Nesting in Cahuyoga County, Cleveland is a stunning city in Ohio, known for its thriving economy and its Rock and Roll heritage. Usually referred to as the Forest City and its people as Clevelanders, Cleveland has a wide array of attractions that enchant tourists from all over the country. Aside from upscale offerings, such as high-end retail stores, boutiques, exquisite restaurants, and state-of-the-art recreational areas, Cleveland also has an abundance of parkland, and it houses a plethora of museums as people who are not into typical businesses that you find everywhere. Several Airbnb vacation rentals, as well as resorts and hotels with a pool, are available for your accommodation needs. Cleveland has vibrant traditions that are reflected in the multitude of festivals that are held in it. If you’re planning to visit the city anytime soon, scroll down to find out more about the top festivals in Cleveland, Ohio.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. Cleveland National Air Show
If you are planning to visit the captivating city of Cleveland in September, on Labor Day Weekend, you might be able to take part in the fun-filled Cleveland National Air Show. Featuring the US Navy Blue Angels, this celebration is to commemorate the contribution of the National Airforce in the defense of the country. There are lots of programs that are prepared for fairgoers. On the ground, trade fairs and shows are ready to entertain every attendee. Also, there will be an airshow from the US Angels. Plus, an aircraft exhibit, air show scavenger hunt, a virtual reality activity, and others are present in the program as well. Also, the kids will surely love the Kiddie Koncourse where they can have fun with various activities and programs, away from the noise and pollution of the air show.
Cleveland National Air Show
Address: Burke Lakefront Airport
Website: Cleveland National Air Show
Takes place: September
2. Feast of the Assumption
Organized by the Holy Rosary Church, Feast of the Assumption is one of the many religious celebrations in Cleveland. Influenced by the Italians, this celebration is conducted in the city’s Little Italy district. Extending for a few days, lots of events and programs await attendees of Feast of the Assumption. From every corner of the area, merchants sell souvenir items and the aroma of freshly baked goodies fills the air. Do not let the party and the entertainment cloud the main goal of the festival, and drop by Holy Rosary Church to say a few prayers of thanks and well wishes. To top it all off, this festival has a carnival in Cleveland that will make your hearts jump with glee, with exciting mini-concerts, and casino events.
Feast of the Assumption
Address: Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland OH, 44106
Website: Feast of the Assumption
Takes place: August
Price: Free entry
3. Cleveland Asian Festival
So, while you are enjoying your stay in one of the hotels with a hot tub during a holiday in Cleveland and then savoring delectable spreads served at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, you might want to explore some of the best festivals and celebrations in the city to add some sparkle to your vacation. Whether you are someone with Asian ancestry or a regular consumer who is fascinated by Asian culture, you are welcome to attend the Cleveland Asian Festival. A fabulous celebration that aims to showcase the traditions, products, and cuisine of Asia, here, you can shop for souvenir items, go on a culinary adventure with various Asian fares, and be entertained by live shows. Gorge on delicious eats, from ramen, takoyaki, and sushi to tandoori, curry, and biryani among others.
Cleveland Asian Festival
Address: 2999 Payne Ave #206, Cleveland, OH 44114, United States
Website: Cleveland Asian Festival
Takes place: May
4. La Placita Cleveland
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We are only 4 Weeks away from La Placita 2022! Here are some highlights from last year’s event! So much fun. Can’t wait...
Posted by La Placita Cleveland on Friday, July 22, 2022
La Placita Cleveland celebrates the vibrant Latino heritage and community in the region. Typically held in designated public spaces or neighborhoods, La Placita offers a diverse array of attractions, including live music performances featuring Latin American rhythms such as salsa, merengue, and bachata. Attendees can indulge in a wide variety of Latin cuisine, from traditional dishes to contemporary interpretations, as well as explore local artisanal crafts and products. The festival often includes dance performances, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages cultural exchange and unity.
La Placita Cleveland serves as a dynamic platform for both the Latino community and Cleveland residents to come together, appreciate the richness of Latin culture, and celebrate diversity.
