Memorial Day is nearly upon us. This time to remember and pay respect to our country's fallen soldiers warrants a day off from school and work (and rightfully so), and many also consider it the beginning of summer. If the warm weather and beach-goers haven't convinced you to get outside and celebrate, we're sure we can tempt you with some of the summery events happening over the weekend in Cleveland and on the shores of Lake Erie.We've rounded up some of our favorites below, so don your white pants and your swimsuit, and get ready to make this the best Memorial Day yet.
Celebrate the beginning of summer with one of the most colorful parties in the area. The annual Blossom Time Festival takes place in downtown Chagrin Falls, and includes carnival rides, a hot air balloon glow, a pie-eating contest, and plenty of other family-friendly activities. Additionally, guests are invited to get a taste of Chagrin, with more than 20 food trucks and local vendors serving up bites and sips throughout the weekend.
For the 19th year in a row, barbecue connoisseurs, meat lovers and ribbing experts will come together to celebrate the carnivore's favorite entrée: ribs. Meander through the fairgrounds at Berea's National Rib Cook-off, snacking on a tasty morsel from tens of local vendors while enjoying live music and family-friendly games and activities. There's no doubt about it — this event is finger lickin' good.
Tremont Greek Festival
May 26-29While you don't have to be Greek to enjoy the Tremont Greek Festival, you do have to enjoy Greek food, Greek bevvies and Greek dancing. Somehow, we don't think that will be a problem! Visit Cleveland's historic Tremont neighborhood for a taste of all the above, and enjoy a variety of Greek performances and shopping from local vendors. Can you say "Opa?"
Memorial Day Weekend at Put-in-Bay
May 26-29Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular weekends at Put-in-Bay, welcoming visitors from all over the Great Lakes region. Whether you hop on the ferry for a day trip or reserve a hotel for the weekend, there are plenty of activities to take part in — especially on Saturday! While you're not basking in the sun and taking in all this island has to offer, enjoy performances from popular entertainers, a gorgeous Memorial Day service at Perry's Victory, and a grand parade on monday featuring antique cars.
The annual Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the area, and it's easy to see why! For its 37th year, the event will invite locals and visitors alike (including over 100 vendors from around the nation) to take part in an array of free live concerts, tasty food and beverages, and outdoor activities on the picturesque shores of Lake Erie. Highlights will include a kids fishing derby, a grand parade and the Walleye 5K race.
Ohio Bike Week at Sandusky
May 26-June 4 Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of Sandusky's Ohio Bike Week. Even if thundering motorcycles aren't really your thing, you'll enjoy marveling at the displays of gleaming metal and impressive beards that will set Sandusky apart during the week. There will also be exciting live performances, a great selection of activities, and plenty of food to keep you entertained.
Cedar Point Shores Opening Weekend
May 26-28This lakeside amusement park is known as the roller coaster capital of the world, but it also has one heck of a water park. Cedar Point Shores will open on Memorial Day Weekend, offering a swimmin' good time to fun-loving Ohioans of all ages, plus four new water attractions! Get a first look at the new waterslides, Point Plummet and the Portside Plunge, or enjoy some family fun at Lemmy's Lagoon and Lakeside Landing. The beginning of summer means it's beach season, so celebrate by taking a dip!
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