☕ 10 Mother's Day Events to Treat Mom

55 cruise ships will dock in Cleveland this summer | The Cavs are humbled in Game 1

What’s happening, Westsiders? It’s already Tuesday, but we are still drying ourselves from the weekend. Tony got caught in a hailstorm on the golf course, and Jodie got a little wet from her weekend walk. But that is what makes us Westsiders different…we don’t let a little rain get in the way of an adventure!

Today we’re buzzing on:

  • 🍀 Irishtown Bend is taking shape

  • 🤘 Today in Cleveland history is a banger

  • 💐 10 Mother’s Day events to treat Mom

Let’s make it a great day,

—The Briggses

COMMUNITY BLEND

Irishtown Bend taking shape | Flats

A few weeks ago, I was at a meeting downtown at my friend’s company, Adcom, that had the most stunning views overlooking the flats. I honestly gasped when I saw what's happening across the river. After seemingly a decade of talk, the Irishtown Bend park is starting to look like…well something!

Photo courtesy John Pana, Cleveland.com

Linda Sternheimer from the Port Authority wasn't kidding when she called the newly revealed downtown views "dramatic". The Port Authority will finish stabilizing that troublesome hillside by early next year, and then comes the exciting part: Cleveland Metroparks will create a 2,200-foot trail that will FINALLY connect Lake Erie to the Towpath Trail (which goes all the way to New Philadelphia). Here’s what Irishtown Bend will look like when completed.

I'm already planning my celebratory bike ride for when it opens. Who's joining me? Maybe we can organize a Westside Buzz reader meetup to christen the trail!

Tourism boom as ships return to Cleveland's port | Downtown

Courtesy News5

You know I'm always on the lookout for those "Cleveland comeback" stories. When I saw this one, I thought it was a late April Fool's joke. Starting last week, Victory and four other cruise line companies will make a total of 55 stops in Cleveland this year. You normally don’t think of Cleveland as your typical cruise port stop, but you will need to get used to seeing big ships docked downtown and tourists pouring out.

According to Kierra Cotton from the Port of Cleveland, each passenger spends approximately $150 during their visit, meaning those 10,000+ travelers could pump over $1.5 million into our local shops, restaurants, and attractions. That all adds up to significant dollars being spent in our community while many travelers find out what makes our city so special. I call that a win!

I did a little digging and found that Victory Cruise Lines is offering a 10-night cruise of all 5 Great Lakes starting in Toronto and ending in Chicago for $6,000.

As a Clevelander, would you go on a Great Lakes cruise?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

GROUNDBREAKING

First robotic kidney-pancreas transplant at the Cleveland Clinic | Cleveland

Ashley during a follow-up appointment with Drs. Eltemamy, Krishnamurthi, Wee and Lin (left to right). (Courtesy: Cleveland Clinic)

North Olmsted resident Ashley Brown is adjusting to a new normal after becoming the Cleveland Clinic's first patient to undergo a multi-port robotically assisted kidney and pancreas transplant earlier this year. The 40-year-old mother of two and grandmother of three had battled type 1 diabetes since age 18, experiencing numerous hospitalizations and eventually requiring nightly dialysis for nearly three years as her kidneys failed.

In January 2025, Dr. Alvin Wee and his surgical team performed the groundbreaking four-hour procedure using smaller incisions that significantly reduced recovery time and the need for post-operative pain medication. With both transplanted organs functioning immediately, Ashley no longer needs insulin or dialysis, giving her a second chance at life.

It’s easy to forget we have world-class medical care just a stone’s throw from the Westside.

HISTORY

May 5th in Cleveland History

The first year Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees

Can you believe it's been nearly four decades? Yesterday marked the anniversary of one of the most pivotal moments in our city's modern history. On that day in 1986, Cleveland was chosen as the site of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It has turned out to be one of the best things to happen to the cultural relevancy and economic prosperity of our great city.

In a 2017 study, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame generated a whopping $199 million economic impact for its region, welcoming 568,000 visitors (90% from outside Northeast Ohio) who spent an average of $349,000 daily, created over 1,800 jobs, and contributed $7.5 million in taxes.

It just goes to show what we can achieve when we come together with passion and purpose. Cleveland rocks—and not just because we have the Hall of Fame to prove it, but because we have each other.

WESTSIDE POUR OVER

What else is brewing?

Lakewood: Lakewood residents can now recycle household lithium batteries at the Refuse and Recycling Center through a new program launched April 28, but must tape the terminals first to prevent fires.

🥁 Brook Park: Brook Park's 2025 Summer Concert Series returns with four free Friday night events from June to September, featuring live bands, food trucks, and community festivities at the recreation center amphitheater.