La Placita Cleveland
Address: 2511 Clark Ave, Cleveland, OH, United States, Ohio
Website: La Placita Cleveland
5. Asian Lantern Festival
The Asian Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing cultural event in Cleveland that illuminates the city with vibrant colors and intricate designs of traditional Asian lanterns. Held annually, this festival showcases the rich heritage of various Asian cultures through a stunning display of illuminated sculptures, lanterns, and art installations. Visitors can expect to be transported to a magical world as they wander through themed lantern displays that often include depictions of animals, mythical creatures, and iconic landmarks from Asian countries.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the festival offers a cultural experience with live performances, including dance, music, and martial arts demonstrations. The Asian Lantern Festival is a unique opportunity for Clevelanders to celebrate and appreciate the diversity and beauty of Asian cultures while enjoying a magical nighttime atmosphere.
Asian Lantern Festival
Address: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109, United States
Website: Asian Lantern Festival
6. Ohio City Street Festival
Experience a festival in the bustling streets of Ohio during the Ohio City Street Festival. A gathering that celebrates the city’s culture and tradition in an urban setting, this fun-filled event features local trade fairs that are ready to present you their specialty crafts and attract you in making a purchase. Other than home decors, clothing, jewelry, glassware, and other items, there is delicious food offered at Ohio City Street Festival. Plus, entertainment is present throughout the event. Also, expect a preschool storytime for the kids, dye workshop, a game day, a music bingo, and a lot more.
Ohio City Street Festival
Address: W. 25th Street, Ohio City
Website: Ohio City Street Festival
Takes place: September
7. Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival
Posted by Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival on Saturday, 5 October 2019
Another fantastic festival that is held in the stunning city of Ohio in September is the Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival. Its been 20 years since this festival started bringing joy, and since has become a recurring event. Here, kids can enjoy learning about history and crafting masterpieces in the lovely Children’s Village. Also, there is a cultural village where various local products and delicious culinary delights are set up for grabs. If its art pieces are what you want to score, browse through the offerings at Artists’ Village where you will be overwhelmed to choose from one stunning piece to another. Cultural shows are also hosted during the festival.
Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival
Address: 1050 Starkweather Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113, United States
Website: Tremont Arts and Cultural Festival
Takes place: September
Price: Free entry
8. Mid America Boat Show
Posted by Greg Yarbrough on Tuesday, 19 January 2016
Witness Mid America Boat Show in Ohio when you swing by in January. This fantastic event revolves around the fishing heritage of the city. There will be magical boating shows and a lot of exhibits during the fair. Aside from watching shows, fairgoers can experience guided scuba diving activities, and even experience being the captain of a boat. Plus, a performance from Twiggy the Squirrel is something that you should not miss. Trade fairs and music fests are also organized during the Mid America Boat Show. To top it all off, giveaways are given to participants of the event for free.
Mid America Boat Show
Address: 1269 Bassett Road, Westlake, OH 44145
Website: Mid America Boat Show
Takes place: January
9. Cleveland Garlic Festival
Surely, there is so much to celebrate in Cleveland. Add the Cleveland Garlic Festival to your list. Happening on the last week of August, the occasion starts with a competition called Top Chefs Grill Offs, where skillful chefs vie for the title of master chef by preparing the best dish with garlic as part of the ingredients. Be entertained by Ms. Garlic pageant and see women not only with beauty but also with brains and poise. Plus, concerts, craft beers, and delicious food will be present at the venue to provide you with an unforgettable party.
Cleveland Garlic Festival
Address: 13111 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120, United States
Website: Cleveland Garlic Festival
Takes place: August
10. Hessler Street Fair [Last event in 2019]
Who else is ready to be dancing to the amazing sounds of Carlos Jones and The JiMiller Band??? 8 days!!!!
Posted by Official Hessler Street Fair on Thursday, 23 May 2019
A fabulous celebration that you should not miss when you visit Cleveland in May is the Hessler Street Fair. Happening the week after Memorial Day, the Hessler Street Fair is a music festival in Cleveland that happens every year on Hessler Road. A trade fair is set up where locals and tourists alike can purchase excellent items, such as home decor, knitted sweatshirts, jewelry, paintings, and a lot more. Plus, live entertainment makes the shopping experience more delightful. You can also attend a high-energy concert that will make you dance and sway to the groove. As you explore the bustling road, grab a sandwich or enjoy a flavorful crepe sold by numerous food stalls at the fair.
