4 Lake Erie Festivals to Enjoy this Summer
Take to the shore this season with these festivals in Lake Erie towns and islands that celebrate life on the water.
Festival of the Fish | June 14-16
Take part in the festivities in charming downtown Vermilion during this Jimmy Buffett-tribute iteration of the Festival of the Fish. Visit the local makers market, play games and enjoy plenty of food and live music throughout the weekend. Check out the spectacular fireworks display on Friday night, the lighted boat parade on Saturday evening and Father’s Day parade at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Middle Bass Music Fest | July 13
The Middle Bass Music Fest takes over the sounds of the historic Lonz Winery site on Lake Erie’s Middle Bass Island during this annual event held rain or shine. The North Coast Goats plays classic rock and Motown music from decades past, while Tall Paul & Western Drawl bring the country. Colin Dussault's Blues Project and the island groove of Dry Reef round out the day’s lineup.
Island Fest | July 19-21
Clock in on island time as Kelleys Island's annual Island Fest returns with art, vendors, kids games, Saturday evening fireworks and a Saturday morning parade with floats, vintage cars and firetrucks that toss and plenty of candy for the kids. Enjoy the local food and the beer tent, while live music and a street dance on Friday and Saturday nights keep the party rolling.
Wine and Walleye Festival | July 26-28
Celebrate this pairing of two northeast-shore favorites during Ashtabula's annual Wine and Walleye Festival. Sample Ohio wines and buy bottles at the wine tent and grab some fried walleye during this event held on Ashtabula Harbor's historic Bridge Street. Friday night brings a dock party; the fishing tournament, lighted boat parade and fireworks are set for Saturday and the Walley-Eye’d 5K runs on Sunday.
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