Cheers to 2013!

As the year winds down, I'd like to take a moment to say a special thank you to all who have read my blog over the past year. This blog started out on a whim, and I've been surprised and grateful for the positive feedback I've received. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it!

Here's to many more fun events in 2013 and a very happy new year. Cheers to 2013!

Glow at the Garden

 

If you're looking for a family-friendly holiday event this weekend, check out "Glow" at the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Glow is the garden's annual holiday event. Glow is designed to entertain both adults and children during the holiday season. The garden is completely transformed to entice all the senses. Twinkling lights, gingerbread houses and live poinsettias are just a few of the decorations that adorn the garden's various buildings. Make sure to stop by the two-story Christmas tree for a family holiday photo or listen to live festive music performed throughout the garden.

Glow has plenty of activities for children as well. Children can take a ride on the Garden Express for a magical train ride, decorate their very own gingerbread house, leave a wish on the garden's Wishing Tree, or shop for presents at the kid-sized Tree Top Shop.

Glow celebrates all that is good during the holiday season. If you don't have enough time to stop by before Christmas, don't worry! Glow will remain at the garden until Monday, Dec. 31.

Glow at the Garden hours:
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

*Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
*Closed Mondays, Christmas and New Year's Day

For more information about Glow, visit Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Festivus Party at Market Garden Brewery

This event is perfect for any "Seinfeld" fanatic. Fans will recall that one year instead of celebrating Christmas, the characters partook in a different kind of holiday -- Festivus.

Festivus was first introduced to the world on "Seinfeld." Celebrated on Dec. 23, Festivus is a way to celebrate the holidays without giving in to commercialism. The holiday consists of the Airing of Grievances, in which friends and families state the problems they've had with each other throughout the past year, and the Feats of Strength, where the winner must pin other family members to the floor.

Don't expect to spot a Christmas tree anywhere in a home celebrating Festivus. Instead, an unadorned aluminum pole is the only decoration seen.

Market Garden Brewery in Ohio City is celebrating Festivus early this year on Wednesday, Dec. 12. The brewery has even concocted its very own Festivus Ale -- a smooth and spicy beer that's fit for this holiday. The organizers of the event are also collecting toys for Toys For Tots. Each person who brings a toy to the Festivus Party will get their first beer on the house.

Festivus Party hours:
Wednesday, Dec. 12 from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.

For more information about this event, visit Market Garden Brewery.

Wrapped in Tradition: A Gordon Square Holiday

In the past few years, Gordon Square has revived itself and become a center for the arts. This Saturday Gordon Square is combining art with holiday festivities for their "Wrapped in Tradition" event.

This event serves as Gordon Square's kickoff to the holiday season. The afternoon will feature carriage rides, ice sculpting contests, Christmas trees for sale, roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate and a visit by Santa. A special appearance will also be made by Mr. Jingeling, a Cleveland holiday favorite who first appeared in Halle Brothers Department Store in the '50s.

Besides the holiday festivities, the shops and boutiques that line the streets of Gordon Square will be open for holiday shopping. Many of these stories will be offering special deals and discounts for the day.

This event is free and open to the public.

Wrapped in Tradition: A Gordon Square Holiday
Saturday, Dec. 8 from noon to 6 p.m.

For more information about this event, or driving directions, visit Positively Cleveland.

Ohio City Holiday Festival and Light Up Lakewood

Many cities have already celebrated the start of the Christmas season with tree lighting ceremonies and holiday-themed events. But a few cities are waiting until the start of December to kick off the holiday season. Ohio City and Lakewood are two of these cities, and both towns will be welcoming hundreds of visitors this weekend as they ring in the holiday season.

Saturday's events start out with the Ohio City Holiday Festival in Market Square. Market Avenue will be closed to traffic and instead of being filled with cars, the street will be filled with vendors selling holiday goods, chocolates and ornaments. Horse and carriage rides will be available to patrons, and a select assortment of Christmas trees will be available for purchase. When you're done shopping, head over to Great Lakes Brewing Co. for a pint of Christmas ale.

Ohio City Holiday Festival hours:
Saturday, Dec. 1 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.


The festivities continue into the evening with the annual Light Up Lakewood event. Light Up Lakewood is the city's annual Christmas lighting ceremony and holiday kickoff. The event starts at 5 p.m. with a parade on Detroit Avenue. The attention then shifts to Lakewood Hospital for the lighting of the hospital grounds and a fireworks show. The evening concludes with musical performances, screening of holiday movies on a big screen at the Lakewood library, and the selling of goods by a number of street vendors.

Light Up Lakewood hours:
Saturday, Dec. 1 from 5-8 p.m.

Both events are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit Ohio City and Arts In Ohio.

Little Italy Holiday Art Walk

The holiday season is officially here! Over the next month, shoppers will be racing to malls and department stores to try to find the perfect gifts for their friends and families. If you're looking to avoid some of the madness and chaos that ensues at these malls, take some time to shop at Little Italy this weekend during their Holiday Art Walk.

