Now that classes have officially started and homework is beginning to pile up, it can be hard for Case Western Reserve University students to tear themselves away from academics—even if it’s a long weekend. But as we all tend to forget, studying for hours on end won’t do any good unless you take a break—or a couple, hopefully—and reset. Here are five events that will let you blow off some steam, and leave you refreshed and ready to face the week ahead.
UPBack to School Bash
When: Friday, Sept. 1 from 5:30-10 p.m.
Where: East Bell Commons
Enjoy local food, fun activities and performances by DJ Shaughn Gillihan and Nicky Youre all right here on campus. What could be a better way to kick off the start of the fall semester? Plus, admission is free!
Made in Ohio Art & Craft Festival
When: Sept. 1-3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Hale Farm & Village
If you’re willing to make the 45-minute drive, you’ll be able to shop around for jewelry, woodwork, pottery, lotion, soap, glassware, quilts and more all made by Ohio-based artisans. There will also be entertainment and local food including baked goods, kettle corn, sandwiches, salads and ice cream. Keep in mind that some vendors are cash only!
Admission is $12 for adults.
Cleveland Oktoberfest
When: Sept. 1 and 8 from 4 p.m. to midnight
Sept. 2, 3 and 9 from noon to midnight
Sept. 4 from noon to 8 p.m.
Where: Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds & Event Center
Even if you are unable to drink or beer isn’t really your thing, you can still pig out on goulash, pierogies, wienerschnitzel and all kinds of wursts at the Cleveland Oktoberfest. Be sure to watch the wiener dog races and beer stein-holding competitions while you do.
One-day general admission is $16.
Cleveland National Air Show
When: Sept. 2-4 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Burke Lakefront Airport
This air show, which is one of the oldest in the country, draws in over 100,000 spectators annually. Watch a 50-minute choreographed aerial showcase by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, which fly at speeds of up to 500 miles per hour. At times the planes are no more than three feet apart. Other demonstrations include the F-22 Raptors from the Air Force, the Harrier from the U.S. Marine Corps, the super Hornets from the U.S. Navy, the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team and Tom Larkin’s Mini Jet. When you’re not too busy looking up, you can also peruse aircraft demonstrations and aviation exhibits, and even meet some of the pilots.
Admission starts at $35 for adults.
Guardians Games
When: Sept. 1-3 vs. Rays (7:10 p.m., 6:10 p.m. and 4:10 p.m. respectively)
Sept. 4-6 vs. Twins (6:10 p.m. on Sept. 4-5 and 1:10 p.m. on Sept. 6)
Where: Progressive Field
As someone with no patience for sports, it might surprise you that I believe there is nothing more fun than going to a baseball game with your friends. Everything from the evening weather—warm but not hot—to the music, the mascots, the interactive games on the Jumbotron and the overpriced ballpark food is kitschy and perfect and entertainment at its finest. While you might have missed the chance to go with the University Program Board (UPB) to the Guardians game this Saturday, I encourage you to buy tickets to any of the six home games happening this week. The Guardians’ season is almost coming to a close, so go see them while you still can!
Tickets start at $10.
