Put-in-Bay | September 11-12

If you love great summer weather and good times, and you’re also a history buff, this is the Put-in-Bay Ohio weekend for you. Put-in-Bay Historical Weekend is a grand occasion where the island remembers its incredible place in American history with reenactments, live entertainment, and art. It’s an excellent opportunity to have fun, learn, and enjoy Put-in-Bay for a weekend.

The Battle of Lake Erie
The War of 1812 was not going particularly well for the fledgling nation of America prior to September 10, 1813. The British mounted many successful campaigns against America in 1812, including the Siege of Detroit, which led to Detroit being surrendered to the British. One of the big reasons Britain had so much success in their campaigns in the area was their control of Lake Erie. Control would be wrestled away, however, on that fateful day. Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry commanded a fleet of 9 United States Navy vessels as they captured the 6 vessel fleet the British Royal Navy had positioned in Lake Erie. This victory allowed America to control Lake Erie for the remainder of the war. American forces reclaimed Detroit within days of this victory. The war continued for another two years. However, the Battle of Lake Erie is what placed America back on equal footing. It was the major turning point in the conflict, and it all happened at Put-in-Bay Ohio.

Put-in-Bay Historical Weekend
Some of the events of this fantastic weekend include a military encampment in the style of the War of 1812. This will be located all weekend at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. A visit to the monument is of course also a great way, perhaps the best way, to learn more about the Battle of Lake Erie. There will also be over 1,000 Boy Scouts camping at the Memorial on the east lawn for their camporee event. They will learn about the history of the Battle of Lake Erie during their stay.

Art in the Park
Art In The Park is an excellent event during the Put-in-Bay Historical Weekend. DeRivera Park welcomes dozens of artisans and craftspeople to share their love of art with the community. You can come to the park and just enjoy their work and exhibits. There will also be works available for purchase that can act as the perfect souvenir to take home with you, either for yourself or as a gift for the family. Art In The Park will also feature a silent auction. Beautiful pieces of island artwork will be available in this auction, which benefits the Put-in-Bay Arts Council. It’s a great way to get an awesome Put-in-Bay souvenir while also supporting a cause worth supporting.

The best part of Art In The Park, however, may be the live demonstrations. Bring the whole family and learn how to perform different types of art in hands-on demonstrations by island artists. A full event schedule will be available closer to the event. It will run from 10 AM to 5 PM in beautiful DeRivera Park right in the heart of downtown Put-in-Bay. Admission is free, and you can come and go as you please to enjoy the great shopping and many fantastic restaurants across the street in downtown Put-in-Bay!

Don’t forget that Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is open all summer. So if you can’t make it for the Put-in-Bay Historical Weekend, you can still come and learn about this fascinating piece of naval history!