Celebrate Founder’s Day at Put-in-Bay
June 14, 2025 | Downtown in DeRivera Park
A Tribute to Jose DeRivera and the Heart of the Island
Hop aboard a Put-in-Bay ferry and be part of one of the most heartfelt and meaningful weekends of the summer — Founder’s Day! This cherished event honors Jose DeRivera, the generous Hispanic merchant who purchased South Bass and surrounding islands in 1854 and helped shape the island into the community we know and love today.
DeRivera didn’t just invest in land — he invested in people. He sold public parcels at a fraction of the cost, including:
– The school property for just $1
– St. Paul’s Church property for only $10
His legacy lives on through the vibrant community spirit of Put-in-Bay, and we invite you to celebrate with us!
The picnic lunch will be available for a small donation and provided by the Put-in-Bay Hog Roasters. Browse the downtown shops and tents and find the perfect gift among the local artisans’ mementos. Additionally, there will be community-based nonprofit organizations with booths ready to share their missions and make new friends with Put-in-Bay visitors.
Need A Place To Stay For This Event? Check Out Our Favorites!
– Island Club Rentals – 216-898-9951 (islandclub.com)
– Put-in-Bay Condos – 216-898-1105 (putinbaycondos.com)
– Commodore Resort – 419-285-3101 (commodoreresort.com)
– Victory Station Hotel – 419-285-0120 (putinbayvictorystation.com)
– Bird’s Nest Resort – 419-285-6119 (birdsnestresort.com)
And Here’s The Most Important Things To Know For a PIB Trip
– Eat and Drink: PIB Restaurants and Bars
Founder’s Day Festivities
Once the Founder’s Day festivities are finished up head over to Put-in-Bay Historical Museum. Here you can explore the story of Jose DeRivera and the history of the Lake Erie Islands. After browsing the exhibits, take a stroll over to to the Put-in-Bay Brewing Company. Most come for the wide variety of craft beers but end up just as impressed by their robust menu options. Everything on the menu is amazing. If you’re in the mood for a delicious burger, appetizer, or may some chicken wings, then you’ve come to the right place.
Some favorites are:
– Walleye Bites- flash-fried Lake Erie Walleye to share!
– Ultimate Fries- fries with melted cheese, bacon, and ranch, yum!
– Mac & Jack Brewery Bites- mac & cheese wrapped in bacon and fried!!!
With a menu like this, you’re sure to make your friends and family happy campers.
You’re not going to want to miss out on Founder’s Day weekend. Check out our lodging page to view rates and availability of our Put in Bay resort and rentals today!
Plan Your Perfect PIB Weekend
🚗 Getting Here: Ferry Details
“Celebrate the island’s heritage, honor a local hero, and make unforgettable summer memories with your loved ones.”
🎈 We’ll see you at Founder’s Day!
* This is a Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce sponsored event *
See you at the bay! 🙂