Memorial Day Weekend in CLE

STOP! Have you entered to win our Tall Ships Tall Flips weekend sweeps? Visit www.summerincle.com to enter and to learn more about, you guessed it, Summer in CLE!

It’s Memorial Day Weekend and festival season is finally upon us. This weekend, enjoy both the Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-off & Music Festival and the Tremont Greek Festival. When you’re finished with the fests, head over to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum to check out the opening of the new Rolling Stones exhibit, “Rolling Stones: 50 Years of Satisfaction”.

Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-off & Music Festival – Jacob’s Pavilion at the Nautica Entertainment Complex, Downtown Cleveland                     

This Memorial Day Weekend, head down to Jacob’s Pavilion and the Nautica Entertainment Complex and enjoy Northeast Ohio’s biggest and most popular backyard barbeque. Watch (and taste) as ten professional grilling teams from across the country engage in a fiercely delicious culinary battle for barbeque supremacy. As the barbeque battle rages on, enjoy the entertainment featuring rock and roll legends Rick Springfield, Buddy Guy and Bret Michaels along with Rocktopia, a unique concert experience that fuses the worlds of rock, classical music and opera featuring Northeast Ohio’s Contemporary Youth Orchestra and the Cleveland School of Arts Choir. For tickets and information, call 216.622.6558 or visit www.marcs.com/Fresh-Savings/Promotions/Marc-s-Rib-Cook-Off-and-Music.aspx.

Tremont Greek Festival – Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Tremont

‘It’s all Greek to you.’ All weekend long, head over to the Annunciation Green Orthodox Church in Tremont to experience an authentic Greek cultural and culinary event.  From Baklava to Mousaka, the Tremont Greek Festival features many culinary delights for you to enjoy. After eating, make sure to watch the energetic and beautiful Greek dancers, enjoy the live music and take the kids over to the games corner.  For tickets and information, call 216.861.0116 or visit www.tremontgreekfest.com.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Presents, “Rolling Stones: 50 Years of Satisfaction” – Downtown Cleveland

This weekend, experience the opening of the new Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum exhibit, “Rolling Stones: 50 Years of Satisfaction.”  This one-of-a-kind exhibit tells the inside story of the Rolling Stones’ history, music, world tours and their creative process. Get in touch with the band that shaped the world’s view on what rock and roll is. For tickets and information call 216.515.1277 or visit www.rockhall.com/exhibits/rolling-stones-50-years-of-satisfaction.

More Events
Cleveland Orchestra, Tchaikovsky Fifth at Severance Hall- 5/24
Berea’s National Rib Cook-Off – 5/24-27
MAC Baseball Tournament at All Pro Freight Stadium- 5/24-25
There is a Happiness That Morning Is at Cleveland Public Theater – 5/24-25
Guys and Dolls at Hannah Theatre - 5/24-26
Lake County Captains vs. West Michigan Whitecaps at Classic Park  – 5/25-27

More Exhibits
Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller: The Paradise Institute at MOCA thru 6/9
Kate Gilmore at MOCA thru 6/9
Dark Stars at MOCA thru 8/25
Sharkabet! A Sea of Sharks from A to Z at Cleveland Museum of Natural Historythru – 9/1
Tantra in Buddhist Art at Cleveland Museum of Art thru 9/15
Spots of Light: To Be a Woman in the Holocaust at Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage 5/24 – 6/9

To search our event calendar visit www.positivelycleveland.com/play/events. Questions, comments or weekend suggestions? Tweet us @positivelycleve.

– Chris Moore 

Dining on the Ship Decks

As the sun begins to set and reflect its summer hues onto the windows of Cleveland’s skyline, there’s no better dinner table in Cleveland than those aboard the well-known sightseeing and dining cruise vessels.

Goodtime III

The Goodtime III, Cleveland’s largest sightseeing vessel, is known for its narrated cruises of the Cuyahoga River and the downtown Cleveland lakefront. In the evening, the Goodtime III’s 6:30pm evening departure features a full dinner buffet. Afterwards, visitors can stick around for late-night dancing on the lake, with a live band on the main deck and a disc jockey cranking out music on deck two. This four-deck ship, which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, has a spacious top sun deck, perfect to enjoy the unparalleled scenery and summertime air, as well as an air-conditioned lower lounge.

