The Insider’s Guide to Discover Presque Isle

July 21–27, 2025 • Presque Isle State Park

Every summer, Erie’s most beloved park—Presque Isle—comes alive during Discover Presque Isle Week. As a lifelong Erie resident who has attended this event for decades, I can vouch that this celebration is the perfect blend of lakefront relaxation, learning, and lively local culture.

From morning paddles amid lily-dotted lagoons to evening bonfires on sandy beaches, this event invites you to experience Presque Isle in brand-new ways, while giving back to the place we all love. I’ve spent many days and hours biking, running, walking, and paddling around the park and I never cease to be amazed at the park’s beauty—but during DPI, something magical happens: you see Presque Isle truly through the lens of community.

What Makes DPI Week So Special

Discover Presque Isle—now in its 31st year—features dozens of free or low-cost programs designed to spark curiosity and appreciation for this 3,112-acre National Natural Landmark. From beginner-friendly archery lessons to fire dancers at a giant bonfire to guided wildlife talks with rangers, there’s something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.

You can see all the events at the Presque Isle Partnership’s website, but here are a few of our favorites.

A Few Insider-Favorite Highlights

1. Guided Eco-Paddle(July 24, 9–11 a.m., Lagoon Launch) Glide through hidden waterways as DCNR experts share insights on the park’s unique ecosystems—one of my personal favorites for seeing wildlife up close. You can bring your own kayak or rent one. This is only one of several ranger-led programs offered during DPI and they are all awesome. Go to as many as you can. You will not be disappointed.

2. Beach Illumination & Kite Fliers(July 25, Sunset Point) Sunset point comes alive with TONS of kites of all kinds during DPI. I’m not talking about your run-of-the-mill box kite but flying fabric that will blow your mind. The kite flyers are there all week, but you’ll find the most of them there on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday night, from 8-9:30, they have a special illumination night that is something to see!

3. Giant Beach Bonfire(July 26, 9–10 p.m., Beach 1) Nothing says summer like bonfires on the beach, but you’re not allowed to build fires on the Presque Isle beaches except this one night of the year and it’s a monster. Not only that, but there are fire dancers and live music. Bring a blanket and some bug spray and enjoy the show.  

4. Sand Sculpture Competition(July 26, 9:30 to 1 p.m., Beach 11) The sand sculpture competition is a don’t-miss event for me every year. The building gets underway at Beach 11 at 9:30 a.m. and continues until noon. Judging at 12:30 and awards at 1 p.m. Not only is it fun to see the finished product, but it’s really fun to watch the sand artists work! Beach 11 is also the location of the vendor and food festival which is July 25-27.

5. Pancake Breakfast (July 26–27, 9 a.m. to noon, Rotary Pavilion) Breakfast at the beach is a tradition for many Erie families. But on DPI week, you don’t have to haul all the ingredients and the grill, just bring your wallet and pop into the Rotary Pavilion on Saturday or Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to noon for a pancake breakfast!

Insider Tips

• Bring layers—Lake Erie evenings are blissfully cool, especially by the bonfire.

• Bike it—One of the best ways to get around the park is on two wheels. This is our favorite way to get to all the daytime activities during DPI.

• Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen—the sun reflects strongly off the water and sand.

• Take the Presque Isle Express to Beach 11 on music nights—parking fills quickly discoverpi.com.

Give Back While You Play

Discover Presque Isle has a cause—you’ll see donation tents selling buttons & T-shirts. Proceeds support accessibility improvements, conservation, and educational programming throughout the park. The T-shirts are super cute, soft, colorful, and made locally by Erie Apparel.