Save the Date for these 9 Put-In-Bay Events

School is almost out, the days are getting warmer and the flowers are in bloom. These are sure signs summer is on its way, and it means that it’s time to start planning a visit to Put-In-Bay. There is a full lineup of events to enjoy this season on South Bass Island. Check out these festivals, gatherings and happenings coming to the Key West of the Midwest.

Island Wide Garage Sale: May 17
You can take home new-to-you finds from the Island Wide Garage Sale. For one day only, homes and businesses across South Bass Island take part in a garage-sale extravaganza with visitors getting a chance to take home great new-to-them finds. The sale runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and maps are available to help navigate the sales taking place across the island. 

Benson Ford Shiphouse Tours: June 8 & Aug. 17
There are two occasions this summer to visit the Benson Ford Shiphouse for a tour. This ship was once used by the Ford Motor Co. for cargo but was later purchased by a private owner, pulled ashore and transformed into a house. It is only open for tours on select days: June 8 and Aug. 17 this summer. Purchase of tickets in advance is required, and the tour is a perfect afternoon for history and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Put-In-Bay Pride: June 9
Celebrate Pride island-style with this annual festival that started in 2023. The day begins with the Pride Fun Run, a 1-mile color run/walk that begins at The Keys restaurant. After the run, grab something to eat and enjoy festivities throughout the day. End the day at the Round House Bar for the annual drag show, which caps off the celebration with dazzling performances. 

51st Founders Day: June 14
Happy birthday Put-In-Bay! Celebrate this island community’s founding by Jose DeRivera with food, craft vendors and activities in DeRivera Park. Rivera was a Spanish merchant who purchased both South Bass and Middle Bass islands in 1854 for a price of $44,000. On Founder's Day, visitors not only have the chance to take home island treasures from local makers but can also learn more about how Put-In-Bay became the beloved summer destination it is today. 

Ohio’s Island Wine Festival: June 21
Unwind during this annual festival that gathers regional wineries for a day of tasting at Heineman’s Winery. The lineup of wineries participating has yet to be announced for 2025, but attendees can expect a varied lineup of wines as well as a silent auction, live music and food. Tickets will be available soon, with the first 800 attendees receiving a six-bottle wine tote along with a commemorative wine glass. 

Pyrate Fest XVII: June 27-29
Hoist the sails and chart a course for Put-In-Bay for the 17th annual Pyrate Fest. This swashbuckling weekend of fun commences on Friday with a flag raising in DeRivera Park and the Pyrate Pub Crawl for attendees 21 and over. Saturday brings a marketplace in the park and reenactments with “pirates” as well as activities for kids like foam sword fights and a treasure hunt. More family activities await on Sunday, as does a parade of antique cars.

Boom at the Bay: A Dazzling July 4th Celebration: July 4
Celebrate Independence Day on the island with a day of events that culminates in a dazzling fireworks show over Lake Erie. During the day, enjoy a festive parade with floats and live music, as well as the restaurant and shopping opportunities across the island. Once the sun goes down, grab a spot downtown to see fireworks erupt over the water against the backdrop of the iconic Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

PIB Jeep Invasion: July 18-19
Calling all Jeep owners and enthusiasts, the 10th annual celebration of this iconic, Ohio-born car has been a tradition since 2015. Those who come to town early can enjoy a pre-party at Frosty’s on Thursday, July 17, and campers can swap Jeep knowledge and stories July 18 during the Campground Crawl. The main event is on Saturday, July 19, and features a Jeep Show at Heineman’s Winery along with awards and a Jeep parade.

Bash on the Bay: Aug. 13-14
Head to Put-in-Bay for two days of music as this beloved concert event returns to the island for its eight year. The shows kick off on Aug. 13 at the Put-In-Bay Airport with a headlining performance from Luke Bryan. The “Rain is a Good Thing” singer is joined on night one by Ashley McBryde, Kin Faux and Alex Miller. The fun keeps rolling on night two with country star Sam Hunt headlining the show, and additional performances by Russell Dickerson, Bret Michaels, Austin Williams and Preston Cooper. 

For more information about Put-In-Bay events this summer, go to visitputinbay.com.

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