Summer - It's What I Live For

What have I been doing this summer? A lot since my last post.

Courtesy of Porch Fest website (www.larchmereporchfest.org)

Larchere Porch Fest

Summer Solstice began when I rode my bike to the Larchmere Porch Fest, now in its 6 year. I’ve always wanted to attend but there were so many other events that I just ran out of time. This year, I was determined to go. I am so glad that I did.

It was a perfect sunny day when I pulled out my mountain bike, checked the tires and continued on St. Clair Avenue heading towards Euclid Avenue. I usually ride through East Cleveland when I travel to the heights - eliminating heavy traffic. I am saddened, however, at the blighted buildings that were once iconic, beautiful structures where residents couldn’t wait to visit. As I ride through East Cleveland, I try to imagine what life was like a hundred years ago when I gaze upon the peeling paint, and wood in the window frames. The roads are littered with plastic pop bottles choking the drains. It takes restraint for me not to pick it up. I continue and try not to let the trash deter me from my destination. 

I ride along Terrace Road where there are many dilapidated homes; however, a truck is parked in a driveway along side a dumpster where repairs are under way. Moreover, I see a few individuals with trash buckets and bags clearing up the trash. Things are looking up even though it has been a slow process.

My commute is close to fifty minutes traveling through the back roads; Larchmere is bustling with cars, bikes and people carrying chairs to the various venues. Luckily I came prepared with a printed out map, a must have. The way the Porch Fest works is different bands are scheduled from 1 p.m until 8 p.m. through the streets north and south of Larchmere. The first band that I saw was a “blues” band north of Larchmere - people were dancing and tapping there feet. It’s very easy to get confused where all the streets are, hence the map. 

What I enjoyed most about the festival is the diversity: young and old walking (strollers in tow), biking or driving to the many different types of music all day long. It was very relaxing and enjoyable. Not knowing the system, I locked my bike and walked to the various streets. Each porch is sponsored: Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District sponsored “Jah Messengers” Roots Reggae that was fantastic. People were sitting on sidewalks and tree lawns taking in this local talent. http://www.csucauldron.com/news/view.php/320151/Local-Reggae-Band-Heats-Things-Up

I kept thinking, I should have gotten here earlier; what took me so long to finally attend this event. Quite frankly, I did not want to leave. 

The last band I listened to was: “Fever, Fever,” alternative folk rock from Columbus sponsored by Studio Graphique. They were fantastic. There were so many people around the house that you couldn’t help but tap your feet. Not only did each porch get sponsored but the home owner provided water and light refreshments. So cool!

I walked slowly to my bike trying to listen to as much music as I could. A few gentleman asked about the schedule, “When is the next band going to play?” I told them to get a map from the information booth and go from there. The music was all around, not necessarily on Larchmere. Moreover, the event was well organized with plenty of food and music genre for everyone to enjoy. For example, I biked to E.127 and listened to “Workmen’s Circle Klezmer Orchestra” Eastern European Klezmer Music - not my taste but it’s available. 

On my way home, I couldn’t stop thinking about this festival. Excellent! If you haven’t been to Larchmere, I highly recommend it. There is a wide variety of music that will peak anyone’s interest. 

CMA - Solstice Party

Next stop, The Cleveland Museum of Art Annual Solstice Party. All I can say is it was crowded. My understanding is the event sold out in just a few weeks. If you plan to attend next year, get your tickets early. 

As I do every year, I volunteered. What I enjoy most as a “wrist band” greeter volunteer is seeing the attendees first. You get a sneak peak into the various outfits and wild shoes from platforms to elegant straps. The most outrageous was orange shorts to the ordinary by wearing jeans. This is the best “people watching” venue.

I thought the music was fun; it was geared towards a “yoga” theme for the new Yoga exhibit. The Salar System band  had two dancers displaying their flexibility and fluidity. The music reflected their Afgan traditions by using unusual instruments and spirituality. It was good. Once the band finished, I bumped into a friend that didn’t care for the music. You’re going to have that but one thing is clear - it’s music that you probably won’t hear again. That’s what makes Solstice the event of the year - a unique array of music and diverse attendees. 

As an art themed event, there were these stacked balloons with faces on them that were being passed from person to person. It was amazing to see how the balloons stayed erect for as tall as they were. There is so much energy at this party that you can’t help but get swept away.

It was enjoyable and it was good to see a few people that I haven’t seen in a while but I hate to admit that I probably enjoyed the porch fest a bit more. 

Wade Oval Wednesdays

This event started on June 11 on a perfect, cool sunny evening. The band, “Coast2Coast,” where the crowd was energized by the music. There was a diverse crowd walking around excited that summer is finally here; others were standing in the long vendor lines, Gyros or wood fired pizza; relaxing on a blanket eating sausage and grilled peppers from Constantino’s Market; drinking wine and relaxing under a shaded tree. Whatever you feel like doing, it’s available at this low key event. 

Photo by Anna Chanakas

I sat in the back with my sister’s dog, Max, that was loving every minute of his first WOW experience. He sniffed some new smells especially the sausage and peppers at the blanket next to us. Young Kids appeared out of nowhere wanting to pet Max. “He’s so cute, they all said.”

I remember attending my first Wade Oval Wednesday several years ago to a small, but passionate music crowd; now hundreds show up for this weekly free music festival. Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S Band gets a huge following year after year. If you don’t get there by 5 p.m to claim a spot, you might be out of luck. 

Nothing to do in Cleveland? Well, I just described three events out of many going on this summer. This is why I adore summer, the many free events where you can just hang out and relax in a comfortable chair or blanket. Meet friends or sit under a tree and catch up on your reading. Summer in Cleveland has events for everyone. Enjoy!