The 2016 Republican National Convention came to Cleveland this year. There was dancing, food, and a whole lot of red, white, and blue. In case you missed it, here's a collection of 16 of the best scenes and photographs from the RNC in downtown Cleveland.
1. Artists, like Julian Raven, create masterpieces (including this one, entitled "Unafraid and Unashamed") in Cleveland's Public Square.
2. A delegate from Montana dances in her patriotic skirt before the start of the convention on July 20, 2016.
3. Spectators cheer as delegates gather on the floor of the first day of the convention (Monday, July 18, 2016).
4. On the first day of the convention, Trump walks on stage to introduce his wife, Melania.
5. Alabama delegates Deanna Frankowski and Judy Carns comfort each other as they listen to a speech by Marcus Luttrell, a retired U.S. Navy Seal.
6. Ted Cruz gives a thumbs up as he leaves the stage after speaking during the RNC on the third day of the convention.
7. All of the delegates gather to pose for an official picture on the first day of the Convention in the Quicken Loans Arena.
8. A young Heavenly Joy performs during the start of the fourth day at the convention.
9. Prophets of Rage performs in Cleveland for an End Poverty Now rally, and spectators dance and listen.
10. Texas delegates wave their hats on the floor of the convention. ![]()
11. A man openly carries a gun downtown, and journalists approach him to discuss it.
12. Comedian and talk show host Stephen Colbert performs on the floor of the Q during the convention.
13. Various groups are found protesting around Cleveland, and police officers are utilized to monitor the crowds. ![]()
14. In public square, a woman from Orange County, California, runs a yoga routine.
15. Unique campaign souvenirs, like this Trump Etch-A-Sketch, are seen being sold at the Quicken Loans Arena on July 29, 2016.
16. Streamers and balloons litter the floor after the final night of the convention in the Quicken Loans Stadium. 
As a reflection on this hectic week, we are so proud of our city. The RNC in Cleveland as a whole was a wild success; it brought tourists and positivity to a town that has previously been dubbed a mistake and a blunder. It caused a boost to the local economy and allowed a number of people that had never been to Cleveland before to experience the city's unique culture and attractions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Canton Football Hall of Fame, and Lake Erie. Ohio is also a battleground state for the upcoming presidential election, meaning that the RNC has drawn additional positive attention to the area before the crucial voting period. The Republican National Convention was absolutely a positive experience, and Cleveland appears to be on the rise after a wonderful past several months of good tourism and achievement.
