WHAT: July Third Thursday
WHERE: Ely Square, Downtown Elyria
WHEN: July 30, 2026 at 4:30pm – 8:30pm
Third Thursdays, created by the Elyria Community Partnership (ECP), bring energy and community spirit to downtown Elyria. Each event features local food, live music, art, and creative experiences. Every month offers something new, including performances, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and family-friendly fun. It’s a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that highlights local talent, supports small businesses, and encourages residents and visitors to enjoy the heart of the city.
July’s Third Thursday— Art in Ely Square— created by the Elyria Community Partnership.
What will you find at July Third Thursday?
- Live Art Competition and Displays
- Live music — Evil Ways (Santana Tribute Band) from 6:30-8:30 PM
- Jeremy the DJ
- Mural Bike Route – Community Bike Ride (Meet at 5:45 PM, Ride at 6 PM)
- Local Entertainment
- Elyria Mini Pioneers
- TAP Line Dancers
- Local Food Trucks
- Frankie B’s
- Triple Exotixxx
- Sajwave & Shawarma LLC
- Sugar Mama Cannoli
- Bone Appetit Creamery
- Local Vendors
- Belladonna’s Boutique
- Forever Linked Permanent Jewelry
- Just Herz Accessories
- Lynae’s Designs
- MQH Breads & Jams
- Ornamental Concrete
- Pearl’s Girls Knit and Stitch
- Rustic Charm
- Shoppes on Broad
- The Wright Choice Bakery
- Hailey’s Herbal Harmony
- Games & Activities
- Hands-on games & activities led by your favorite local organizations
- Balloon Art (5-7 PM)
- Caricature Artist
- Face Painting (4:30-7:30 PM)
- Live Chalk Art (approx. 4-7PM)
- Parks & Rec Mobile Rec Van
- Finger Board Skate Park
- Cornhole & MORE!
2026 Live Art Contest
The gazebo came alive on July 30th during our Ely Square Artistic Rendition Live Art Contest at Third Thursday: Art in the Square. In just 90 minutes, six local artists created stunning interpretations of Elyria’s East Falls.
Congratulations to Jammie Frye, winner of the 2026 Ely Square Visionary Medal! Thanks to all participating artists—Tyler Sims, Wayne Chunat, Anne Jesse, Kevin Kirsh, and Joe Herrera —for their creativity and spirit, and to moderators Deborah Krejsa and Mary Bell for guiding the event!
2026 Recovery Court Art Gallery
You may have noticed some extra color around the gazebo during our July 30th Third Thursday. Participants from the Lorain County Recovery Court joined their treatment team to spend a morning creating art at the Elyria Arts Council—and the result was over 20 unique and expressive pieces displayed at the event.
“Creating artwork during recovery can be a powerful outlet for expressing emotions and experiences that are hard to put into words. Creating art provides a focus that can help distract from negative thoughts and offers a sense of accomplishment. The creative process can be incredibly therapeutic and serve as a healthy coping mechanism. Art in recovery is an opportunity to rediscover oneself and find new ways to connect with emotions and the world.”
— Justine Dumont, Lorain County Recovery Court
You can view these incredible works of art at the Elyria Public Library West River Branch from August 3rd through August 26th.
2026 A Nicole Phototgraphy
