Football fans from around the country descended on Cleveland this past Thursday, April 29 through Saturday, May 1 to attend the 2021 NFL Draft. The city put its best foot forward as hosts—creating a venue that built excitement and drew fans from all 32 NFL teams.
“With this weekend’s NFL Draft, Downtown Cleveland saw more foot traffic and business than it has in a long time,” says Michael Deemer, Downtown Cleveland Alliance interim CEO and president. “Residents and visitors got to see that not only are we open for business, but that we are excited to welcome everyone back to experience the city center with safety measures in place.”
Deemer adds that the Draft kicks off the beginning of many more planned outdoor activities as Ohio and the nation emerge from the pandemic and begin to go outside to play.
“This is just the beginning, as we, along with our business owners and operators, prepare for a great season ahead,” he says.
FreshWater managing photographer Bob Perkoski was at the event and he captured the buzz and activities happening on Cleveland’s lakefront this week.