Running Tuesday – Saturday from June 15 through Labor Day, the Goodtime III offers comprehensive two-hour overviews of Cleveland’s waterways on standard narrated tour at noon and 3pm, as well as narrated lunch cruises and Sunday brunch offerings. Additionally, they offer “Rush Hour” Happy Hour cruises on Fridays and special events for occasions such as Father’s Day and the Fourth of July.

Nautica Queen

Located on the Cuyahoga River in the Flats District, the Nautica Queen features a variety of theme cruises and special events – all of which feature buffet lunch or dinner dining options as guests glide along the lake and soak in the spectacular skyline views. Monday through Saturday the vessel offers both lunch and sunset cruises, and Sunday offers mid-afternoon brunch.

Visitors especially love their themed events such as Wednesdays “Tropical night,” bringing the tastes and sounds of far-off seas and emerald islands to this corner of the Great Lakes, while Friday nights are set aside for dinner and tastings as a part of the weekly “Wine on the Water” event. For visitors interested in Lake Erie lore, the Nautica Queen’s Friday “Legends of Lake Erie” lunch cruises held from June through October, treat guests to tales of sunken treasure, ghost stories and shipwrecks galore.

So, no matter the time of day or the vessel, sometimes the best table in the city is one that’s rocking on the waves of Lake Erie.

– April Ingle

This Weekend in CLE: Cleveland Marathon, International Tattoo, Asian Fest

This weekend, tie up those laces and come downtown to see the running of the Cleveland Marathon. Cheer on the runners as they run their full/half marathon, or 5/10 k runs. If running isn’t your thing, this Saturday also marks the 28^th Annual Cleveland International Tattoo where you can enjoy a spectacular demonstration of military drill, music and dance. After that, head over to Asia Town on Payne Avenue for the annual Cleveland Asian Festival.  Featuring authentic Asian food, merchandise and performing arts, this is sure to be one cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

You can always visit our event calendar for more events at: www.positivelycleveland.com/play/events.

Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon – Downtown Cleveland

This weekend, lace up those shoes and head downtown for the 36^th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon. Featuring one of the flattest and fastest courses in the country, the Cleveland Marathon is definitely an exciting race to the finish. Cheer on the runners as they cross the finish line of their full/half marathon or 10K/5K event. For more information, call 800.467.3826 or visit www.clevelandmarathon.com.

Cleveland International Tattoo – Galleria at Erieview, Downtown Cleveland

One of the top four Tattoo events in North America, the Cleveland International Tattoo is sure to be an entertaining and inspiring event for the whole family. Held at the Galleria at Erieview in Downtown Cleveland this Saturday, the Tattoo features spectacular demonstrations of military drill, music, and dance. This exciting show includes performances by US Military bands, Emerald Society Pipe Band, Irish Dancers and more.  For tickets and information, call 877.212.8916 or visit  www.tattoocleveland.com.

Cleveland Asian Festival – Asia Town, Cleveland

All weekend long, experience Asian culture in Cleveland. The Cleveland Asian Festival, taking place in Asia Town on Payne Avenue, features authentic Asian food, merchandise and performing arts. This year, enjoy a special performance by NBC’s “The Voice” finalist, Cheesa. For tickets and information, call 216.539.4634 or visit clevelandasianfestival.org/2013.

Also up this weekend in CLE: 

Free Weekend at MOCA – May 17-19

Opening Weekend at All Pro Freight Stadium – May 17-19

Cleveland Indians vs. Seattle Mariners – May 17-20

Hessler Street Fair - May 18-19

For more information, visit Positively Cleveland’s website at www.positivelycleveland.com.

– Submitted by Chris Moore

This Weekend in Cleveland: May 11-12, 2013

(c)Cedar Point

This Saturday marks Opening Day of Cedar Point, where you can be one of the first to experience the park’s new record-breaking, winged coaster, Gatekeeper.  One hundred sixty-four-foot drops not your thing? Saturday also is the last day of the International Children’s Festival presented by The Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital. A fantastic time for the whole family, this kid-friendly festival includes multiple live shows at PlayhouseSquare, and a tour of the stunning Exxopolis luminarium.  Don’t forget about the most important day of the year, Mother’s Day. Check out our Mother’s Day blog featuring a number of Mother’s Day events she’s sure to love.

