Roller Disco Bash (8/28)

Friday, August 28th, 2009

clevelandrolls.org



7-10pm : Leff Electric building, 1163 East 40th St., Cleveland, 44114 : Free!

Burn River Burn (8/15)

Saturday, August 15th, 2009

Every August, people from all over the Great Lakes region raise a pint at the Burning River Fest to salute the "watershed moment" that raised a new level of eco-consciousness - the 1969 burning of the Cuyahoga River. In recognition of the River's 40th "rebirth-day", 2009's party will feature live music, food from local and organic farms and eateries and, naturally, Great Lakes Brewing Company craft beer.



Proceeds benefit the Burning River Foundation, a local non-profit organization that provides resources for the sustainable future of our waterways. 4-11 PM at the historic Coast Guard Station on Whiskey Island. Help celebrate the "Year of the River" and spark a new level of environmental awareness.

For the music lineup, and celebration details visit www.burningriverfest.org

$15 Online Presale, $20 At the Gate (food, craft beer, non-alcoholic beverages & merchandise will be available at an additional cost inside Burning River Fest.) FREE parking will be available (while spots last) on Whiskey Island. Carpooling is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED (4 or more people per vehicle.) The Ohio City Bike Co-Op will provide Valet Bike Parking for bicyclists.

The "FEAST" (8/13-16)

Thursday, August 13th through Sunday, August 16th, 2009

Cleveland's Feast of the Assumption, is held each year in mid-August in the city's Little Italy neighborhood, it's a four-day street fair that celebrates the Catholic Day of Assumption (August 15), when the Virgin Mary died and assumed her place beside Jesus. Although the hill is a complete "MOB" scene, the Feast is a fun-filled Italian street party with rides, food (Gnocchi & Cannolis), live music and the traditional parade.



The four-day Feast of the Assumption is a wonderful mix of religion and secular fun. The entire length of Mayfield Road, between Euclid Ave and Cleveland Heights is closed off to traffic. In their place are carnival rides, delicious Italian-themed food vendors, arts & crafts booths, and live music stages, playing everything from rock to "It's Amore." In addition, there are fireworks at night and a parade on August 15. The event draws over 100,000 visitors each year. Admission is free.

Thursday Aug 13, 6-11pm
Friday Aug 14, 6-Midnight
Saturday Aug 15, 10-Midnight
Sunday Aug 16, Noon-9:30pm

Movie Madness (8/06-23)

August 6th, 2009

Looking for a cool summer afternoon escape? Head to the Palace Theatre for the annual Cinema at the Square movie celebration.

This summer the Palace Theatre’s famous screen (a 20 foot-high by 47 foot-wide super Hurly-Glo projection screen) will feature 15 film favorites as The Twelveth Annual Cinema at the Square Series returns to the Palace Theatre at PlayhouseSquare August 6-23.



On my list of MUST see's...
8/06 : Young Frankenstein (FREE!!!)
8/13 : West Side Story (SING ALONG PRESENTATION)
8/14 : Breakfast at Tiffany's (because I LOVE Miss Hepburn & her updo')
8/23 : Muppets Take Manhattan (because they are silly)

Moviegoers will be treated to pre-show organ recitals on a restored 1928 Kimball organ that contains 13 sets of pipes, a xylophone, Glockenspiel, a complete set of drums and many cymbals. The organ, donated to PlayhouseSquare in 1975, was painstakingly restored by volunteers and is the perfect complement to your evening at Cinema at the Square!

For the full film listing visit Cinema At The Square

Motown Fun (7/31-8/02)

Friday, July 31st -August 2nd, 2009

Top 10 Motown Songs to be celebrated.....
1. I Heard It Through The Grapevine by Marvin Gaye
2. My Girl by the Temptations
3. Reach Out I'll Be There by the Four Tops
4. Where Did Our Love Go? by the Supremes
5. What's Goin' On? by Marvin Gaye
6. Dancing in the Street by Martha & The Vandellas
7. I Want You Back by the Jackson 5
8. Superstition by Stevie Wonder
9. Please Mr. Postman by the Marvelettes
10. My Guy by Mary Wells

Make time to "dance to the music" this weekend as the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame celebrates Motowns 50th Anniversary Weekend Celebration. Free performances, screenings of rare Inductee footage and more will focus on Motown artists including the Jackson 5. The weekend will surround the Museum’s exhibit MOTOWN: The Sound of Young America Turns 50.