Little Italy, located right outside Case Western Reserve University, is known for its traditional Italian food and fine selection of art sold within more than 20 boutiques that line the street. Art Walks are hosted throughout the year and showcase the unique items available for purchase in Little Italy.

The Holiday Art Walk is special in that many of the stores and boutiques bring in holiday and seasonal items that are not available the rest of the year. Many of these boutiques will also be offering discounts and special sales on items. Plus, the stores are known to be stocked with seasonal cookies, wine and hot chocolate for patrons to snack and sip on while they browse around.

Many of the restaurants in Little Italy will also take part in the Art Walk, offering deals such as happy hour specials or free appetizers.

Little Italy Holiday Art Walk hours:
Friday, Nov. 30 from noon-9 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 1 from noon-9 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 2 from noon-6 p.m.

For more information about what Little Italy has to offer, visit Little Italy Cleveland.

Cleveland Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving is a day to spend with family and friends, expressing gratitude for everything we have in our lives. But for those of you who are looking to spend Thanksgiving morning doing something different, or for those who want to burn off some extra calories before the big meal, sign up for the Cleveland Turkey Trot.

The Turkey Trot is an annual race on Thanksgiving Day in downtown Cleveland. The race begins and ends at the Galleria, and includes a 5-mile and 1-mile course. All participants will receive a free t-shirt, and the top three overall male and female finishers will receive special awards. Random awards will also be distributed throughout the race to various runners.

A new addition to the race this year is a costume contest. Participants are encouraged to dress up in wacky and silly costumes to wear while running the race. Judges placed secretly throughout the course will snap photos of their favorite costumed runners and the best costume winner will be announced on Facebook.

Online registration is available until Monday, Nov. 19 at 7 a.m. Registration costs $25 per person. Runners may also sign up on race day for $30.

Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on race day (Thursday, Nov. 22). The 1-mile race kicks off at 8:45 a.m. with the 5-mile run following at 9:30 a.m.

To learn more about the race, or to view registration packet pick-up locations, visit Turkey Trot Road Race.

Compassion From Fashion

What do you get when you mix fashion with charity? One of Beachwood Place's biggest events of the year.

Compassion From Fashion is an annual event that brings together food, fashion and fundraising. The event, which is held this Saturday at Beachwood Place, raises money for The Gathering Place, a community-based cancer support center, and UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital.

Each ticket purchase will gain you a night of free food catered by Maggiano's Little Italy, exclusive shopping discounts, a cash bar and a $10 Beachwood Place Mall Shop Etc. mall gift card. The night will also include a live runway fashion show featuring cancer survivors, UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital families and celebrity models.

Various stores throughout the mall will provide select discounts and special offers during the evening for ticket holders.

Tickets to the event are $25 presale and $30 at the door. One hundred percent of the ticket proceeds will go toward the above charities. Presale tickets can be purchased online.

Compassion From Fashion hours:
Saturday, Nov. 17 from 5-9 p.m.

For more information about this event, visit Compassion From Fashion.

Northeast Ohio Trick-or-Treat Times

Due to the harsh weather and devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy, cities across Northeast Ohio decided to postpone trick-or-treating this past Wednesday.

But never fear candy seekers! Numerous cities have rescheduled their trick-or-treat times for this weekend.

The weather is also looking to cooperate this weekend, which is perfect for trick-or-treaters as they wander from house to house in search of treats.

To view the trick-or-treat times for your city, browse the list courtesy of Fox 8 Cleveland.

B Side Liquor Lounge Halloween Party

Looking for a last minute Halloween party? Head on over to B Side Liquor Lounge on Coventry Road for their Halloween party tonight.

B Side is a dance club/bar that hosts a variety of themed events throughout the week. Their Halloween party starts at 9 p.m. and DJ Chris Wright will play spooky dance tunes all night long. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes, with a grand prize of $100 going to the best dressed.

Wednesday is B Side's Mug Night, meaning that for $2 you can get a mug of your favorite brew and refill that mug throughout the night for just $1.

Admission is free for those dressed in festive costumes, otherwise it'll cost you $3 to attend. This is a 21+ only event.

B Side Liquor Lounge Halloween Party hours:
Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 9 p.m.-2 a.m.
*Mug night lasts till 11 p.m.

For more information, visit B Side Liquor Lounge.

Haunted House Highlights

Halloween is almost upon us, which means that this week is prime time for haunted houses. Today we're taking a look inside The Fear Experience, one of the West Side's newest, and scariest haunted houses.

The Fear Experience is the area's only full contact haunted house. This means that the actors can grab you, shake you, or drag you -- and believe me, they will. This haunted house is split into three attractions, each with a theme that builds upon each other.

The first attraction you'll encounter is the House of Fear, which is crawling with fallout victims from a nuclear power plant explosion. After that you'll experience Outbreak, a hospital filled with infected patients and demented doctors. Your final task will be to make it through an attraction called Escape Total Darkness, a twisted maze that's in complete darkness.

