Springtime in Cleveland is a thrill ride worthy of Cedar Point, masterfully orchestrated by Mother Nature herself. As winter's icy grip loosens, the city transforms into a playground of unbelievable flavors, once-in-a-lifetime events and hilarities that only Cleveland could offer.
From festivals and a total solar eclipse to an Opening Day that rivals the energy of a rock concert, there's no shortage of reasons to shake off those winter blues and embrace the quirky charm of springtime in The Land. So, grab your allergy meds, and get ready to laugh, dance and maybe even photobomb a cherry blossom selfie or two with this lineup of spring events that make CLE the place to be.
Once in a Lifetime
This year, Cleveland is the proud host city for the 2024 NCAA® Women’s Final Four®, and we’re gearing up to become The Land of buzzer-beaters, alley-oops and fadeaways as the best women’s collegiate basketball players descend on the city.
The NCAA® is also bringing a whole lineup of free events to keep the party going, from jamming out with award-winning rapper Latto to a festival packed with games, grub and limitless hoops hype. Don’t forget to stick around and layup for an extra night to catch the once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse on April 8 in Cleveland.
It's celestial showtime in Cleveland. The stars will align at 3:13 p.m. for an epic blackout, with totality lasting nearly four minutes. It's a spectacle you won't want to miss, so bring the whole crew (furry friends included) for an out-of-this-world experience. You'll have prime views over Lake Erie, acres of green spaces to sprawl out on and even some kid-friendly science shenanigans to keep the little ones entertained. And for the adults, fear not – there’s some grown-up fun in store, too.
All this time, we’ve been telling you that Cleveland is the center of the universe. Well, do you believe us now?
Festivals, Food and Films, Oh My
Polka 'til you drop at Dyngus Day, the Polish party that takes over Cleveland's west side. Picture this: polka tunes blasting, the beguiling aroma of pierogies and DJ Kishka pulling off the ultimate multitasking feat with a fake beard, spinning records and rocking the accordion all at once (seriously, how does he do it?). And if that's not enough to reel you in, how about a parade where a majestic pierogi float leads the way, followed by an army of marching accordionists? Oh, and did we mention there's beer? Yeah, Dyngus Day is basically a Polish party paradise.
You can soak up the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown right here in The Land at the acclaimed Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF). The festival is a cinematic experience featuring documentaries that'll make you ponder, short films that tickle funny bones and foreign flicks that'll transport you around the globe faster than you can say "action.” With enough films to keep you glued to your seat for 12+ hours a day, you might as well call in "cinematic" to work for a week and join the fun.
Who needs rockstar tantrums when you can have a harmonious blend of global rhythms right here in Cleveland? Step away from the smashed guitars and visit the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival, the biggest Indian classical music festival outside India. With nearly 10,000 attendees last year, get ready for captivating music from various instruments you’ve probably never seen (or heard) and dozens of performers, including vocalists and orchestral groups. Plus, catch the Bharatanatyam dancers in their dazzling saris—because who needs pyrotechnics when you've got sequins?
Just a stone’s throw from Downtown Cleveland lies AsiaTown, where the annual Cleveland Asian Festival transforms the neighborhood into a bustling hub where you can experience an array of mouthwatering dishes like Bahn mi and pho. If you’re the type to enjoy dinner and a show, there are plenty of martial arts demonstrations, belly dancers and other live performances to enjoy. For those feeling bold, challenge your friends in sumo wrestling or challenge your stomach in sushi and eggroll eating contests. Just remember, victory comes with a side of epic bragging rights.
Berea's National Rib Cook-Off: where pitmasters battle for barbecue glory and your taste buds do the happy dance. It's like the Olympics of ribs, with contenders slathering on sauce and smoky flavor like it's their job — because, well, it is. Between bites of tender meat, you can burn off calories (or not), grooving to local bands covering everything from country to rock, enjoy deep-fried desserts and let your little ones loose in the appropriately named kids' zone. It's a Memorial Day weekend tradition: part barbecue showdown, part family circus and all-around delicious fun.
Get ready to jam into summer with the 8th edition of Reggae Fest Cleveland. This year, they’re doubling the fun with two days of reggae so good you'll be skanking all the way to the food trucks. They've got everything from high-energy beats to those rootsy jams that make you feel like you're on island time. And hey, with those Downtown Cleveland views, even if you forget the lyrics, you'll know every little thing will be alright.
Thrills and Frills
Who knew Mother Nature was into pink? In The Land, spring rolls in with all the floral flair, from Daffodil Hill's vibrant blooms at Lake View Cemetery to Wade Oval's cherry blossoms, adding a touch of whimsy to University Circle. Keep up with the blooms using University Circle's Spring Blooms Tracker for a spring adventure. And while you're at it, check out other floral hotspots around the city—because who doesn't love a good flower power tour?
With a fanbase as loyal as the Browns (it’s been a journey, folks), it's no surprise the Dawg Pound is considered diehard. The Pro Football Hall of Fame's latest exhibit, “A Legacy Unleashed,” highlights the history of the Browns, from championship victories to the legendary antics of the “Kardiac Kids.” And as if that's not thrilling enough, hold onto your helmets because several Browns Hall of Famers and team Legends are revving up to make appearances every weekend. We’re hoping for Brownie the Elf.
Opening day promises a double dose of excitement in Cleveland. It's not just the Guardians' first home game of the season but also a total solar eclipse. Start with the cosmic show, cheer on the Guardians against the Chicago White Sox and cap it off with hot dogs and ice-cold beer. Don’t miss this opportunity for cosmic and ballpark wonders served with a side of mustard and foam.
FAN EXPO attracts cape-wearers and pointy-eared enthusiasts from all over — and all walks of life — to come together to celebrate the best of the best pop culture with costumes, meet-and-greets and plenty of great merch. Even if you’re not into that sort of thing, the people-watching is top-notch. And hey, while you're here, why not channel your inner Iron Man in Downtown Cleveland, where they filmed “Marvel’s The Avengers”? Just make sure you don't get stuck in any web-slinging or Hulk-smashing mishaps—we're not sure insurance covers that.
Start your engines and grab your sunscreen because Cedar Point opens in May. Whether you’re a daredevil ready to tackle rides or a fry enthusiast searching for the perfect fresh-cut spuds, Cedar Point has something to roll anyone’s coaster. Hold onto your hats (and maybe your lunch), because they’re unveiling the all-new, record-breaking Top Thrill 2™ triple-launch strata coaster this season. Apparently, one or two launches just isn’t enough anymore.
Celebrating its 47th year, the Cleveland Marathon invites runners of all abilities to participate in the full, half, 10k or 5k races, supporting charity all along the way. Seasoned runner or not, this event will surely entertain with all the bright colors, laughs and seriously short shorts. So, whether you're pounding the pavement or cheering from the sidelines, join in on the fun and show off your Cleveland spirit.