The 50th Anniversary of Motown’s weekend of events will include...

Friday, July 31
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 2-3pm : Special in-depth presentation by curatorial director Howard Kramer examining the historical significance and influence of artifacts in the Motown Exhibit.

Saturday, August 1
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 1-3pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment, DJ Dance Party with Interactive Motown choreography demonstrations and the Hollywood Dazzlers Dance/Skate Spectacular with Maurice Cook
- Noon -1 pm : Special in-depth presentation by curatorial director Howard Kramer examining the historical significance and influence of artifacts in the Motown Exhibit.

Sunday, August 2
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 1-2pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment
- 2-3pm : Special performance by Cleveland R&B group, Retrospect, in tribute to Motown.
- 3-4 pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment

**Throughout the weekend, visitors can register to win tickets to Cleveland Indians games, a Sirius/XM radio and three-month subscription, Motown box sets courtesy of FYE and memberships to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

For more information on the weekend event visit www.rockhall.com

Lakewood Art & Music (8/01)

Saturday, August 1st, 2009

For over thirty years, the Lakewood Arts Festival has brought local and national artists to the streets of Lakewood, Ohio the first weekend in August.



On average, over one hundred and sixty artists are selected to exhibit. Awards, funded through the help of local business, are presented to artists in categories of Best of Show, First, Second, Third and Fourth Place, Best Creative Presentation and Best New Artist.

Every year a line-up of fine musical entertainment is scheduled throughout the day. This year there is something very special for everyone, young to old!

10-11am : Chip Richter : music for the younger artists, fun family tunes. (Ladybug Lounge!)
11-12pm : Neil Jacobs : a 12-string nationally acclaimed acoustic guitarist
12-1pm : Rachel Roberts : singer songwriter female soloist
1-2pm : Lounge Kitty : kitschy sassy lounge singer extrodinare (meow!)
2-3pm : Return of Simple : classic indie original music
3-4pm : Kelly Wright : soulful songstress (Lakewood High Graduate, GO RANGERS)
4-5pm : jj magazine : poprock indie fun, great to dance too.

For more information on this years festival visit the new website www.lakewoodartsfest.org.

Want some Irish? (7/24-26)

Friday, July 24th through Sunday July 26th, 2009

If you are craving some corn beef & cabbage, or perhaps a bit of "river-dance" plan to attend this weekends Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival at the Berea Fairgrounds

I think the highlight of the festival should be the irish girl band, The Screaming Orphans. The lassies are four funny, high-spirited, musically-obsessed sisters with the good fortune to have been raised in the magic of Bundoran in County Donegal Ireland. Don't miss em. (Friday & Saturday on the "thunder" stage @ 5:30pm)



For the other musical acts, dance troupes, food vendors, ticket prices and more visit www.clevelandirish.org

Made in the Where? (6/26-27)

Friday, June 26th & Saturday June 27th, 20009

In case you haven't already planned your outfit and planned to be there...

The MADE IN THE 216 event is THIS WEEK! Created by ROOM SERVICE (RS) owner and my friend, Danielle DeBoe to highlight just how many talented designers are choosing to STAY and build their businesses in CLEVELAND; And to underscore their high level of talent by merchandising the Cleveland-made designs seamlessly amongst the items RS purchases from NYC, LONDON, LA, SAN FRANCISCO and PARIS-based designers. There are no ‘booths’ or traditional craft/trade show set ups that differentiate the designers’ wares. They are integrated in the same creative, narrative-driven way that RS merchandises their products year round.




Miss Danielle curates this event so all of the participants, while representing a wide weft of types and styles of merchandise still fall under the umbrella of design that represents the aesthetic that RS carries year-round. The other thing that makes this show different is the diversity of the products being offered at the show. The show features a wide weft of creations from men and women’s apparel, jewelry, t-shirts, totes and personal accessories; to stationary, photography, screen-prints, household goods, FURNITURE and music. These Cleveland-based creators represent all levels of entrepreneurship, from the craft circuit, to etsy shops, to international sales….all people who have chosen to stay and build their business in the 216 as opposed to leaving for bigger cities…And RS thinks this is worth celebrating.