For more events, visit our event calendar at www.positivelycleveland.com/play/events/.

Cedar Point Opening Day & Gatekeeper – Cedar Point Amusement Park, Sandusky:

Are you a thrill-seeker? This Saturday, come experience opening day at “the best amusement park in the country”, Cedar Point. Opening Day marks the first time dare-devils can ride the park’s new record-breaking, winged coaster, Gatekeeper. Featuring a 4,164-foot-long track and a 164-foot drop, riders, with their feet dangling in the air, will soar above the main entrance and over the heads of guests for tons of heart-pounding excitement. For questions and tickets call 419.627.2350 or visit www.cedarpoint.com/gatekeeper.

International Children’s Festival – PlayhouseSquare, Downtown Cleveland:

Saturday, take the kids to experience the International Children’s Festival at PlayhouseSquare. Featuring multiple entertaining and educational live shows within the theatres, there is sure to be something the whole family can enjoy. When the show is over, make sure to stop by the Exxopolis luminarium location. This stunning three-story sculpture of light and color will astound and delight any child, or child-at-heart. For questions and tickets call 216.664.6044or visit www.playhousesquare.org/childrensfestival/exxopolis.html.

Mother’s Day Events

For a list of Mother’s Day events, see our Mother’s Day blog post at www.fleetothecleve.wordpress.com.

– Chris Moore, Marketing + Communications Assistant 

This Weekend in CLE

Have any plans this weekend? The Tri-C Jazzfest is bringing stellar jazz talent from all around the world to Cleveland this week. If jazz isn’t your thing, come watch the area’s arena football team, The Cleveland Gladiators, take on the Utah Blaze in what is sure to be an exciting match. Also, don’t forget about the Geauga County Maple Festival this weekend. With two parades and a maple syrup judging & auction, you’ll definitely have a sweet time.

You can always visit our event calendar for more events: www.positivelycleveland.com/play/events.

Natalie Cole – Presented by Tri-C JazzFest:

Headlining the Tri-C Jazzfest for the first time since 2008, eight-time Grammy award-winning vocalist Natalie Cole has topped the jazz, pop and R&B charts over the years with her unique and beautiful sound. This Saturday, listen to Cole as she reinvents the “Great American Songbook”, taking on the jazz standards that made her so “Unforgettable”.  Enjoy the show at the gorgeous State Theatre in PlayhouseSquare.  For tickets and information, call 216.241.6000 or visit: http://www.playhousesquare.org/default.asp?playhousesquare=58&objId=3629.

Cleveland Gladiators vs. Utah Blaze

Get ready for another action-packed game of Cleveland Gladiators arena football at Quicken Loans Arena in downtown Cleveland. This Saturday, watch as the Gladiators take on the Utah Blaze in an exciting display of arena football talent. Off the field, enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere while hanging out with Gladiator’s mascot Rudi or watching the Goddesses dance team. After the game, meet the players on the field for the Official Postgame Autograph Session. For more information, call 1.888.894.9424 or visit: www.clevelandgladiators.com.

The Geauga County Maple Festival

Like maple syrup? This weekend, experience the Geauga County Maple Festival. Held in beautiful Chardon Square, the festival celebrates the areas production of maple syrup, one of the leading agricultural industries in Northern Ohio. Events include maple syrup judging and auction, two parades, a queen’s contest, a sap run, bathtub races, craft shows, rides, concessions and more. For information, call 1.440.286.2600 or visit: www.maplefestival.com/homecountdown.html.

Questions? Tweet us @positivelycleve.

– Chris Moore, Marketing + Communications Assistant 

While You’re in Town for the Cleveland Marathon

You’ve logged all the training miles, you’ve laced up your lucky pair of running shoes and you’re ready to line-up on the start line for the 36th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon. But, while you’re in town, why not get the full Cleveland Experience by exploring all that the birthplace of rock and roll has to offer?