Hessler Street Fair
Address: Hessler Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
Website: Hessler Street Fair
Takes place: May
11. Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Also known as the Feast of St. Patrick, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated all around the world, and Cleveland is no exception. This stunning city holds a St. Patrick’s Day Parade every March. The fascinating parade starts off in one of the bustling streets in the city and ends in downtown Cleveland, where the streets are peppered with trade fairs, entertainment, and food. During this event, the roads that are used for the celebration and will be used for the procession are conveniently closed to avoid traffic.
Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Address: Superior Ave. at E. 18th St., Downtown Cleveland
Website: Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Takes place: March
12. Tremont Greek Festival
Posted by Tremont Greek Fest on Monday, 15 May 2017
If there is an Asian Festival in Cleveland, it is only fair that a Greek Festival is also celebrated. The annual Tremont Greek Festival in Ohio is celebrated on West 14th Street. It will celebrate its golden jubilee in 2020. Every year, the celebration gets livelier and more colorful. Be entertained by various performances that feature Greek songs and cultural acts. Also, your partying won’t be complete without sampling authentic Greek food that is available in the celebration. Whether you are a beer kind of guy or a wine kind of girl, there is an alcoholic beverage for you to pair with the delicious food you eat at the Tremont Greek Festival.
Tremont Greek Festival
Address: 2187 W 14th St., Cleveland, Ohio 44113
Website: Tremont Greek Festival
Takes place: May
13. Blossom Time Festival
A celebration inspired by Michigan’s Blossomtime Festival, Cleveland also has a version of the vibrant Blossom Time Festival. Hosted on the memorial day weekend, this fantastic festival features magical hot air balloons and an assembly of very friendly people all set to party their time away. A carnival is set up in South Cleveland Avenue to provide you a wonderful time dedicated to making lasting memories with your loved ones. You can try exciting rides, have fun playing arcade games, and even eat delicious snacks, offered by a large number of vendors. You will witness local talents who are invited to deliver incessant entertainment. So be ready to sing and jive along and have a great time.
Blossom Time Festival
Address: 2330 S. Cleveland Avenue, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Website: Blossom Time Festival
Takes place: May
14. Parma Rib ‘N Rock
Swing by Cleveland in June and take part in the Parma Rib ‘N Rock annual festival. It is a fantastic celebration of Cleveland’s delicious cuisine and rock and roll heritage. A cook-off is one of the highlights of Parma Rib ’ N Rock festival. Also, live entertainment is present. Guests of all ages can try the carnival rides and at the same time sample local fares in West Pleasant Valley Road. Various local businesses gather in the area to present their crafts. This is the perfect opportunity to have a great time as a family or bond with your besties.
Parma Rib ‘N Rock
Address: 11000 W Pleasant Valley Rd, Parma, Ohio 44130
Website: Parma Rib ‘N Rock
Takes place: June
15. Parade the Circle [Last event in 2019]
Colorful, creative, and high-energy are a few words that best describe Parade the Circle. Celebrated in June, Parade the Circle is a recurring summer event that has been a tradition of Clevelanders for 30 years now. Held in the University Circle, fascinating parades with tastefully curated floats, outfits, and props grace the bustling streets of the area. A large number of locals and tourists come to this side of Cleveland to witness a show that is a hardcore entertainer and successfully bring people together. Aside from the entertainment, local crafts, food, and workshops are present at Parade the Circle.
Parade the Circle
Address: 11150 East Blvd., corner of Wade Oval Dr. and East Blvd., at East Bell Commons
Website: Parade the Circle
Takes place: June
Price: 10 USD onward
16. Cain Park Arts Festival
Are you an artist or an admirer of art? Well, whatever box you put yourself into, you are welcome to attend the Cain Park Arts Festival in Cleveland Heights. During the festival, various art pieces are put up for sale, crafted by the most talented local craftsmen and suppliers in and around Cleveland. Expect glassware, tastefully designed ceramics, leather items, woodwork, stunning paintings, home decors, and a lot more. Surely, you will bag home lots of excellent stuff. Also, you can expect a number of food vendors available at the venue to provide palatable culinary delights.
Cain Park Arts Festival
Address: 14591 Superior Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118
Website: Cain Park Arts Festival
Takes place: July
Price: 5 USD onward
17. Hot Dog Fest [Last event in June]
Surely, Cleveland is a haven of culinary delights and a fantastic city that will take you on a delicious culinary adventure. It’s no wonder that the city hosts a delightful Hot Dog Fest that is celebrated every June. Held at Happy Dog in Detroit Road, the place is filled with a plethora of food stalls that sell their delicious hot dog snacks that stick to their secret recipes. Beer is also offered at the party, and let’s not forget about the entertainment. Numerous local bands are invited to play their pieces to amp up the day of festivities. Plus, you will have games, raffles, and shows as well.
