Founders Day Celebration

PURCHASE PASS & PARKING

Lakeside Chautauqua was founded in 1873 by a group of faithful visionaries, insightful businessmen and dedicated locals. Among the early organizers were Rev. Richard P. Duvall, B.H. Jacobs, A.C. Payne, Alexander Clemons and Samuel R. Gill. Now, 150 years later, we celebrate their vision and the rich history of Lakeside Chautauqua with two Founders Days Celebrations.

On Sunday, May 28, the first Founders Day Celebration will begin at 3 p.m. with a brief ceremony at the Steele Memorial Bandstand and remarks by public officials, Board members, staff and other community members. Following the ceremony, enjoy a variety of afternoon activities, including live music, horse-drawn carriage rides and square dancing.

On Sunday, July 2, continue the celebration of Lakeside’s heritage from 3-5 p.m. with music provided by the Brass Band of the Western Reserve and a variety of classic games, like croquet and checkers. At 4 p.m. there will be a Bike Demonstration on Pavilion Circle. In the case of inclement weather, all Founders Day Celebration events will move to Hoover Auditorium.

Prior to the Founders Day Celebration at 2:45 p.m., Lakeside will plant a 150th Anniversary tree near Pavilion Circle. The Heritage Oak tree is a hybrid between an English Oak and Burr Oak. In this brief ceremony, we will add soil, water and mulch to the planting and celebrate the next 150 years by watching this Heritage Oak flourish on the shoreline.