
Road races aren't just for serious, lifelong athletes. Most are welcoming to people at all levels of fitness. Training for a road race is a great way to improve your stamina and maybe even lose a few pounds this summer! Luckily, there are plenty of great road races coming up in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few to consider signing up for.
Scheduled for Sunday, August 8th, this race begins at Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. The half marathon begins at 7 am, and the 5K and 10K races begin at 8 am. You can pre-register online, and packet pickup takes place beginning at 6 am on race day.
The Hofbrauhaus half marathon course winds through the city of Cleveland, even passing through Rockefeller Park. The 5K and 10K racecourses take runners through the downtown area near Cleveland State University. All runners over the age of 21 get a free beer with registration, and runners of all ages get a free bratwurst and technical t-shirt.
View this post on Instagram
On August 14th, the Run for Recovery begins at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. There's also a One Mile Wellness Walk and a shorter kids' fun run. Proceeds from the race go to support charities that help those struggling with alcoholism, drug abuse, and other addictions.
This year, the organizers' goal is to raise $65,000 for charity. To help them reach this goal, you can register online for the race of your choice. Register for the 5K, and you'll also get a free pass to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Registrants for all races get a free t-shirt. You can raise even more money for the cause by fundraising with a team, which you can learn more about on the race website.
Nurses put so much love and care into their profession, especially over this past year. Scheduled for September 26th in Edgewater Park, this race is a good opportunity to show nurses how much you appreciate them. There's a 5K race and a 1-mile run/walk. You can pre-register online or register on race day for an extra $5.
After the race, there will be a ceremony to recognize all nurses who are present. Post-race refreshments will also be provided.
View this post on Instagram
Scheduled for September 10th, this race begins at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. It's a local tradition to honor Oktoberfest, and all participants get free sausage and beer. You can pre-register for the race online and pick your packet up at the local Fleet Feet the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the race.
All participants get a free t-shirt, and finishers get a medal. The race doesn't start until 6:15 pm, which is good news if you're not a morning person.
If you're looking for a unique race in Columbus, then the Big Bad Wolfe Run is a great choice. There's a fun backstory associated with the race name, which you can read on the signup page. You'll feel like Little Red Riding Hood as you run down the trail.
This race is scheduled for September 26th. There are 5K, 10-mile, and 20-mile options, and all courses begin in Wolfe Park and follow the Alum Creek Trail, which is asphalt paved. Every finisher gets a medal and a swag bag.
View this post on Instagram
Scheduled for October 3rd, the 31st annual Dog Jog is a fundraiser for the CHA Animal Shelter. All proceeds go toward caring for and finding homes for animals at the shelter.
The 5K race and 1-mile fun run begin in Genoa Park at 9 am. After the race, multiple vendor booths, games, and activities for participants and fans are available. There's also a virtual race option for anyone who doesn't feel comfortable participating in person.
If you'll be in Cincinnati in August and want to run a race while you're there, the Egghead 5K is definitely a top choice. It's scheduled for August 14th, 2021. At 4 pm, willing participants will shave their heads to show support for cancer patients and raise money for the Eggstrong Foundation. Then, at 5 pm, these eggheads will run the 5K race.
50 West Cycling Company is hosting this event. The course is an out and back route on the Little Miami Bike Trail. You can pre-register online, and race day registration is also available for an added fee. If you refer three friends to register, you can save $15 on your own registration. You do not have to shave your head to run the race!
View this post on Instagram
The 15th Annual Sophie's Angel Run is scheduled for September 26, 2021. This race starts at St. Jude Parish in Bridgetown, and the 5K course weaves through the local neighborhood. The 1 pm start time is great for late risers.
Sophie's Angel Run is a charity event to raise funds to support research into pediatric brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. If you pre-register online, you'll receive a free t-shirt. There's also a family plan registration option, which includes two adults and their children, plus shirts and goodie bags for all for $65.
Why not balance out your love for ice cream with some running? The Ice Cream 5K and 10K is scheduled for October 16th, 2021. This race begins at Sawyer Point Park. The 5K and 10K races begin at 8:45 am, and the kids' 1-mile fun run begins at 8 am. There's also a baby/toddler crawl at 10 am or whenever the 10K wraps up.
After the race, there will be a family-friendly party with face painting, dancing, and games. Of course, all participants get a free ice cream cone and t-shirt. Proceeds from the race and associated party go to benefit Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. You can register online. Details for packet pickup will be posted closer to race day.
