As a lifelong Northeast Ohio resident, I’ve long said the region’s offerings are as good as (or better than) anything found in those larger, so-called major markets. Our world-class organizations and events get a great deal of run in the press, but cool local places and things to do often require a little research. Hence, being in-the-know is the subject of the latest Fresh Start installment. This week, check out an urban living walking tour featuring local food, a weekend-long vino fest and a beach party the likes of which Frankie and Annette never imagined. Plus, get clued in on a deadline for tickets to a party on - and in - the Detroit-Superior Bridge. All have the value of benefiting local organizations. Go forth, have fun and pay it forward.
Urban Outfit
The organizers of the Annual Walk and Dine in the Historic Gateway Neighborhood know the appeal of downtown Cleveland and play to the city’s strengths with their annual summer shindig happening this Wednesday, July 14. Walkers score an out of this world twilight of fantastic victuals, paired with tours of distinctive office spaces and dwellings. Walk and Dine benefits the Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation, which, as of last year, raised $60 million investment dollars for the East 4th Street district. The Gateway district grows increasingly effervescent by the year, but that success has been two decades in the making. Join in the fun by clicking here, or email info@historicgateway.org.
Dog Gone Good
Any three-day event that pairs a day-on-the-green vibe with great wine, family friendly options and benefits Northeast Ohio’s pet populace deserves more than a second look. The third annual Hudson Wine Festival offers all of this, showcasing some 250 wines from around the world, live entertainment and delicious food from local chefs, while assisting the Humane Society of Greater Akron. Nearly 5,000 attendees are expected at this year’s fête, fortified by a Friday night VIP event, wine seminars, a “daily doggy parade” and onsite pet adopt-a-thon, and a kids’ activity area. Last year’s festival brought the society's Akron chapter more than $30,000. It starts Friday, July 16 and runs through the weekend. Learn more here.
North Coast, South Pacific
You may not see Frankie Avalon, Annette Funicello or the Blue Hawaii-era Elvis at the Luau on the Lake at Wendy Park on Whiskey Island. You’re not likely to see any glum faces, either. This Hawaiian-themed beach party is one of Cleveland’s best kept summer secrets, bar none. For a nominally priced ticket, islanders-for-the-day score an all-you-can-eat island feast, leis, sand volleyball, cold libations, some of Cleveland’s greatest bands and more - all to benefit Clothes and Shoes for Kids, a local organization which helps Northeast Ohio’s kids in need. It all happens Saturday, July 17. Think Buffett, think boat drinks, think island on the mainland, and you’re halfway there. Throw on your camp shirts and Jams, and head here.
Sheer Ingenuity
Imagine a party on the sublevel of the Detroit-Superior (aka Veteran’s Memorial) Bridge. That’s what the Ingenuity Festival organizers did when they re-imagined the festival for late September. They’re offering a sneak preview of sorts at the Speakeasy 2.0 benefit fundraiser, which happens on and around the bridge. With live cabaret performances, cocktails, food and “dancing in the catacombs and on the bridge” until 1 am, how could any partier go wrong? Check out the 21st century underground speakeasy Friday, July 23 with an RSVP this Friday, July 16. Learn more here.
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