2019 is a year full of promise and excitement. According to the Chinese Zodiac, it’s the Year of the Pig - a year of fortune, personality, and fun. One look at Cleveland's 2019 calendar of events, this is definitely true! This year is going to be a great one, with all sorts of fun festivals will keep you busy throughout Greater Cleveland. Here are a few we’re looking forward to:
Is winter lingering around too long? No worries, because the Slovenian Kurent is here to chase winter away and to make way for spring. These furry critters parade around The Land and bring with them celebrations in the form of dinners, museum exhibits, music, ice carving, and so much more.
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2. The Geauga County Maple Festival (April 25-28, 2019)
Things can still be a bit cool in late April, but the comforts of this charming festival will keep you warm inside. This event was conceived to bring awareness to local maple syrup production, and locals are obsessed. With a parade, endless maple goodies, fair food, and even rides, this springtime celebration shouldn't be missed.
3. Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Fest (May 23-27, 2019)
Here on Lake Erie's shore, the walleye is a particularly coveted species. It's served in local restaurants alongside fine steaks and imported seafood, and it's highly sought after by local fisherman. At this event, the fish is the star of the show! Featuring a fishing derby, parade, carnival rides, and vendors from all around the country, this event truly makes for an unforgettable night on Lake Erie's shore.
4. Crafted Local Food, Beer & Music Festival (June 1, 2019)
Farm-to-table dining meets the magic of beer and music at this awesome event. Featuring more than 40 craft beers and all sorts of food, this event is sure to be a hit. Plus, some of the proceeds will benefit the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, so it's well worth the visit!
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5. Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival (June 22, 2019)
The Lorain County Fairgrounds is like a scene straight out of a movie each June. Since 1977, Northeast Ohioans have shown their true colors as they flaunt their ancestry and skills in trials of ancient athletics. Whether you are Scottish or not, you're sure to love the music, food, and fun that this event presents.
6. The Great Lakes Medieval Faire (July 13 - August 18, 2019)
On Saturdays and Sundays, rain or shine, 3033 State Route 534 in Rock Creek becomes a medieval wonderland. Fairies, mermaids, and other fabled creatures mix alongside royalty, merchants, and peasants in one epic event. With shopping, entertainment, demonstrations (many of which include fire), and food, this event is truly fit for a king.
7. Cleveland Garlic Festival (August 25 & 26, 2019)
From noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Shaker Square will be a hub of festivity. This unusual event is an annual tradition, and locals love it. Fun garlic-filled foods, garlic-themed art, and a variety of games and activities make it a hit with the whole family. Be sure to pair a craft beer with a bit of Mitchell’s Garlic Ice Cream for the ultimate garlic experience!
8. North Ridgeville Corn Festival (August 9-11, 2019)
After four decades, this charming event has grown incredibly. With a corn eating contest, a classic car show, food, fun, and entertainment, this event is anything but corny. Locals love the camaraderie it encourages, and their super-cute mascots are perfect for a photo op.
Though the official dates have yet to be announced, this awesome event has been an annual tradition since 1973. It originally started in 1938, but the start of World War II put the festival on hold for several decades. This event has brought in potato lovers from all over the region, and the ginormous 200+pound pierogis in 2017 and 2018 had locals abuzz with excitement. Get ready for food and fun, because you'll certainly want to take part in this cherished annual tradition.
Our entire region is wonderful and weird, and these events capture the best parts of local culture. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, as there are countless festivities that have yet to be announced or have not indicated a specific date. Which are you looking forward to attending? Are there others you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Ohio Bigfoot Festival reminds us of a time when our families gathered around the television to watch as Fox Mulder and Dana Scully searched for the truth that hides in every mystery. The X-Files characters both learned that fact can be stranger than fiction, and audiences were inspired by their quests through the unknown. Real-life investigators are often attracted to mysteries, and one of the most enduring is that of Bigfoot. If you are captivated by the unknown, you'll be pleased to know that one of the most exciting Bigfoot conferences takes place right here in Logan, Ohio — and it's close enough to home (about three hours) for a weekend trip. Let's check out one of the most interesting festivals near Cleveland to take place Aug. 2 and 3, 2024!
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Prepare for an event where camaraderie and curiosity intersect.
This venue allows folks to explore the area and look for clues. Is there truly a better way to kick off summer? You'll adore hiking through Old Man's Cave, and it's close enough to home for a weekend trip.
The festival has been an Ohio tradition since 2012, and it's one of the premier Bigfoot conferences in the world.
This unique event draws thousands each year. The conference features top-rated speakers from every corner of the nation, and their presentations are surrounded by free and engaging events.
Bigfoot may not be hiding in plain sight, but to believers, the evidence is plain to see.
You'll get to know some of that evidence during these presentations, and you'll also have plenty of opportunities to hunt through the local environment for evidence yourself.
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Some even maintain that there is, indeed, a fossil record for these creatures.
Gigantopithecus is a giant ape that once thrived, perhaps even alongside mankind. The species went extinct as recently as 100,000 years ago, and members of this species could reach nearly ten feet in height. Many look to its fossils as proof that a creature like Bigfoot could exist, and some even assert that the modern Bigfoot is a member of this creature's family tree.
During the conference, some very famous special guests will introduce you to topics surrounding Bigfoot and the hunt for evidence of its existence.
Some include Lori Wade, Steve Kulls, and Cliff Barackman (pictured). Following their presentations, you may even meet them in the vendor area.
If you're planning a weekend trip to Hocking Hills Lodge & Conference Center for one of the most intriguing Cleveland-area festivals, you'll adore a stay in the state park and cozy nights around Bigfoot-themed bonfires.
Telling tales of Bigfoot around the fire? Count me in! If you would like to participate in an event like this, you'll want to contact the Ohio Bigfoot Conference to book your room or cabin.
Complete with hikes at Old Man's Cave, speaker meet-and-greets, dinners, and more, it's no wonder this event has become one of the best Bigfoot conferences in the nation.
The enduring mystery of Bigfoot is tantalizing, and believers won't be able to resist one of the most incredible festivals near Cleveland. Have you ever found a Bigfoot track? Share your experience in the comments below!
While you're there, uncover more hidden gems in Hocking Hills. And if you're not interested in booking a room at the conference center, stay awhile at a cozy cabin. Who knows, you might see Bigfoot lurking around in the woods.