The Fear Experience offers more than just haunted houses. For those who are into morbidity, take a trip inside the Buried Alive Coffin Ride. This ride allows guests to climb inside a real coffin and live through a simulated experience of their own funeral. If you're more into action, play a game of Zombie Paintball in which you must ward off attacking zombies. Fire breathing shows and giveaways are also featured each night.

The Fear Experience is open weekends through Nov. 3. Tickets for the three haunted house attractions cost $16 each. Zombie Paintball and the Coffin Ride are an additional charge. Free parking is available every weekend.

The Fear Experience is located at 10701 Brookpark Road, Parma, OH, 44130.

To find out more information, or to view videos and photos from last year, visit The Fear Experience.

Passion for Pink

October is known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To raise awareness -- and funds -- Blush Boutique in Coventry is hosting a benefit party at their store tonight.

Blush Boutique on Coventry Road sells a variety of women's clothes and accessories. This is their first time hosting the "Passion for Pink" benefit party. Ten percent of all proceeds from the evening will be donated to The Gathering Place, a local organization that supports individuals battling cancer.

The night will also include personalized makeup tips from makeup artist Sylvia Colon, mini martinis and free gifts.

Before you go out to celebrate Halloween, do a little shopping, and a little fundraising, to make a difference in women's lives.

Passion for Pink hours:
Saturday, Oct. 27 from 5-10 p.m.

Blush Boutique is located at 1783 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118.

For more information about the event or the store, visit Blush Boutique.

Haunted House Highlights

To continue on our tour of Northeast Ohio's most frighteningly good haunted houses, this time we're looking at Forsaken Haunted House in Mentor.

Forsaken is a collaboration between The Factory of Terror, which holds the Guinness record for the longest haunted attraction, and Evilusions.

This attraction features over 30,000-square-feet of frights. Forsaken contains three houses: Wheaton Manor, Quarantine and The District. Each house is guaranteed to chill you to the bone.

In honor of Halloween, Forsaken is open an additional day this weekend with a special spooky theme. On Thursday, Oct. 25 the haunted house is hosting a Glowstick/Blackout event. Patrons will walk through the various attractions in pitch darkness -- with only a small glowstick to light their path.

Forsaken is open weekends through Nov. 3. Tickets are $20 each, but many promotions and discounts are often available on their website. For an extra $10 you can gain unlimited repeat trips on Friday and Sunday nights.

Forsaken Haunted House is located on Tyler Blvd. in Mentor, OH.

To find out more information about Forsaken, visit Forsaken Haunt.

Corn and Pumpkin Harvest Weekend

Escape to the country to experience a true taste of fall, with Lake Metroparks Farmpark's Corn and Pumpkin Harvest Weekend.

Located in Kirtland, Lake Farmpark is a family-owned business that brings back memories from years past. The harvest weekend provides hands-on activities for children and adults that center around the tastes and sights of fall.

The weekend will consist of decorating pumpkins, wandering through a three-acre corn maze, making fresh apple cider and sampling a variety of farm grown treats.

Admission to the event is $4 for ages 2-11; $6 ages 12-59; and $5 ages 60+. Farmpark members and children under two get in for free.

Corn and Pumpkin Harvest Weekend hours:
Saturday, Oct. 13 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 14 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information, or for directions to the farm, visit Lake Metroparks.

Haunted House Highlights

Halloween season is upon us! In just 30 days, ghouls and goblins will be on our minds as we prepare for Halloween parties or trick-or-treating. To celebrate this spooky month, I'll be highlighting various haunted houses throughout Northeast Ohio that are sure to make you scream. The first stop on the tour: Bloodview.

Bloodview is a personal favorite of mine. Each year the haunted house improves itself with more creatures, more elaborate creatures and more frights. The best part about this haunted house is that each of the actors is a volunteer from The Legion of Terror, the world's oldest improvisational horror acting and special FX production company. The Broadview Heights Lions Club, which is the sponsor of the event, donates all proceeds to charity.

Bloodview is home to three different attractions. Visitors first enter the new Gore House, then wander outside into the haunted woods and cemetery, and finally make a stop at the Main House. Each attraction if filled with plenty of actors, decorations and effects that are sure to grab your attention and give you a scare. But you don't have to wait until you enter the first house to start the experience. Actors follow visitors as they wait in line and have even been known to chase them off into the parking lot.

Bloodview is open through Halloween with a different theme each weekend. Tickets are $15 per person and $3 extra for repeat trips. A $20 ticket will get you an unlimited, all-night pass.

Bloodview is located at 1010 Towpath Trail Broadview Heights, OH 44147.

To find out more information about this haunted house, visit Bloodview.

Ripe! Fest

Now in its third year, Cleveland's Ripe! Fest is an annual celebration of locally grown food.

The fest takes place at the peak of harvest season. Some of the tastiest and freshest crops will be available to sample and purchase, with dozens of local farmers selling their goods in University Circle.

Beverage tastings, cooking demos, children's activities and gardening workshops will also be available for all attendees. Live music will play throughout the weekend, from blues to folk to rock.

