Burning River Fest celebrates 'green city on a blue lake'
Published: Jul 30, 2009
In 1969, when the polluted waters of the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland caught fire, the world watched as this great industrial city became the epicenter for ecological reform. Flammable industrial waste that had for years found its way into the once-beautiful river had ignited when a glob of molten steel a local steel mill splashed into the water.
Shaken by the catastrophe, Cleveland's leaders initiated pollution reforms that would touch all corners of the country. As a result of the infamous river fire, Cleveland now boasts a clean and thriving Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie, and celebrates this ongoing-achievement with the annual Burning River Fest on Whiskey Island.
Sponsored by the Great Lakes Brewing Company, the festival is named after the company's best-selling beer, Burning River Ale. The all-day event offers fun and education, providing food, games and events designed to show what's needed to keep Cleveland a “green city on a blue lake.”
With the 40th anniversary of the infamous river fire this year, Burning River Fest has a line-up of festivities and events that commemorate Cleveland's catastrophic event and celebrate the progress that has been and is currently being made all along the Northern coast. Live music from “The Waterband” and a national press conference kick off the event by highlighting the progress and plans of this green city.
The Aug. 15 event will include music by local bands, eco-activities, demonstrations on earth-friendly products from local vendors, and of course, lots of local food.
For a listing of events and local food vendors, visit the Burning River Fest website.
Tickets are $15 each in advance, $20 day-of.
- by LeeAnn Mullen, Cleveland Reporter for HelloMetro
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