Which one of these Northeast Ohio road races do you plan on training for in 2021?

There's just something special about eating at a food truck. You can grab your food, which you know is made locally, and you enjoy it outdoors — usually at a park or on a bustling street. Food trucks have become really popular throughout Northeast Ohio over the past few years, and there are many places and events where you can visit several food trucks all at once. Here are a few well worth visiting.
16900 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107
View this post on Instagram
With over 12,000 square feet of space, Lakewood Truck Park is a lovely place to spend a few hours walking around, trying various foods, and even sipping on a few beverages. There are two bars on-site, and the selection of food trucks changes often.
You can find a schedule that lists specific food trucks on the Lakewood Truck Park website. Frequent visitors include Smoke This, a barbecue truck serving amazing craft BBQ, and Off the GRIDdle, which serves tacos, sandwiches, and other griddle-cooked treats. The Cedar Grill, serving Mediterranean cuisine, is another frequent visitor. The park opens daily at 11 am, so you can stop by for lunch or dinner.
Great Lakes Mall: 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060
Great Lakes Market takes place every Saturday from 11 am - 5 pm and every Sunday from 1 pm - 5 pm in the Firestone space near the Great Lakes Mall food court. There are always plenty of food trucks around, so you have your choice of cuisine.
Some top food vendors to visit include Taste of Pizza and Pap's Kettle Korn. While you're eating, you can always shop for produce or crafts at the accompanying farmer's market.
811 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
In the heart of Hartville, this food truck park is always bustling! It's open from 11 am - 8 pm daily, weather permitting.
Some of the trucks often seen at Hartville Food Truck Park include Anna Maria's Concessions, which serves favorites like lemonade and French fries, and Mi Casa, serving tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites. Another common visitor is Little Red Food Truck, which serves delicious Gyros.
Solon Community Park: 6679 Som Center Rd., Solon, OH 44139
On July 23 -25, 2021, Solon Home Days will be held at the Solon Community Park. This community block party is a great opportunity to let loose and enjoy some entertainment and delicious food. The food trucks will be on-site from 6 - 9:30 pm on Friday, from noon - 10 pm on Saturday, and from 1:30 - 9 pm on Sunday.
In addition to food trucks, there will be a petting zoo for kids to enjoy, raffles to enter, and lots of carnival games to play.
Prospect & East 46th Streets, Cleveland, OH 44103
View this post on Instagram
The Chomp takes place every Tuesday at the corner of Prospect and East 46th streets. It's a common lunch destination since the hours are 11:30 am - 1:30 pm.
On July 13th, the line-up includes Fired Up Taco Truck and MoBites Food Truck. MoBites, in particular, is a unique choice because they serve vegan options and soul food. On July 20th, A Slice of Pizzazz is set to attend. They're known for their amazing pizza. Another frequent visitor is Kona Ice of Pepper Pike, which serves delicious shaved ice and other desserts.
Coe Lake Park, Berea, OH 44017
Live at the Lake is a concert series, and thankfully, it has come back for 2021! The music may be the star of the show, but plenty of people also show up for the food trucks, and you can, too. Concerts are held almost every Friday throughout the summer, with events currently scheduled for July 16, 23, and 30, and for August 6th.
Although the list of attending food trucks has not been released yet, ones that have attended in the past include Sylmans, The Little Piggy, and Fire Truck Pizza Co. Nothing Bundt Cakes has also attended, and they have amazing cakes to finish off your meal. What could better than eating cake and pizza while watching a live band? Everyone needs that kind of social relaxation right now.
Perk Plaza: 1717 E. 12th St., Cleveland, OH 44114
View this post on Instagram
Walnut Wednesday is another favorite food truck event that runs throughout the summer in Cleveland. It takes place in the beautiful Perk Plaza, so you can enjoy your food while resting in a green, grassy area or on one of the park benches.
The trucks are in Perk Plaza from 11 am - 1:30 pm every Wednesday. There are usually at least five different trucks on-site. Common visitors include The Food Depot and Wrap it Up. Wild Spork Food Truck serves American vegan cuisine, and Smooth Rider Smoothies is a top choice for healthy smoothies and coffee.
Lincoln Park: 1200 Starkweather Ave., Cleveland OH, 44113
Do you want to enjoy food trucks with a unique twist? This is a Christmas in July celebration scheduled for 12:00 - 8:00 pm on Saturday, July 17th, 2021. It's an event where families can set technology aside and participate in activities like painting and creating other art.
