Posts with tag 'Outdoors'

The weather is growing colder, and that means cross-country skiing season is almost here! Whether you're an experienced skier or looking to ski for the first time, Ohio has many beautiful trails to explore. You can zip through pine forests, alongside frozen ponds, or past stands of oak trees. Here are nine of the best places for cross-country skiing this winter.

Punderson State Park

11755 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH 44065

Punderson State Park is one of the region's most scenic parks and a lovely one to visit in the winter. The Tudor-style lodge looks lovely against a backdrop of snow and pine trees. Visitors will find three cross-country skiing trails in the park. Huron Trail is a 1.3-mile trail with a moderate difficulty rating. Mohawk trail is 1.1 miles and moderate, and Cayuga is a 2-mile, easy trail.

Punderson is right in Ohio's snow belt, so conditions for skiing tend to be good. There are several picnic shelters, and if the weather is nice, you may want to enjoy lunch or some hot chocolate at one of them.

Chapin Forest Reservation

10381 Hobart Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

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If you need to rent skis, Chapin Forest Reservation is one of your best options for cross-country skiing in Northeast Ohio. They rent classic and skate skis at their Pine Lodge Ski Center. Each rental includes skis, boots, and poles. Fees are $10 per hour for the first hour plus $5 for each additional hour. Or, for $30, you can rent the skis all day.

The forest reserve maintains several kilometers of groomed trails near the entrance. You can also ski in the ungroomed areas if you are looking for a challenge. There's some elevation change within the reserve, but also plenty of flat terrain.

Swine Creek Reservation

16004 Hayes Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062

Swine Creek Reservation is a 400+ acre park situated among rolling hills and sugarbush farms. There are miles of trails weaving through the park, and several are groomed for cross-country skiing. 

Meadowlark Trail is a great choice for beginners. It's a 0.4-mile grass trail with very little elevation change. For a bit more of a challenge, try the 1.2-mile Gray Fox Trail, which offers many wildlife sightings. Or, try the Squaw Root Trail, a 0.6-mile, primitive trail that is mostly single-track.

Great Seal State Park

4908 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601

Great Seal State Park is a spacious 1,800-plus-acre state park with patches of dense forest, rolling hills, and open fields. If you prefer to cross-country ski in more open spaces, there are many opportunities here. You can download a map of the park's trails on their website.

Spring Run Trail is a favorite for cross-country skiing at Great Seal State Park. It's 1.9 miles long and studded with training stations you can use for a more balanced workout.

Delaware State Park

5202 U.S. Highway 23 North, Delaware, OH 43015

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If you're in the Columbus area, then Delaware State Park is a good place to go cross-country skiing. The park offers more than 1,300 acres of gorgeous natural land. Cross-country skiing is allowed on any of the hiking trails, weather permitting.

Big Foot Trail is a good choice for beginners. It's about 1.5 miles of easy terrain and offers lovely views of wetlands and meadows. You might even see a beaver.

John Bryan State Park

3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

John Bryan State Park is centered around a huge gorge cut into the limestone. Most trails offer views of this gorge and the surrounding forested land. Cross-country skiing is allowed on the hiking trails, weather permitting.

If you're cross-country skiing with kids, consider taking the Poplar Trail. It's only 0.1 miles long but offers some nice views. Storybook Trail is another short one. For a real challenge, take the 2.7-mile rim trail.

Stonelick State Park

2895 Lake Dr., Pleasant Plain, OH 45162

Stonelick State Park is another large park nestled in the hills outside Cincinnati. The park's trails wind through woodlands and pass over large, grassy hills. Cross-country skiing is permitted on the Red Fox Trail, rated easy. Visitors also love the moderate, 1.6-mile Beechtree Trail and the 0.35-mile Southwoods Trail.

In addition to cross-country skiing, Stonelick State Park offers ice skating, ice fishing, and ice boating. If you visit earlier in the winter, you can still see birds among the trees. 

