Good morning, Erie.

Local pet groomers Mark and Rachel Buczynski organized Erie PA Money Drop to give back to the community through money and prize hunts.

The event invites residents to join and enjoy local rewards.

The Erie Zoo hosts the Glow Wild Chinese lantern festival that began on April 30 and will run until July 5, featuring evening exhibits every Thursday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

On May 1, the Main Street Impact Fund— a joint effort by the Erie County Redevelopment Authority and the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority— deployed over $37 million in loans for more than 150 local businesses, including a $95,000 loan to EFI Connection to upgrade equipment and boost production in Erie.

Erie County offers spring cleaning disposal options as residents can join a drive-thru recycling event for tires and electronics on May 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City of Erie Municipal Garage Complex — other programs in Millcreek include hazardous waste collection and paper shredding.

Erie County health inspectors examined restaurants from April 25 through 30, 2026 and recorded a critical violation at Almadina Supermarket on Parade St., noncritical issues at Thai Eatery on Peach St. and Toast!

Lounge and Eatery on Main St., and noted that Middle East Kitchen and Grocery had resolved earlier problems.

Erie City Council approved the design of a $32 million AC Marriott Hotel on the bayfront last May 1 (by a 5-1 vote) despite concerns over public access and wages.

Foundation work for the project may begin this summer.

On May 1, the Pennsylvania Lottery announced that a $1 million Powerball ticket was sold at Harborcreek Giant Eagle on Buffalo Road in Erie County, and winners have one year to claim the prize while the store earns a $5,000 bonus.

JA’s Annual Erie County Bowl-A-Thon

6-8 p.m. — Eastway Lanes — Minimum $100 team registration — A night of bowling, food, prizes, and fun awaits at this charitable event.

Second Saturday Tower Climb

10 AM – 3 PM — Erie Land Lighthouse — Pay-what-you-wish — Explore the lighthouse with interactive educational activities and scenic tower climbs.

Felines & Wines Fundraiser

12-4 p.m. — Erie Zoo — Ticketed event — Sample local wines while supporting big cat conservation and enjoying live music and animal training demos.