Tickets to each day cost $13 for non-member adults and $7 for non-member children, and $8 for member adults and $5 for member children.

This weekend event celebrates all that is good and natural in Cleveland, so eat, drink and be local!

Ripe! Fest hours:
Saturday, Sept. 23 from 11 a.m.-sundown
Sunday, Sept. 24 from 11 a.m.-sundown

For more information, visit Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Cleveland Wine Festival

Winos, get your glasses ready! The Cleveland Wine Festival is coming to Voinovich Bicentennial Park this weekend.

This two-day festival allows attendees to sample more than 270 different wines from around the world. Wine seminars and cooking demonstrations will be conducted by event sponsors, and some of the area's best restaurateurs and chefs will sell their signature dishes. Like any major event, local bands will perform on the festival's stage throughout the weekend.

Tickets for one-day admission cost $28 in advance, $35 at the door. Admission includes a signature wine glass, ten wine tastings, a festival program, access to food and wine seminars, and discounts on select bottles of wine.

Designated driver tickets are also available for $10. These tickets include two non-alcoholic drinks and all the perks mentioned above. Those under 21 are admitted free when accompanied by a paid adult.

Cleveland Wine Festival hours:
Friday, July 27 from 4-10 p.m.
Saturday, July 28 from 3-9 pm.

To purchase tickets, or to find out more information about the festival, visit Cleveland Wine Festival.

Burning River Fest

Cleveland is famous for many reasons. Unfortunately, one of the reasons it's famous is for being home to "the river that caught on fire." Although this infamous event isn't a proud moment in our history, it spurred environmental action and led to the creation of the Burning River Fest.

The Burning River Fest is a two-day event intended to raise awareness of environmental issues affecting the Great Lakes region and the Cuyahoga River. People from the Great Lakes region have been attending the fest since 2001 to celebrate the eco-movements in Northeast Ohio.

This year's fest features more than 25 bands and musicians performing on three different stages. Local environmental groups will showcase interactive and educational displays. All-natural local food will be prepared by local chefs for guests to purchase. And, like every year, the Great Lakes Brewing Co. will debut their Christmas Ale for the 2012 season.

It all takes place at the Coast Guard Station at Whiskey Island.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate for $10. Kids 12 and under are free. All proceeds benefit the Burning River Foundation, a local non-profit organization that supports sustainable initiatives. Free parking is available at Edgewater Park.

Burning River Fest hours:
Saturday, July 21 from 6-11 p.m.
Sunday, July 22 from 1-6 p.m.

For more information about the event, visit The Burning River Foundation.

Indians Rock N' Blast Fireworks

Baseball season is in full swing. But many people come to the stadium to see the attractions as they do the game.

The Cleveland Indians are known for putting on stunning fireworks shows, but their most spectacular display will come this weekend with their Rock N' Blast show. This 20-minute fireworks show is synchronized to the songs of some of classic rock's greatest hits. This year's show fill be set to the tunes of The Beatles.

The Rock N' Blast show will shoot off Friday and Saturday night as the Indians take on the Baltimore Orioles.

Tickets are selling out fast, so buy yours today!

To get a glimpse into last year's Rock N' Blast spectacular, check out PyroUniverse.

Fourth of July Celebrations: Find Your City

Family cookouts. Cherry pie. Fireworks. Sparklers.

These words hold a special place in the heart of Americans, especially as they prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July this Wednesday. Fourth of July is a day to recognize our country and be proud of the achievements and growth of our nation throughout the centuries. The day also serves as a time to celebrate with family and friends.


Millions of Americans attend local fireworks shows each year to celebrate the holiday. As you and your family get ready for the Fourth of July, check out the list below, compiled by cleveland.com. to find out details about your city's fireworks show.

Fourth of July Celebrations in Northeast Ohio.

Star-Spangled Spectacular

Photo courtesy clevelandorchestra.com.

Celebrate the Fourth of July early with tonight's Star-Spangled Spectacular in downtown Cleveland's Public Square.

The free event starts at 5:30 p.m. with a pre-festival concert. Local artists and bands, including the Chardon Polka Band, the North Coast Men's Chorus and the Robert Ocasio Foundation Latin Jazz Project, will perform on stage throughout the evening. Gourmet food trucks from around the area will line the streets to provide plenty of treats for foodies and festival-goers.

The highlight of the evening starts at 9 p.m. as the Cleveland Orchestra takes the stage to perform a free community concert. As the orchestra nears the finale, fireworks will shoot off and light up the night sky in a beautiful display.

Join thousands of Northeast Ohio residents for this exciting night of music and fireworks.

Star-Spangled Spectacular hours:
Monday, July 2 from 5:30-11 p.m.

For more information about the event, visit The Cleveland Orchestra.

Italian American Summer Festival

Experience the taste and sound of Italy this weekend at the 12th annual Italian American Summer Festival.

