If you’ve ever said “We should really do more around Erie,” this list is for you.

Instead of trying to do everything, this is a simple challenge: One classic Erie family experience each month.

Some are big. Some are easy. All are very “Erie.”

Save it. Share it. And don’t stress if you miss one — this is about memories, not perfection. ❤️

January: 🏒 Cheer on the Erie Otters

There’s nothing like a winter night at an Otters game. Loud crowd, fast action, and a surprisingly family-friendly vibe make this an easy “yes” when cabin fever hits.

Also this month: sledding • hot cocoa dates • indoor play at the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum

February: ❄️ Winter Fun at Presque Isle State Park

Bundle up and see Presque Isle in its quietest, most magical season. Snowy trails, frozen shoreline views, and zero crowds — it’s Erie winter at its best.

Also this month: Winter Carnival at Perry Square • library programs • cozy local coffee shop or bakery stops

March: 🍁 Maple Taste & Tour Weekend

Spring starts sweet in Erie. Visit local sugarhouses, watch sap turn into syrup, and let the kids learn something without realizing they’re learning.

Also this month: St. Patrick’s Day Parade • early spring hikes • zoo reopening weekend


April: ⚾ Opening Month with the Erie SeaWolves

Baseball season means spring is officially here, even though you may need to bundle up for the first few weeks of games. A SeaWolves game is affordable, low-pressure, and perfect for families easing back into outdoor fun.

Also this month: Easter egg hunts • Presque Isle cleanups • first patio meals

May: 🎢 Kick Off Summer at Waldameer & Water World

May is the sweet spot before peak summer crowds. Waldameer is a rite of passage for Erie kids — and parents love the pay-as-you-go setup.

Also this month: Bayfront bike rides • Mother’s Day picnics • a visit to Goodell Gardens

June: 🏖️ Beach Days at Presque Isle

The moment Erie families wait for all year. Pack snacks, build sandcastles, and end the day with ice cream at Sara’s. Summer starts here.

Also this month: Movies under the stars • fireworks nights • beach scavenger hunts

July: 🎆 Fireworks & Festivals

July in Erie is loud, busy, and fun — Fourth of July celebrations, concerts, food festivals, and long summer nights downtown.

Also this month: Discover Presque Isle • neighborhood ice cream nights • sunset walks

Photo courtesy of the City of Erie

August: 🎶 Experience CelebrateErie

One weekend. One downtown tradition. CelebrateErie brings food, music, and community together in a way that just feels like summer in Erie.

Also this month:  Erie Blues and Jazz Fest • Crawford County Fair • flower fields at Port Farms

September: 🍎 Fall Fun at Port Farms

Hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkins, cider donuts — Port Farms is the unofficial start of fall for Erie families.

Also this month: Cardboard Boat Regatta • apple picking • sunsets at Presque Isle

October: 🎃 ZooBoo at the Erie Zoo

Halloween fun without the scares. ZooBoo is a longtime Erie family favorite for good reason — costumes, candy, and just-spooky-enough fun.

Also this month: pumpkin patches • fall festivals • trunk or treats

Photo courtesy of Port Farms

November: 🍂 Quiet Hikes at Asbury Woods

Before the holiday rush hits, slow down. November hikes are peaceful, pretty, and a reminder to breathe before December chaos.

Also this month: Small Business Saturday • craft shows • Turkey Trot at Presque Isle

December: ✨ Holiday Lights & Winter Magic

From Downtown d’Lights to Winter Wonderland at Asbury Woods, December in Erie goes all-in on cozy holiday charm.

Also this month: neighborhood light tours • Nutcracker • Santa sightings

Want to Make 2026 Count?

You don’t have to do everything. Just do one thing a month — and suddenly you’ve built a year full of memories.

Save this list. Check it off.

And if you do it? Tag #MacKidErie so we can follow along. ❤️