Outdoor fun is back in the City of Mentor
By Mimi Vanderhaven
The City of Mentor has just announced its summer lineup of events—and hold onto your socks, it’s a doozie!
From rock concerts to beach festivals, family outdoor movie nights, comedy shows and downtown festivals, there are more than 50 fun-filled events on tap.
According to Ante Logarusic, community relations administrator for the city, they have beefed up their Mentor Rocks concert series, expanding it to 14 weeks, and added two national groups to the impressive list of tribute bands. The ‘90s alt-rock band Cracker performs Tuesday, June 29, and the legendary Lita Ford, formerly of the Runaways, takes the stage on Tuesday, July 20. The concerts run on Tuesdays, June through August, at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater. Check out MentorRocks.info for the complete schedule.
“For many young fans, the Amp has been their first concert experience,” he says. “Music lovers, families and friends find it’s the perfect way to spend a Tuesday evening. People can grab a blanket or chair and enjoy eclectic fare from 10-12 food trucks. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.”
Of course, the Fourth of July is always a highlight of summer. This year, the city welcomes country music star Darryl Worley to the amphitheater stage at 8 p.m., followed by a fabulous fireworks display.
Another event that’s making a glorious comeback this year is the Headlands Beach Fest, on Saturday, July 17.
This day-long event celebrates everything beachy, where the arts meet the wind, water and sand. Ante reports they will welcome some of the most talented sand sculptors in the country as part of the Ohio Master Sand Sculpting Competition. Attendees will also enjoy kite-flying contests, games and crafts. The activities are offered from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The spectacular summer winds down on Friday and Saturday, August 20 and 21, with CityFest, which will include a parade, two headlining tribute acts—Who’s Bad (Michael Jackson) and Sweet Baby James (James Taylor). Don’t miss city fair food, a color run and inflatables.
For a full listing of events and locations, visit CityOfMentor.com/events, or call 440-255-1100.