Geauga County, Ohio, is full of events for the whole family. It is a historical region located 30 miles outside of Cleveland in the northeastern part of the state. The area was founded in 1806 and was named for the Native American word for "raccoon." A number of activities are available year-round.
The Geauga Park District offers a wide range of activities in its 20 parks, including fishing, camping, boating and picnicking. Hiking is another favorite activity, and there are many miles to hike. The parks hold hiking contests to those who register and even hold competitive trail runs. When winter renders the lakes too cold to swim and trails too icy to bike, visitors can ski or sled down the area's snow-covered slopes.
Maple sugaring is the harvesting of maple syrup from local maple trees, and it's a major activity in this area. The collection of sap usually takes place in March but is celebrated for months afterward. You and your family can take a tour and see how maple syrup is made. You can even try maple sugaring yourself at one of the do-it-yourself events offered throughout Geauga County. Afterward, you can find a pancake house and sample some of the locally made syrup yourself. If you miss the sap harvest, you can attend the Geauga Maple Festival a few weeks later. The festival has a maple syrup contest, parades, games, food, prizes and a bathtub race. The family can also enjoy rides and spectate competing lumberjacks.
Geauga County is home to the world's fourth-largest Amish settlement. The Amish are a group of friendly, strict Mennonites who live without modern luxuries such as electricity. They are self-sufficient and live off their land while participating in local trades for a living. Such trades include baking, leather working and gardening among many others. The Amish sell their products and services to anyone who may have an interest, including those who do not share their beliefs. Your family can visit a settlement and experience the culture directly. It is quite the learning experience and the Amish are always willing to answer any questions that you may have about their lifestyle and how they do things. Be sure to purchase some baked goods, fruits or vegetables while you are there. You will want to drive carefully and be alert since the Amish drive horse-drawn buggies and share the roads with modern vehicles.
Geauga County offers a variety of art shows and performances. Every year, the county has an art festival where both local and international vendors showcase their work. Most art is available for purchase. At the same time, the park system has a nature art festival. Select parks in the county offer mini-concerts throughout the summer months. The end of summer is celebrated with a county fair and a separate music festival. And since the area proudly boasts its historical roots, there are Civil War reenactments and steam engine showings, both commemorating what are large parts of U.S. history.