Held at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, this festival celebrates the culture and history of Italy. Plenty of authentic Italian cuisine will be available to consume, with everything from cavatelli to Italian sausage to gelato.

Besides the delicious cuisine, entertainers and musicians will take turns on the festival stage throughout the weekend to perform for the crowds. For those looking to claim victory, enter yourself into a bocce ball tournament or the pasta eating contest.

Daily admission is $8 per person. Children 12 years and under are free. Parking is free all weekend long. Participating Marc's in Northeast Ohio are selling discount tickets for just $3 per person.

Italian American Summer Festival hours:
Friday, June 29 from 5 p.m.-midnight
Saturday, June 30 from noon-midnight
Sunday, June 31 from noon-9 p.m.

For more information about the festival, visit Italian American Summer Festival.

Lakewood CityWide StreetSale

Hidden treasures are often hidden within garage sales. From antique furniture to cute knick-knacks, a little hunting can go a long way. But what if an entire city decided to host one massive garage sale? Lakewood is attempting this feat starting this Thursday, with their third installment of the CityWide StreetSale.

Sponsored by the Downtown Lakewood Business Alliance, the street sale is open to all Lakewood residents and merchants. Last year more than 125 residents participated in the sale. A similar turn out is expected this year, as residents empty out their attics, basements and garages.

To keep the shopping chaos to a minimum, an interactive map of all street sale locations has been created. Hours for the sales are determined by residents or block groups. Merchant hours will run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The sale begins Thursday, June 28 and lasts until Sunday, July 1.

For more information about the sale, visit Downtown Lakewood.


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Summer Solstice Wine, Art and Blues Festival

If you couldn't tell by the scorching temperatures outside, Wednesday marked the first day of summer with the Summer Solstice. To celebrate the official beginning of the warm months ahead, Sarah's Vineyard in Cuyahoga Falls is hosting their 9th annual Summer Solstice Wine, Art and Blues Festival.

The celebration begins tonight and continues throughout the weekend. Twelve Ohio wineries and vineyards will be on hand offering a wide selection of spirits. Locally made art will be on display created by more than 30 vendors, and blues music will float through the vineyard as seven different blues bands take the stage. Want a snack to go along with your wine? Stop at one of the eight different food stands to get your fix.

Admission to the festival is $8 per day. Each attendee receives a free commemorative Cuyahoga Falls bicentennial wine glass with admission. Parking is free throughout the weekend.

Summer Solstice Wine, Art and Blues Festival hours:
Friday, June 22 from 4-10:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 23 from noon-10:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 24 from noon-6 p.m.

Sarah's Vineyard is located at  1204 W. Steels Corners Road Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223.

For more information about the festival, visit Sarah's Vineyard.

Marine Week Cleveland

"By land. By sea. By Cleveland."

That is the official motto for Marine Week Cleveland, a week-long series of events celebrating the 236-year history of the Marines and their ties to Cleveland.

The celebration began today with a proclamation ceremony by Mayor Frank Jackson. The exhibits and demonstrations will last until June 17.

Exhibits include equipment displays at various downtown locations, a Vietnam Wall replica at Voinovich Park and artifacts from the National Museum of the Marine Corps. Demonstrations range from a Science and Technology Expo, with state-of-the-art weaponry, simulated firing ranges and robotic equipment outside the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to a martial arts demonstration at Burke Lakefront Airport.

In addition to scheduled events, Marines can be spotted walking around downtown and eating at local restaurants, since many of them are staying in downtown accommodations for the week.

All events are free and open to the public. Times vary each day.

For an hour-by-hour list of events, exhibits and demonstrations, visit Cleveland Marine Week 2012 Schedule courtesy of newsnet5.com.

Parade the Circle

Image courtesy clevelandart.org.

It's an annual tradition for residents of the University Circle area to crowd Wade Oval in early June for Parade the Circle. Twenty-three years strong, this parade brings together art, music and entertainment together in one place.

Parade the Circle is known for its brightly colored floats and elaborately decorated performers. Stilt-walkers, dancers, musicians and giant puppets will parade down Wade Oval this Saturday. The parade provides national and international artists a chance to showcase their artistic talent through a variety of mediums.

The theme for this year's parade is "Branches Becomes Roots." The theme celebrates those who branch out yet retain ties to their family and community.

The parade will begin at the Cleveland Natural Museum of History and move in a clockwise direction along Wade Oval, before ending up back at the museum.

Activities, entertainment and food will be available after the parade in Circle Village for all attendees to enjoy.

Can't make it to the festivities? The parade will live stream online, courtesy of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Parade the Circle hours:
Saturday, June 9 from noon-4 p.m.

For more information about the parade, visit Parade the Circle.

Transit of Venus

Photo by David Cortner

The full moon isn't the only astronomical event taking place this week.

On Tuesday night, the planet Venus will move across the face of the sun, appearing as a small dot in the sky. The transit will not occur again for 150 years, so this event is "literally" a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

To celebrate the passage, Cleveland State University, along with Baldwin-Wallace College, the Cuyahoga Astronomical Association and the Cleveland Astronomical Society, will host a free, family-friendly event at Edgewater State Park.

