Yes, Cleveland Pickle Fest® is very real—and it’s kind of a big dill! Now in its 7th year, this one-of-a-kind event takes over downtown Cleveland on September 20th with pickle-themed eats like pickle pizza and pickle beer, live music, and fun contests. Hosted by Greater Cleveland Volunteers, the festival celebrates community spirit and culinary creativity while supporting local volunteer programs.
About/FAQ
Cleveland Pickle Fest
About Cleveland Pickle Fest®
Cleveland Pickle Fest® is a celebration of pickles and volunteerism in Cleveland. Volunteers are a BIG DILL. Proceeds from the event support Greater Cleveland Volunteers programs and services to volunteers and nonprofits in Cuyahoga County.
The festival attracts thousands of people to Downtown Cleveland. Pickle lovers typically enjoy many different flavors of pickles, pickles on a stick, pickle pizza, pickle candy, and even pickle ice cream.
Live music plays throughout the event and is a great way to spend a summer Saturday. Stay tuned for more information about the 2024 bands!
This year’s festival will be Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Mall C in Downtown Cleveland. This festival is for everyone. Families, children, millennials, older adults, and pickle-lovers alike.
Remember, by attending Cleveland Pickle Fest®, you’re not only treating yourself to a day of pickle-infused bliss, but also supporting a cause that promotes volunteerism and community engagement. Your participation directly contributes to the success of Greater Cleveland Volunteers programs and services.
nonprofit partner
About Greater Cleveland Volunteers
Since 1972, Greater Cleveland Volunteers has been dedicated to engaging individuals age 18 or older in meaningful volunteer service to address the evolving needs of our community. Our volunteers contribute their time and talents to a variety of one-time, short-term, and ongoing projects at local nonprofit organizations. From offering job coaching for adults, providing food for those in need, comforting patients in hospitals and hospice care, and assisting visitors at arts and cultural institutions, our volunteers make a lasting impact in countless ways.
We oversee the Cuyahoga County chapter of the national RSVP program, which empowers adults age 55 and older to volunteer their time and talents in support of critical community needs. Additionally, we manage the Cleveland area affiliate of the AARP Foundation’s Experience Corps literacy tutoring program, where dedicated volunteers help young students in the Cleveland and Euclid School districts enhance their reading skills.
In addition, we oversee Chat Pals, a phone and video-based program that connects adults aged 55 and older with companionship, emotional support, and a sense of community. We are also proud to partner with the Greater Cleveland Encore initiative, which encourages individuals aged 50 and older to actively contribute to their community through volunteerism.
Greater Cleveland Volunteers is proud of its more than half-century of service, and is always looking for new volunteers who want to be part of making our community a better place.
FAQ
What is Pickle Fest? Is this a real thing??
Do I need to buy tickets?
We know—Pickle Fests are popping up everywhere, and some are even free. But here’s what makes Cleveland Pickle Fest® different: It’s hosted by Greater Cleveland Volunteers, a local nonprofit dedicated to connecting people with meaningful ways to give back to the community. And around here, volunteers are a really BIG DILL! Your small admission fee doesn’t just help us throw an amazing event—it also supports the vital volunteer programs we offer year-round. Learn more about our programs and how your support makes a difference: greaterclevelandvolunteers.org
Is Cleveland Pickle Fest® family friendly?
Cleveland Pickle Fest® is designed for everyone to enjoy – from a family outing, a romantic date, or coworker get-together. We will have a kid’s zone with games and activities for kids. There will also be a pickle eating contest for kids!
Are pets allowed into the festival?
Well-behaved pets on short leashes will be allowed entry to the grounds at the discretion of the festival director supervising the gates. Owners are responsible for any injury or property damage the dog causes. Please do not bring your pet if you know they are not comfortable in crowds or with music.
Will the festival occur if it rains?
Cleveland Pickle Fest® is a rain or shine event.
Is alcohol available at the event?
A variety of alcohol, including specialty Pickle Beer is available for purchase in the event.
What amenities will be available?
Portable restrooms will be available on-site, including ADA-accessible units and a family-friendly changing station. We’re also excited to offer a Universal Changing Station at Cleveland Pickle Fest®, generously provided by the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Pickles. Music. Fun.
Cleveland Pickle Fest® is a celebration of pickles and volunteerism in Cleveland. Volunteers are a BIG DILL. Proceeds from the event support Greater Cleveland Volunteers programs and services to volunteers and nonprofits in Cuyahoga County. Cleveland Pickle Fest® attracts thousands of people to Downtown Cleveland. The event includes pickle companies, food trucks, restaurants, pickle items, and pickle beer. Pickle lovers might enjoy many different flavors of pickles, pickles on a stick, pickle candy, and even pickle ice cream.
Copyright © 2022. Cleveland Pickle Fest® is owned and organized by Greater Cleveland Volunteers, a 501(c)(3) organization.