Friday, May 17

Afternoon
Upon arriving in Cleveland, head 13 miles from Downtown to the I-X Center (www.ixcenter.com) near the airport for the 2013 Cleveland Marathon Health and Fitness Expo and packet pick-up. Shop for discounted running shoes and gear from more than 200 vendors, learn from workshops and running experts and pick up your race bib, timing device and t-shirt.

Evening
Next, grab a hearty, carbohydrate-filled meal in the east side Little Italy (www.littleitalycleveland.com) neighborhood. First settled in the late 19th century by skilled Italian artisans, Little Italy has retained much of its Old World charm and tight-knit sense of community.  A blend of art galleries, shops and restaurants, Little Italy offers some of the finest Italian dining in Cleveland including pizzas and pasta, calzones and calamari. Some local favorites include Guarino’s, the oldest continually operating restaurant in Cleveland since 1918, the new and vibrant Mia Bella and pizza slices from Mama Santas. Of course, don’t forget to indulge in a little dessert like a cannoli from Corbo’s Bakery or gelato from Presti’s Bakery.

Saturday, May 18

Morning
Grab a healthy and hearty breakfast from Ohio City (www.ohiocity.com) neighborhood favorites including BonBon Pastry and Café or French-inspired Le Petite Triangle. Or, enjoy a traditional diner-style breakfast from the West Side Market Café. While you’re there, make sure to check out the ultimate foodie’s mecca, The West Side Market, where turn-of-the-century immigrants found their native foods and spices. Today the century-old market features more than 100 vendors with the freshest selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, produce, bakery, ethnic foods and international delicacies.

Afternoon
Keep your legs loose by heading over to University Circle (www.universitycircle.org), the most concentrated square miles of arts and culture in the nation. Just four miles from downtown Cleveland, University Circle is home to more than 20 artistic and cultural venues including the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Botanical Garden, Western Reserve Historical Society and Cleveland Museum of Natural History, all of which are great to peruse on pre-race afternoon.

Evening
Take part in the Cleveland Marathon’s annual Pasta Dinner at the Hyatt Regency in the Arcade. Or, dine at one of downtown Cleveland’s award-winning restaurants in the East Fourth Street Entertainment District or the Historic Warehouse District.  *Note, if you haven’t already, don’t forget to pick up your race packet by 7pm.

Sunday, May 19

Morning
Race day! Good luck in the 36th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K.

Afternoon
After burning off some serious calories, refuel at some of Cleveland’s best brunch stops. Open until 2pm is the local favorite, Latitude 41N in the west side Detroit Shoreway Neighborhood. Or, head over to the Tremont neighborhood for the iconic Lucky’s Café, the family-friendly Grumpy’s Café and slew of award-winning restaurants who are opening their doors early to accommodate marathon crowds.

Before heading home be sure to pay homage to your idols by exploring the largest single collection of rock and roll artifacts in the world at the Rock Hall of Fame and Museum (www.rockhall.com), featuring more than 50 exhibits, dynamic cinema presentations and other cool, one-of-a-kind memorabilia.

Take the family out to the ballpark and root for the home team as the Cleveland Indians (www.indians.com) take on the Mariners at Progressive Field. And, don’t forget runners can use the special code offer “Cleveland” for discounted tickets.

Or, cool off with more than 1 million gallons of water at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium (www.greaterclevelandaquarium.com). Here, the 145’ walk-through Seatube tunnel lets visitors experience life under the sea as they are completely surrounded by fish, sharks and stingrays.

– Submitted by April Ingle, Communications Coordinator 

A Christmas Story House and Museum Celebration

A Christmas Story House & Museum

Located on Cleveland’s near-west side in the Tremont neighborhood, “A Christmas Story” House has been completely restored to its movie splendor and is open year-round for public tours. The house is both a tribute to and replica of the Parker family’s home in fictional Hohman, Indiana, based on writer and narrator Jean Shepherd’s actual childhood home in Hammond, Indiana.