Personally I am so excited to see the work of my friends B. Jasinski (look for...freakin adorable octopus prints) and Stash Style (creative vintage jewelry) they have been so busy I know their work will be HUGE sellers. And...as always, small screen designs has "whipped" up some amazing work including pink, kitchen-aid mixer notecards, a "must have" for any seasoned baker.

Along with art and shopping there will be 10 bands including many from the CLEVELAND-BASED record label Exit Stencil Recordings playing at various locations, including the neighborhood’s live music venue, HAPPY DOG and under the marquee for the soon to open, CAPITOL THEATER. While you’re here stop by our EAT IN THE 216 location which will feature savory and sweet food items from independent local caterers and bakers. This summer event will get people out and walking around the neighborhood.

MADE IN THE 216 will be held THIS Friday JUNE 26 from 4-9pm & Saturday JUNE 27 from 11-9 with bands playing at HAPPY DOG both evenings starting at 9pm.

Burton Antique Fair (6/06)

For more show details visit www.geaugaantiquesmarket.com

It's Blossom Time (5/21-25)

Thursday May 21st - Monday, May 25th, 2009

Looks like this weekend is going to be SPECTACULAR! I am so excited because I am going to experience Blossom Festival in Chagrin Falls for the very first time! Hot air balloon races, pie eating contests, music, carnival rides and a race (Sunday @ 9am), my kinda weekend!

Join the residents of the Chagrin Falls as they welcome the arrival of warmer weather to the Falls. With flowers and trees in full bloom, the Chagrin Falls area is transformed from a winter wonderland into a warm, peaceful, enchanting place to spend your lazy summer evenings. After shopping, eating, rides, and games at the festival, don't forget to spend some quality time enjoying the natural beauty of the area homes, gardens, parks, and the Chagrin River.

I think the best part of the weekend (besides the cotton candy) will be all the hot air balloons scattered over the village sky. There is something about a hot air balloon that hypnotizes me. Perhaps it’s the purring sound of the rush of flames being thrown into the sky, or the quiet calmness that hovers over the crowd as they watch in astonishment. Anyone want to get up early and meet me out there to watch the balloons take off Sunday morning, 6:00am, I will bring the coffee?



For those of you who think they are as cool as I do, check out these few fun facts....
• the most popular balloon is as tall as a 7-story building
• the average balloon costs $20,000 to $40,000
• ideal times to fly are just after sunrise and just before sunset
• a hot air balloon can land in water
• balloons can stay up for 1-2 hours depending on conditions and occupants
• inflating a balloon takes about 15 minutes
• invented back in 1783 in Paris, France (GO PARIS!)

For the full schedule and race application

Stuff your face (4/11)

Saturday, April 11th, 2009

Always dreamt of becoming the next Kobayashi, (National Hot Dog Eating Champion?) ...you have to start somewhere.

To celebrate the kick off of Tribe baseball season, Zog Dogs (www.zogdogs.webs.com) in Rocky River is hosting it’s first annual hot dog eating contest. Get there early pre-reistratiopn is required.

Free peanuts and popcorn for all attendees, wear your Tribe attire and they will kick in a free drink to wash your dog down. Not into the whole processed meat thing? No worries, they also offer grilled cheese sandwiches, yummm.



Festivities begin at 11am | Zog Dogs is located at 21800 Center Ridge Rd.

It Started...Day 5

It's Day 5 of the 34th Cleveland International Film Festival. Yesterday (Day 4) I was lucky enough to see two very different films.

On the sunny Sunday morning I hopped onto the Rapid and made my way to Tower City for the morning movies. There was a great sense of anticipation as to what this years festival would hold for me. The smell of popcorn, the program all dog-eared, the friends gathering together in the lobby, I knew I was in for a treat.

One of my favorite things is to see is the festival trailer that the designers at Twist Creative and the filmmakers at Authentic Films have created together. This years did not disappoint; great job guys! It's fun to watch and pick out people you may know, take a look below.



Enjoy week two of the festival , with many more films on my agenda, I know I will! For the complete schedule visit www.clevelandfilm.org

Sweet films (3/19-29)

Thursday, March 19th, 2009

Grab your popcorn, twizzlers and large fountain coke and head to the 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival which kicks off tomorrow night!



