Monarch Fest and Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Bring Fun to Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay is ready for a double dose of celebration this Saturday, September 13, as two unique events fill the island with energy, color, and community spirit.
Second Annual Monarch Festival
The spotlight is on the Second Annual Put-in-Bay Monarch Festival, happening from 11 AM to 2 PM at Duggan’s Field, next to the South Bass Island Lighthouse. With a suggested $10 donation, families can enjoy a day of fun while supporting the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center.
Festival highlights include:
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Monarch tagging (nets provided!) and a painted lady butterfly release at noon
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Butterfly-themed crafts, face painting, and races (with wings provided)
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Music, games, bounce house, and prizes
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Hotdogs, cotton candy, and snow cones
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Educational booths from regional nature groups
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Tours of the South Bass Island Lighthouse offered by OSU Stone Lab
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Two exciting raffles: a brand-new inflatable paddle board with seat & accessories, and a 50/50 raffle to support the cause
The festival combines education, family fun, and conservation awareness, making it one of Put-in-Bay’s most family-friendly events of the season.
Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day
Meanwhile, Hooligans Irish Pub invites everyone to “go green” for Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day. Festivities kick off at 10 AM, with Irish food specials, green beer, and all-day live music. At 2 PM, the island’s Golf Cart Parade steps off, featuring decorated carts, a chance to win $150 for Best Decorated Cart, and a performance by the Cleveland Pipe Band.
Whether you’re here to celebrate butterflies, Irish spirit, or both, Put-in-Bay has something for everyone this weekend.
