Put-in-Bay Founder's Day Celebration

Posted on 05/25/2021 in Put-in-Bay History.

ANNUAL JOSE DERIVERA FOUNDER'S DAY CELEBRATION

The Annual Jose DeRivera Founder's Day Celebration is set for June 12, 2021 and families are excited to get back to the island with their kids. One of the most entertaining and heartfelt weekends of the summer, Founders Day celebrates Hispanic merchant Jose DeRivera who in 1854 purchased South Bass, Middle Bass, Sugar, Gibraltar, Ballast and Starve Islands for a price of $44,000. Reserve a Vacation Rental and Book Now Online Throughout the following years, he sold off parcels of the land including the school property for $1 and the St. Paul’s church property for $10. This day celebrates the island’s heritage and DeRivera’s good deeds. Stay the Weekend and enjoy all the family fun!   This event is sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce. Founders Day always means great food and lots of fun for the entire family. Most of the events are held in DeRivera Park, aptly named after Jose DeRivera, downtown from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Island entertainment usually performs a free concert in the afternoon from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM. The local EMTs will bring the miniature life flight helicopter for the kids to ride. They will also pass out safety information. The Put-in-Bay Hog Roasters often provide a great roast hog picnic lunch for a small donation. Check if they are this year! Shoppers will be happy to find unique gifts being sold by local artists and craftsmen. You will also be able to visit the booths of many of the local nonprofit organizations that rely on the support of our community and visitors.   Founder's Day Festivities After attending the Founders Day festivities, you will want to learn more information about Jose DeRivera and the history of the Lake Erie Islands. That’s why you should be sure to head over to the Put-in-Bay Historical Museum. After seeing the exhibits there, you can walk over to the Put-in-Bay Brewing Company. People come for the craft beer and leave impressed by all the menu has to offer.   You can’t go wrong with anything you eat there. It’s a great place to go if you’re in the mood for a burger. They also have excellent appetizers. Some favorites are: Walleye Bites- flash fried Lake Erie Walleye to share! Ultimate Fries- fries with melted cheese, bacon and ranch, yum! Mac & Jack Brewery Bites- mac & cheese wrapped in bacon and fried!!! Need we say more about this menu? Make sure you don’t miss out on the Founders Day Activities. Go to our Put-in-Bay lodging page and call today to book your stay!   *** Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce Approved Event *** Reserve a Vacation Rental and Book Now Online