It’s 2025 and the village of Bolivar, Ohio is celebrating its 200th birthday!
This page lists various celebrations and special events happening throughout this year. Stop back often to stay up-to-date!
Bicentennial Decorating Contest – Now in Progress!
Show your Bicentennial Spirit and you could win a prize!
Dress up your porch, yard, door or storefront!Contest is open to all residents and businesses within the Bolivar corporation line.
Judging will take place May 31-June 3rd. Winners will be announced at the Bolivar Homecoming on Sunday, June 8th!
Sponsored by Bolivar Main Street Association
Bicentennial Souvenirs
Three keepsake options will be available for sale during Strawberry Festival near the South Stage in the Bolivar Main Street kiosk.
Items include
- Bicentennial Magnet for $2
- 28-page Bicentennial History of Bolivar Booklet for $4
- Bicentennial Christmas Ornament for $10.
Quantities are limited, and when they’re gone – they are GONE!
Stop by and see us during Strawberry Festival June 5, 6 & 7th. And be sure to come back down to Canal Street on Sunday where we’ll be holding Homecoming Festivities from 11am to 4pm!
2025 Bicentennial Events
MONDAY, JAN 27, 2025 – 6:00 pm – Speaker Series at Bolivar Branch Library
- Seth Angel engaged with the community with a visually captivating presentation that explored the rich history of Bolivar. Attendees were transported back in time as Seth presented in period attire, bringing events to life.
MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2025 – 6:00 pm – Speaker Series at Bolivar Branch Library
- Dale Duerr brought an informative PowerPoint presentation that delved even deeper into the captivating history of Bolivar. This engaging session highlighted key events and figures that have shaped the community.
MAY 2025 – Front Door/Porch/Store Front Decorating Contest
- Bicentennial Theme – Judging May 31 – June 3.
JUNE 2025 – Bolivar Main Street’s Bicentennial Crock Auction
- Friday June 6th at 7:00 in the Main Tent at Strawberry Festival, Wallick Auctions will be auctioning off ten Bicentennial crocks. You won’t want to miss this! Sponsored by Bolivar Main Street Association.
Bolivar Main Street’s Strawberry Festival – Special Sunday 4th Day HOMECOMING:
- 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Band Entertainment, Food Trucks, Vendors
- Non-denominational Service
- Decorating Contest Winner Announced
- Carriage Event with Photo Ops, Activities for Kids
JUNE 22, 2025 – Bolivar Area Historical Society SPECIAL EVENT
- Several events throughout the afternoon, beginning at 1:00 pm
- Location: Fort Laurens Park
We are also looking for old photos of anything BOLIVAR!
Take a look back through your old polaroids and vintage photos. We’d love to share your memories, whether it be old buildings or your own family photos, and they could end up on a website or social media post!
Need help getting them digitized? Bolivar Branch Library staff will assist you with scanning to digital files. Call to schedule an appointment with the library at 330-874-2720.
Email your photos or questions to BolivarOhio2025@gmail.com. Volunteers are VERY WELCOME also!
If you’d like to donate toward the Bicentennial events, please send any monetary donations to
- Bolivar Main Street Association
- PO Box 39
- Bolivar, OH 44612
Please note on your check that your donation should go toward Bolivar200. Thank you!
