The City of Mentor has a diverse line-up of concerts, cruise-ins and more, coming this summer

By Patricia Nugent

The City of Mentor has announced its stellar lineup of summer programming with something for everyone.

I caught up with Ante Logarusic, communications officer for the city, for some insider scoop.

“Each year we strive to present a diverse slate of events that will appeal to everyone, from music lovers to families with younger kids,” he says.

The formula is working. He reports each year the attendance soars.

“Our family-friendly Mentor Rocks summer concert series attracted 93,000 people last summer,” he says, “This year we welcome national recording artists Finger Eleven on June 18, LeAnn Rimes on July 28, and Maddie and Tae on August 20. Another big thrill is Katy Ellis, a Taylor Swift tribute act set for Tuesday and Wednesday, August 13 and 14. This British performer and her backup band have performed all over the world, from Japan to Dubai.” Mentor Rocks also features food from 17 area food trucks as well as a selection of beers and wines for those 21+.

Entering its fourth season, Tunes at the Lagoons continues to grow. Held at the Mentor Lagoons Marina on Friday nights, you can watch musical acts like Cheeseburgers in Paradise while relaxing along the shore.

In its 41st year, the Wildwood Fine Arts and Wine Fest features arts & crafts, food, music and local wines on Saturday, June 22.

Of course, the Fourth of July is always a sparkling holiday. This year, the city is offering a concert by Bob Seger-tribute band Forever Seger, on the main stage at 7 p.m., followed by the biggest fireworks display in Lake County.

The Mentor Cruise-In on Saturday, August 10, will wow crowds with 800-plus classic cars, food and live entertainment.

And easing into the late summer, Mentor CityFest serves up a celebration of live music, food, fun and games on Friday and Saturday, August 16 and 17. Don’t miss the CityFest Parade on Saturday at 10 a.m. and the 2.5-mile Color Day and Walk at 6 p.m.

For a full schedule of events and locations, visit CityofMentor.com/events, or call 440-255-1100.