East Fork State Park

3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel, OH 45106

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East Fork State Park is located just outside Cincinnati and is a lovely place for cross-country skiing on more open terrain. You can catch great views of Harsha Lake, its shore, and a winding river.

In addition to cross-country skiing, East Fork State Park offers ice skating and fishing in the winter as weather permits. The Storybook Trail presents a children's storybook one part at a time and is perfect for youngsters.

Cowan Lake State Park

1750 Osborn Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177

Cowan Lake State Park is centered around a water reservoir. The reservoir levels are lowered in the winter, creating a unique opportunity to look deep into the reservoir. There are several densely wooded areas throughout the park. Birds of prey, including eagles, reside here.

Cowan Lake State Park has 8 miles of hiking trails, and cross-country skiing is permitted on all of them as weather allows. The Lakeview Trail is a pretty choice and convenient as it's a loop. Oldfield is another 0.8-mile loop trail with a moderate rating. For something easier, try the 0.5-mile Beechnut Trail.

Ski Away

Which of these cross-country skiing areas will you visit this winter? Enjoy the views, and treat yourself to hot chocolate when you're done.

There's no "off-season" for outdoor adventures in Ohio. In fact, once the weather cools off, and the autumn colors inch past their peak in late fall, many of our parks and trails become less crowded, making this an amazing time of year to experience solitude in nature. Be sure to check out these great campgrounds for a late fall adventure in the Buckeye State!

Hueston Woods State Park

6301 Park Office Road, College Corner, OH 45003

Less than an hour from Cincinnati near the Indiana state line, Hueston Woods State Park is known as one of the best parks for fall foliage in Ohio. It's also a great place to camp, with over 250 campsites, including primitive tent sites as well as RV sites with electrical hookups. The campground is open year-round, making it a perfect spot for a late fall trip. Hueston Woods State Park also includes a charming covered bridge, popular fossil hunting beds, access to Acton Lake, and more than 12 miles of hiking trails.

Alum Creek State Park

3305 South Old State Road, Delaware, OH 43015

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Alum Creek Lake is a major destination for summer recreation in the Columbus area, but the fun isn't over when the swimming and boating season ends. In fact, fall is a great time to visit the lovely Alum Creek State Park if you want to beat the crowds. Camping options here include more than 300 electric campsites, as well as camper cabins and a group camp. Late fall is a great time to hike in the park or paddle a canoe along the shoreline and enjoy the last days of fall. Alum Creek lake also offers some excellent fall fishing opportunities for bass, saugeye, crappie, and catfish.

Lake Erie Bluffs

3301 Lane Road, Painesville, OH 44077

Located less than 45 minutes from Cleveland in Northeast Ohio, Lake Erie Bluffs offers spectacular lake views that can take your breath away in any season. Operated by Lake Metroparks, Lake Erie Bluffs offers two rustic tent camping sites that can each accommodate groups of up to eight people. The sites are located atop the 40-foot lakeside bluffs and are available by reservation from May 3 to November 30. In addition to an incredible view of Lake Erie from your campsite, you can also spot up to 90 bird species as they migrate south along a major flyway. Bald eagle sightings are common.

John Bryan State Park

3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

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A short drive from both Cincinnati and Dayton, John Bryan State Park has been called the most scenic park in Southwest Ohio. It spans 752 acres and is most famous for the rugged limestone gorge along the Little Miami River. Hiking trails both above and below the cliffs provide outstanding fall scenery, and a launch site just outside the park provides allows paddling access to the river. John Bryan State Park includes a cozy family campground with 16 electric and 40 non-electric sites. It's open year-round, but water isn't available during the off-season, so plan accordingly.

Deer Creek State Park

20635 State Park Road 20, Mt. Sterling, OH 43143

A beautiful park in any season, Deer Creek State Park provides a unique blend of the modern and the rustic. In addition to 200 electric campsites and a remote primitive camping area, the park also offers luxurious accommodations at the Deer Creek Lodge & Conference Center. Either way, you'll find brilliant fall foliage, more than 20 miles of trails, and abundant fishing and boating access to 1,277-acre Deer Creek Lake. This park is often bustling with activity in summer, but late fall is a great time to enjoy it in peace and quiet.