Telescopes and solar viewers will be available to view the transit, as well as Saturn, Mars, Mercury and the International Space Station. Experienced astronomers and professors will share their expertise on the astronomical event and the solar system in general.

The Transit of Venus is expected to begin around 6 p.m. and telescopes will be available for use after 9 p.m.

Transit of Venus hours:
Tuesday, June 5 from 5-11 p.m.

For more information about the event, visit Transit of Venus.

West Side Market Centennial Kick-Off

Photo courtesy Scene Magazine.

The West Side Market is a beloved site by Clevelanders and out-of-towners. The market has gained national attention for its wide array vendors selling fresh produce, tender meats and sweet treats.

This year, the West Side Market is celebrating its centennial. Events celebrating the occasion have been planned throughout the year, and it all kicks off this Saturday.

The official start of the Centennial Celebration will begin Saturday at Market Square Park, a newly renovated space directly across the street from the market. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by a dedication ceremony celebrating the market's 100th birthday.

The celebration continues on through the evening, with music, dancing, an ice cream social provided by Mitchell's Homemade Ice Cream, a debut of the Market District's new centennial signage, and a fireworks display at night.

West Side Market Centennial Kick-Off hours:
Saturday, June 2 from 5:30-10 p.m.

For a list of centennial events throughout the year, visit West Side Market.

Yoga Rocks the Park

Take your love of yoga outdoors this Saturday as Tremont kicks off "Yoga Rocks the Park" in Lincoln Park.

Yoga enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels will fill the park for afternoon yoga sessions. Music will fill the air as individuals participate in youth, family, or advanced yoga classes.

After refueling your mind with yoga, refuel your body with healthy food from Rocco Whalen's Fahrenheit food truck, which will be on the scene all afternoon.

Some available yoga classes are free to the public, while others require a small fee. A portion of all proceeds will be given to Urban Lotus, which works to bring yoga into schools, and Yoga World Reach, an organization that focuses on yoga as community service.

Yoga Rocks the Park will take place throughout the summer on the following Saturdays: June 2, June 23, July 21, August 11, August 25 and September 16.

Yoga Rocks the Park hours:
Saturday, June 2 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

To register for a session, or for more information, visit Yoga Rocks the Park.

Memorial Day Celebrations

Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer. And this year's holiday is setting up to be nothing short of a scorcher.

Nearly every city in Northeast Ohio is taking part in the holiday by hosting a parade or a memorial service. To find out what's happening near your house, check out the list of Memorial Day events below, courtesy of NewsNet5.


Memorial Day services, parades set for Northeast Ohio 2012

Alive on 185

More than a decade ago, East 185th Street in Cleveland used to come alive every summer. Carnival rides would slowly roll into the Oliver Hazard Perry Elementary School playgrounds and the street would be taken over by street vendors and food carts. The festival was marked each year by a parade down 185th Street, and the week-long event brought hundreds of people to the area.

Although the festival is long gone, the Northeast Shores Development Corporation is working hard to bring that same spirit back to East 185th Street. For its fourth year, Alive on 185 brings back remnants of the old festival tradition and encourages residents to once again become involved in the community.

This year's Alive on 185 celebration will take place on Saturday, May 19. A parade will kick off the festivities at 11 a.m., spanning from Villaview Road to Lakeshore Boulevard. After the parade, restaurants and store owners will set up tables along 185th Street selling a variety of goods. Select restaurants will offer discounts on food items throughout the day.

Volunteers are also needed during the morning of the day of the event to help clean up Euclid Beach State Park. The clean up project lasts from 9-10:30 a.m., with volunteers picking up debris and conducting water quality tests. All volunteers will receive a free taco and a gift card for a free burrito, courtesy of Chili Peppers.

The event is sponsored by Northeast Shores and the East 185th Street Merchants, Professionals and Development Association.

Alive on 185 hours:
Saturday, May 19 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information about the event or Northeast Shores, visit Northeast Shores blog.

Puppypalooza at Progressive Field

Photo courtesy cleveland.indians.mlb.com.

What's better than an old fashioned game of baseball? Baseball and puppies! That's right, tomorrow night pooches will be filling the stands of Progressive Field.

As part of the annual Puppypalooza, the Cleveland Indians are teaming up with the Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL) to host the event. Owners may bring their pups to the game for an added charge and take part in a special puppy parade during pregame ceremonies. Dogs may sit with their owners through the duration of the game as the Indians take on the Seattle Mariners. A portion of the proceeds from the night will be donated to the APL.

Can't make it to tomorrow night's game? Don't worry! The Indians will be hosting a second Puppypalooza on Wednesday, August 29 at 7:05 p.m.

Puppypalooza hours:
Wednesday, May 16 at 7:05 p.m.


For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit Puppypalooza.

Harvey Pekar's "Cleveland"

Harvey Pekar is a Cleveland legend. As a comic book writer, media personality and music critic, he made a name for himself in Cleveland.

