June 10
Put in Bay Music Festival
You don’t have to travel far to get a taste of island life. Take a ferry to South Bass Island to enjoy zydeco and bluegrass tunes on the lawn of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. Take in acts such as The Voice’s Emily Keener, the Floorwalkers, JP and the Chatfield Boys and more. Between sets, head to the American Cornhole Association Tournament or the music instruction tents where acts give ukulele and zydeco lessons. “There’s nothing that makes it more of a personal experience than being able to interact with performers,” says Peter Huston, head of Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce. 93 Delaware Ave., Village of Put-in-Bay, 419-285-2184, pibmusicfest.com
Aug. 3-6
Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival
Score a sports fan touchdown at this annual event where about 130 Hall of Famers come together to celebrate the new class. “To see that combined greatness in one place is a chilling moment,” says Pete Fierle, vice president of communications. Tackle activities from a roundtable with players, a more than 200,000-attendee enshrinement parade, a Toby Keith concert, fashion shows and the much-anticipated game — this year, the Arizona Cardinals take on the Dallas Cowboys. “It’s so emotional,” Fierle says. “It’s the most popular sport in this country, and our weekend tells us why it is.” 2121 George Hallas Drive NW, 330-456-8207, profootballhoffestival.com
Aug. 12
Cleveland Dragon Boat Festival
If you can’t wait for the 2020 Summer Olympics, get your thrills during this 10-year-old race. Cheer on teams of 20 paddlers who work in sync to one drumbeat on a 48-foot-long dragon boat as they race 250 meters along the Cuyahoga River. “It’s exciting to watch because everyone on the team really has to work together to move forward,” says president Lori Ashyk. As the races rush by Wendy Park, take in music and other live entertainment. 2800 Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, 440-399 7373, cledba.org