There will be several food trucks on-site to provide refreshments and lunch. Admission to the event is free, although there are fees for food and for various activities. Bring your kids, and enjoy the day in nature while eating some delicious food truck fare.
Food just tastes better when it comes from the back of the truck! What food trucks do you plan on visiting this summer?

It's almost time to celebrate the Fourth of July in Ohio, and many of your favorite events will be returning for Independence Day in 2021. Whether you're interested in fireworks, music, educational family fun, fantastic food, or all of the above, you're sure to find the perfect celebration in one of Ohio's many vibrant communities. We don't want you to miss any of the action on the biggest holiday of the summer, so we've put together a guide to some of the best Fourth of July events in the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas that offer something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk – 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, OH 44113
The annual Light Up the Lake fireworks celebration can be viewed from a variety of great destinations throughout downtown Cleveland, including the beautiful Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk. This event is always a favorite for Northeast Ohio residents, with plenty of activities to enjoy downtown before the fireworks and festivities begin. As an open-air amphitheater with abundant lawn seating that's perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, Jacobs Pavilion is a great place to take in the sights of the evening. But if you have another favorite location, it's easy to see the fireworks display from anywhere downtown.
View this post on Instagram
Get ready for a full day of family fun in downtown Wadsworth with the First Friday: Celebrate America event for the Fourth of July. Enjoy specials and activities at more than 30 local businesses in downtown Wadsworth, then be sure to save room for dinner! There will be various great food trucks on-site serving all of your favorite dishes from Ohio and beyond. After dinner, settle in for one of Ohio's best fireworks shows, with fantastic views available from a variety of scenic locations downtown.
Sippo Lake Park – 5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
Looking for a fun, unique way to keep younger members of the family entertained before the big fireworks shows on the Fourth of July? Kids are sure to love exploring the exciting, educational Red, White, & Blue Flag Avenue at Sippo Lake Park. Walk through the scenic park lined with flags as your kids learn all about the different red, white, and blue species of animals that call Ohio home, then wrap up your trip with a visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center. This event is available to be enjoyed every day during park hours for the two weeks around the Fourth of July holiday.
Thomas Worthington High School – 300 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Worthington, OH 43085
While Worthington's annual Rotary Family Picnic is delayed until Labor Day this year, you can still enjoy a festive fireworks display. The Thomas Worthington High School grounds will give viewers plenty of room to watch the annual celebration of the nation's independence. In addition to the stadium, the front lawn and other areas surrounding the venue will be available to attendees. In case of severe weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled with a rain date of Sept. 5th.
New Albany Middle School Greenspace – 6600 E. Dublin Granville Rd., New Albany, OH 43054
View this post on Instagram
The New Albany Independence Day Parade & Festival has a special theme this year, with frontline healthcare workers and first responders being honored throughout the day. After the parade, head to New Albany Middle School for a family-friendly festival that includes games for kids, costumed characters, live music, and food from some of Ohio's best food trucks.
Dublin Community Recreation Center – 5600 Post Rd., Dublin, OH 43017
The City of Dublin Independence Day Celebration features a full day of fun and special events around the city. Whether you're watching or participating, the annual Shem Sheldon Fishing Derby is the perfect way to spend your morning. The Fourth of July Parade is up next, with a parade route that runs throughout downtown Dublin. After the parade, there will be more than five hours of live music from a diverse selection of bands before the evening wraps up with Dublin's annual fireworks display.
705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
If you love live music, you won't want to miss the Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series Fourth of July Celebration this year. The fun starts in the afternoon, with live performances from four different bands that will last well into the evening. There will be plenty of delicious food and drink to enjoy throughout, with a fantastic fireworks display set to follow all of the live music.
6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy a family evening out at the amusement park on July 3 and experience one of the more unique Cincinnati Fourth of July celebrations at the Coney Island Park Balloon Glow. The show starts with over a dozen colorful, well-lit hot air balloons taking to the sky above the amusement park, which you can enjoy while experiencing all of the attractions that the park has to offer. After the balloons, there will be a spectacular fireworks finale to cap off an evening of family fun at the amusement park.
4200 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45251
Get ready for a night of amazing live music and a fantastic fireworks display at the Colerain Township Fourth of July Spectacular. This event is free for everyone to enjoy, and the fun starts with an evening of music from the Classic Rock Experience. They'll be playing all of the hits from the '70s and '80s in an outdoor concert, providing the perfect way to get warmed up for the grand finale. After the concert, the skies will light up with a dazzling display of fireworks to close out the evening.
