The 9 Weirdest And Wackiest Festivals In All Of Greater Cleveland You Can’t Miss This Year
By Nikki Rhoades|Published December 14, 2018
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
2019 is a year full of promise and excitement. According to the Chinese Zodiac, it’s the Year of the Pig – a year of fortune, personality, and fun. One look at Cleveland’s 2019 calendar of events, this is definitely true! This year is going to be a great one, with all sorts of fun festivals will keep you busy throughout Greater Cleveland. Here are a few we’re looking forward to:
Is winter lingering around too long? No worries, because the Slovenian Kurent is here to chase winter away and to make way for spring. These furry critters parade around The Land and bring with them celebrations in the form of dinners, museum exhibits, music, ice carving, and so much more.
2. The Geauga County Maple Festival (April 25-28, 2019)
Things can still be a bit cool in late April, but the comforts of this charming festival will keep you warm inside. This event was conceived to bring awareness to local maple syrup production, and locals are obsessed. With a parade, endless maple goodies, fair food, and even rides, this springtime celebration shouldn't be missed.
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3. Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Fest (May 23-27, 2019)
Here on Lake Erie's shore, the walleye is a particularly coveted species. It's served in local restaurants alongside fine steaks and imported seafood, and it's highly sought after by local fisherman. At this event, the fish is the star of the show! Featuring a fishing derby, parade, carnival rides, and vendors from all around the country, this event truly makes for an unforgettable night on Lake Erie's shore.
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4. Crafted Local Food, Beer & Music Festival (June 1, 2019)
Farm-to-table dining meets the magic of beer and music at this awesome event. Featuring more than 40 craft beers and all sorts of food, this event is sure to be a hit. Plus, some of the proceeds will benefit the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, so it's well worth the visit!
The Lorain County Fairgrounds is like a scene straight out of a movie each June. Since 1977, Northeast Ohioans have shown their true colors as they flaunt their ancestry and skills in trials of ancient athletics. Whether you are Scottish or not, you're sure to love the music, food, and fun that this event presents.
6. The Great Lakes Medieval Faire (July 13 - August 18, 2019)
On Saturdays and Sundays, rain or shine, 3033 State Route 534 in Rock Creek becomes a medieval wonderland. Fairies, mermaids, and other fabled creatures mix alongside royalty, merchants, and peasants in one epic event. With shopping, entertainment, demonstrations (many of which include fire), and food, this event is truly fit for a king.
7. Cleveland Garlic Festival (August 25 & 26, 2019)
From noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Shaker Square will be a hub of festivity. This unusual event is an annual tradition, and locals love it. Fun garlic-filled foods, garlic-themed art, and a variety of games and activities make it a hit with the whole family. Be sure to pair a craft beer with a bit of Mitchell’s Garlic Ice Cream for the ultimate garlic experience!
8. North Ridgeville Corn Festival (August 9-11, 2019)
After four decades, this charming event has grown incredibly. With a corn eating contest, a classic car show, food, fun, and entertainment, this event is anything but corny. Locals love the camaraderie it encourages, and their super-cute mascots are perfect for a photo op.
Though the official dates have yet to be announced, this awesome event has been an annual tradition since 1973. It originally started in 1938, but the start of World War II put the festival on hold for several decades. This event has brought in potato lovers from all over the region, and the ginormous 200+pound pierogis in 2017 and 2018 had locals abuzz with excitement. Get ready for food and fun, because you'll certainly want to take part in this cherished annual tradition.
Our entire region is wonderful and weird, and these events capture the best parts of local culture. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, as there are countless festivities that have yet to be announced or have not indicated a specific date. Which are you looking forward to attending? Are there others you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
