Every year downtown Willoughby hosts some of Northeast Ohio’s biggest events. Whether you are looking for music, barbecue, art, or family friendly fun, every event has something to offer. The summer kicks off with barbecue and ends with it too!
Downtown Willoughby Rib Burn Off
Kicking off the summer events in downtown Willoughby on May 21st and 22nd is the Downtown Willoughby Rib Burn Off. In its fifth year, this event has become downtown Willoughby’s largest event, and one of Northeast Ohio’s largest free music festivals. Last year the event grew immensely with the addition of on an extra day a main stage that had country superstar Frankie Ballard. This year Uncle Kracker is headlining the event on Saturday Night. While you are in attendance, get your fill of ribs from nearly 20 different local and national rib vendors. Plus, there are 3 stages with musical entertainment in front of Arabica, Frank and Tony’s and Burgers n Beer. For more information visit the Downtown Willoughby Rib Burn Off website.
Classic Car Cruise In
The Classic Car Cruise In is a favorite in Willoughby and Lake County. On Saturday June 18th, the event kicks off at 4:00 pm and closes at 11:00 pm that evening. Erie Street, Euclid Ave, Wes Point Park, and City Hall Parking Lot will be filled with hundreds of cars from different eras. A car lover’s dream! There will be live music on the main stage, and of course all your favorite local restaurants will be ready to satisfy your hunger. Come spend the day at one of Ohio largest classic cruise ins.
Willoughby ArtsFest
In its 25th year the Willoughby ArtsFest has grown exponentially to become one of the best arts festivals in Ohio. There are over 130 juried artists with mediums ranging from paintings, to jewelry, and wood carvings. The event takes place on Saturday. July 18th, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm spanning throughout all of Historic Downtown Willoughby. This year be sure to check out the wine tent and Kids Studio located in Citizen’s Bank front lawn. The wine tent will feature some of Ohio’s favorite wineries including Debonne, Ferrante, and Grand River Cellars. If the kids are coming with along, the Kid’s Studio will give you a place to take the kiddos for some fun and activities. Musical entertainment will be provided in the Gazebo in Wes Point Park, as well as street musicians performing throughout the event. Check out the ArtsFest Website for more information!
Last Stop Willoughby
Last Stop Willoughby is a time honored event. On August 20th starting at 12:00 pm the entire day of festivities kicks off! Musical entertainment, the Kid Zone, trolley tours and The Taste of Willoughby kick the event off. At 2:00 pm the parade comes down Euclid Avenue into the heart of Downtown Willoughby. After the parade Jeep lovers can migrate to the Willoughby Brewing Company and Sol parking lot for the Jeepalooza where over one hundred jeeps will be parked. After the parade this year the Heart Award Winner will be announced. For more information visit the website.
Pig and Whiskey
Pig and Whiskey is the newest of all the events in Downtown Willoughby. In its third year the event has grown year after year to be a huge success. Held in Willoughby Brewing Company parking lot, this August 26th-28th is sure to be packed. Last year the headliners for Saturday and Sunday night were Vertical Horizon and Smashmouth. This year the headliners for 2016 are Eve 6, Tropidelic, and Brother Trouble. Local favorites Post Road, The Spazmatics, Susie Oravec, and many others will performing throughout the weekend. There won’t be any shortage of wonderful barbecue from 14 national and local vendors. Visit the website for more information.
Every month this summer Downtown Willoughby hosts a major event. Be sure to stop out for good fun and entertainment. For more information on events in Downtown Willoughby, visit the events page!