Did you get your book? Planned your attack? Purchased your tickets? I have and am ready to enjoy an evening or two at this years Festival. Take the RTA, embrace Tower City Cinemas, grab a friend and expericen the film world from across the globe. You won't be sorry with this years lineup of flicks, there is something for everyone. Short animations to documentaries, romance to thrillers, old school to way far out, get your tickets TODAY!

For tickets or information about the festival in general visit www.clevelandfilm.org

I loved last years 32nd CFF film trailer. Wonder what this years will be?

Shop till you drop (12/13-14)

Saturday December 13th, 2008

This weekend we celebrate the artists who stay up late, who cram their thoughts into a worn sketchbook, who day dream to invent the next “it” item in the DIY crafting-world. Don’t miss the Bazaar Bizarre, Cleveland's fabulous original indie craft show this Saturday and Sunday December at 78th Street Studios (1300 W. 78th St)



Vendors are ready to rock and roll. A few of my personal favorites are oddball press www.oddballpress.com (letterpress creations to fill my card stash), [base] line (unique jewelry, I LOVE my tic tac earrings!) and small screen designs www.smallscreendesigns.com (whimsy illustrations with a touch of sass!)

New to the show this year...a gift-wrapping. Buy handmade! For more information visit www.bazaarbizarre.org/cleveland.html

More at the Monument (12/6)

Come Celebrate a Victorian Christmas with the Cuyahoga County Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument.

The historic Monument commemorates the Civil War, it consists of a 125 foot shaft on top of a memorial building base. A tall column topped with a statue of the "Goddess of Liberty" signifies loyalty to the nation. Four bronze groupings at base depict Navy, Cavalry, Infantry and Artillery. In the base are tablets listing 9,000 Civil War veterans. Also, four bronze relief sculptures depicting the Soldiers' Aid Society, Emancipation of the Slaves, Beginning of the War in Ohio and the End of the War, as well as busts of James Barnett, Levi Scofield and officers killed in action.

Currently undergoing massive renovations, the monument will continue to celebrate the holidays.

This Saturday from 9-4 pm a Christmas Tree and decorations will brighten the Monument for some old fashioned hospitality and a little about Victorian Christmas and Santa Claus.



For directions and more additional monument trivia visit www.soldiersandsailors.com

MORE Holiday fun

Let the cheer continue! Another week and another slew of holiday dinners, specials, events and happenings upon us. Hope you are able to take advantage of some holiday fun & cheer!

Last Chance to Ditch the Relatives Night! (11/29) Enough is Enough! No More Turkey leftovers! Visit the Garage Bar for an evening of fun...they WON’T be serving Turkey ANYTHING! :) Music by DJ Blackbird. www.thegaragebar.net

Home Alone (12/06) directed by Chris Columbus will be showing at the Lakewood Library, 3pm. Free as part of the holiday festivities...Light Up Lakewood! Main Library Auditorium. Rated PG.

Sugarcoat tunes. (12/07) Spend an afternoon with Jazz vocalist Kelly Wright and keyboardist Chris Hanna as they present an hour of Jazz standards. Lakewood Main Library Auditorium. 2pm

North Coast Greyhound Connection (12/20) Stop into Smith & Hawken at Crocker Park this afternoon to meet some retired racing greyhounds looking for their new forever homes. Volunteers will be on hand to give you all the information on owning and caring for the sweet-natured dogs. 12-4pm.

Thanksgiving fun!

Not cooking? Need something to do while you wait for the bird to cook? Better than talking to your in-laws! How about something to keep you busy during the commercials while watching the parade? Well, grab your big box of Crayolas and let the fun begin!

Enjoy a little color by numbers, Turkey style!



light gray = 1, dark gray = 2, black = 3, light brown = 4, dark brown = 5, blue-gray = 6, red = 7, green = 8, black and gray = 9, light blue = 10, pink = 11, yellow = 12

Tremont faves (11/14)

Friday, November 14th 2008

Don't miss the monthly Tremont Art Walk this evening. Visit Asterisk Gallery for the latest and greatest show-All Things Cleveland. The exhibition will be a nostalgic trip down Cleveland memory lane. Swing by the new cupcake boutique; A Cookie & A Cupcake and don't miss the sweet treats and new exhibit (works by Sarah Doughtery) at Lilly's Chocolates of Tremont.

