The Yard on 3rd Kicks Off Year Four in Willoughby

The Yard on 3rd in Willoughby is open for the season. Credit: Courtesy photo

For its fourth season since launching in 2022, the owners of The Yard on 3rd (38040 3rd St., 440-527-8070) in Willoughby have rolled out improvements designed to give the popular summer destination a “Backyard Glow Up.”

On Friday, May 9th, the outdoor food truck park located in downtown Willoughby officially kicked off its season. Fans of the family friendly gathering place will notice more than a few changes designed to improve the overall experience.

“This is our fourth year in downtown Willoughby and we have a good understanding of what The Yard is to Willoughby and the surrounding cities,” says Emma Brady, operating partner. “We’re a fun, outdoor park that welcomes college kids, families, couples and doggies.”

This year, in place of the customary grab-a-drink-at-the-bar-style service, management has rolled out table service.

“You’re in our backyard; we want you as comfortable as possible,” they say.

On the very busy social calendar for the season are events such as movie nights, trivia nights, ladies’ night with sushi, kids princess and super-hero events, weekend markets, charity fundraisers, DJ dance parties, dog-friendly events and more.

“The Yard is the best place to take your fur babies and your kids,” adds Brady. “We just want to continue to pump up those events.”

Visitors can also look forward to new furniture, paint and outdoor games like giant beer pong, plinko and faux axe throwing.

The infamous “Willbilly Punch,” which arrives in a massive red Solo cup, can now be ordered in a new shareable version that arrives in a charcoal grill with rubber duckies and crazy straws.

“Everyone loves the Wilbilly Punch and the rubber duckies,” says Monica Perez, operating partner. “Now you can choose to drink out of a literal grill with your friends.”

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of new and festive drink options, adds management.

Back this year are pastries from Luna Bakery, cookie shots and a rotating round up of food trucks. Diners in search of something a bit heartier can order from nearby Geraci’s Italian Restaurant via convenient QR codes at The Yard.

The Yard is open 4 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays through Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Saturdays.

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