Who says summer fun has to end when the school year begins? Along the shores of Lake Erie, Lakeside keeps the good times going well into fall and winter, with festive weekends, family traditions and plenty of reasons to plan a getaway.
Just an hour from Cleveland on the Marblehead Peninsula, Lakeside offers a setting that makes slowing down easy. Stroll past hundreds of colorful Victorian cottages, grab a bite at a local restaurant, browse seasonal shops, catch a movie, or simply spend the day along the lake. Then, as the seasons change, Lakeside transforms with special events that bring families back year after year. Plus, there are no gate admission or parking fees until May!
Make a Weekend of It: Praise by the Lake | Sept. 12-13
Lakeside is turning up the volume this fall with Praise by the Lake, a brand-new, FREE two-day Christian music festival featuring nationally acclaimed artists Katy Nichole, David Leonard, Chris Byrd and Jabari Johnson.
Beyond the concerts and worship, the weekend is packed with ways to play. Take a dip in the pool, challenge the family to a game of mini golf, pickleball or tennis, cool off at the splash park, relax on the beach or let the kids burn off some energy at the playgrounds. There’s even a family movie to round out the weekend.
Thanks to generous donors and sponsors, the festival is free to attend. A free ticket is required for admission to concerts in Hoover Auditorium, with general admission seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve tickets and view details at lakesideohio.com/praise2026.
Fall Favorite: Lakeside-Marblehead Lighthouse Festival | Oct. 10
When autumn arrives, the Marblehead Peninsula comes alive for the 30th Annual Lakeside-Marblehead Lighthouse Festival. Held the second Saturday in October, this beloved fall tradition offers a full day of family fun, from browsing more than 100 arts and crafts vendors to taking a hayride or exploring the farmers’ market.
Kids can enjoy crafts and inflatables, while history buffs can tour the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse and Wolcott Keeper’s House. With fall colors, seasonal treats and activities around every corner, it’s an easy way to turn a crisp October day into a memorable family outing.
Make Spirits Bright: Lakeside Christmas | Dec. 4-5
Lakeside takes on a little extra sparkle during Lakeside Christmas, when twinkling lights, holiday music and festive traditions fill the community. Gather the family for the tree-lighting ceremony, watch a Christmas movie, visit Santa, enjoy a Community Christmas Dinner and get a head start on holiday shopping.
It’s the kind of weekend that invites you to slow down, make memories and embrace the magic of the season together.
Ring in 2027: New Year’s Eve Donut Drop | Dec. 31
Forget the ball drop. Lakeside rings in the new year with a giant inflatable donut. On New Year’s Eve, meet at the Lakeside Pavilion to watch the oversized sweet treat descend at midnight. Enjoy music, free donuts from The Patio Restaurant, hot chocolate and a blessing for the year ahead. It’s a quirky Lakeside tradition and a delicious way to welcome 2027.
Whether you’re looking for a fall day trip, a festive holiday weekend or a quick escape with the family, Lakeside offers plenty of reasons to come back after summer ends. Plan your visit, find lodging and explore upcoming events at lakesideohio.com/calendar.
