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Elyria Celebrates Community Spirit with Apple Festival, Mayor Whitfield Applauds Success and Announces Investment Map

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Published on September 29, 2025
Elyria Celebrates Community Spirit with Apple Festival, Mayor Whitfield Applauds Success and Announces Investment MapSource: City of Elyria

Elyria, Ohio's annual Apple Festival, brought the community together in celebration, as Mayor Frank Whitfield enthused about the successful event in a recent social media update. The Elyria Apple Festival, a staple of local tradition, drew large crowds energized by music, food, and various contests, from pie-eating to a 5k race. Whitfield expressed his appreciation, stating, "The energy around Ely Square was amazing. Thank you to the thousands of Elyrians who came down to the Square to enjoy the festival."

In a statement obtained by the City of Elyria, Ohio, the mayor also extended gratitude to the multiple parties involved in the festival's execution, including the Apple Fest Committee, the Elyria Parks & Recreation Department, as well as emergency services. With the groundwork laid by committees and volunteers, the festival's recurrence evokes a sense of continuous investment in the fabric of Elyria’s culture, the Mayor added, Thank you ... "for keeping us safe all weekend."

The festivities came on the heels of a string of economic development announcements for Elyria. Mayor Whitfield informed the public about the launch of the new Investment Map, accessible on the City of Elyria, Ohio’s website. This tool provides a transparent view of Elyria's progress, highlighting the inflow of investments and the opening of new businesses. "It’s a clear look at the progress we’re making, and it shows how much energy and investment is being directed into our community," Whitfield conveyed. The map, which is updated weekly, serves as a touchstone for residents to witness their city’s evolution.

Looking ahead, Elyria is gearing up for the Touch-A-Truck event scheduled for October 18 at Lorain County Community College. This family-focused occasion offers children and adults a chance to interact with various trucks and equipment. Also included are entertainment and local food options, alongside educational activities. "There will be music from DJ Jonathan Whitfield Sr., food trucks including Gullett Hotdogs, Jones Bones BBQ, Elyria High’s famous Pink Cookies, and Bone Appetit Creamery," Whitfield noted, according to the City of Elyria, Ohio, emphasizing the breadth of local involvement. Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, the event promises to maintain its allure, rain or shine.