What is Sweetest Day?

Sweetest Day. You’ve heard of it. You're not quite sure what it is. And you’re probably feeling a little sketchy about buying into what many would describe as a "greeting card holiday."

Hear us out, though. This special day got its start here in Cleveland. Plus, this is 2020; we could all use a little more love in our lives right about now.

Legend Has It

Legend has it that back in 1921, a group of Cleveland-area candy makers got together to share ways they could bring happiness to the city’s less fortunate. So, they distributed candy and chocolates to the sick, elderly and orphaned on what they lauded as “Sweetest Day.” The day became popular year-after-year and later took off when companies — like Cleveland-based American Greetings — spread the concept nationally. Here are some ways to celebrate ...

The Sweetest of Sweets

From rich, smooth ice cream at Mitchell’s Ice Cream to gourmet chocolates at Campbell’s Sweets Factory, nary a romantic holiday doesn’t involve a ridiculous amount of sugar. (You won't hear us complaining.) If ice cream is more your jam, check out these CLEAN COMMITTED options for the tasty stuff.

Get Cultured

Grab a bagged lunch, have a picnic at Wade Oval and then take in the awesomeness of University Circle (buy tickets in advance). Scope the last few weeks of “PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet,” an exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art centered around a collection of contact sheets from photographers during the second half of the 20th century. Or, trace the story of women’s empowerment in the “Women in Politics” exhibit at the Cleveland History Center.

Leaf Peeping

If there’s anything truly worth peeping this fall, it’s the leaves. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, The Land experiences peak fall foliage colors between early- and mid-October. So take a trek through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park, take your pick of trails within the Cleveland Metroparks, stroll among the gardens at the Cleveland Botanical Garden or get a breathtaking view at Holden Arboretum.

Beer Me, Babe

For many of us – especially in Cleveland – Cupid’s arrow doesn’t come from a satchel, but rather a growler he wears strapped to his back. If the way to your heart is through a frosty craft beer, pick up some cold ones or grab patio seating at places like Platform, Collision Bend Brewing Company, Market Garden Brewery or these CLEAN COMMITTED brewery partners.

TIP: Be sure to check individual websites for the most up-to-date hours of operation. View a complete collection of all CLEAN COMMITTED partners.