For additional information on these local finds visit www.asteriskgallery.com, www.acookieandacupcake.com and www.lillytremont.com

Lululemon Opening (11/01)

Please join Lululemon as we welcome them to Cleveland!

Stop by their new space at The Hampton's Luxury Apartments (220-Rec, 27040 Cedar Rd., Beachwood OH 44122) this Saturday morning for a complimentary yoga class, taught by lululemon ambassador and yoga/fitness guru Deanna Black at 10-11am. The showroom will be open from 11-4pm with live music, healthy treats, and lots of mingling with Clevelanders in the yoga and fitness community.

Hope you can stop in and give this east coat company a warm midwest welcome!

For more information visit www.lululemon.com

Dia de Los muertos (11/1)

Saturday November 1st, 2008

Celebrate Cleveland's fourth annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration, coordinated by Artistas Latinos Unidos (United Latino Artists) and spearheaded by artist Hector Castellanos.

The first day of the celebration includes a procession that's symbolic of spirits traveling home for the celebration. At 2:15 p.m., it heads west on Detroit Avenue to La Sagrada Familia Church, where parishioner Leticia Raigoza will have prepared an outdoor altar. The focus of the celebration is the altar dedicated to the deceased. There will be nine in the La Sa´grada Familia Church and parish hall designed by a flock of Cleveland artists, including Nina Hurin and Merlida Mercado.



Since no celebration is complete without food, Raoul and Roberto Rodriguez will be selling pan de muerto, decorated with little bones or skeletons made from dough, come hungry!

Festivities begin at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (West 70th St. & Detroit Ave.)

Some of the celebration highlights are as follows
2:15 pm.: Procession departs for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
3:30 pm : Joya de Mexico mariachi band.
5:15 pm : Day of the Dead history talk by Hector Castellanos.
6:45 pm : Mexclatina music group.

If it's a nice day, ride your bike along the procession route. Bring the entire family and swing by at Mi Pueblo Taqueria (12207 Lorain Ave) for dinner after. Yumm!

Haunted

I am the type of person to cover my eyes at scary movies. I jump at loud noises. I feel faint at the sight of blood. Let's just say I am probablly not the best candidate for the seasonal haunted house outing.

However, I love the idea of gathering a bunch of friends and creeping around in the dark to the sight of a black light and spider webs. It's the "jumping out," the "Freddy Kreuger-like characters" and the possible threat of nightmares for months that steer me away from participating in the Halloween holiday fun.

For those of you who are able to see past the gore and guts, take a night this week to check out the area haunted houses...

> www.7floorsofhell.com
> www.bloodview.com
> www.carnivalofhorrors2K.com
> www.forestofterror.com
> www.hshlab.com
> www.pandorasboxinmentor.com

Boo at the Zoo!

Friday, October 24th, 2008

Each year I am tempted to grab my friends little munchkins and drag them off to Boo at the Zoo..even been? The weekend affair is a neighborhood of safe Halloween entertainment, with a spooky delight on every corner including animals on exhibit each evening and the "Creepy Crawly Critter Animal Show-Haunting on the High Seas."

Other happy haunts include: the Not-So-Haunted Greenhouse, the Jack-O-Lantern Express Train Ride, the Halloween Hay Maze, puppet shows, magic shows, jugglers, stiltwalkers and much more. Each child receives a complimentary treat bag. Kids and adults are encouraged to wear fun (not scary) costumes.

Open all weekend from 5:30- 8:30 pm. For details, directions and more visit www.clemetzoo.com

Pumpkin Fest!

Haven't got your pumpkin yet, pumpkin? This weekend make your way out to Red Wagon Farm in Columbia Station for some fall fun. Choose your Jack-o'-lantern-to-be and buy some freshly picked apples at the annual Pumpkin Festival.

Kids can tackle "Straw Mountain" and meet with the scarecrows while Mom & Dad can roam through the corn maze and enjoy a roll in the hay..I mean a hayride! :)

Happy Fall Weekend Cleveland!

