Event Date: July 24, 2025
The Great Lakes Cigar Festival is an outdoor event scheduled for July 26, 2025. The festival will take place rain or shine, with contingency plans in place for severe weather conditions. Attendees should be prepared for mid-summer weather in the Great Lakes region, which can range from hot and humid to sudden storms.
1. General Weather Expectations
- Late July in the Great Lakes region typically sees high temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), with high humidity.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common during this time of year. These storms are usually brief but can be intense.
- Evenings tend to be milder, but temperatures can remain warm depending on humidity levels.
2. Rain or Shine Policy
- The festival will not be canceled due to rain unless conditions become hazardous.
- Light to moderate rainfall will not disrupt scheduled events, and smoking areas will remain open.
- Guests are encouraged to bring light rain gear (ponchos, waterproof jackets) as umbrellas may obstruct visibility in crowded areas.
3. Severe Weather Contingency Plan
In the event of severe weather, including lightning, strong winds, or heavy downpours, the following measures will be taken:
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Lightning & Thunderstorms:
- If lightning is detected within 10 miles of the festival, smoking and outdoor activities may be paused for safety.
- Guests may be directed to designated shelter areas, such as vendor tents, covered seating areas, or indoor sections (if available).
- The event will resume 30 minutes after the last detected lightning strike in the area.
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High Winds (Above 30 mph):
- Large tents, banners, and vendor setups will be secured or temporarily taken down.
- Outdoor seating arrangements may be adjusted to prevent hazards.
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Extreme Heat Advisory (Above 95°F or Heat Index Above 100°F):
- Additional water stations will be provided throughout the venue.
- Shaded seating areas and misting stations will be available for cooling down.
- Attendees should pace alcohol consumption and stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion.
4. No Refunds Due to Weather
- Tickets are non-refundable regardless of weather conditions.
- If severe weather causes an extended delay, festival organizers will provide real-time updates through on-site announcements and official event social media channels.
5. Recommended Weather Preparations for Attendees
- For Sun & Heat: Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing to stay cool.
- For Rain & Storms: Pack a light rain jacket or poncho; avoid bringing large umbrellas.
- For Changing Conditions: Dress in light layers to adjust to fluctuations in temperature.
6. Wind & Smoking Considerations
- Since this is a cigar-focused event, smoking will be permitted throughout the festival grounds during event hours only.
- Wind conditions may influence designated smoking areas to prevent excessive smoke drift into gathering spaces.
- If high winds become an issue, organizers may adjust smoking zones to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.
Festival staff will monitor weather conditions closely and ensure that safety remains a priority throughout the event. Please check official event channels for live updates on the day of the festival.