Detroit really knows how to show team spirit, and there’s a lot of anticipation for the upcoming NFL Draft. It’s an event that’s bringing even more energy to our city. Around here, wearing Honolulu Blue isn’t just for game days—it’s a year-round statement of pride and support. And as the Draft approaches, you can feel the excitement build. It’s not just about the anticipation of who the Lions will pick; it’s about the whole community coming together.
Mayor Mike Duggan has proclaimed Thursday, April 25th, 2024, as “Honolulu Blue Day” in Detroit. This declaration comes as the city gears up to host the 2024 NFL Draft, drawing attention from around the globe.
As the birthplace of the Detroit Lions, the city is excited to showcase its spirit to an estimated 90 million viewers who will be tuning in to watch the draft. Mayor Duggan emphasized the importance of the day, urging Detroiters and visitors alike to don Honolulu Blue—the official color of the Detroit Lions—to show their support for the team and the city. This show of unity is not just for the local fans but also to signal Detroit’s proud hosting of the event to viewers worldwide.
“Detroit Lions players brag all the time that Detroit has the greatest football fans anywhere. They proved it during the Lions amazing playoff run last season, even showing up in huge numbers in opposing teams’ territory,” said Mayor Duggan. “This is a chance for Lions fans to show their pride in the heart of downtown as the eyes of the world are on our city, once again.”
The choice of Honolulu Blue as the Lions color has historical significance, tracing back to 1934 when WJR owner George A. Richards bought the Portsmouth Spartans and relocated them to Detroit, renaming the team the Detroit Lions. Inspired by the color of the Pacific Ocean during a trip to Hawaii, Richards chose Honolulu Blue for the team uniforms. This distinctive shade, coupled with silver, made its debut in the Lions’ first season and has since become a symbol of Detroit Lions football.
Last season, the Detroit Lions truly captured the heart of the city with a comeback story that mirrored Detroit’s own resilience. From being the underdogs to leading the pack, their journey was nothing short of inspiring. Each game felt like a step toward redemption, with the team clawing back from difficult positions to clinch victories that many thought were out of reach. This wasn’t just a series of wins; it was a statement of grit and determination that resonated with Detroiters everywhere. The pride in their city and team was palpable as fans witnessed the Lions not just compete, but excel, transforming their roar from a hopeful whisper into a triumphant battle cry that rallied the entire community. It was a season that reminded everyone why they love the game and especially why they love their Detroit Lions.
“Detroit is my hometown and the greatest city in the world,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “The 2024 NFL Draft will spotlight Detroit’s dynamic culture, athletics, attractions, landmarks, and resilience as a place of endless possibility and innovation. This Draft isn’t just about football. It’s about our future. Governor Whitmer and I are proud to continue our work alongside Detroiters to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, and build a bright future for the Motor City. We hope every Detroiter and Michigander enjoys what Detroit has to offer during the 2024 Draft. Go Lions!”
This year, Detroit came tantalizingly close to the Super Bowl, igniting a wave of excitement and pride across the city. Now, with the NFL Draft being hosted right here in our backyard, it feels like a bold statement: we’re still here, and now, the road to the NFL’s future comes through us. Hosting the draft in Detroit isn’t just a logistical detail; it’s a symbolic moment for Lions fans and the city alike, reinforcing that our team is a force to be reckoned with. As teams and fans converge on our city, it’s our turn to show the NFL world that Detroit is not only a great host but also a powerhouse that’s just getting started. This draft is our chance to build on last season’s momentum and send a clear message: The Lions are here to stay, and they’re roaring louder than ever.
This Thursday, when the NFL Draft kicks off right here in Detroit, the city is going to be a sea of blue. You’ll see folks from all corners of Detroit, as well as visitors, sporting their Honolulu Blue, ready to celebrate. It’s a simple but powerful way for everyone to show they’re proud to be part of Detroit. These are the moments when you really feel the community vibe—that no matter what happens in the Draft, we’re in it together, supporting our team and our city.
“I am excited that hundreds of thousands of fans will be coming to Motown to experience draft week, and I know they will have a great time exploring the city,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Let’s celebrate our teams, our city, and show the world what Michigan is all about.”