Good morning, Erie.

On May 23, Erie residents took a ride on the water taxi across the bayfront as the Erie Western PA Port Authority relaunched service for the 2025 season—providing a new transit choice for local commuters.

UPMC Hamot hosted its annual EMS picnic on May 23 to thank local first responders with a free meal — an event for local and regional volunteer and professional providers — and a UPMC representative said the gesture shows gratitude for their selfless work during emergencies.

Today, the Troika Festival is underway in Erie’s historic East Bayfront neighborhood at the Russian Old Rite Orthodox Church of the Nativity—where attendees enjoy traditional Russian food, music, and a blessing led by Father Pimen Simon—and will run for three days while profits reinvest in community projects.

This Memorial Day weekend, 45.1 million Americans are expected to travel as AAA advises extra time for road trips and notes gas prices are around $3.29 per gallon+ offering some relief for drivers, while local experts warn that heavy traffic is likely on Friday and Monday.

John Oliver of VisitErie said local hotels expect steady bookings+ and events like the Russian Festival will draw more visitors to the area.

Engineering students from Erie High and Collegiate Academy launched a high-altitude weather balloon from Biletnikoff Field on May 23rd using data-capturing payloads developed with help from a Gannon professor— the team later recovered the balloon near Finley Lake to collect more information.

Presque Isle State Park offers a range of summer activities from swimming and boating to biking, and visitors should review updated guidelines on beach use, water taxis, and drone operations before planning their trip.

The peninsula features landmarks such as the Presque Isle Lighthouse — a notable stop for migrating birds along the Atlantic Flyway — and North Pier Light while reduced spending on sand replenishment may affect beach conditions.

Erie County home listings reached a median price of $249,900 in April, up slightly from March’s $248,839 and 11.4% lower than April last year—196 new homes were listed and properties stayed on the market for a median of 39 days compared to 55 days in March.

Fort LeBoeuf freshmen discussed their recent softball playoff win, noting that strong teamwork helped the team succeed—players shared key moments from the game.

ACL Tear Diagnosis and Management – New Treatment Approaches

7-8:30 p.m. — Erie Center for Arts and Technology — Free entry — Discover innovative approaches in ACL tear treatment from a leading orthopedic expert.

3rd Annual Weld Art Competition

6-9 p.m. — The 1020 Collective — Entry fee required — Showcase your welding talents and support scholarships while enjoying local artistry.

Show Me Reptiles Show

11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Bayfront Convention Center — $10 General Admission; Kids 6 and under free — Dive into a scaly wonderland with reptiles and aquatic creatures galore.

Spring National M-WTCA Conference

June 4-7 — Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel — Registration available online — Attend informative sessions at this community-focused national conference.

Paint-n-Sip at U Pick 6 Tap House

6-8 p.m. — U Pick 6 Tap House — Cost varies — Unleash your inner artist with a fun evening of painting and sipping drinks.

90's Themed Immersive Pop-Up

8 p.m. — Room 33 Speakeasy — Tickets available — Experience a night of music and laughter as you step back into the vibrant era of the 90's with Tethered Immersive.

Second Saturday at Erie Land Lighthouse

10 AM – 5 PM — Erie Land Lighthouse — Pay-what-you-wish — Enjoy tower climbs and engaging activities at the scenic lighthouse.

@Homekits DIY Workshop at We Rock the Spectrum

@Homekits DIY Workshop — 9:30-10:30 a.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Erie — Pre-registration required — Enjoy a fun DIY crafting session with gym time for kids.

Erie Apparel Dog Days

1-4 p.m. — Oliver's Beer Garden — Free entry — A pet-friendly summer celebration featuring fun activities for dogs and their owners.