Independence Day celebrations are back with a bang for 2021! Which one will you attend?

School's out and the weather is beautiful, so it's a perfect time to try something new. Check out these great small businesses with the June gifts from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Our agents at Cutler Real Estate are big fans of Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Local small businesses are one of the reasons we love these areas, so we've partnered with LoLo Gifts to spread the word with our program of free monthly offers.
Akron: Ice Cream Cones or Pint
2730 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709
View this post on Instagram
If summer was a food, it would be BBQ. Use your certificate toward some tasty wings, ribs, or brisket at Hog Heaven. You'll see just how appropriate their name is!
Hog Heaven's name actually has a double meaning. During the early days, founder Ron Rosenthal personally delivered orders from the back of his Harley Davidson Road King. Today, Hog Heaven sponsors and participates in various motorcycle runs to raise money for scholarships and other funds for kids in need.
330.458.0904
Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
1562 Akron Peninsula Rd., Suite 113, Akron, OH 44313
Nothing beats the Ohio heat like some refreshing ice cream. Cool off with a cone or a pint from McMoo's.
One delighted customer referred to McMoo's as the best ice cream spot in Akron that no one knows about. With a good selection of flavors and reasonable prices, it may not stay that way for long. Cutting calories? McMoo's has frozen yogurt as well.
330.940.2181
Monday - Sunday 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
6 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43081
View this post on Instagram
How will you use your certificate at Schneider's Bakery? With display cases full of mouthwatering cookies, donuts, and pastries, it's a tough choice. The good news is that there are no wrong answers here.
Schneider's Bakery is a classic American small business. In 1954, brothers Carl and Floyd Schneider began turning out their amazing baked goods from a grocery store basement. More than 60 years later, the bakery remains a family-owned business under husband and wife Shaun and Manu Stonerook, who maintain the same standards set by the Schneiders.
614.882.6611
Monday - Saturday 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.
111 W. Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256
View this post on Instagram
With 40 varieties of hot dogs, you'll find something for every taste at Dan's Dogs Diner. Add fries and a drink for a satisfying combo.
At Dan's Dogs Diner, half the fun is just walking through the front door. The restaurant is a charming throwback to 50s-style diners, right down to the black-and-white checkered flooring and tableside jukeboxes. Dan's recently had the honor of being named one of 11 best places to get a hot dog outside of Progressive Field by Cleveland.com.
330.952.2925
Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
175 E. Erie St. Suite 201, Kent, OH 44240
View this post on Instagram
Fresh summer fruits make it easy to eat healthy. Choose one of the four bowls from The Fruit Stand and personalize it with crunchies and drizzles.
The Fruit Stand is committed to providing a convenient way for the community to their daily servings of fresh fruit. Products are sourced from local farmers markets whenever possible, so when you support The Fruit Stand, you're also supporting growers around the Kent/Stow area.
330.422.8177
Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
137 W. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691
View this post on Instagram
Have you spent the last year refining your cooking skills? Punch up the flavor of your favorite recipes with quality olive oil or vinegar from Mott's Oils and More.
Mott's Oils & More is like a Disneyland for foodies. While the comprehensive selection of gourmet oils and vinegars may seem overwhelming, the friendly and knowledgeable staff members are happy to offer recommendations. Even better, you can sample different flavors before buying.
330.601.1645
Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
2030 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208
View this post on Instagram
Is your sweet tooth crying out for some goodies? Satisfy it with $10 toward brownies, lemon bars, rainbow cookies, and other delectable treats from The BonBonerie.
According to co-owner Sharon Butler, The BonBonerie has two directives for their baked goods: they must be beautiful and delicious. Sharon and her business partner Mary Pat Pace, never ones to stand in one place, are always looking for creative new ideas to surprise and delight their customers.
513.321.3399
Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Are you wondering how you get to take part in this fantastic program? There's no membership fee, entrance exam, or secret code word. Participation is totally complimentary, courtesy of Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Don't wait any longer to get started! Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent and sign up to have our monthly offers delivered straight to your inbox.

