Summer Fun Guide — Events Happening on Lake Erie in May and June

POINT PELEE FESTIVAL OF BIRDS | Pelee Island, Ontario | May 1-19
In French, it’s Festival de la Plume. On Pelee, the language is birding during its annual festival, where a guided hike promises prime spottings. Enroll in a 100 Species Challenge, count the ones you see by sound or sight, and win a commemorative yellow warbler pin. No cheating. But with more than 370 species flying over the Canadian island, the odds are in your favor. festivalofbirds.ca 

BIGGEST WEEK IN AMERICAN BIRDING | Oak Harbor, Ohio | May 9-18
Birders from every state, 50 countries and six continents show up at Oak Harbor because the Black Swamp Bird Observatory on the Magee Marsh of Sandusky Bay is a global observation point for rare birds. But it’s more than ticking off found species from a bucket list. “Our focus is on connection with people, with birds and creating a community and vibe — joyfulness that helps people fall in love with birds and find a common ground,” says Kimberly Kaufman, executive director. 

Never been birding? “It’s a treasure hunt every time you go outside,” Kaufman says. It’s also accessible. “No matter your ability, you can share in listening and seeing different birds.” Keep an eye out — Kirtland’s Warbler is a rare bird you may see at this top birding festival. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

EDINBORO ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL | Edinboro, Pa. | May 16-18
This grassroots celebration of Appalachian culture embraces Erie County character by gathering a variety of artists, educators, dancers and musicians for a jamboree-festival mashup. Cue up the barn dancing, streetside strumming, stage acts and sing-alongs for the kids. Hands-on arts tents include DIY workshops (kids, make a drum). Check out the gallery and artist demos. Plenty of local spots to check out, too — Crossroads Dinor, Sunset Grill or The Empty Keg. edinboroartandmusic.com

FESTIVAL OF THE FISH | Vermilion, Ohio | June 13-15
Break out the Aqua Net hairspray, sport anything neon-colored — leg warmers optional since it’s summer, after all. Fishing in the ’80s, Mullet Mania is this year’s festival theme and the gnarly lineup includes a Journey tribute band, fireworks and a Father’s Day parade. Set sail in a Crazy Craft Regatta and deck out your vessel for the Lighted Boat Parade. Mullet contest, anyone? vermilionohio.com/festival-of-the-fish 

SMOKEY ROBINSON CRUISIN’ GETAWAY | Chautauqua, N.Y. | June 19
New this year, the Chautauqua Institution is stretching its chart-topping concert series beyond the traditional nine-week summer assembly into the shoulder seasons with Smokey Robinson in June and Bonnie Raitt in September. Swoon along with the soulful tenor whose Motown and R&B repertoire includes epic hits like “My Girl” and “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me.” Arrive early, dine at Heirloom Restaurant, stay the night and nosh on a hot breakfast with the Smokey Robinson Cruisin’ Getaway package, starting at $327 per couple for lodging and meals. (Concert tickets sold separately.) chq.org

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