Celebrating community spirit and local heritage, the North Ridgeville Corn Festival began in 1975 when the Bicentennial Committee was established to honor the upcoming United States bicentennial. The first festival featured just 13 booths around the North Ridgeville Middle School track, with proceeds supporting the local library’s relocation. In 1976, the festival also recognized Harold Sweet, a beloved local sweet corn grower, with proceeds funding community enhancements such as tree planting along the Bainbridge Extension and new bicentennial flags for City Hall.

Over the years, the festival has evolved into a major community event. In 1981, it achieved membership with the Ohio Festival and Events Association (OFEA), maintaining its status for over 40 years through regular inspections and continual improvements. Today, the festival is proud to be part of a network of over 60 member festivals, benefiting from shared ideas and best practices while continuing to grow and enrich the North Ridgeville community each year.