Hot Dog Fest
Address: Happy Dog, 5801 Detroit Rd, Cleveland, OH 44102
Takes place: June
18. Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival [Last event in 2019]
Whiskey tasting going on now! Another one to start at 6!
Posted by Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival on Saturday, 20 July 2019
Cleveland has an Asian Festival and a Tremont Greek Festival. It is only natural that the Irish heritage is celebrated as well, and it is! Held in the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, this festival showcases the highlights of Irish traditions. For 37 years, this event has been put together with a grand exhibition of Irish music and traditional dances of Ireland. Not only that, but delicious Irish cuisine is a star of the celebration too. Also, there are mini-concerts that you can watch, and kids can engage in activities that are curated for them.
Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival
Address: Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Website: Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival
Takes place: July
Price: 12 USD onward
19. Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival [Last event in 2019]
Do you know that Cleveland also celebrates a fascinating Duck Tape Festival? If you didn’t, now you do! If you visit the city in June, you might be able to participate in this vibrant and colorful celebration, called Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival. For three consecutive days, the Veterans Memorial Park will be filled with fun game facilities, food stalls, and lots of entertainment. A parade will be set to breeze through the area and provide excellent sights for the sore eyes. People can either participate or watch the grand procession that march through the streets. Also, there will be live performances by local bands. Craft and food vendors will be present to amp up the festivities.
Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival
Address: Veterans Memorial Park, 3701 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Avon, Ohio
Website: Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival
Takes place: June
Price: Free entry
20. Wonderstruck Festival [Previously known as LaureLive]
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Visit Cleveland in June and unleash your inner social butterfly at LaurelLive. Billing itself as the Music with Mission, LaureLive is a high-energy concert event that features fantastic international and local bands to provide Clevelanders and tourists a huge vibrant party that they will never forget. In 2019, it was held in the Butler Campur. News is circulating the social scene that this festival is looking for a bigger venue for its 2020 festival. Also, aside from the concert, expect craft booths and food stalls in LaureLive.
LaureLive
Address: Butler Campus, 7420 Fairmount Road, Russell Township, Ohio 44072
Website: LaureLive
Takes place: July
21. Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg
Located 27 miles (43km) away from Cleveland, Twinsburg is another charming city in Ohio with fantastic festivals and celebrations that are worth checking out. One of them is the Twins Day Festival. This event features a fascinating parade, a golf competition, sports tournaments, an exciting raffle, a talent show, a mini-concert, and a lot more. Plus, food and drinks are overwhelming at the Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg. Also, don’t forget to have your photo taken in the Twinless Twins Lantern Launch, and be mesmerized by the fireworks show at night.
Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg
Address: Twinsburg, Ohio 44087
Website: Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg
Takes place: August
22. Great Lakes Burning River Fest [Last event in 2019]
Held in the Whiskey Island Drive in Cleveland, dance to your feet and sing at the top of your lungs in the fantastic and high-energy Great Lakes Burning River Fest. Every year, this event features superb local and international bands. Also, there are a multitude of food trucks and food stalls that provide a gastronomic experience to fairgoers. Plus, you will surely want to try local craft beers and premium drinks while at the Great Lakes Burning River Fest.
Great Lakes Burning River Fest
Address: 2800 Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, Ohio
Website: Great Lakes Burning River Fest
Takes place: June
23. Cleveland International Film Festival
Fall skies have arrived
Posted by Cleveland International Film Festival on Friday, 4 October 2019
An event that film buffs will surely be interested in, Cleveland hosts an annual Clevland International Film Festival. This fascinating event features film-viewing and competitions and awards. A well-curated program is tabled during the event. Expect film forums, a director’s spotlight, and a list of screened must-watch. Check out their website for next year’s schedule.
Cleveland International Film Festival
Address: 1527 W 6th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44113
Website: Cleveland International Film Festival
Takes place: March to April
24. Great Lakes Medieval Faire
Travel back in time and get a glimpse of the medieval era in Ohio by attending the Great Lakes Medieval Faire at Rock Creek. This fantastic celebration is held in a fascinating theme park with a 13th-century setting. Exciting rides and games are present on the occasion, as well as local artisans, selling their master crafts. Plus, as the event calls it, “food fit for a king” is offered at the event.
