September is shaping up to be a festive month in Cleveland, with events celebrating innovation, local urban agriculture and the arts. Whether you’re a new student at Case Western Reserve University or a lifelong resident, these events are a great way to gain a deeper appreciation of the nuances of our city.
Want some more options? Visit the Destination Cleveland website for ideas.
Fresh Fest Cleveland
Sept. 14
Now in its fifth year, Fresh Fest Cleveland puts a spotlight on urban agriculture and fresh and local food in a setting designed to break down barriers. The event is hosted at one of Cleveland’s largest urban farms, Rid-All Farm, which stands on revitalized land in the Kinsman neighborhood.
In keeping with the event’s mission, there will be a farmer’s market and chef’s tastings, alongside live music, vendor booths, kid-friendly activities and more.
Rapper Big Daddy Kane will headline the festival, with other performances by local artists.
The event also will have a focus on health and wellness, including a 3v3 basketball tournament with cash prizes for winners.
The festival will be held Sept. 14 from 1 to 9 p.m. at Rid-All Farm and Otter Park. It is free, but advance registration is recommended. Free parking and shuttle service will be available at Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority.
Get your tickets for the event.
Waterloo Arts Fest
Sept. 14
Creativity is at the heart of Cleveland’s Waterloo Arts and Entertainment District. The annual Waterloo Arts Fest puts it on display in a day-long event celebrating the neighborhood’s eclectic nature.
In addition to stopping in to check out one of the neighborhood’s fine arts galleries, guests can meet more than 90 artisans whose work will be on sale at booths during the festival. Even those who don’t consider themselves to be artists will be inspired to create something during demonstrations and other activities. There also will be areas for children to play.
Live music is an integral component of the festival, with more than 40 local bands performing across seven stages throughout the day.
The festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, from 1 to 7 p.m. It is free to attend. Parking and shuttle service will be available at Jergens Inc. parking lot.
Get more details about the festival.
Ingenuity Fest
Sept. 27–29
Innovators, thinkers and makers will come together for the awe-inspiring Ingenuity Fest Sept. 27–29 at the recently expanded IngenuityLab in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood. Now in its 20th year, Ingenuity Fest is designed to inspire creativity and innovation. This year’s event, themed “Era of Ascent,” will feature immersive displays that explore flight from historical, scientific, artistic and technological lenses.
Entertainment will include live music from a wide range of genres and dance, comedy and spoken-word performances. Guests of all ages also will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities, and artists and other vendors will share their work and services with attendees.
General admission tickets are on sale for $15. Street parking is available in the area, and there will be a paid lot charging $5.