Pekar is best known for his autobiographical "American Splendor" comic series, which inspired a film adaptation in 2003.

Before Pekar passed away in 2010 at age 70, he finished the script for "Cleveland," a graphic narrative. His collaborator and artist Joseph Remnant pushed forward and finished the illustrations for the book.

"Cleveland" follows a similar style to Pekar's previous novels, but weaves in Cleveland history including the Indians winning the 1948 World Series and the burning of the Cuyahoga River in 1968.

The graphic novel is finally being released this week, and Big Dog Theater in Coventry Village is celebrating the release with a launch party Tuesday evening. Remnant and Pekar's wife Joyce will be present at the big night, along with the publisher and editor of the book. The event will include a reception followed by a panel discussion with a brief Q&A session from audience members.

Admission to the event is free, and copies of "Cleveland" will be available to take home for $21.95.

"Cleveland" launch party:
Tuesday, May 1 from 7-9 p.m.


Big Dog Theater is located at 2781 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106

Rock Hall Induction

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is right around the corner. To celebrate the occasion, the Rock Hall is offering free admission on Saturday, April 13 to all attendees.

The newest exhibit at the Rock Hall is dedicated to the Grateful Dead. Titled "The Long, Strange Trip," the exhibit includes manuscripts, handwritten notes, artifacts and select pieces of clothing from the band.

Other exhibits at the Rock Hall include an expanded Beatles collection, photographs of Cleveland DJ Tommy Edwards, and an exhibit dedicated to Otis Redding.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame hours:
10 a.m.-5:30 pm.

For more information about the Rock Hall, or the Induction Ceremony, visit Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

Full Moon Hike

Take advantage of the bright night sky created by this month's full moon by venturing on a Full Moon Hike at Squire's Castle.

The hike will begin at Squire's Castle picnic area in the North Chagrin Reservation. This 2-mile hike will allow hikers to spot wildflowers and forest creatures under the night sky. This month's full moon is called the "pink moon," named for the wildflowers that are beginning to bloom.

The Full Moon Hike will take place on April 6 and April 7. The hike begins at 7 p.m. and lasts until 8:30 p.m.

For more information, call (440)473-3370.

Family Movie Night at CSU

As a student at Cleveland State University, there are always plenty of events happening on campus for me to choose from. Although a majority of the events are catered to CSU students, oftentimes the events are opened up to the community.

One such event is happening this Thursday, April 5 as Campus Activities Board (CAB)  hosts a family movie night. A screening of the 2011 film "The Muppets" will be played on a projection screen in the Student Center ballroom. The event will double as a traditional breakfast night, including pancakes, bacon, eggs and orange juice for all attendees.

CAB is responsible for programming social, recreational and educational co-curricular events and activities on campus.

The movie screening and the meal are free to both students and guests. The event begins at 7 p.m.


For more information, visit the Facebook event page at Family Movie Night.

Cleveland Restaurant Week

Cleveland Restaurant Week is a popular time in Northeast Ohio, and for the first time ever Clevelanders can enjoy the festivities during spring.

Starting today, Cleveland Restaurant Week will last until April 14 (excluding Easter Sunday). About 60 restaurants are taking part in the festivities, spanning from Mentor to Akron. Participating restaurants will offer prix-fixe three course meals for just $33 per person. Some of the restaurants may vary slightly in price, depending on the menu options.

Restaurant Week is hosted by Cleveland Independents, an organization that strives to promote dining in independently owned restaurants and to serve the interests of the independent restaurateur. Member restaurants are locally owned and operated.

Some of the restaurants will only offer dinner options, while others will offer both lunch and dinner deals.

Explore the unique cuisine of Northeast Ohio restaurants without breaking the bank by taking advantage of Cleveland Restaurant Week.

For a list of participating restaurants, or to find out more information about Cleveland Independents, visit Cleveland Restaurant Week.

I-X Indoor Amusement Park

It's that time of year again. The jingle can be heard all over the radio and TV:

"It's here today, not gonna stay, go right away to the I-X Indoor Amusement Park, gotta get to the I-X Indoor Amusement Park!"

Well known by kids and parents alike, this jingle signals the return of the indoor amusement park to the I-X Center. The annual amusement park brings thousands of people to the I-X Center and ushers in the spring season.

This year's event will feature over 150 amusement park rides. Children can enjoy themselves in KidzVille while teens and adults soar and fly through the air in Thrill City.

There will be plenty of entertainment for the eyes as well. A new performance called Cirque Shangai will take center stage this year. The performing troupe will leave you in awe as they perform high wire acts and dangerous motorcycle stunts.

Rescued tigers from Sarasota, Fla. will return in this year's Tiger Show, and the Latino community will be celebrated on April 14-15 during La Fiesta Latina.

General admission is $24 for adults and $21 for children under 48" at the box office. For a $3 discount, purchase tickets online or at your local Marc's store.

Hurry in to the I-X Center before this amusement park leaves town!

