Put-in-Bay’s Historic Weekend Parade returns this Saturday, bringing marching bands, antique vehicles, re-enactors, and community spirit to the island’s streets. The parade begins at 2 p.m. from Put-in-Bay School, traveling down Catawba Avenue, turning right onto Delaware, and concluding at Toledo and Bayview Avenue.
A Full Afternoon of Performances
Before the parade, visitors are encouraged to gather in DeRivera Park from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. for an hour of special marching band performances. Anthony Wayne, Clyde, Paulding, and Eastwood High School bands will each perform a 10–15 minute set near the carved DeRivera statue. The showcase will conclude with all four bands uniting for a stirring three-song patriotic finale.
Parade Participants
This year’s Grand Marshall is Mayor Judy Berry, who will ride in Phil and Debbie Hahn’s classic Model A. Parade highlights include:
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Color Guard and re-enactors
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Long Boat display
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Anthony Wayne, Clyde, Paulding, and Eastwood High School Marching Bands
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Put-in-Bay Panther Twirlers & Kylie & Co. Twirling Club
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Put-in-Bay sports team players
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Antique cars of Put-in-Bay, including the beloved “candy Jeep”
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Antique and PIB FD fire trucks
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Broncos on the Bay – more than 60 Broncos joining the lineup
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Ohioans Home Health Care car
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Boy Scout Troop 175 from North Ridgeville
Community Support
The Miller Ferry, Island Transportation, Put-in-Bay School, and Village Town Hall all generously provided services to support the visiting marching bands. Local businesses have also donated food and water for participants.
A Day Full of Island Tradition
The parade coincides with Art in the Park, which takes place all day in DeRivera Park, showcasing local and regional artists. Together, the events offer visitors a chance to experience both the island’s rich history and vibrant arts community.
As part of Historic Weekend, the Patriots Symphonic Band will perform a free concert following the afternoon’s ceremonies at the National Park Visitors Center. Additional events include artillery demonstrations, fife and drum performances, and a ceremony commemorating the Battle of Lake Erie. Click here to learn more.
With music, history, art, and community spirit, Saturday promises to be one of Put-in-Bay’s most memorable days of the season.