White Spider Night Caps Off Labor Day at Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay marked Labor Day on Monday with an island tradition, live music and a brief visit from some of the world’s top strength athletes.

A large crowd gathered near the Lime Kiln Dock Monday evening for White Spider Night, the island’s traditional farewell to the busiest stretch of the summer season.

Ray Fogg, Bob Gatewood, Pat Shepard, Reese Dailey, the Travelin’ Johnsons and other island musicians performed during the annual gathering as visitors and island residents filled the dock and surrounding hillside.

White Spider Night traces its name to an old Put-in-Bay tradition in which remaining clear liquors were mixed together at the end of the summer to create a potent drink known as the White Spider. Those who felt its effects the following morning were said to have been “bitten by the White Spider.”

While the drink inspired its name, White Spider Night has evolved into a community gathering centered around music, friendship and the departure of the final Miller Ferry of the holiday weekend.

Strongman Athletes Visit Put-in-Bay

Earlier Monday, competitors from Strongman Champions League USA made a brief appearance at Miller Marina.

The athletes introduced themselves and participated in a short, informal demonstration featuring one of the marina’s large anchors. Visitors were also given an opportunity to test their own strength as the competitors offered encouragement.

The appearance followed two days of international strongman competition in the Shores & Islands Ohio region. The first day was held Saturday at Erie-Ottawa International Airport in Port Clinton, followed by the second day Sunday in downtown Sandusky. The competition featured professional athletes from countries around the world.

The low-key marina visit added an unexpected attraction to an already busy Labor Day on the island.

Although Labor Day traditionally marks the end of Put-in-Bay’s peak summer season, several major events are still ahead, including Historic Weekend, the Put-in-Bay Sports Car Races, Big Day at the Bay and Oktoberfest.