🧀 Ohio: How did Ohio become America’s top producer of Swiss Cheese?

SPORTS

Cavs come down to Earth | Rocket Arena

It’s only game 1. It’s only game 1. It’s only game 1. This is what I keep telling myself after watching the Pacers take game 1 121-112 (and home court advantage away from the Cavs).

Here’s my take: The Pacers shot the ball exceptionally well, the Cavs were ice cold and didn’t have Darius Garland, and we were still in the game.

I am not going to panic. My brother and I will be in the building tonight for game two to take care of business and #LetEmKnow!

Series Schedule:

  • Game 2: Pacers @ Cavs | Tonight, May 6th at Rocket Arena 🕛 7:00 PM 📺 TNT

  • Game 3: Cavs @ Pacers | Friday, May 9th at Gainbridge Fieldhouse 🕛 7:30 PM 📺 ESPN

  • Game 4: Cavs @ Pacers | Sunday, May 11th at Gainbridge Fieldhouse 🕛 8 PM 📺 TNT

  • Game 5: Pacers @ Cavs | Tuesday, May 13th at Rocket Arena 🕛 TBD 📺 TBD

  • Game 6: Cavs @ Pacers | Thursday, May 15th at Gainbridge Fieldhouse 🕛 TBD 📺 TBD

  • Game 7: Pacers @ Cavs | Sunday, May 18th at Rocket Arena 🕛 TBD 📺 TBD

📸 @THEWESTSIDEBUZZ

A photo of the green during the hailstorm that temporarily interrupted my golf round. Kudos to the Shawnee Hills grounds crew. We played less than 90 minutes after this downpour!

If you aren’t following @TheWestsideBuzz on Instagram, what are you doing?? Head over there now, follow us, then tag us to have your photo featured here on The Buzz.

Jodie is absolutely killing it with these graphics!

💐 Thursday, May 8th

Mother's Day Open House
NuIQ Wellness Lounge, Gordon Square | 4-7 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style featuring skincare specials, giveaways, and event-only gift card deals at Cleveland’s newest med spa. Enjoy charcuterie and mocktails from Purefyx Juice Bar while browsing luxe goods from local vendors, mini manicures, chair massages, and more—all in one gorgeous space. Information here

A Coquette Mother's Day: Boards & Blooms
Little Meraki Market, Avon | 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a charming Coquette-inspired charcuterie workshop at Little Meraki Market’s Cava Room. Enjoy light refreshments while learning how to craft a beautiful board—perfect for gifting or sharing with someone special. Reserve

💐Friday, May 9th

Mother’s Day Workshop
Blossom Flower Bar, Lakewood | 6:30 PM

Create a stunning spring arrangement featuring allium, roses, and delphinium with a modern Blossom twist. This hands-on floral workshop includes all supplies and expert guidance—perfect for a creative night out, a thoughtful Mother’s Day activity, or a treat for yourself! Reserve here

Build Your Own Bouquet
Funktiniland, Lakewood | 3:30 - 5 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a hands-on floral experience led by Linda from Petals by Venture Paws. Craft a personalized bouquet from a curated selection of fresh blooms—perfect for gifting, treating yourself, or a fun outing. The event runs through Sunday; inquire for available times! Reserve

💐Saturday, May 10th

Mother’s Day Market
BrewDog Cleveland, Cleveland | 2 - 5 PM

BrewDog Cleveland is hosting a Mother’s Day Market on Saturday with local vendors, gifts, and good vibes—perfect for finding something special for Mom (or yourself). Can’t make it Saturday? The market continues on Sunday too!

Mother's Day Soiree Shopping Event
Shore Society & Rising Boutique, Hingetown | 11 AM - 5 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at this heartfelt soiree featuring curated gifts from local makers including floral bouquets by @lejardinklein, coastal goods by @forevergoldencle, and sweet treats from @ibbakeshop. Enjoy permanent jewelry from 11–2, shop between spaces, and sip on peach bellinis while you browse.