Mohican State Park

3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842

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Autumn is a great time to explore Mohican State Park, a beautiful Northeast Ohio Park that spans over 1,000 wooded acres. Located about halfway between Cleveland and Columbus, Mohican State Park sits at the intersection of the Clear Fork and Black Fork rivers, which join to form the Mohican River. There's amazing scenery long after the fall foliage has peaked, and the rivers offer excellent paddling and fishing. This park also includes a vast network of hiking trails and a thrilling 25-mile mountain biking trail. The campground in the park is shady and secluded, with over 150 sites ranging from primitive to full-hookup. 

Winton Woods

651 Lakeview Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45231

Noted for its fall foliage and just a 20-minute drive from Downtown Cincinnati, Winton Woods is a great option for Hamilton County residents looking for camping opportunities close to home. This 2,555-acre park offers a wealth of outdoor recreation, from hiking and horseback riding trails to picnic areas and an 18-hole golf course. Campsites and rustic cabins are open until November 26 for late fall camping, with amenities ranging from electric-only to full-hookup. Water will remain turned on, weather permitting, as long as the campground is open.

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

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The Hocking Hills area of Southeastern Ohio is one of the most celebrated landscapes in the state. There are few better places to experience it than Hocking Hills State Park, which is less than an hour away from Columbus. This unique place features distinctive landforms like cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and rock formations along the Allegheny Plateau, with over 25 miles of hiking trails. Few people visit the park in late fall, making it easy to reserve a campsite at short notice. Electric and full-hookup family campsites are available, as well as primitive hike-in sites.

Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Sites

Ottawa Point Driveway, Brecksville, OH 44141

Surprisingly, there are no camping opportunities in Northeast Ohio's spectacular Cuyahoga Valley National Park. But there are some great options nearby, including the Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Sites. These rustic, secluded campsites are accessible a short hike in from the Ottawa Point Picnic Area in Brecksville and are located along the Buckeye Trail, making them popular among backpackers. Each of the three campsites can accommodate up to four people, and the minimal amenities offer a great opportunity to "rough it" for the night. 

Into the Wild

Where will you go camping in Ohio this fall? 

Touring Lake Erie's many lighthouses Erie is a great way to spend a weekend if you're interested in Ohio's history. These structures might be relatively far from major cities like Columbus and Cincinnati, but they offer an intimate look into the state's maritime history that you won't get anywhere else. Check out the following stops on your lighthouse tour to make sure you see all of the best towers around Lake Erie. 

Vermillion Lighthouse

480 Main Street, Vermilion, OH 44089

The Vermilion Lighthouse that currently sits on the city's Main Street Beach is a replica of the original lighthouse from the 1850s. The original was badly damaged by an ice storm in 1929 and could not be repaired, so it was replaced with a newer reconstruction. 

The lighthouse stands 16 feet tall on the edge of a scenic embankment near where the Vermilion River empties into Lake Erie. Visitors cannot tour the inside of the tower, but you can spend as much time on the grounds as you please. This area has been a popular spot for marriage proposals among the locals for decades!

Port Clinton Lighthouse

West State Route 163, Port Clinton, OH 43452

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The Port Clinton Lighthouse was built in 1896 and is actually the second lighthouse erected at this location. After serving for over 50 years, the tower was moved to private property in 1952 before eventually being restored and placed back on the city shoreline in 2014. 

The area around the Lighthouse tower is now known as Waterworks Park, a publicly accessible park with many amenities in addition to the tower. Both are maintained by the Port Clinton Lighthouse Conservancy, or PCLC. The group offers public tours of the tower at certain times of the year, but visitors are always allowed to tour the grounds and spend time around the tower's base.

Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier

End of North Main Street, Huron, OH 44839

The Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier is one of the newer lighthouses on Lake Erie, built less than 100 years ago in the 1930s. It is currently maintained by the US Coast Guard as a working lighthouse on Huron's coastline.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the pier that leads up to it is. It's a favorite local fishing spot and one of the best spots in Ohio for birdwatching, so you might want to reserve some extra time during your trip if you enjoy either of these activities.

Marblehead Lighthouse

110 Lighthouse Drive, Marblehead, OH 43440

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The Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1822 and is still in use today, making it the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on Lake Erie. The land it sits on is now known as Marblehead Lighthouse State Park and holds picnic areas, a gift shop, and a replica lifesaving station in addition to the tower.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse in the summer months and enjoy its upper deck's incredible view. The building's tall white base and bright red roof and railings make it a striking sight with great photo opportunities all year round. 

Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse

End of Ashtabula Harbor Break Wall, Ashtabula, OH 44004

The Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse was built in 1905 when the Ashtabula River breakwater was first constructed. When it was finally automated in 1973, it was the last manned lighthouse on the Great Lakes. 

Today, the tower is cared for by the Ashtabula Lighthouse Restoration Society. This group runs the Ashtabula Marine Museum next door, which houses the lighthouse's old Fresnel lens and other equipment and memorabilia. Tours of the lighthouse are available as weather permits, and visitors are always welcome to walk around the grounds.

Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse

2800 Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH 44102

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The Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse is just one of several Northeast Ohio lighthouses that were once used to illuminate the port of Cleveland. Built in 1911 and in use up until 2021, this lighthouse is best known for its tendency to become coated with ice during the area's frequent winter ice storms. When this happens, the tower takes on a charming fairytale-like appearance, making it a favorite photo subject at that time of year.

The sturdy-looking stone tower and adjacent keeper's house sit at the end of a long pier that isn't accessible to the public, meaning that it can only be observed on boat tours or from the mainland. Even at a distance, however, its eye-catching shape and intriguing history make it well worth a visit.

South Bass Island Lighthouse

2368 Langram Road, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456

Completed in 1897 after several years of construction, the South Bass Island Lighthouse is noteworthy for a few reasons. It's only accessible by ferry, making a trip to see it into an adventure in its own right. Unlike most lighthouses, its 60-foot tower is attached to a two-and-a-half-story brick house where the lighthouse keeper and his family would live.

Today, the lighthouse is owned by Ohio State University, and its attached building is used for academic research. It's the only known lighthouse in the country to be owned by an academic institution, and its unique shape makes it a must-see for anyone interested in Lake Erie's many lighthouses.

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse

129 2nd Street, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077

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The Fairport Harbor Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouse towers in the area around Lake Erie. This 60-foot stone tower was in use from 1825 to 1925. After this, it was finally replaced by a new tower on the pierhead of the west breakwater. 

Now, the lighthouse is carefully maintained by the Fairport Harbor Historical Society, a local group dedicated to preserving this piece of the town's past. The former lighthouse keeper's house right next to the tower now holds the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and its many artifacts. Be sure to stop by during your visit to the lighthouse to get a better appreciation of the building's historical context and purpose.

Light Up Your Life

Which of these lighthouses will you visit during your time around Lake Erie? 

Farmers markets are the ideal destinations to buy local produce since what you're purchasing is typically grown nearby, and by the person you're buying it from. Not only will you be getting fresh, healthy food, but you'll also be supporting local farmers and vendors.

Many farmers markets have branched out to also feature live music and activities like cooking demonstrations to further their appeal. In fact, in addition to being local food destinations, they've also become places for the community to gather.

Check out the following nine places to stock up on local produce in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Frostville Farmers' Market

24101 Cedar Point Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070

You'll find plenty of fresh, local food and handmade goods at Frostville Farmers' Market, located on the grounds of the Frostville Museum. All foods and goods come from within 75 miles of the market, so you know you're supporting local farmers and makers when you shop there. The market has become a destination for families, with music, children's activities, games, cooking demonstrations, and fun happenings such as a visit from a local farm's alpacas. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through November and then from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. from November through April.

