Quirks, traditions, and stories you won’t find in any tourist guide—this is Vermilion.
1. The Iconic Tiki Beach (Showse Park)
Locals affectionately call it Tiki Beach, but its official name is Showse Park. This cherished lakeside spot has been a go-to for Vermilion residents to enjoy Lake Erie’s beauty for generations. However, after years of neglect due to limited funding, the park is finally undergoing much-needed renovations. For Vermilion locals, Tiki Beach is more than a park—it’s a place of memories and community pride, now poised for a brighter future.
2. The Six O’Clock Siren: Testing or Urban Legend?
The daily six o’clock siren is a familiar sound in Vermilion. Officially, it’s a test run by the fire department, but some locals whisper about an alleged darker origin, suggesting it may have been a “sundown siren” warning certain groups to leave town before dark. While this urban legend stirs debate, the city and fire department firmly deny the claim, insisting the siren has always been for public safety. Regardless of its origins, the siren has become an enduring and curious part of Vermilion life.
3. Summer: When the Town Triples in Size
Summer in Vermilion brings a dramatic transformation. As the weather warms, the town becomes a bustling hub of activity, with visitors, boaters, and seasonal residents swelling the population. The energy is contagious, as downtown shops and restaurants thrive, and the beaches fill with life. However, for locals, summer also means packed parking lots and longer waits at their favorite spots. It’s a bittersweet but quintessential Vermilion experience that’s as much a part of the town’s charm as the lake itself.
4. A Community Powered by Volunteers
If Vermilion excels at anything, it’s community spirit—and much of that is thanks to its volunteers. From the Chamber of Commerce and Vermilion in Bloom to Main Street Vermilion and the city flag program, volunteers play a critical role in making the town special. Whether they’re organizing events, maintaining public spaces, or supporting local projects, Vermilion’s volunteers are the heart and soul of the town. It’s no wonder so many community initiatives succeed here.
5. The Vermilion Postcard Project
Stroll through Vermilion, and you’ll encounter the stunning murals of the Vermilion Postcard Project. These larger-than-life recreations of vintage postcards highlight the town’s history and its reputation as a vacation destination. Each postcard offers a glimpse into a bygone era, featuring nostalgic scenes of Lake Erie, local landmarks, and downtown life. For residents, these murals are more than just art—they’re a celebration of Vermilion’s rich heritage.
6. VETTEMILION Corvette Show
Car enthusiasts know that Vermilion is the place to be during the annual VETTEMILION Corvette Show. This beloved event fills the streets with gleaming Corvettes of all eras, drawing fans from across the region. It’s more than a car show—it’s a community celebration that showcases Vermilion’s unique flair. Whether you’re a die-hard Corvette fan or just enjoy the spectacle, this event is a highlight of the year for locals.
7. 3rd Thursday Music, Flowers, and a Sunset
Every third Thursday from May through September, Vermilion’s downtown transforms into a vibrant hub of music and community. The 3rd Thursday Music, Flowers & A Sunset event features live performances at nearly every corner, with the sights of blooming flowers and breathtaking sunsets completing the experience. It’s a magical evening that locals eagerly anticipate, drawing visitors from all over to share in the charm.
8. The Vermilion and Brownhelm Township Connection
Vermilion’s unique connection with Brownhelm Township dates back to the late 1950s when the township played a pivotal role in Vermilion’s transition from a village to a city. A complex annexation agreement allowed Vermilion to gain the necessary acreage and population for city status, while Brownhelm retained some of its identity and benefits. Today, residents in the overlap area are part of both communities, enjoying dual voting rights and shared resources. It’s a fascinating example of local history and cooperation.
9. Living at the Crossroads of Erie and Lorain Counties
Being located on the border of Erie and Lorain Counties comes with its quirks. Residents navigate differences in services, school districts, and voting jurisdictions. While this can sometimes be an aggravation, Vermilion locals take it in stride, embracing the unique blend of benefits that comes from living in two worlds.
10. The Graffiti Wall on West River Road
For many Vermilion teenagers, the graffiti wall on West River Road was an unspoken rite of passage. It wasn’t officially sanctioned, but everyone knew it was the place to leave your mark—literally. Whether it was a love note, a bold declaration, or a splash of artistic flair, the wall became a canvas of community creativity. Though its legality was always questionable, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in Vermilion.
Seems like the writer gave us the LifeWise presentation from program at Germans. The pros and cons were not very balanced. And not totally accurate according to what l have read.