Grateful Dead
August 11, 1967
Grande Ballroom, Detroit

A few months after releasing their self-titled debut record, the Grateful Dead hit the road for one of many journeys that would go on to define the group’s distinct touring style. This early in their career, however, they were still playing small venues, and Detroit’s Grande Ballroom, the club made famous by local acts like the Stooges and MC5, was home to the Dead on this weekend. With a slew of supporting acts, the weekend showcase billed “Direct from San Francisco” was promoted by this striking red and blue handbill, before Grateful Dead iconography like the dancing bear and skull and roses would go on to graphically accompany their name. The ethereal butterfly image was designed by popular artist Donnie Dope, who went on to do other work in the Grande poster series.

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