A Mom & Me Day!
John Christ Winery/Laughing Bomb Brewery, Avon Lake | 10 AM - 2 PM

Celebrate Mom with a memorable day at the winery featuring a mini vineyard photo session by Zoe Francis Photography, a drink of your choice, and reserved seating. Enjoy add-ons like a build-your-own bouquet station, permanent jewelry, and a light brunch menu—perfect for a heartfelt Mother’s Day outing. Information here

💐Sunday, May 11th

Mother’s Day Butterfly Cake Decorating Workshop
Wyne Tasting & Cocktail Bar, Gordon Square | 3 - 4:30 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a sweet twist at this Butterfly Cake Decorating Workshop—no experience needed, just bring your creativity! Enjoy quality time and tasty treats as you learn to design beautiful butterfly cakes with someone special. Tickets

Moms Rock 5k
Crocker Park, Westlake | 9 AM

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a race supporting the Cuyahoga County Division of Children Services. Whether you’re running for a mom, with a mom, or in memory of one, this event honors the love and strength of moms everywhere. Sign up

Country Honk Mother’s Day Edition
Forest City Brewery, Cleveland | 3 - 6 PM

Country Honk is back at Forest City Brewery with a special Mother’s Day edition full of twang, tunes, and good vibes. Bring Mom, grab a drink, and enjoy an afternoon of live outlaw country classics and heartfelt hits.

Events This Week

Thursday, May 8th

BBQ and Beer Pairings with The Proper Pig
Great Lakes Brewing Company, Ohio City | 6:30 PM

Great Lakes Brewing Co. is teaming up with The Proper Pig for a mouthwatering night of BBQ and beer pairings. Enjoy a guided tasting featuring smoky favorites and perfectly matched brews, bring your appetite! Reserve here

Friday, May 9th

Swift & Stretch: A Taylor-Inspired Yoga Flow
Lakewood Yoga, Lakewood | 8 PM

Swifties and yogis unite for a Taylor-inspired yoga flow set to all your favorite tracks from Breathe to Shake It Off. This all-levels class supports Joel’s Place for Children, a local nonprofit offering grief support to kids and families. Stretch, sing, and flow for a cause. Reserve

Cleveland Uncorked Wine Expo Kick Off
Lago, The Flats | 6 - 8 PM

CLE Uncorked returns to the Flats for a spring wine fest with tastings, riverfront views, food, and live music. The fun kicks off Friday and runs through Sunday. Check

the full schedule at the link. Tickets

Walkabout Tremont Spring Fling
Professor Ave., Tremont | 5 - 9 PM

Walkabout Tremont returns outdoors with a “Spring Fling” celebration featuring 40+ pop-up artists and makers, live music from the Cleveland Kiltie Band, and bubble magic from DrURawesome. Enjoy art openings, outdoor shopping, and food and drink specials all along Professor Avenue.

Saturday, May 10th

4th Annual Spring into Summer Craft & Vendor Show
Rocky River Memorial Hall | 9 AM - 2 PM

The 4th Annual Spring into Summer Craft & Vendor Show returns to Rocky River Memorial Hall with handmade goods, local vendors, and seasonal finds. Admission is free—stop by to shop and support small businesses!

From Drab to Fab! A 2-Day Chair Makeover Workshop
WovenSmart, Lakewood | 10-12 PM (Week 1)

Transform a vintage chair from drab to fab in this two-day hands-on workshop at WovenSmart, led by upholstery artist Ginger Burnett of Sitting Pretty Fab. Paint, upholster, and personalize a 1930s Cleveland Orchestra concert chair—no experience needed! Sign up

Pop-In DIY Floral Candle Holder Workshop
Willow Run Market, Lakewood | 10 AM - 4 PM

Pop in anytime between 10 AM – 4 PM to create a beautiful pressed flower candle holder, no registration needed! This DIY workshop is the perfect way to craft a lasting, handmade gift just in time for Mother’s Day (or to treat yourself).

Fizz & Bubbles Bingo
The Wine Room, Avon | 12 PM - 2 PM

Get ready for an afternoon of laughs, bubbly, and bingo—including a special rom-com themed round—all hosted by DJ Jeremy. Your $20 ticket includes multiple games, a house wine, mimosa, or Bloody Mary, plus a chance to win fun prizes and enjoy a lively afternoon out. Tickets here

Community Arts Day
BAYarts, Bay Village | 12 - 3 PM

BAYarts' annual Open House is a free, family-friendly event featuring artist demos, make-and-take crafts, and a special collage workshop with pop artist Michael Albert. Parents can enjoy a mimosa while kids create a $5 bud vase, and everyone’s invited to explore the newly renovated Artisan Shop for unique handmade gifts. Event information

Weather

Tuesday

63 🌡️ 52 | 🌧 | 60% | 💨 S 6-11 mph

Wednesday

66 🌡️ 50 | ⛅ | 20% | 💨 W 7-9 mph

Thursday

58 🌡️ 47 | 🌤 | 10% | 💨 NE 10-15 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 48ºF

That’s it for today, Westsiders. Get a head start on your Mother’s Day plans and gifts! Mom deserves it.

—The Briggses

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