Good morning, Erie.

Protesters from the Justice for Chello Movement gathered at Liberty Park Tuesday night to demand that the state parole agent who fatally shot Marchello Woodard last month be detained while authorities continue the investigation—organizers stressed the community’s call for clear updates on the case.

The Northeast Regional Firefighter Challenge Classic returns to downtown Erie after more than 20 years; the event starts today with a practice round, continues with qualifying rounds on Thursday, and holds the main competition on Friday and Saturday along State Street.

Firefighters from 174 competitors across 29 states and three countries will tackle a five-stage obstacle course that simulates real job tasks while local volunteers and businesses lend support—spectators are welcome.

Bayfront businesses in Erie are preparing for the Tall Ships Festival this week that will draw large crowds from nearby cities and fill local hotels and restaurants with guests.

Organizers plan special activities including a beer garden and themed events to boost the bayfront’s appeal during the festival.

Erie police investigated a collision Tuesday night at the intersection of Peach and Cherry Streets where an EMTA bus and a truck collided—emergency crews reported no injuries.

Four Erie grocery markets received grants from the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Initiative to buy new equipment that will improve access to fresh food.

Trawka’s Mom & Pop Grocery, Palace Life Supermarket, Larkins Market, and Almadina Supermarket will use the funds — which support SNAP and WIC access — to better serve local families.

Millcreek’s Bay & Berry cafe began serving cocktails (like mimosas, blood Marys, espresso martinis, and Aperol spritzes) for breakfast and lunch on August 18, giving customers new drink options.

PennWest welcomes students as the fall 2025 semester begins on Aug.

25 at campuses in California, Clarion, Edinboro and online — Welcome Weekend from Aug. 22 to Aug. 24 offers move-in, tours and sessions that help students get started.

Despite rainy weather on Tuesday night, fans gathered to watch the Erie Moon Mammoths play under their alternate identity of the Erie SeaWolves—an identity that gained national attention when HBO comedian John Oliver chose the team for a makeover.

Farrell Steelers released a 2025 District 10 football preview video that shows team highlights and plans for the upcoming season — giving local fans an early look at strategies and key players.

The video is available online for community viewing.

Tall Ships Erie 2025

4-day festival — August 21-24 — Erie Maritime Museum — $ — Experience the majesty of magnificent ships racing in the Tall Ships Challenge on the Great Lakes.

LEAF Open Market

10 AM – 2 PM — Frontier Park — Free entry — Explore a vibrant outdoor farmer's market featuring local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.

Reminiscent at Erie Downtown Music Series

6-9 p.m. — Perry Square — Free entry — Enjoy a Motown tribute concert while relaxing in the park with food and community spirit.

First To Eleven Live Concert

6-10 p.m. — BIGBAR — No cover before 9 p.m. — Experience First to Eleven performing your rock favorites in the Happy Hour Concert Series.

Gem City Renaissance Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Frontier Park — Cash recommended — Experience a vibrant one-day Renaissance festival in Erie with themed outfits and local vendors.

Hotel California Tribute Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the legendary sound of The Eagles performed by the acclaimed tribute band HOTEL CALIFORNIA.

Erie Marathon

7 AM – 1 PM — Presque Isle State Park — $5-$100 — Experience the energetic atmosphere of the Erie Marathon and support local runners.

Cole Swindell Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Erie Insurance Arena — Tickets via Ticketmaster — Enjoy a night of country music featuring Cole Swindell with special guest Priscilla Block.

Free Health Services Clinic

6 a.m. — Erie Center for Arts and Technology — Free services — Access free dental, vision, and medical services in collaboration with the Hamot Health Foundation.

Candlelight Concert: Queen vs. ABBA

8:30-9:30 p.m. — The Masonic Temple of Erie — Tickets required — Experience a mesmerizing fusion of Queen and ABBA music under candlelight.