Tiah Boyd: Current Mentee in Engage! Cleveland Mentorship Program. 

As a first-timer at the Cleveland Brite Winter Festival, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but I left with unforgettable memories, a heart full of joy, and a stomach that was completely satisfied.

Let’s start with the atmosphere. It’s hard to imagine something so lively and vibrant happening in the middle of a Cleveland winter, but Brite Winter Fest does just that, and it does it wonderfully. Situated in the heart of Cleveland’s East Bank, this unique festival brings together a perfect blend of art, music, food, and community in a way that only this city can. Despite the cold, the streets were alive with energy, with people embracing the festive spirit and the sense of camaraderie that filled the air. The crisp winter chill didn’t deter anyone from having a good time; if anything, it seemed to fuel the excitement.

One of the things I loved the most was the diverse crowd. People of all ages gathered to enjoy the experience, from families with children to groups of friends and even solo festival-goers like myself. The festive mood was contagious as we chatted, laughed, and danced to live music from local bands that played throughout the day. The vibrant sounds filled the air and gave the whole festival a lively, celebratory vibe. You couldn’t help but smile as you looked around at the sea of people bundled up in scarves and coats, some swaying to the rhythm of the music, others enjoying good conversations with strangers-turned-friends.

Speaking of food, I couldn’t help but indulge in what I can only describe as a “perfect winter bite” – the walking taco. If you’ve never had one, it’s essentially the perfect street food for a chilly day. The warm, crunchy taco bowl filled with layers of seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of salsa was the ideal comfort food for an outdoor winter event. Each bite was satisfying, and the taco was portable, making it perfect for walking around and enjoying everything the festival had to offer without worrying about finding a seat.

But the food didn’t stop there. The festival offered a wide array of local food trucks serving up an impressive variety of dishes, from savory comfort foods to sweet treats. It wasn’t hard to find something that would make your taste buds dance, whether you were craving hot, fresh doughnuts or a steaming bowl of chili to warm you up. As I savored the walking taco, I marveled at how perfectly this winter festival paired great food with a joyful atmosphere.

Of course, no festival experience would be complete without a few souvenirs to take home. I couldn’t resist picking up a Brite Winter Fest hat, and it quickly became one of my favorite new accessories. It’s not just a stylish way to stay warm in Cleveland’s cold winters, but also a great reminder of the fun day I had. I also treated myself to a local craft beer, a fantastic choice that allowed me to immerse myself even more in the city’s local flavors. Sipping the beer while surrounded by the energy of the festival made me feel even more connected to the vibrant Cleveland community.

One of the best parts of the festival was the way it brought people together, creating a sense of unity despite the cold. It felt like a celebration of Cleveland’s spirit—one that combines warmth, creativity, and local pride. The East Bank location, with its mix of industrial and modern architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. The festive lights twinkled against the snowy streets, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful to be a part of something so special.

I also want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to Engage Cleveland for giving me the opportunity to win tickets to this incredible event. Their support made it possible for me to experience the magic of the Brite Winter Festival, and I couldn’t be more thankful. It’s always a great feeling when local organizations work to bring the community together in such a meaningful way.

As I headed home at the end of the day, I couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing time I had. The laughter, the music, the food, and the sheer energy of the festival made it an unforgettable experience. I’m already looking forward to next year and can’t wait to see what new memories will be created. Cleveland’s Brite Winter Festival truly is a gem of the winter season, and I feel lucky to have been part of it.

Dare I say, I’m looking forward to next year!