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Festivals and Events

Festivals and Events in Erie

Mark your calendars and don’t miss any of Erie County’s most popular festivals, fairs, and events. Erie is known for its vibrant ethnic festivals, live music on the water, fairs with classic food and midway rides, and celebrations of all sizes that showcase the best of Erie, PA. 

Complete Calendar of Events 

Festivals and Events Ethnic

Ethnic Festivals

Erie offers a diverse melting pot of ethnic festivals each summer. Make time to stop at the Panegyri Greek Festival (July), AmeriMasala (July), St. Paul’s Italian Festival (August), Zabawa Polish Festival (August), German Heritage Festival (September), and St. Patrick’s Irish Festival (September). Each one showcases traditional items from their origin countries, live entertainment and of course delicious food! Pictured: AmeriMasala in July

Discover Presque Isle

Held annually during the last week of July, Discover Presque Isle celebrates Erie’s most treasured asset with dozens of family-friendly recreational and educational activities geared to draw attention to Presque Isle State Park’s diverse ecosystems and the importance of protecting its natural environment. A festival favorite is the popular sand sculpture competition on Beach 11.

Erie’s Blues & Jazz Festival

Known for its perfect blend of music, art and food, Erie’s Blues and Jazz Festival is one of the area’s most popular events. Each August the free, multi-day celebration of art and music highlights national, regional, local blues and jazz entertainment set in the beautiful outdoor, family-friendly setting of Frontier Park in the City of Erie. 

CelebrateErie

CelebrateErie is a three-day extravaganza taking place annually mid-August in Downtown Erie. It is designed to bring everyone together for a showcase of all things Erie. The event features nationally headlining artists on its mainstage as well as districts highlighting the best of Erie's food, arts, culture and business. CelebrateErie’s top attraction is the Chalkwalk, where more than 40 vibrant chalk murals done by local and regional artists span the length of a city block. Pictured: X Ambassadors performing at CelebrateErie 2022. Photo courtesy City of Erie. 

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Festivals and Events Wine Fest

WineFest

WineFest, like fine wine, improves each year with age! During the last full weekend of September, visitors can expect a wide selection of wine tastings, local arts vendors, grape stomping and live music in charming North East, Pennsylvania. Winery tours are also held during the event at various wineries throughout the region. Pictured, photo by Paul Gibbens.

Downtown Events

Regular, free events are hosted in downtown Erie year-round, celebrating the diverse culture and businesses that make Erie so unique. Some of the most popular events hosted by the Erie Downtown Partnership include the annual Erie Winter Carnival (February), summer concert series (Thursdays, July and August), Sunday farmers markets (June to September), Erie Downtown Fall Fest (October), and Downtown d'Lights (December). 

Tall Ships Erie

This four-day maritime celebration offers visitors the rare chance to climb aboard and explore a fleet of tall ships, set sail in a historic vessel, or enjoy many other festival highlights. Tall Ships is typically hosted in Erie every three years and will sail into port again in 2025. 

Partner Spotlight

mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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millcreek mall

Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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the cork

The Cork 1794

The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.

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When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Join us today! The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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dobbins landing

Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.

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Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!

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erie events spotlight

Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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CartHorse Spotlight 400 x 300

Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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