Dally in the Alley: Detroit’s Block Party of Music and Community

Crowds filled the historic Cass Corridor for a day of performances that showcased the city’s artistry and collective spirit.

· 2 min read
A woman sings into a red microphone while a man beside her plays an electric guitar outdoors.
The lead singer of The Vig Arcadia, Yasmine, performs alongside guitarist KB on the Alley Stage. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed

Crowds filled the historic Cass Corridor for a day of performances that showcased the city’s artistry and collective spirit.

By Akeel Ahmed

The Dally in the Alley, a one-day street festival held in the Cass Corridor, made its return Saturday, Sept. 6, for its 46th year, drawing thousands of students, artists and vendors to celebrate the art, music, and food of the Detroit community.  

The event dates back to the 1970s, when the North Cass Corridor Community Union rallied together against the city of Detroit and Wayne State University’s plans to demolish homes for the university’s benefit.

After going to court with the city of Detroit, the community came together to help cover lawyer fees — and the Dally in the Alley was born.

The event is free and led by volunteers, which shows its continued commitment to the people of Detroit. Each year, hundreds of people sign up to volunteer and thousands more attend.

A diverse group of people stand outdoors in front of brick buildings, cheering and raising their arms in excitement.
The crowd cheers for XCVIII as they perform at their first Dally in the Alley. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed
A musician in a flannel and a beanie with a guitar sings into a microphone on the street with a crowd of people behind him.
Cesar Aquino performs his single, 'Sorry I Took So Long,' at the East Beer Garden. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed

The Dally had local bands and more than 50 other artists, food and drink vendors. For those too young to enjoy the loud music and alcoholic beverages, there was the annual Dally dog show and a kids fair.

This year, artists engaged in live demonstrations, offering an immersive experience for attendees.

Hundreds of people gathered during the day on a street for a festival with a line of tents on both sides.
Hundreds of people gather on Hancock Street for the 46th Dally in the Alley. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed
A person with a guitar sings into a microphone with his arms raised at an outdoor event, wearing sunglasses and a Keffiyeh.
Abud: A Bard talks to the crowd about what song to perform before his time at the East Beer Garden is over. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed

The Dally in the Alley is always held on the Saturday after Labor Day with the goal of bringing the community together. 

A group of people outdoors smiling and dancing, with one person in a bright red hoodie in the foreground.
Attendees doing the Tamia Hustle at the Community Stage of the Dally in the Alley. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed
A performer on stage faces a large crowd at an outdoor concert, holding their hands as hearts symbols.
XVIII bassist Alex Ramirez throws up a heart symbol to the audience as they perform at the Alley stage. Photo credit: Akeel Ahmed

This article was published in conjunction with Outlier Media.