Cleveland/NEO This Weekend: Our Picks

Looking for some things to do this weekend in Cleveland and the surrounding Northeast Ohio area to make the most of your weekend? There’s so much to see and do, even for those who are already familiar with the area. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a recent transplant, there’s always something new to discover in Cleveland and NEO. So why not get out and explore this weekend?

Cleveland Weekend Weather Forecast

Friday, October 6th

Chagrin Documentary Film Festival – Chagrin Falls

The Chagrin Documentary Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of the art of documentary storytelling and the dedicated filmmakers who share their narratives with us. Established in memory of the late filmmaker David Ponce, this festival takes great pride in bringing compelling stories from across the globe to the picturesque Chagrin Valley in Ohio.

Now in its fourteenth year, this remarkable documentary film festival has garnered significant attention and a dedicated following. It has earned a coveted spot on MovieMaker Magazine’s esteemed list of “Top 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” for eight consecutive years. The festival unfolds at various venues in and around the charming century village of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, with a strong emphasis on celebrating the talents of filmmakers hailing from diverse corners of the world.

Over the years, the Chagrin Documentary Film Festival has drawn an enthusiastic live audience of more than 13,000 attendees, while also reaching a national viewership of 34,000 through its streaming offerings.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus – Rocket Mortgage Field House

Prepare to be dazzled by The Greatest Show On Earth! The reimagined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is extending a warm welcome to Children Of All Ages for a spectacle that defies human capabilities and leaves families and fans from every generation in awe. Get closer to the action than ever before as you immerse yourself in a 360-degree environment equipped with cutting-edge technology that forges genuine connections between you and unforgettable performers hailing from all corners of the globe.

Prepare to witness never-before-seen acts, including performers traversing a triangular highwire, executing daring criss-cross trapeze stunts, defying gravity on extreme bicycle trampolines, and much, much more. Share in the laughter and experience the awe-inspiring spirit of the circus, igniting the spark of fun for your entire family at The Greatest Show On Earth®. Everyone is welcome! The exciting new Ringling live show experience is headed to Cleveland this weekend!

The Great Pumpkinfest – Mapleside Farms

Pumpkin Village is the magical transformation of Mapleside Farms into the ultimate autumn family experience across the nation, featuring live entertainment and numerous special attractions that will make everyone feel youthful again. Pumpkin Village will be accessible during each themed weekend, offering over 20 fantastic attractions for your enjoyment!

Explore the Jurassic Myles Corn Maze (featuring #95), take a delightful orchard tour aboard our Cow and Pig Trains, relish our recently upgraded scenic Hayride, and experience the thrill of the 311-foot “Super Slide,” the longest slide in America. Soar to new heights on our Two Giant Jump Pillows.

Don’t miss the Pig Races, hosted by the uproarious comedic crew from MSPN (Mapleside Sports Network), delivering lively play-by-play commentary live! Witness the Goats in action at the Billy Goat Bluff and much more!

Secure your pre-sale tickets in advance or purchase them at the entrance.

If you seek a fun-filled experience with your loved ones, then exploring Mapleside Farms in the fall is an absolute must.

Operating Hours:

• FRIDAYS: 4 pm-9 pm
• SATURDAYS: 11 am-9 pm
• SUNDAYS: 11 am-6 pm

Saturday, October 7th

Solon Fall Festival – Solon OH

Fun-filled, family-friendly event with something for everyone! Families can get creative with pumpkin decorating from our Pumpkin Patch, have a blast in the corn box, participate in backyard games like tic-tac-toe and Connect 4, and satisfy their taste buds with a variety of snacks from our food trucks and vendors. We’ll have multiple inflatables, a petting zoo, and exciting demonstrations for everyone to enjoy, all while grooving to live music throughout the event.

But that’s not all! We also invite you to explore the Artisans & Crafters Market, where around 50 talented vendors will be showcasing their homemade treasures, including handmade soaps, beautiful jewelry, unique gifts, home décor, and much more. This market is proudly presented in partnership with the Avant-Garde Arts & Crafts Show.

Best of all, admission to the event is free, and you can park your vehicle at the Community Park or in the lots to the south near Solon Middle School without any cost. Come and make lasting memories with your loved ones at this fantastic event!

Food Truck Challenge – Westlake OH

Attention all food enthusiasts! We are thrilled to announce our eighth annual Food Truck Challenge, proudly sponsored by Serpentini of Westlake. Join us on Saturday, October 7th, from 11 am to 4 pm as Cleveland’s finest food trucks converge on Main Street to vie for coveted titles in various categories, expertly judged.