Crocker Park Market

1800 Crocker Rd., Westlake, OH 44145

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Crocker Park Market is in a new location—on the corner of Crocker and Detroit Roads in front of Fidelity Investments—but it still provides the fresh items Northeast Ohio residents love to shop for. You'll find fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and more at the market, open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Sunday from April until mid-December. Local musicians are also sometimes featured.

Cleveland Clinic Main Campus Market

Cleveland Clinic Campus, across the street from the Crile Building, 2039 E. 100th St., Cleveland, OH 44106

Going into its 14th year, the Cleveland Clinic farmers market offers goods from over 35 local farmers and producers each week. In addition to buying local food and products, you can listen to live music, watch cooking demonstrations, score free samples, and learn more about your health. Unlike many markets, the Cleveland Clinic market is open during the week rather than on the weekend, with hours from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from June until mid-October.

Markets at Pearl

North Pearl and West Gay Streets, Columbus, OH 43215

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Located in downtown Columbus, Markets at Pearl combines three separate markets under one umbrella. Pearl Market dates back to 1992 and is open every Tuesday and Friday from 10:30-2 p.m. from May 20-October. Visit the market to shop for farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, check out artisanal goods, and get some lunch. Sunlight Market is held every third Sunday until December, drawing visitors downtown to shop from pop-up vendors and enjoy music. Moonlight Market is held every second Saturday from April-October.

Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market

Wells Barn parking lot at Franklin Park Conservatory 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

You'll find plenty you'll want to buy at the Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market, including local produce, baked goods, specialty foods, handmade items, and health and beauty products. Each week brings vendors, live music, food trucks, and special giveaways and activities like a free tote bag or the chance to talk with master gardeners.

Westgate Farmers Market

2925 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204

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Shop for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, gourmet pet treats, baked goods, and more at Westgate Farmers' Market, where everything sold is produced by the vendor. You can enjoy live music while you browse, and food trucks are also onsite if you'd like to grab a meal to enjoy at the market or take home. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-noon on the first and third Saturdays June-October.

Northside Farmers Market

4222 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223

You'll be able to shop year-round at Northside Farmers Market, which provides items produced within 70 miles. In addition to fresh produce, meats, eggs, and bread, you can shop for items like handmade body products and prepared foods at the market. It's become a place for neighbors to gather and kids to learn how to cook. The market is open from 4-7 p.m. April-November and 4-6 p.m. December to March.

Hyde Park Farmers Market

2700 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

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You'll find a wide variety of local foods and other items from growers at the Hyde Park Farmers Market, including veggies, fruits, meats, eggs, garden plants, and more. Rare heirloom veggie varieties and heritage breed meats are also sold, and the market's vendors employ regenerative and humane practices. Although the wholesome food is the main attraction, live music helps make the market a popular gathering spot. The market is open Sundays from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May-October.

Sayler Park Farmer's Market

6600 Gracely Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45233

You'll find plenty of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and honey to candles and home and garden decor at the Sayler Park Farmer's Market. Live music will entertain you while you shop from producers including Two Amigos Salsa, PAWsome Puppy Treats, Sayler Park Coffee, Hippie Pop Kettle Corn, and more. The market is open 4-7 p.m. every Tuesday June-August.

Healthy Happens Here

Which local Ohio farmers' markets do you plan to visit, and what are some of your favorite items to buy? 

Summer weather, fantastic food, family fun, and fabulous fireworks can only mean one thing in Northeast Ohio. It's time to celebrate the 4th of July, and, as always, communities across Northeast Ohio will be pulling out all of the stops to celebrate this special day. You're sure to find a great place to celebrate July 4th close to home, and many local events include so much to see that they're spread across multiple days. Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with these eight amazing July 4th events around Northeast Ohio.