Visit A Christmas Story House and Museum this November for a 30^th anniversary celebration and the return of the A Christmas Story House Convention. Groups can tour the house and take turns hiding under the kitchen sink like a fearful Randy or hover around the radio waiting to hear Little Orphan Annie’s top-secret message. While you’re there, stop by the newly renovated gift shop that has quadrupled in size and pick up a holiday keep-sake capturing your favorite scenes from A Christmas Story including a full-size leg lamp. 

Dates have not yet been released for the November celebration. For updates and additional information visit www.achristmasstoryhouse.com.

 

Win tickets to Yuri’s Night Out!

Yuri’s Night Space Party returns for it’s second year at  Great Lakes Science Center Saturday, April 13 from 8pm to 1am and you could be the lucky winner of four tickets.

What can you expect at the party?

• Live music by The Floorwalkers (8 – 11 pm)
• DJ OZMTZ spinning tunes (11 pm – 1 am)
• Dancing all night long
• Sam Adams beer, Barefoot wine, Angry Orchard Cider and light hors d’oeuvres (included with your ticket)
• Cash bar for cocktails and special treats
• Costume contest – wear your best space-themed attire!
• Access to the newly redesigned NASA Glenn Visitor Center + science center exhibits

Yuri’s Night parties and events are held around the world every April in commemoration of April 12, 1961, the day of cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin’s first manned space flight, and April 12, 1981, the inaugural launch of NASA’s Space Shuttle. Learn more at http://www.yurisnight.net.

To purchase tickets and to learn more about Yuri’s Night Space Party at the Great Lakes Science Center click here. For your chance to WIN FOUR TICKETS simply leave a comment below describing what your best space-themed attire will look like for Yuri’s costume contest. For an additional entry tweet this: I want to win the @positivelycleve Yuri’s Night Space Party ticket giveaway! http://ow.ly/jK2HM #HappyinCLE 

Winner will be chosen at random and announced back here on this post on Tuesday at noon. Good luck!

(You must be 21 years of age or older to enter. Designated driver tickets are available for $25 each. Please call 216.621.2400 for details.)

Hey everyone! The contest has ended and the winner is… TRISH! Thanks to everyone who entered. 

– Positively Cleveland

Cleveland Mother’s Day Events

Are you having trouble planning a Mother’s Day outing for that special lady in your life? Allow Positively Cleveland to help make your Mother’s Day celebration as unique and beautiful as she is. Here is a list of some of the best Mother’s Day events to take Mom to in the Cleveland area. From a relaxing brunch in a beautiful garden setting, to a walk on the wild side at The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo; there truly is something for everyone.

Greater Cleveland Aquarium: Beach Blanket Breakfast
How about a breakfast on a beach blanket for Mother’s Day this year? The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is offering just that. Come enjoy a fun and educational breakfast in the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located on the west bank of the Flats in downtown Cleveland. This family-friendly event takes you under the sea and into the lives of our fishy friends. Learn how aquatic mothers take care of their young all while enjoying a delicious breakfast.  For questions and tickets call 216.826.8803 or visit www.greaterclevelandaquarium.com/events

Nautica Queen
This Mother’s Day, treat Mom like a queen. The Nautica Queen Cruise ship is offering a Mother’s Day brunch and an early dinner cruise around the waterways of Cleveland. Let Mom relax while taking in gorgeous views of the Cleveland skyline. Brunch is from 11am to 1:30pm and an early dinner cruise is from 4pm to 6pm. For reservations call 216.696.8888 or visit: www.nauticaqueen.com

Mother’s Day at the Zoo
Is your Mom wild about animals? This Mother’s Day, take her to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on May 12, from 10 am to 5pm and receive half price admission for mom. This event focuses on the universal love a mother has for her offspring through educational shows, allowing visitors to see animal mother and young interactions up close. For questions call 216.661.6500 or visit www.clemetzoo.com/events/event.asp?event_id=23

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
Invite Mom to enjoy a relaxing self-guided tour through Stan Hywet estate. All mothers receive free admission to the estate, including the architecturally stunning Manor House and gorgeous gardens. For more information call 330.836.5533 or visit  www.stanhywet.org.