For directions and more information visit www.redwagonfarm.com

Tremont Arts (9/20-21)

Saturday, September 20th-21st, 2008

This weekend marks the 10th Annual Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival in Lincoln Park. The festival is such a great end of summer event. Stop by on Saturday from 11-6 or Sunday from 12-5. There are over 120 participants this year, including, artists, community groups, fabulous food and entertainment. Sponsored by Target...you know it MUST be great. If it is a cool fall weekend afternoon, this would be a great festival to grab you bike and ride around at! :)

Chalk Festival (9/20-21)

Saturday & Sunday, September 20th & 21st, 2008

In 16th-century Italy, beggars, using chalk on the plazas outside cathedrals, copied paintings of the Madonna by Raphael and his contemporaries. With these street painters, called I Madonnari (painters of the Madonna), an artistic tradition was born. Today I Madonnari festivals are held annually in Europe, Africa, and the United States. Our festival brings this Renaissance tradition to Cleveland. Enjoy chalk artists and entertainment at no charge at the Cleveland Museum of Art.



Featured Chalk Artists are Story Lee Cadiz, Mark Jenks, George Kozmon, Wendy Mahon, Debra Sue Solecki, Rafael Valdivieso, Robin VanLear

You too can chalk your own pictures large square and 24-color box of chalk: $16 each, small square and 12-color box of chalk: $8 each Children under 15 must be accompanied by supervising adults.

For more information visit www.clemusart.com

Blast off! (8/30-9/01)

As the "official" summer season draw to a close, the Labor Day Weekend would not be complete without catching a glimpse of jets, planes and more jets! The swoosh and whirl of the engines, is enough to tingle the spine of all; from wee ones to us adults.

This weekend, Cleveland will host the U.S. Navy Blue Angels as headliners of the 2008 Cleveland National Air Show at Burke Lakefront Airport. Each show day, the six "Blues" demonstration pilots will thrill air show fans with a one hour choreographed presentation that includes the graceful aerobatics of the four plane Diamond Formation, exciting high energy maneuvers by the two solo pilots and a JATO demonstration by the Blue Angles C-130 Hercules support aircraft affectionately known as "Fat Albert".



Last year a friend of ours took us out on his boat and it was insane! I swear you could reach out and touch the planes themselves. Get there early for the perfect bleacher seats...or if you'd like, ride your bike to a high hill overlooking downtown, relax and avoid the crowds all together. Whichever way you choose to see the show, I hope it sends tingles down your spine...

For showtimes, schedules, ticket prices and more visit www.clevelandairshow.com

Fair time. (8/05-10)

Can you believe it’s August? I can’t. I still have lots of things I need to “get in” to call it an official summer. A game of put put golf at Memphis Kiddie Park. A few more trips out on the Kayaks. Ice cream at Honey Hut and perhaps even an evening of firefly collecting (just kidding...sorta). But most of all summer in Cleveland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the fair!

The Cuyahoga County Fair runs now until Sunday at the Berea Fairgrounds. Pack your Purell and go to oogle the baby pigs and cows, the best tasting blueberry pies, the gorgeous gladiolas grown-locally and more. General admission is $5.95 (children 3-12 yrs old $4.95) or after 9:30 pm, $3.00. If you want to take a spin on the Ferris wheel or bumper cars (my favorite) ride tickets are $.50 each (2 tickets per ride) or purchase an all-day ride band for just $12.



What could be more summer than a evening at the fair? Cotton Candy (love the sweet smell and baby pink hue) and corn on the cob. Live music and motor sports. Activities for you (flea market) the kids (bubble gum blowing contest) and your strange “uncle Eric” (the great bear show). Add it to this weekend’s list.

For fair schedule, directions and more information visit www.cuyfair.com

Block Party (8/01)

Friday, August 1st, 2008

University Circle and the Cleveland Music Settlement have teamed up to get all of the institutions, organizations and residents to open their doors and give the neighbors on our street, and their friends and family, a chance to learn a bit more about each other and the fantastic homes and buildings they occupy.

The Cleveland Music Settlement will provide music on their lawn throughout the day. Participants can get their "passports" punched at each venue for a raffle drawing. Winners will be drawn at 5:45 pm in front of The Settlement.

