This year was different from past years, but that's what makes this festival cool, right?
Like other yelpers have mentioned, art is subjective. So, whether you prefer IngenuityFest with more art installations, performing arts or you like interactive art is completely up to the individual--and it's ever changing here!
I've been going come to this festival since the first year on the bridge. I think it was called the Bridge Fest? Either way, I personally prefer more art installations and perfomance. I loved the past waterfall displays, galleries, videos, etc.
This year? The text hearts were sweet, the doodle bar was back, as well as the interactive graffiti wall--both really fun. We were there with my boyfriend's son, so we really appreciated the wind-sock, recycled craft section that the Cleveland Clinic put up. We also really liked the interactive light installations, the band on the viaduct, the drums and the comedy show. I could have done without the death metal band on one end, and the euro-trash club music on the other. But, many of my friends were there for some great music.
I think that's what makes IF so great. It's a ton of people, a ton of creatives and there's something for everyone. You could come back everyday and find new, cool things to experience, see and hear! It's ever-evolving as the years pass and new creatives come about.
And it's free! You really can't beat it and the venue is an incredible piece of Cleveland history. Almost spooky at night, but always fascinating and frickin' awesome. I've never minded the "suggested" $5 donation, either. No one hawks you as you walk in to pay it--It's completely up to you. And honestly, it's worth more than a measly 5 bucks, anyways.
Just a tip, don't try to park close. It's really not worth it. We rode our bikes, but it would be a relatively easy walk up from the flats or a side street off W.25th Street.