Mother’s Day Brunch at The Garden
Treat Mom to a beautiful springtime brunch at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens. On Mother’s Day, dine surrounded by gorgeous blooms and beautiful themed gardens. Brunch seating times are available from 10am to 2pm, in 30 minute blocks. To make reservations, call 216.721.1600 x100 or visit www.cbgarden.org/

The Ritz-Carlton Cleveland
The Ritz-Carlton Cleveland is offering a lavish bunch this Mother’s Day. Spoil Mom with an extensive brunch menu all set in the gorgeous Ritz-Carlton Hotel’s Cleveland Ballroom. For information call 216.623.1300 or visit http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Cleveland/Default.htm

House of Blues Presents: Kirk Franklin’s Mother’s Day Gospel Brunch
Celebrate this Mother’s Day with an unforgettable brunch and inspiring music! Grammy-Award winning Gospel music icon Kirk Franklin is working with the House of Blues to create a new Gospel Brunch experience. The all-you-can-eat Gospel Brunch is a non-denominational celebration of gospel music with a buffet menu featuring southern specialties ranging from Creole chicken to a create-your-own Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar. For ticket information, call the House of Blues at 216.523.2583, or visit http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/cleveland/

For other events happening Mother’s Day weekend, or anytime in Cleveland, visit www.positivelycleveland.com/play/events.

Cleveland Food Festivals

Pick a weekend in Cleveland, and visitors can find a chance to boogie with bagpipers, drift downriver on dragonboats, “mangia” manicotti and more. With such an appreciation and celebration of the 117 different ethnicities that make up our region, it’s not just Cleveland, Ohio… it’s more like Cleveland, World.

May – September: Throughout the summer months, Cleveland’s gourmet cuisine on wheels comes together for Walnut Wednesdays. Nearly a dozen of the area’s most popular food trucks gather in downtown’s NineTwelve District for delicious food, live music and an enjoyable mid-day break.

May 11: The Kamm’s Corners neighborhood recently introduced a new type of ethnic celebration to Cleveland. The Hooley (an Irish slang term for “party”) brings together the community for day of music, pipes and drummers, Irish dancers and food vendors galore. The inaugural year brought out more the 15,000 attendees for a block party like none other.

May 25 – 28: Each year on Memorial Day weekend, families head to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in the Tremont Neighborhood for delicious traditional dishes such as moussaka and hours of Greek music and dancing at the Tremont Greek Festival.

May18 – 19: In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month the region’s Asian community hosts the annual Cleveland Asian Festival, a weekend of fun for the entire family. With cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, children’s activities, authentic Asian cuisine, trolley tours and fun competitions, this festival is quickly becoming a “not-to-be-missed” summer activity.

May 24 – 27: Get the bib ready for some lip-smacking, finger-licking fun at the Berea National Rib Cook-Off at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. Rib masters battle it out to provide some of the tastiest ribs in town with other events for kids, themed nights and a slew of favorite local bands.

May 24 – 27: Taste all of the delicious barbeque goodness provided when grill pros go head-to-head to earn best ribs in the land during the Marc’s Annual Great American Rib Cook-off and Music Festivalat Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica.

June 8: A free community arts celebration, Parade the Circle incorporates the drama and artistry of handmade colorful floats (no motorized vehicles, though), giant puppets, bright costumes, handmade masks, stilt-walkers, dancers and musicians. Held in University Circle, the nation’s most concentrated square mile of arts and cultural institutions, the event draws more than 60,000 people every year.

June 14 – 16: Attendees choose from more than 200 wine samples from around the world while learning about new and exciting varieties from the experts at the Cleveland Wine Festival, located at Voinovich Park in downtown Cleveland. Some of the region’s best restaurants and caterers are on-hand selling their signature dishes.

June 20 – 22: At the 35^th Annual Ohio Scottish Games on the Lorain County Fairgrounds, traditional musicians compete head to head in solo piping and drumming, pipe bans, harping fiddling and highland dancing. As a one-day escape to the highlands, visitors are immersed in traditional Scottish culture with massed bagpipe bands, along with art displays and traditional food. The weekend also features Clan Village where heritage clans and societies gather to assist the general public with family, genealogy and membership questions pertaining to their clan/society.

