By Alec Keller

Crisp autumn air and sunny skies greeted cryptid enthusiasts at the third annual Ohio Bigfoot Jamboree at Ada’s War Memorial Park on October 3. (A cryptid is a being whose existence is known through folklore and individual accounts, but has yet to be confirmed by physical or scientific proof.) 

Coordinated by Jay Wolber and Justin England—hosts of the Cryptids of the Corn podcast and veterans of the Bigfoot event circuit—the Ohio Bigfoot Jamboree brought together vendors, guest speakers and fans from across the region and beyond.

England told the Icon that he and Wolber have participated in events like these all across the country.  “We really wanted to bring one home,” England said. “And it’s been great. It really has, because now we have vendors and speakers coming in from Washington, Arkansas, Louisiana, Florida, New York, New Jersey and Canada coming into Ada, Ohio.”

England said there is always a rotating door with vendors. A 2026 addition was Rustic Supply Company, a family-owned business that specializes in metal home decor art and door hangers. Other vendors included Meat Sweats BBQ and Michael Thompson, an award-winning author hailing from northern Virginia, who writes stories of the Loch Ness Monster and other legends.

When asked about his favorite aspect of the event, England answered that the family contests are his favorite, such as the Bigfoot Calling and the Walk Like a Sasquatch, where participants showcase their best vocal mimicry and movement of the tall, hairy creatures. Another is the costume contest.

Visitors browsed through a vast display of regional and national vendors offering cryptid apparel, handcrafted art, custom gear and collectibles, including popular paraphernalia celebrating Bigfoot and The Mothman of Point Pleasant. Photo opportunities with Bigfoot himself were provided, as well as a petting zoo, face painting, caricature art and a scavenger hunt for miniature Bigfoot figures.

Cleveland’s Brian Wolf of Wolf Rock Radio provided music and DJ services.

The Bigfoot Jamboree was sponsored by Norada Lanes, Meat Sweats BBQ and Michael Thompson.