IngenuityFest 2023 Brings Creativity and Community to Cleveland

Clevelanders are gathering once again to discover the whimsical and sustainable artistry within the city of Cleveland as the beloved IngenuityFest returns on Sept. 22. 

The event marks 18 years since Ingenuity Labs first began the annual bash.

This year, the theme surrounds “Biologies and Geologies,” exploring how human innovation corresponds with elements such as earth, air and water. Although you should expect to be met with beautiful imagery such as the Crystal Caverns and aquatic landscapes, the concept of sustainability and environmentalism runs much deeper for the event. 

When you first walk into the 300,000 square foot Hamilton Collaborative, the space will be broken up into a dozen Festival “Villages,” varying in themes and innovative disciplines. 

Different villages returning this year include Makers Mecca, Wellness Way, Inventors Emporium, Ideation Station and IndusTree Alley. These villages demonstrate the history and heritage of innovation, as well as giving a nod to the industrial side of Cleveland. 

With the large array of performers and exhibits, Marketing & Development Manager for Ingenuity Cleveland Emma Morris says there’s a lot to be excited about. 

“We’re very excited for our headlining bands, Shannon and the Clams, along with Satin Jackets, a DJ based out of Germany,” Morris says. “We’re going to have around 75 performers in total and it’s all diverse, which is what we focus on.” 

Along with its half a dozen stages occupied by a variety of musicians, dancers and poets, maker and innovator exhibits and fine art, the festival is dedicated to sustainable practices with several water refilling stations and no single-use plastic water bottles available on the premises. 

Volunteers will also be around the venue separating compost, recyclables and landfill, helping locals learn the difference between those choices. 

Ingenuity Cleveland was originally formed in 2004 by James Levin and Thomas Mulready as a Festival that brought light to the wide variety of art and technology within Northeast Ohio. Now, over 18 years later, the festival is bigger and brighter than ever. 

So buckle up, grab your tickets and get ready to see Cleveland more vibrant and alive than you’ve ever seen it. Sept. 22-24, $0-10, 5401 Hamilton Ave., Cleveland, ingenuitycleveland.org

For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.