Every spring, the Lake Erie boating community comes alive. After months of hibernation, boaters, residents, and tourists flock to the area to take part in a slew of much-anticipated Lake Erie events that take place throughout the spring season and the summer beyond it.
If you’re planning a fun-filled excursion on Lake Erie in 2024, Port Lorain Marina can serve as the ideal launch point. Our centrally-located facility is less than 30 minutes away from some of the area's best festivals, concerts, and gatherings!
With that in mind, here are five can’t-miss spring and summer events taking place on Lake Erie to add to your calendar:
The Solar Eclipse: April 8th
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun, blocking the latter’s rays. On April 8th, a total solar eclipse is going to pass across North America, plunging a large swath of the continental U.S. into temporary darkness.
According to NASA’s interactive solar eclipse tracker, Lake Erie should be pretty close to the center of the eclipse, meaning you’ll enjoy a great view of the event while out on the water.
While solar eclipses happen every two or three years, they usually occur in the middle of nowhere (think the Antarctic or South Pacific). North America won’t see another full solar eclipse until 2033. And even then, you’ll have to head to Alaska to view it, so don’t miss out while you have the chance this April!
Rockin on the River: Begins May 24th
From late May through mid-September, local, regional, and national musicians gather together to celebrate iconic songs and albums in a season-long concert series known as Rockin' on the River, which is by far the most popular musical event on Lake Erie.
This year’s Rockin' on the River kicks off on May 24th with an Xtreme AC/DC Tribute. Most concerts take place on Friday evenings, with the exception of two events held on Saturdays. Tickets for Friday events are just $10, and kids 12 and under are free. Saturday event tickets are $15 when purchased in advance or $20 at the gate.
Festival of the Fish: June 14th-16th
Held in Vermillion, Ohio, the Festival of the Fish celebrates the town’s maritime heritage with a parade, fireworks, live entertainment, and plenty of seafood. It’s a fun-filled weekend for the whole family.
The 2024 Festival of the Fish kicks off on Friday, June 14th. The gates open at 12 p.m., and you can hang around until 11 p.m. Operating hours are the same for Saturday, and the event organizers will close out the festival on Sunday, June 16th, with a three-hour session filled with music, games, and food.
Lorain International Association Festival & Bazaar: June 28th-30th
The annual Lorain International Association Festival & Bazaar celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the town. Taking place at the Black River Landing waterfront, the event features food, music, and a parade. Organizers transform the area into a bustling marketplace that showcases the traditions of various communities.
That said, the specific operating hours for the festival are still being hammered out, but the general dates have already been set. This year’s event is booked for the weekend of June 28th-30th. You can head to the festival’s official Facebook page for updates.
The Sheffield Lake Community Days Festival: July 20th-23rd
Just a short drive from Lorain and its festival is the Sheffield Lake Community Days Festival, which features parades, games, live music, and fireworks. It’s a celebration of the community spirit of one of the most hospitable places in Ohio, and it offers a great way to experience local traditions and entertainment. If you’ll be in the area during the weekend of July 20th, you’ll definitely want to check out these awesome festivities.
Want to Attend These Great Lorain Area Events? Come Stay With Us
Stopping at the Port Lorain Marina is the perfect way to enhance your Lake Erie adventure. Our centrally-located facility has all of the amenities you need to rest and refuel after a fun spring or summer day, such as:
Fuel dock
Watersport rentals
Restrooms & Showers
Ship Store
Boater’s Lounge
On top of all of these, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with our friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are committed to making your stay one for the books. Contact us to learn more, or reserve your slip online today!