Do you ever feel like you're always rushing to get somewhere? When you long to slow it down, unwind with the relaxed pace of a horseback ride. Enjoy this healthy and eco-friendly activity at one of these top riding facilities around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
9250 Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Chagrin Valley Farms has a mission to serve all riders through every stage of the "horsemanship cycle." Whether you're a veteran rider or a first-timer, their experienced staff will help you reach your goal. The 85-acre facility includes two heated indoor arenas and four outdoor rings along with pastures and trails. Group, private, and semi-private lessons are available for all ages. Newcomers take an introductory ride so instructors can accurately assess your level and make sure you receive optimum placement. Visit the website for information about their horsemanship camps for kids that are offered year-round.
1009 River Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233
View this post on Instagram
For the owner and caretaker of River Road Horse Farm, horses and riding are literally their life. Both live on-site so they're easily accessible and stay responsive to the needs of the farm, including horses and riders. Owner Mark Palik, who purchased the farm in December 2011, is continually upgrading the facility to provide a superior experience for guests. One recent change was the addition of a second indoor arena. Lessons are offered for riders starting at age 5, so kids can get started on a lifelong appreciation of horsemanship.
12381 Easton St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601
Loree Stubblefield, owner of Stable Solutions Farm, knows firsthand how powerful the connection between people and horses can be. After Loree's father was stricken with a brain injury and her daughter was diagnosed with a heart condition, she made the decision to run the farm while caring for her family. Today, Stable Solutions is known for its many equine therapy programs, which benefit those with special physical, emotional, and social needs. Guests also love the miniature Australian shepherds raised by Loree's family, who are frequently wandering the grounds.
7380 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026
View this post on Instagram
The story of Sid Griffith, founder of the popular equestrian center than bears his name, is something of a legend. At the age of 11, when his parents refused to indulge his early love of horses, Sid began working at a dude ranch in order to earn riding time. After purchasing his first horse with money from his 16th birthday, Sid went on to an illustrious career riding, showing, and training horses. These days, Sid remains active running his full-service equestrian center along with his wife and their youngest daughter, an award-winning rider in her own right.
1841 Unbridled Way, Blacklick, OH 43004
You would be forgiven for thinking Field of Dreams is a baseball diamond. The name refers to owner Jennifer Hansen's childhood dream to own a horse. After graduating from law school at Ohio State University, Jennifer finally got her wish and wanted to share the experience with other kids who also thought their dream was unattainable. In addition to offering traditional riding programs, Field of Dreams is the home of Dreams on Horseback, a non-profit organization founded by Jennifer that provides therapeutic riding programs.
View this post on Instagram
Picture yourself on the back of a magnificent horse, enjoying the serenity of nature as you leave the rest of civilization behind. Horse-N-Round Fun, LLC conducts trail rides from 30 minutes to four hours for riders ages 10 and up. You'll pass through peaceful wooded areas, cross gentle streams, and share the space with wild turkeys, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife. If you have a specific trail you want to ride, Horse-N-Round Fun can also bring the horses to you. Hand-led trail rides are available for youngsters ages 4 and up so they don't have to be left out. Plans are in the works to offer riding lessons and other services, so watch their website for news.
10129 Mill Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231
Does the idea of riding a horse appeal to you, but you're not quite confident you can handle it? Muddy Water Equestrian Park wants all visitors to be comfortable with their decision to ride. At 10:30 a.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month, they have a horseback riding seminar to help newbies become familiar with the experience. Afterward, you'll head out on the noon trail riding session. One-hour trail rides are held at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. each weekend for guests 8 years or older. Price is $30 per person, or $85 if you want to participate in the seminar. Younger kids can have their own staff-led pony rides for only $5.
10073 Daly Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231
View this post on Instagram
For nearly 70 years, Winton Woods Riding Center has been a leading equestrian facility serving the Cincinnati area. They are known for their outstanding instruction programs as well as their equestrian teams for middle and high school students. Team members get a chance to participate in competitions without having to own a horse. Each Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m., one-hour trail rides are available for ages 7 and up with a fee of $45 per person. Guests are also welcome to bring their own horses and access the trail that's approximately five miles round trip.
2215 Snyder Rd., Batavia, OH 45103
Horses are definitely a family affair for George Wisbey, owner of East Fork Stables. As chief of the Cincinnati Fire Department, George's great-grandfather trained the department's horses and later founded the first retirement farm for the fire horses. George, his father, and his grandfather all had successful careers training horses for racing and movies, and his wife Judy runs the summer horse camp. East Fork Stables includes an indoor arena, a riding track around a lake, and 50 miles of trails to accommodate whatever experience you're looking for.
Race horses are known for their quirky, colorful names. If you owned a horse, what name would you choose?