Bay Days 2022 Festival

Cahoon Memorial Park East – 27134 Lake Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140

The fun starts early in Bay Village, with the Bay Days 2022 Festival kicking off on June 30 and lasting all the way until the big day on July 4. There will be live music from a different band every night at the park gazebo, along with a Classic Car Cruise-In with live DJ, a Vintage Baseball Game featuring two local club teams, and a Children's Bike, Trike & Wagon Parade. Throughout the festival, attendees can also enjoy carnival rides, delicious food from local vendors, and informative booths from community organizations. It's all capped off by the Gala Fireworks Display, which takes place after dark on the 4th of July.

Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks

Weiss Field – 33401 Webber Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44102

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The Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks begins at 5:30 pm on Friday, July 1 and lasts until the fireworks light up the sky late in the evening. In between, you'll enjoy an on-stage Independence Day Celebration, along with live performances from Anne E. Dechant, Seeing Scarlet, and a Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Some of your favorite local food trucks will be there all evening to provide outstanding meals, with Jones Bones BBQ, Off the Griddle, Fired Up Tacos, Cathy's Cle & Kona Ice, and Kountry Krunchins among the food trucks set to appear at the celebration.

Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music, & Fireworks

Mill Stream Park – 1200 Maple St., Valley City, OH 44280

For a full day of fun on the 4th of July, try a trip to the Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music & Fireworks celebration at Mill Stream Park. Begin your day with the 4th of July Parade, which travels down State Route 303, West River, School Street, and Maple Street before ending at Mill Stream Park. Then stick around at the park for the Classic Car Show in the afternoon while enjoying some great concessions for lunch. The evening features a live performance from Soundcheck, followed by a wonderful fireworks display after dusk.

North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display

Hoover High School – 525 7th St. NE, North Canton, OH 44720

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Held on the large lawn in front of Hoover High School, the North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display is packed with fun for the whole family. It all starts at 5:30 PM when the food vendors, face painting stations, and children's activities open for the evening. The Scenic Route will be taking the stage a bit later in the evening, playing all of the hits from the past five decades in a free outdoor concert. Of course, you won't want to miss the fireworks display, which takes place shortly after the band leaves the stage.

Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks

Bicentennial Park – 115 E. Pioneer Trail, Aurora, OH 44202

Looking for a healthy, fun way to start your July 4th celebrations? The Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks starts early in the morning with a 5k fun run with awards for the top three finishers in every age bracket from kids to seniors. The July 4th Parade starts after the fun run is complete, followed by the Festival & Grand Marshall Celebration, which lasts all afternoon into the evening, and the fireworks display, which kicks off after dusk.

New Philadelphia First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks

Tuscora Park – 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663

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One of Northeast Ohio's largest July 4th celebrations takes place in New Philadelphia, where the 45th annual First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks features five days packed with events from morning through evening. Whether you're interested in a Fishing Derby, Frog Jumping Contest, Turtle Races, Wiffleball Tournament, or some more conventional Independence Day fun, you're sure to find it during this festival. Events take place throughout New Philadelphia, with many of the biggest attractions being located at Tuscora Park.

Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration

Orr Park – 440 N. Elm St., Orrville, OH 44667

The Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration is part carnival, part softball tournament, and all family fun. The softball tournament is a major attraction, with three days of games at Orr Park to crown a champion. While the tournament is happening, visitors of all ages can enjoy a free carnival featuring food, carnival games, and rides that the kids are sure to love. It all wraps up on the evening of July 3 with one of the biggest fireworks displays in Northeast Ohio.

Akron Rib, White & Blue Festival

Lock 3 – 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

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Always one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Akron, the Rib, White & Blue Festival is a four-day event focused on fantastic food and live music. There will be a free concert during every night of the festival at Lock 3 in downtown Akron, with Monica Robbins & The Whiskey Kings, Bruce in the USA, Georgia Players Guild Best of Queen, and Creedence Relived all taking the stage on separate nights. The fireworks in Akron take place after the conclusion of the Rubberducks game on July 4, and Lock 3 offers great views of the display.

Food, Family, Fireworks, and Fun

Where will you celebrate the red, white, and blue this July?