LORAIN, Ohio — With hazy skylines and an air so thick with fog as the Fourth of July approached, it was hard to take a deep breath. That's what a lot of folks experienced in Northeast Ohio Wednesday, when the air quality was at an alarming level.
But on Friday, the skies were a bit different.
Most of the air levels have dipped down close to 100. People at Bay Days in Bay Village say they're worried less about being outside for the holiday.
"I'm trying not to be, since it's Fourth of July weekend," Molly Kopp, of Rocky River, said.
"Definitely earlier in the week I [was worried]," Abby Gardner added. "I think Wednesday was really bad, but I'm feeling better about it now. ... The smell seems to be gone."
Fireworks and festivals are planned all over town: Bedford, Blossom Music Center, and Cleveland are all set for their events. The Akron Rib Fest kicked off Friday near Lock 3. It's free to get in, and the sampling runs through Sunday, July 2. "Rockin' on the River" in Lorain normally draws a huge crowd.
"I think we'll probably have around 8,000 tonight," owner Bob Earley said.
Bob says it's not just about the great food vendors and live music; this festival is all about the details.
"Everybody comes to hear the music and have fun, but it has to be the best light and sound," he explained. "It just can't be your average show."
And if you're worried about the air quality affecting any events, that doesn't appear to be the case.
"Our fireworks partners are a great professional group," Tiffany McClelland, assistant director of Lorain Port and Finance Authority, said, "so our fireworks are happening and Rockin on the River is happening."
Rockin' on the River shows are happening through September. For more information, click HERE.
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