Here's your chance to visit grand Magnolia Drive homes and buildings and learn more about each business on our lovely and unique street! 3-6pm. For more information, visit www.universitycircle.org

Lakewood Art Festival (8/02)

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008

The 31st Annual Lakewood Arts Festival will be held this weekend from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m on Detroit Avenue from Elmwood to Belle Avenues.

For over thirty years, the Lakewood Art Festival has brought local and national artists to the streets of Lakewood, Ohio the first weekend in August. The Lakewood Downtown Arts Festival, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that administers the show with the help of a team of hard-working volunteers and the cooperation of the city of Lakewood, Ohio. The festival supports itself with money raised by entry fees, donations from community merchants, sponsorship funds and t-shirt sales.

Every year a line-up of fine musical entertainment is scheduled throughout the day. This year Rachel Roberts from Akron will perform live at 12:30, she is a must-see! Be there.



Besides supporting the festival itself, money earned or donated goes towards a scholarship for a local high school graduate, a Lakewood resident, pursuing a degree in fine arts, and toward grants awarded local organizations presenting art programs for children and seniors in Lakewood.

For the map, listing of artists visit www.lakewoodartsfest.org

Magical, a perfect description. (7/25-27)

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, June 25th through the 27th, 2008

The Ingenuity Festival returns with a weekend-long celebration of art and technology, designed for audiences of any age and experience, staged in the center of Downtown Cleveland. Prominent international masters present original works alongside the finest of Northeast Ohio's performing and visual artists. High technology firms and major colleges and universities are presented alongside acclaimed artists to create a dazzling display of exciting and immersive new work! Ingenuity pushes boundaries, creating a unique festival experience that draws and celebrates diversity, and involves the audience as both spectator and participant!



There are so many interesting looking shows, exhibits and installations, but one that I deffinatley want to catch will be a late night performance by the Hot Cha Cha's Friday night at the Plain Dealer Star Plaza Stage.

Oh and if you haven't been to the Opening Ceremony (Friday, July 25 4-5:30 pm) before, it is worth it to skip out of work early for the big show...let's just say...it's Magical. :)

For the schedule and more information visit www.ingenuitycleveland.com

Tremont Tastes Good! (7/20)

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Put down the top of your little blue convertible, grab those dark aviator sunglasses, round up the gang and head down to the 6th Annual Taste of Tremont street festival from 1:00to 8:00pm. The street fair will be held in the heart of Tremont’s “restaurant district” and showcase the best of Tremont’s food, art and entertainment. Professor Street will be blocked off, inclusive of commercial areas of Literary, College and Jefferson. The best part is that admission is free!

For more information including the official map, visit www.restoretremont.com

Hamburger Weekend (7/19-20)

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

Did you know, burgers account for 40% of all sandwiches sold in the US every year? per

Although I don't often post about Akron, I found something totally worth the 25 minute drive that I couldn't resist sharing....if you are a vegetarian...please disregard this post, but for those meat lovers...it's a MUST.



This year’s National Hamburger Festival takes place July 19-20 in downtown Akron. You won’t regret getting your "buns" in gear for a trip this weekend. They have everything a hamburger enthusiast would want and need from pickles, onion and ketchup toppings to events like, bobbing for hamburgers, lots of live music and a Miss Hamburger Pageant!

For schedule of events, times an location visit www.hamburgerfestival.com

Community Lunch (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th 2008

To celebrate summer and a sense of community, join the residents of Rocky River at the annual "River Days, Taste of River Fest." The event will be a fun and enjoyable way for visitors to taste samples from area restaurants. Some of the food vendors that will be participating range from the new Sweet Melissa's to Linden Tavern, from Camille's Sidewalk Cafe to Chick-Fil-A. For dessert don't miss the second annual apple pie baking contest.

Tickets will be on hand to purchase for the various food vendors, a great destination for lunch! The event will take place at the Don Umerley Civic Center (21016 Hilliard Blvd. Rocky River) From noon until 3:00pm. For additional information call the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce call 440.331.1140.

