FireFish Arts
SPARKING LORAIN'S
CREATIVE VISION
FireFish Festival 9.19.26
FireFish Festival 2026 ignites Lorain with Freedom Lifts Us—
a community-powered night of art, light, and imagination inspired by
Lorain native Toni Morrison and the celebration of 250 years of the United States.
This year, the festival expands beyond performance into participation—
inviting everyone to create, connect, and help shape the FireFish Parade and finale.
Expect immersive art, hands-on experiences,
and a celebration built by the community itself.
We are incredibly grateful to the local businesses, organizations, and individuals whose generosity fuels FireFish Arts. Together, we are transforming our city through the power of community and creativity.
Nord Family Foundation
Ohio Arts Council
The Community Foundation of Lorain County
Fowler Family Foundation
Charities Aid Foundation/Norfolk Southern
Ben and Jane Norton Family Foundation
Buckeye Bank
Levit Jewelers
Brenda and Ben Norton Family
Driftwood Wine Company
Boutique IT Solutions
Aviant
Horizon Education
Igniting Community Spirit
Through the Arts
We believe that art is the spark that transforms a city. By fostering local talent and shared creative experiences in Lorain, Ohio, we build deep civic pride and vibrant community bonds.
At FireFish Arts, we are on a mission to enhance arts, cultural, civic, and economic development in the city of Lorain
Rock For Water: A Recycled Fashion & Performance Event
Join us for an immersive artistic experience where sustainability meets the stage. This high-energy fundraiser features teams transforming recycled materials into stunning fashion and live art performances
Adding to this inspiring event featuring sustainability, creativity, and community connection, Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley and his daughter, Jaclyn Bradley, will serve as emcees for the event.
Jaclyn Bradley and Kiki Bildstein will also perform during the evening, and Debora Bradley will serve as one of the judges for the fashion extravaganza.
Select this paragraph to add your own text. Just drag and drop or click here to add this paragraph to your site, then you can add your own content and make changes to the font.
May 30, 2026
Doors 6 PM | Show 7 PM
Lorain High School Performing Arts Center
Igniting Community Creators
We empower the community, local artists, and the next generation of Lorain artists through
hands-on creative development and community-driven mentorship.
Offering free, year-round, inclusive, community and local artist-driven arts programs, events, and public art, we highlight and celebrate our unique, diverse “International City.”
.
Southside Gateway Park Mural Project
South Lorain Mural Project Advances Neighborhood Transformation
A major investment in South Lorain is underway, with more than $1 million in funding supporting the creation of a new community park at Southside Gardens. This park represents Phase 1 of a broader neighborhood transformation effort, marking a significant milestone in a long-term plan to revitalize the South Lorain community.
The first phase introduces a safe, welcoming public space designed for gathering, play, and community expression. Future phases of the plan aim to expand access to mixed-income housing, neighborhood amenities, improved infrastructure, and essential services, all guided by community input and long-term sustainability goals.
In alignment with this transformative vision, RAISE UP is issuing a Call for Artists for a public mural project that will contribute to the identity and vibrancy of this emerging community space. The project is led by RAISE UP, with project management provided by FireFish Arts.
Artists—particularly those with connections to South Lorain—are invited to create work that reflects the stories, cultures, and aspirations of the neighborhood.
FIREFISH FESTIVAL September 19, 2026