The park opens at 11 a.m. daily and closes between 9 and 10 p.m. Check online for times and closing dates.

The Indoor Amusement Park will be at the I-X Center until Sunday, April 15.

For more information, visit I-X Indoor Amusement Park.

Blankets for Burritos

Spend some of your time helping out the community, and get a free burrito in return.

 Through the end of March, Moe's Southwest Grill in North Olmsted and Avon is hosting a blanket drive. Patrons are asked to bring in a new, unopened blanket, bath mat, towel, or twin-sized bed sheet. Each person who donates an item to the drive will receive a free burrito of his or her choice.

All the items will be donated to Laura's Home, a women's crisis center located in Cleveland. Franchise owner Andrea Graham will also dedicate 10 percent of all sales on March 31 to the shelter.

This drive is sure to nourish your heart -- and your stomach.

Martini & Manicure Mondays

Martinis. Chocolate. Manicures. These three words are favorites of women everywhere and are coming together on Monday nights in downtown Cleveland.

The Chocolate Bar, located on Euclid Avenue, is providing a special offer for its customers. On Monday evenings between the hours of 7-10 p.m., any guest who purchases a martini will receive a certificate for a free, complimentary manicure at a local salon.

The Chocolate Bar is a fairly recent addition to downtown Cleveland, opening in late 2010. The restaurant specializes in martinis, elegant dinners, and of course, chocolate desserts.

Martini & Manicure Mondays take place every Monday night at The Chocolate Bar. Drop in one week to treat yourself and your nails.

For more information, visit Chocolate Bar.

Orchid Mania

Escape the winter chill and experience the first sight of spring at the Cleveland Botanical Garden's "Orchid Mania" exhibit.

This annual exhibit highlights the beauty of the exotic flower. Hundreds of orchids fill the atrium and dangle from the ceiling on wires.


The 1920s serves as the backdrop for this year's exhibit. Small placards are scattered throughout the building with trivia and facts about orchids and the lifestyle of the '20s.

"Orchard Mania" will be on display until March 25. The exhibit is free with admission to the Botanical Garden. Admission costs $9.50 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12.

The Cleveland Botanical Garden is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon-5 p.m.

For more information or directions, visit Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Music Monday: Jack's Mannequin

Jack's Mannequin will grace the stage of House of Blues this Sunday, Jan. 29. Hailing from Orange County, California this band provides a live show filled with passionate piano chords and heartfelt lyrics.

This rock band was formed as a side project in 2004 by Andrew McMahon, the frontman for Something Corporate. After being diagnosed with and beating acute lymphoblastic leukemia, McMahon forged ahead with the band.

Jack's Mannequin has released three albums thus far, and their current tour is in support of their latest record "People and Things."

Jukebox the Ghost and Allen Stone will open for the band. Tickets for the show cost $23.50 (minus fees) in advance and $25 the day of the event, and can be purchased online or at the House of Blues box office.

Show starts at 7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m.


For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit House of Blues Cleveland.

Medieval Feast at Trinity Cathedral

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages this weekend through the Medieval Feast hosted at Trinity Cathedral in downtown Cleveland.

Now in its 30th year, the Medieval Feast is the main fundraising event for Trinity Cathedral. A medieval themed dinner will take place each night, complete with chicken quarters, sausages, dried fruit, roast pork loin, and ale and wine. (Vegetarian options are also available for non-carnivores.)

In addition to the feast, the event will feature jugglers, fortune tellers and readings from Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales."

Guests are encouraged to wear their finest medieval attire.

Tickets for Friday's feast cost $50; Saturday's tickets cost $60. Tickets can be purchased online.

To check out last year's feast, watch the video below courtesy film7918.




Medieval Feast hours:
Friday, January 20: reception at 6 p.m., feast follows at 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 21: reception at 6 p.m., feast follows at 7 p.m.


For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit Medieval Feast.

Celebrate MLK Day at the Rock Hall

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for the 11th straight year in a row with the "Rock the Dream" music festival. The event will commemorate the work of King and celebrate community spirit and civic pride.

The museum's main stage will be occupied by various performing artists throughout the day. The event will kick off at 11 a.m. with a performance by the Antioch Spiritual Arts Choir. Other musical acts include Nina Borsay, Whitney Coleman, and Grammy Award-nominated singer Ledisi, among others.

Admission to the museum is free all day.

Rock the Dream hours:
Monday, January 16 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For more information, visit Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

Midnight Madness at Boston Mills Brandywine

Boston Mills Brandywine is now offering more than just slopes for skiers and snowboarders. This Friday and Saturday the park will be hosting a Midnight Madness party complete with music, drinks and prizes.

Yuengling Lager, Black & Tan, and Light will all be on draft on the snow. Bring your college ID and you'll get a snow pass for just $20.

Boston Mills Brandywine is also hosting a raffle on their website to win a free Yuengling snowboard.

Midnight Madness hours:
Friday, January 13 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Saturday, January 14 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

For more information, visit Boston Mills Brandywine.