The Ultimate 2025 Guide To Chagrin Falls Blossom Time: Dates, Rides, And The Jaw-Dropping Hot Air Balloon Glow
Planning your Memorial Day Weekend trip to Northeast Ohio just got easier. The Chagrin Falls Blossom Time Festival, a cherished tradition marking the start of summer, is set to return for its annual four-day spectacular in 2025. This article provides the most current, projected dates and a deep dive into the must-see events, from the thrilling carnival rides in Riverside Park to the iconic Hot Air Balloon Glow.
As of late 2025, while the official, minute-by-minute schedule is typically finalized closer to the event, the festival's timing is a reliable tradition. Organized entirely by the dedicated Chagrin Valley Jaycees, this event has been a regional highlight since 1956, promising a unique blend of community spirit, exhilarating entertainment, and classic Americana that draws thousands to the picturesque village of Chagrin Falls.
Projected 2025 Blossom Time Festival Dates and Core Events
The Blossom Time Festival consistently takes place over the United States' Memorial Day Weekend. With Memorial Day falling on Monday, May 26, 2025, the four-day festival will run from Thursday through Sunday.
Projected Chagrin Falls Blossom Time 2025 Dates:
- Thursday, May 22, 2025
- Friday, May 23, 2025
- Saturday, May 24, 2025
- Sunday, May 25, 2025
The Chagrin Valley Jaycees have been the driving force behind this event since its inception in 1956, using the proceeds to fund local projects and scholarships. The festival is a whirlwind of activities, but three core events define the weekend experience: the Carnival, the Run, and the Parade.
The Thrills of the Riverside Park Carnival
The heart of the action for many attendees is the carnival, set up in the scenic Riverside Park, right along the Chagrin River. The carnival officially kicks off on Thursday evening with "Chagrin Valley Family Night," offering a more relaxed atmosphere for the community.
The midway is filled with classic amusement park excitement, and for 2025, you can expect the return of popular, stomach-dropping rides that have become festival staples. Purchasing a ride bracelet, which offers unlimited rides for a set time, is the most cost-effective way to enjoy the full range of attractions.
Must-Ride Attractions (Based on Past Events):
- The Ferris Wheel: Offering breathtaking views of the Chagrin Falls village and surrounding Chagrin Valley.
- Shock Drop / Vertigo: For the ultimate thrill-seekers looking for a free-fall or high-spinning experience.
- Cliff Hanger / Twister: Classic spinning and swinging rides that define the carnival atmosphere.
- Kiddie Rides: A dedicated section ensures that younger children have plenty of options for safe, age-appropriate fun.
Beyond the rides, the carnival area is also the primary hub for the vast array of food vendors, offering everything from classic festival fare to local Northeast Ohio favorites.
The Blossom Time Run and Iconic Sunday Parade
Sunday is arguably the biggest day of the entire festival, featuring both a major athletic event and the grand community spectacle. This day is a perfect example of how the Blossom Time Festival blends fitness, tradition, and celebration.
The Annual Blossom Time Run
The festival’s athletic centerpiece is the annual Blossom Time Run, which is already scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025. This event typically offers multiple distances, including a 5.25-mile race and a 2.75-mile run/walk, drawing serious runners and casual participants from across the Cleveland area and beyond. The run is a key fundraiser for the Chagrin Valley Jaycees and is a crucial part of the Memorial Day Weekend tradition.
The awards ceremony for the Run is usually held later in the morning at Triangle Park, a central and picturesque location in the village.
The Grand Blossom Time Parade
Following the morning run, the focus shifts to the streets for the spectacular Blossom Time Parade. Generally held in the early afternoon on Sunday, the parade features an impressive lineup of marching bands, local organizations, community leaders, and elaborate floats.
A major highlight of the parade is the appearance of the newly crowned Blossom Time Queen, who is selected in a pageant ceremony that often takes place earlier in the weekend. The parade route winds through the village, culminating in a massive community gathering that showcases the small-town charm of Chagrin Falls.
Don't Miss the Hot Air Balloon Glow and Other Entities
While the rides and parade are massive draws, the Blossom Time Festival is also known for two other spectacular events that add a unique flair to the weekend: the Hot Air Balloon Glow and the live entertainment schedule.
The Heinen's Hot Air Balloon Glow
The Hot Air Balloon Glow is arguably the most visually stunning event of the entire festival. This event typically takes place on Saturday evening behind Chagrin Falls High School on East Washington Street.
As dusk settles, numerous hot air balloons are inflated and illuminated, creating a breathtaking, massive display of glowing colors against the night sky. The sight is magical and provides an incredible photo opportunity. It’s an essential experience that captures the essence of a spring festival in Northeast Ohio.
Live Music and Entertainment Schedule
Throughout the four days, the festival features a continuous schedule of live music and entertainment on a main stage, often located near the carnival. While the specific bands for 2025 will be announced closer to May, you can expect a variety of local and regional acts covering genres from rock and country to pop and jazz.
The Opening Ceremony, which often includes the introduction of the Blossom Time Queen candidates and a welcome from the Chagrin Valley Jaycees, is typically held on Thursday evening, officially kicking off the summer season.
Essential Entities to Know for Your 2025 Visit:
- Chagrin Valley Jaycees (The Organizers)
- Riverside Park (Carnival Location)
- Triangle Park (Run Awards Location)
- Chagrin Falls High School (Balloon Glow Location)
- Memorial Day Weekend (The Timing)
- Blossom Time Run (Sunday Race)
- Blossom Time Parade (Sunday Afternoon)
- Blossom Time Queen (Pageant Tradition)
- Heinen's (Sponsor of the Balloon Glow)
- Bates Brothers Amusements (Typical Carnival Provider)
- Chagrin Valley Family Night (Thursday Kickoff)
- Ride Bracelets (All-Day Passes)
- Food Vendors (Festival Cuisine)
- Northeast Ohio (The Region)
To ensure you have the most accurate information, especially for specific concert times and parade routes, always check the official Chagrin Valley Jaycees website or social media channels in the spring of 2025. The Blossom Time Festival is a can’t-miss event that perfectly captures the spirit of a vibrant American small town welcoming the summer.
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