Cultures, Arts, Festivals, And Events Of Erie (CAFE)

CAFE seeks to bring the City of Erie's vision to life through fun, engaging events that celebrate our diverse cultures and welcoming, vibrant neighborhoods. Two of our largest events are CelebrateErie and Lights Over Lake Erie. CelebrateErie is the cumulative annual summer event in Erie, showcasing 3 days of local art, culture, food, business, and family programming in August. Nearly 200,000 attendees visit CelebrateErie each year to see local and regional musical acts of all genres, followed by national headlining acts, purchase wares and cuisine from local businesses, and enjoy the Chalkwalk where local artists come together to color State Street alive with more than 40 vibrant chalk murals the length of a city block. Lights Over Lake Erie brings thousands of people together to celebrate Independence Day with their neighbors. CAFE believes it’s togetherness that improves Erie’s quality of life. Both CelebrateErie and Lights Over Lake Erie are universally designed for all of Erie’s diverse communities and invite people from across the county to participate, regardless of their beliefs, identity, ethnicity or socioeconomic status. CAFE aims to promote a proud community of empowered neighbors. Both events are free of charge.