June 28 – 30: The community of Lorain located west of Cleveland, hosts a week-long annual International Festival and Bazaar to celebrate various nationalities and cultures. Along with authentic music, live performances and costumes, a three-day bazaar features more than 40 food vendors and craft booths with products from native lands.

July 11: A not-to-be-missed summer event great for the whole family is the Taste of Tremont. For the past ten years, this art and culinary-centric neighborhood throws a massive street fair to showcase all the best that Tremont has to taste.

July19 – 21: The Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival seeks to preserve, memorialize and document Irish history and traditions. The festival includes more than 20 performers on nine stages, a multitude of exhibits and Irish vendors. From traditional Celtic dancers, pipe bands and harpists to massive rock bands, the festival truly exemplifies the spirit of the Irish community.

July: Help Cleveland celebrate environmental awareness with great music, incredible food and a frothy pint of Great Lakes Brewing Company beer during the Great Lakes Burning River Festival. Held at the historic Coast Guard Station on Whiskey Island, this festival features educational exhibitors who raise awareness of environmental issues affecting the region.

August 2- 3: Vintage Ohio Wine Festival, an annual wine festival held at Lake Farmpark, features the latest and greatest offerings by some of Ohio’s best vineyards. Besides all the wonderful wine, visitors can enjoy the fabulous food offered by participating restaurants with menu items ranging from $3-$10. Also experience great music, entertainment, crafters, exhibitors and cooking demonstrations.

August 15 – 18: Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood is famous for its annual four-day festival, Feast of the Assumption. The throughout the weekend, affectionately called “The Feast,” the streets are shut down and all the family-owned Italian eateries bring their menu to the streets where more than 100,000 people visit just to get a taste.

August 17 – 18: During The National Hamburger Festival, at Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron, burger fans in goggles bob for foam hamburger patties in a kiddie pool full of ketchup. This delicious weekend celebration features many fan favorites, such as burger cook-off events, Hamburger Eating competition, the Miss Hamburger Pageant and more.

August 30 – Sept. 2: The Cleveland Labor Day Oktoberfest honors German culture with a beer-stein holding contest, a nationally-recognized marionette company, wiener dog races and more. The scale of Europeans foods, microbrews, exhibits and vendors participating in the festival is of Germanic proportions. The festival takes place at the Cuyahoga County fairgrounds all weekend long.

August: The City of Cleveland has hosted the Puerto Rican Parade and Latino festival for more than 40 years. The activities highlight the Latino community’s rich music, foods, folklore and splendor.  Stunning floats and costumes line the city streets for a spectacular conclusion to the weekend-long festival.

Sept. 7 – 8: Shaker Square, home to the ever-popular North Union Farmers Market, once again becomes the place to be for “all things garlic” in the region during the Cleveland Garlic Festival. Attendees, armed with breath mints, enjoy garlic-themed food (everything from ice cream to oysters) prepared by local chefs, an onsite celebrity chef Grill-Off, live music, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, taste and grow tents for children and more.

October: Visitors can enjoy an entire week dedicated to beer! Cleveland Beer Week showcases local breweries, restaurants, bars, taverns, grocers and specialty beverage stores. From music and activities to ale tastings and brewmaster meet-and-greets, all events offer unique specials for and raise awareness of craft brews.

Nov. 8- 10: Foodies who desire to learn the latest techniques from top chefs, shop for the holidays, sample outstanding food and taste fantastic wines should take a trip to The Fabulous Food Show, a consumer culinary show at the I-X Center. Take a trip down the aisles and aisles of cooking products and savory samples mixed in with a dash of cooking demos and the zest of celebrity chef appearances.

December 31: For more than 15 years thousands have gathered in Port Clinton for the “Madness at Midnight” Walleye Drop. Located approximately an hour and a half outside of Cleveland, the town of Port Clinton is home to a hearty population of walleye capital in the Lake Erie waters nearby. To celebrate such a distinction the town uses a massive crane to lower a fiberglass walleye replica, approximately 30 times larger than the average walleye, at the stroke of midnight.