Bring on Beats by the Bay

SANDUSKY — This spring, the Sandusky waterfront sets the stage for the inaugural Beats by the Bay: Good Food. Great Vibes. A Warm Welcome. This international food truck and music festival was created to celebrate and support the destination workforce: seasonal workers, interns and professionals whose dedication fuels our region's hospitality and business economy. Beats by the Bay takes place from 4-9 p.m. on Thursday, May 22 on Jackson Street Pier in downtown Sandusky. It'll happen rain or shine. This community event is free and open to all area residents, visitors and workers. It will be more than just a celebration: It's an opportunity to foster connection, offer resources and ensure that the people who come here to work are supported and welcomed by their community. Attendees can expect a rich lineup of internationally inspired food trucks; live entertainment and DJs playing music from around the globe; and a community resource fair, offering access to local services and support networks. "Events like Beats by the Bay support Cedar Point associates by giving them new opportunities to experience other cultures while promoting an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect," Cedar Point recruiting manager Kaitlin Wattrick said. "These events also help them learn more about our community and the great local resources available to them." Nikki Wade, Shores & Islands Ohio's assistant director of destination engagement added, "Ohio — and, in particular, the shores and islands region, is one of the most interviewed-for locations in the U.S. for summer work travel students. Hosting events like this showcases what makes our area so special." Dmitre Aaron, better known as DJ Chosen, is one of the creative forces behind the event's musical energy. "I have always wanted to create a large-scale music festival close to home," Aaron said. "Our area has everything it needs to host successful festivals at scale, and we're just getting started." Creating a positive experience and connecting seasonal workers with the amazing place and people here makes it more likely they'll return for future seasons and may even plant the seed that this is a great place to live and build a life. Organizations interested in participating in the resource fair can contact Rachael Summerfield at rsummerfield@greatersandusky.com for more information. People can learn more by visiting facebook.com and searching for "Beats by the Bay: Good Food. Great Vibes. A Warm Welcome." Join us on May 22 as we celebrate the people who make this region exceptional. Beats by the Bay promises good food, great vibes, and the warmest welcome on Sandusky Bay.