Brite Winter 2017 plans to give visitors a unique February weekend -- the socialization and sounds of a summer music festival amidst the sights and shenanigans of a winter wonderland.
A Cleveland exclusive taking place on February 18, Brite Winter is now in its eighth year, and gives attendees a day-long festival of up-and-coming musicians, local food trucks, craft beer and bonfires. 2016 was a record-breaker for the festival, with more than 20,000 attendees and 37 performances across six stages. This year's event keeps the momentum going, and encourages those new to Cleveland to dive in to the festivities.
"Brite Winter is all about having fun," Brite Cleveland Executive Director Brian Horsburgh says. "Giving people a chance to experience the art, music, fire, and beer--it's an experience that is hard to describe in words."
That indescribable quality is what separates Brite Winter from all other art festivals in the country. The festival is back on the West Bank of the Flats this year as a way to return to its roots and highlight a unique area of Cleveland, he says.
This year promises to be even bigger and better. Event organizers are more than doubling the size of their heated tents to be a whopping 6,000 square feet each. These unique tents feature art displays and music showcasing a wide variety of styles and perspectives. Additionally, the event will now have a music and interactive art show inside Mulburry's sports facility, thanks to a partnership with DayGlo.
There also will be six stages to accommodate Brite Winter's extensive musical lineup: two outdoor, and four inside, located in McCarthy's, Harbor Inn, and two at Music Box Supper Club.
And when you are back outside, there's nothing like physical activity to keep you warm in the chilly weather. As in years past, there will be games and fun for all ages, like super-sized skeeball (played with soccer balls) and--in honor of local boy Drew Carey's daily stint on "The Price Is Right"--Plinko!
This year also will feature tons of chow from local restaurants, as well as popular food trucks.
Fun, friendliness, and enthusiasm for the arts despite harsh weather is a trademark of Cleveland culture, Horsburgh says. "This is a unique destination for people all around the country."
Brite Winter is set for Saturday, February 18 on the West Bank of the Flats. For more information, click here.