cultures into a united celebration of what the twentieth century music should be."

Special programs during Ragtime Street Fair include:

Live Performances, River Raisin Ragtime Revue, Tartarsauce Traditional Jazz Band, Dixieland Jazz Parade, Dance Demo and Instruction, Player Piano Demonstrations, Song Plugger, Simply Gershwin, a Phonograph Demonstrations, and Silent Films.

As you dance your way through Ragtime Street Fair enjoy timeless treats reminiscent of the era in a food court set up in the Main Street. Snack on giant watermelon and fresh fruit or indulge in turkey drumsticks and corn roast, old-style hot dogs, grilled sausages, and apple cider brats with apple kraut. Wash it all down with mint tea, ginger ale, or fresh lemonade before sampling delicious desserts such as elephant ears, fried dough, cherry and peach crisp, and molasses cookies.

There are more reasons than ever to become a member of The Henry Ford. Annual membership passes start at as little as $39. Members receive unlimited admission to Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.

The Henry Ford, located in Dearborn, Michigan was founded in 1929 by automotive pioneer Henry Ford. This history destination includes Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, The Henry Ford IMAX Theatre, The Benson Ford Research Center and The Ford Rouge Factory Tour. The Henry Ford, America's Greatest History Attraction, is the history destination that brings the American experience to life.

Join The Festivities At The Ragtime Street Fair

Ragtime Street Fair runs in Mid July, and is free with membership or Village admission. For more information call (313) 982-6001 or go online to www.thehenryford.org (Photo credits thanks to the Henry Ford Museum).

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