Great Lakes Medieval Faire
Address: 3033 OH-534, Rock Creek, OH 44084, United States
Website: Great Lakes Medieval Faire
Takes place: July to August
25. Taste of Lakewood
Drive down to Lakewood in June, and engage in the offerings of Taste of Lakewood. This annual event is a vibrant and unmissable celebration that welcomes locals and tourists to a fantastic and memorable celebration. Held in Madison Park, this bustling area is turned into a haven for palatable delights, very Hansel and Gretel-ish. The event features Lakewoods top food businesses who present their specialty dishes. Also, live entertainment is preset to make your gastronomic adventure a more delightful one. Plus, you can shop local crafts in at its numerous concession stalls.
Taste of Lakewood
Address: Madison Park, Lakewood, Ohio 44107
Website: Taste of Lakewood
Takes place: June
26. Cuyahoga County Fair
Conducted in Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, be mesmerized by a holiday light show that will surely charm you with a fantastic time to be shared with your loved ones. The place is turned to a paradise filled with fairy lights and massive decors. Here, you can shop for superb artisan crafts and gorge on sumptuous culinary specialties. Other than that, you and your kids will surely have a great time trying out exciting rides and playing arcade games at the fair. Plus, be enchanted by the light shows, such as Winter Wonderland, Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, and others.
Cuyahoga County Fair
Address: 19201 E Bagley Rd, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, United States
Website: Cuyahoga County Fair
Takes place: August
27. ICC Carnival [last event in 2019]
Posted by ICC Carnival on Saturday, 9 June 2018
Visiting Parma in June with your family? If you happen to plan a vacation in this side of Ohio in June with your family, especially the kids, make the most of your escapade by taking them to the enchanting ICC Carnival in 130th Street. This carnival has lots of attractions for its attendees. Aside from fun-filled rides and food stalls, guests can experience the fun in the petting zoo while interacting with friendly and lovely animals. Community vendors are also present at the event. Surely, ICC Festival is a delightful destination for the whole family.
ICC Carnival
Address: 6055 W 130th St, Parma, OH 44130-1041, United States
Website: ICC Carnival
Takes place: June
28. Lakewood Summer Meltdown
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
What better way to enjoy summers than to attending high-energy concerts where you can dance to your heart’s content, listen to your favorites songs, dress to your best, and unleash your inner social butterfly? If you are sold with these ideas, and you happen to be in Lakewood for the summer, be sure to attend the Lakewood Summer Meltdown. This fantastic event bills itself as the biggest block party in the whole of Ohio. Lots of local talents will perform in the event, and food and drinks are available for a complete party experience. Also, there will be other programs and activities, including a marathon, a kids’ fun run, street fairs, a lot of games, and more.
Lakewood Summer Meltdown
Address: Downtown Lakewood, 14701 Detroit Ave, Lakewood OH, 44107
Website: Lakewood Summer Meltdown
Takes place: July
Price: Free entry
29. Fabulous Food Show [Event has passed]
Fabulous Food Show will take you through a palatable culinary adventure. Celebrated in November, various eateries and restaurants register for a food stall in the function hall of I-X Center, where they try to impress the fairgoers with their specialty dishes. Here, you will be gorging on delicious fares all day long. Plus, a stage will be set up and culinary professionals will be invited to have a brief talk, where you can learn a cooking tip or two. Not only that, aside from teaching you cooking techniques, they will also teach you how to turn your craft from a hobby into a business.
Fabulous Food Show
Address: 1 I-X Center Dr, Cleveland, OH 44130, United States (transferred to another location)
Website: Fabulous Food Show
Takes place: November
Have a gala time in Cleveland
Cleveland is a gorgeous city in Ohio that boasts a dramatic cityscape and upscale attractions. It is an ideal destination for all types of tourists, whether you are a hardcore shopper for luxurious items, a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a couple on a romantic getaway. Partygoers and social butterflies will surely love participating in the city’s multitude of festivals and events too. If you are planning to visit this side of the Cuyahoga County any time soon, use this list as your guide in planning an exceptional travel itinerary and discovering all the things Cleveland is famous for. May you have a fantastic vacation ahead!
Frequently asked questions about festivals in Cleveland
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data