Here’s how the City of Mentor does summer

By Mimi Vanderhaven

From rockin’ concerts to family fests, beach parties and beer and wine events, the City of Mentor has you covered for a summer of fun.

Kicking off the first Tuesday in June through the last Tuesday in August, the city, along with Lake Health, sponsors the free weekly Mentor Rocks concerts at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater.

“These enjoyable evenings beckon you to grab a blanket or chair and listen to music from a variety of bands,” says Ante Logarusic, community relations administrator for the city. “We bring in some terrific food trucks, so the feeling is like a festival.”

Last year, crowds of up to 7,000 people came out. On the docket for the 13 weeks this year are bands paying tribute to a wide variety of music, from AC/DC to the Eagles, U2, Queen, Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones. Concerts run from 7 to 9 p.m. Check MentorRocks.info for a complete listing.

And the day after the official first day of summer, Saturday, June 22, don’t miss Mentor On Tap and Uncorked, a Craft Brew and Wine Experience, from 5 to 11 p.m., at Mentor Civic Center Park. Stroll amongst more than 30 local brewers and vintners and nosh from a bevy of the area’s most popular food trucks, all while listening to great live music. Tickets are $35 online, $45 at the door, and include a tasting glass and 10 tasting tickets.

When the summer hits its peak on Saturday, July 20, beach-lovers won’t want to miss the Headlands BeachFest, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The day will include fun hands-on pursuits like kite-flying and sand castle contests, in addition to a shopping area with beach-themed items.

“A highlight of the BeachFest will be the appearance of three nationally known sand sculptors, who will compete for top honors, voted on by attendees,” says Ante.

And rounding out the summer of fun, put City Fest on your must-do list, Friday and Saturday, August 23 and 24, at Mentor Civic Center Park. Younger kids will have a ball on inflatables, and bigger kiddos can sail down zip lines and plot their exit strategy in escape rooms, as well as enjoy music, food trucks and tented stands.

For a full listing of events and locations, visit CityofMentor.com/events, or call 440-255-1100.