Ohio Hosting Largest Skunk Convention in the World This Weekend

The 19th SkunkFest celebrates all things skunks in North Ridgeville this Saturday. And there will be a costume contest.

Sep 7, 2021 at 11:55 am

The 19th-annual SkunkFest takes place outside of Cleveland this weekend. - Photo: Vice screenshot
Photo: Vice screenshot
The 19th-annual SkunkFest takes place outside of Cleveland this weekend.

If you didn't know that some people keep (de-scented) skunks as pets, or that a bunch of them gather in a suburb outside of Cleveland in September for what organizers say is the largest skunk convention in the world, welp, you're not alone.

But SkunkFest is now celebrating its 19th year of all things skunks this Saturday, Sept. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at South Central Park in North Ridgeville.

The event, which began as a backyard picnic organized by skunk fan Deb Cipriani, benefits Skunk Haven.

What's on tap? Lots of skunks, for one. But also educational sessions, games, food and a costume contest.

They ask for attendees to bring a donation of paper towels, blankets, natural grain cereal, grain-free dog food or anything that can benefit the shelter for admittance. A small cash donation is also accepted.

No pets permitted, unless that pet is a skunk.

Want a more visual preview? Here's a short piece from Vice.


This story was originally posted by CityBeat sister paper Cleveland Scene.

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