If you're reading this, you probably come from a small town in Ohio trying to figure out your options for this coming Fourth of July.
Well, I'm here to tell you that even though there seems to be nothing to do in Ohio, here is a list of eight extravagant events you can fill your fourth with!
1. Columbiana – July 4th Community Celebration
All day festivities begin at 8:30 a.m. with a fishing contest. Additional activities include a pet contest and parade, ice cream eating contest, watermelon eating contest, music, flag-bearing skydivers, a tribute to veterans and flag ceremony, and more.
When: Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Where: Firestone Park, 347 East Park Ave, Columbiana, OH 44408
2. Cleveland - Blossom Music Festival
The Blossom Music Festival is the Cleveland Orchestra's summer residence. The festival will begin with a concert of music by American composers including marching band favorite John Philip Sousa. The concert concludes with the iconic 1812 Overture followed by a fireworks show.
When: July 3rd and 4th, 2017
Where: Blossom Music Center
3. Akron – Rib, White, & Blue Festival
Northeast Ohio’s largest 4th of July rib festival, as rib vendors from all over the United States compete for cash prizes & bragging rights. For decades, Akron has celebrated Independence Day with food, fireworks, and music. A fireworks display will take place at 9:45 p.m. following a performance of The Akron Symphony Orchestra, beginning at 8 p.m.
Free admission.
When: July 4th, 2017; 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Where: Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
Cost: Free admission
4. Cleveland – 4th of July Firework Cruise on the Goodtime III
Enjoy dinner, fireworks, and dancing. Reservations are required. Tickets range from $63.95-$89.95.
When: July 4th, 2017; Boarding: 6pm, Cruise: 6:30pm-11:30pm
Where: 825 E. Ninth Street Pier, North Coast Harbor, Cleveland, OH 44114
5. Bay Village – Bay Days Festival
Kids activities, carnival rides ($18 one-price ticket for all rides), games, a children’s bike/trike/wagon parade 11:30 a.m., magic show 12 p.m., and more. Gala fireworks display at 9:45 p.m. (Rain Date: Wednesday, July 5).
When: July 4th, 2017
Where: Cahoon Memorial Park West, Bay Village, OH 44140
6. Columbus - Red, White, & Boom
Ford Oval of Honor parade 6 p.m. from the Main St. Bridge, turn north on Front St., and disband at the corner of Front St. and Spring St., Columbia Gas’ Children’s Park at the corner of Neil Ave. and Long St., Party on the Park (noon - 11:30 p.m.) presented by Three Legged Mare, Sponsored by Cabo WaboHead on to the corner of Spring and Neil.
When: July 3rd, 2017
Where: Downtown Columbus
7. Toledo - Red, White, and KaBOOM
Red, White, and KaBOOM is a free family-friendly festival in Toledo’s Promenade Park. The celebration features food and entertainment, as well as one of the area’s largest fireworks displays.
When: July 4th, 2017
Where: Marina District, Riverside Drive
8. Cincinnati - LaRosa's Balloon Glow at Coney Island
For Independence Day, Coney Island isn't just about the rides, it will include not only family entertainment but glowing hot air balloons as well. That day, the pool is open until 9:30 p.m. and the rides until 11:00 p.m. Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks start at 10:00 p.m. over Lake Como.
When: July 3rd, 2017
Where: 6201 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45230
Ohio may seem like a place where there is nothing to do, but if you look at these hidden gems of towns and cities, you just might find something!
Happy Fourth, and stay safe!