Nothing beats summertime in Ohio. Lorain County has a busy lineup of affordable family fun and experiential festivals embracing history, culture, maritime and the iconic corn on the cob.
“Lorain County has long been known for its wide variety of experiences, entertainment, dining and small-town shopping,” says Garry Gibbs, director of the Lorain County Visitors Bureau. “All great reasons for residents and visitors alike to come and explore what we have to offer.”
Mark your calendars for these blockbuster events:
Discover Aviation Airplane
& Car Show
A highlight of this year’s Discover Aviation Airplane & Car Show will be a one-of-a-kind display honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, who were Black pilots, crew and personnel associated with the Army flight training school in Tuskegee, Alabama, during World War II. The display includes a 30-seat theater where participants can learn about how these remarkable pilots overcame segregation and racism to become a decorated flying force during WWII.
This collaboration between Discover Aviation & Lorain County Visitors Bureau showcases one of Lorain County’s gems: the Lorain County Regional Airport. It will feature over 40 military and civilian aircrafts including: TMB Avenger, Stearman Biplane, Ford Tri-Motor (offering rides on Sunday), B-25 Mitchell, Beach City Baby (offering rides on Saturday), C-53 Sky Trooper, L-21B Italian Piper, P-26 The Queen Mother, Royal Air Force Bulldog, Metro Life Flight Helicopter and Kent State University School of Aviation.
“By showcasing these amazing vehicles and aircrafts, we aim to inspire the next generation of pilots and engineers,” says Gibbs.
On Saturday, the tarmac will be packed with an incredible lineup of static aircraft, from historic icons to modern marvels. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the day, as well as a car show with classics and antiques.
Saturday, July 12 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Lorain County Regional Airport | 44050 Russia Road, Elyria
Cost: $10 per vehicle
Young Eagle Flights Available – only on Sunday, July 13 – must register online at youngeaglesday.org (ages 8-17) FREE
Outdoor Boat Sport
and Travel Show
One of the largest outdoor recreational shows in the Midwest will take place at Lorain’s Black River Landing on July 19 and 20.
Sponsored by Lorain Port and Finance Authority, the Outdoor Boat Sport and Travel Show will encompass 15 plus acres of vendors from a variety of industries including Marine, RV/camper, Motorcycle, Power Sports, Karting, Water Sports, Auto and more.
“This show is a fantastic opportunity for outdoor lovers to discover new products and experiences,” Gibbs says. “We really want to drive people to the waterfront and expose them to our great natural resources with Lake Erie and the Black River.”
General Admission is priced at $3 for online presale and $5 at the gate. Kids 12 and under are free. Lorainport.com
North Ridgeville
Corn FestivaL
Celebrate 50 years of kernel-inspired fun at the North Ridgeville Corn Festival, one of the largest attended festivals in Ohio. A weekend-long community extravaganza in August is non-stop fun with a grand parade, car show, corn-eating contest, inflatables and rides, live entertainment, and kids games and activities.
Lorain County Visitor Bureau will kick off the festival by flying the first drone light show on Friday night showcasing a dazzling display of lights and creativity.
“We are thrilled to celebrate 50 years of the Corn Festival in North Ridgeville,” Gibbs says. “This milestone is a testament to our community’s spirit, and we invite everyone to join us for a weekend of fun, laughter and memories.”
Friday, August 8 | 6-11 p.m.
Saturday, August 9 | Noon-11 p.m.
Sunday, August 10 | Noon-6 p.m.
Free admission, entertainment and parking located on Bainbridge Road. The festival is between Route 83 and Root Road in North Ridgeville.
For more details on the schedule of events, visit nrcornfest.org.