This year, our event is back with even more excitement and flavor. Expect an expanded lineup of delectable food trucks, an esteemed panel of celebrity judges, and an abundance of fun for all!

This lively and competitive gathering boasts an impressive array of food trucks, each offering a unique and mouthwatering menu. Starting at 11 a.m., visitors can dive into this culinary adventure. During the event, you’ll have the chance to participate by grabbing a voting ballot from our designated station. Savor as many delectable dishes from the food trucks as your heart desires, then cast your vote before 3 p.m. (limit one vote per person).

Categories to look forward to include:

• People’s Choice Award
• Judge’s Pick
• Best Vegetarian Dish
• Most Unique Offering
• Best Dish Overall
• Top Sandwich/Wrap Creation
• Outstanding Side or Snack
• Best Beverage
• Most Delightful Dessert

The Food Truck Challenge is open to the public, and admission is entirely free. In addition to the culinary delights, enjoy live musical performances, family-friendly activities, and an assortment of vendors. Don’t miss the chance to hop aboard the Express Train for a delightful ride through the park.

Downtown Fall Festival – North Coast Harbor

Introducing Downtown Cleveland’s inaugural Fall Festival! Gather your family for a delightful series of Saturday afternoons this October at Voinovich Park in North Coast Harbor.

During the first three Saturdays of October, revel in the essence of autumn with classic seasonal fare, exciting games, live music, and more. Each day of the Fall Fest offers a unique experience for all ages, and on October 14th, our evening pop-up event, Bright Nights, will feature a charming beer garden!

Don your coziest flannel attire and join us, along with our community partners, in welcoming the fall season with a fantastic array of free children’s activities, games, and much more! Groove to the tunes of Jul Big Green and savor delectable funnel cakes and hot cider.

Activities include:

• Downtown Cleveland, Inc. – Pumpkin Painting (while supplies last)
• U.S.S Cod – Big Henry & Cornhole (2pm to 6pm)
• Cleveland Public Library – Stories & Book Giveaway (2 pm to 6 pm)
• Great Lakes Science Center – Slime Making Activity (2 pm to 6 pm)
• Cleveland Play House – Fall Crafts (2 pm to 6 pm)
• The Balloon Vibe – Balloon Busker (3 pm to 5 pm)
• Volcanic Lioness – Show Performer (3 pm to 5 pm)
• Dr. U.R. Awesome – Bubble Show (4 pm to 6 pm)
• Kids in Cleveland – Yoga (2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., and 5 p.m.)
• Celestial Treats CLE (2 pm to 6 pm)

Sunday, October 10th

Ghost Files Live – Agora Theater

A thrilling adventure in the world of paranormal investigations as we invite you to immerse yourself in the excitement of ghost hunting with the enigmatic Ghoul Boys. Be a part of an exclusive event where we unveil an unreleased episode of Ghost Files, followed by an intimate Q&A session with the charismatic hosts, Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej. Get ready to have your curiosity satisfied as the hosts grace the stage, revealing behind-the-scenes anecdotes, recounting their most unforgettable cases, and who knows, perhaps even connecting with a spectral presence or two.

Woolley Bear Festival – Vermilion

Individuals will converge upon a quaint lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Erie. They will come together to commemorate a charming, fuzzy little caterpillar during the upcoming 51st Woollybear Festival in Vermilion, scheduled for Sunday, October 8th.

The festivities commence at 9 a.m. with the eagerly anticipated world-renowned children’s race, followed by the exhilarating Woollybear 500 preliminaries at 10 a.m. At 11 a.m. and noon, there will be lively costume contests, with the highlight of the day being the delightful and eccentric Woollybear Parade at 1:30 p.m., featuring beloved Fox 8 personalities.

The musical talents of Todd Meany’s band, Ace Molar, will grace the stage at 3 p.m., leading up to the thrilling finals of the Woollybear 500 Caterpillar race at 4:30 p.m. The grand finale of the day will be the eagerly awaited winter weather prediction ceremony at 5 p.m.

Founded by the iconic Dick Goddard, a cherished figure at FOX 8, the Woollybear Festival stands as Ohio’s grandest one-day celebration.

The post Fun Cleveland/NEO Weekend Ideas: 10/6/23 – 10/8/23 appeared first on Believe In The Land.