Sip & Stroll (7/10)

Thursday, July 10th, 2008

Sip and Stroll at the Shops of Old River every Thursday night now through September. Visit the unique boutiques, including the Girl Next Door and Paper Trails (www.papertrailstoyou.com) as they stay open later for evening shopping. Sample wines and snacks from some of the area eateries including the new Tartine Bistro (www.tartinebistro.com) and the ever popular Stino da Napoli (www.stinodanapoli.com)

Swing by old river and enjoy a night out with friends!

Luau on the Lake (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

Now in its 3rd year, Luau on the Lake is a Hawaiian themed event to benefit Shoes and Clothes for Kids. Guests enjoy a feast fit for a tiki god – great food, drinks, sand volleyball, live music and fabulous views of Lake Erie – all to support a great cause! The evening event also features many give-aways and fabulous raffle prizes.



Shoes and Clothes for Kids is the only non-profit organization in Greater Cleveland providing new shoes and clothes to thousands of children in need at no charge throughout the year. Support this worthy organization and get your tickets today. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door for $50 each. The event is heald at Wendy Park at Whiskey Island (2800 Whiskey Island | Cleveland OH 44102)

For additional information visit www.luauonthelake.com

Celebrate Sweets! (6/30)

Today is June 30th, and that means it's the last day of National Candy Month.
Celebrate the ending of this sweet month with a fresh bag of twizzlers, some Sprees (if you can find them!), a bag of swedish fish...or if you want to shop local a trip to Malley's Chocolate for some red fruit slices and an espresso truffle...sounds scrumptious...good thing I plan to hit the gym tonight! :)

Larchmere Festival (6/28)

Saturday, June 28th 2008

This Saturday if you can dodge the predicted rain and thunderstorms make your way over to Larchmere Blvd in Shaker Heights for an old-time street festival. This fest comes complete with an antique & flea sale, unique food from area vendors, local music and the famed Euclid Beach Rocket Car PLUS special sales by the Larchmere merchants.

From junk to jewels and kitsch to collectible! A distinguished sale of sundry and varietal goods ranging from the old, ordinary and useful to the sublime, cool and collectible. Don't miss out..perhaps I could get more buttons to add to my collection...or teapots...or white pottery...I bet they will have great stuff!

Larchmere Boulevard will not be closed to traffic, so you'll be able to park on the boulevard itself, as well as various parking lots and sidestreets. In particular, three local parking lots will be available: the lot at LifeSkills on Larchmere and E. 121st St, the lot at Our Lady of Peace Church on Shaker Blvd at E. 126th St., and the parking lot at Fairhill Center at Fairhill and E. 119th St. All are in walking distance to the festivities on Larchmere, and the Euclid Beach Rocket Car can help with transportation between 1:00-4:00pm.

For a detailed Map, directions, and download the official event PDF at www.loganberrybooks.com/LMA-fleamarket.html

Funky Festivals (6/14-15)

Not only is this weekend one devoted to Dad...it is also the weekend for unique festivals...where else can you celebrate Duct Tape & Washboards? Only in Ohio!

Head to the Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival in Avon, Ohio, "Duct Tape Capital of the World," the place where Duck brand duct tape is made, duct tape shows up in parade floats, hats, clothing, sculptures and crafts. You name it, you can make it with duct tape seems to be the festival motto. Along with the duct tape events there are rides, food and music. If something breaks down during this weekend, like a ride seat cushion gets a small tear, there will be plenty of stuff on hand to fix it.

For the music schedule, parade route, etc visit www.avonducktapefestival.com



Here's another Father's Day weekend option. Not to pull you away from the Duct Tape Festival plans you may have made, but the Washboard Festival, would make a fun day trip if you live close enough to Logan, Ohio. This festival celebrates the music traditions that stretch from Appalachia to the Louisiana bayou. Dating back to the mid-1800s, this is the kind of music that is guaranteed to put you in a happy mood.

The musicians are renowned, and if you've ever heard a Zydeco band, you'll know that it's impossible to stay still once the music starts. Dixieland Jazz and Jug Music are part of the two day event. If you haven't been to town-run festival, you're missing out on one of the greatest parts of summer. This one is particularly special because tours of the Columbus Washboard Factory are included. This is the last washboard company in the United States.

Logan is at the threshold of Hocking Hills, one of the most beautiful areas in Ohio. If you can stretch your weekend into another day, take some time to see where your exploration takes you.

For directions to Logan County (?) visit www.washboardfestival.com