Cleveland Magazine - Insider's Guide to Summer Fun 2024

CONCERTS: BIG SHOWS RETURN

COOL IDEAS FOR TIME NEAR THE WATER

READY, SET, RUN!

THE INSIDER'S GUIDE TO Celebrate Cleveland's Birthday in Public Square

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FRESH AIR, GREAT FOOD

The weather in Northeast Ohio doesn't make dining outside easy, but these four patio choices get the right mix of sun and flavor.

17 RIVER GRILLE

Though its menu might be the simple staples of American cuisine, this grille’s outdoor seating experience is nothing short of spectacular. The roofed patio overlooks the Chagrin Falls waterfall for a comfortable and picturesque meal. Elevating all the senses, diners can taste the slow-roasted short rib ($28). The hearty beef is complemented by a rich demi-glace, fried onion straws, freshly whipped potatoes and broccoli topped with mascarpone butter. 17 River St., Chagrin Falls, 440-893-0797, 17rivergrille.com

LUCA WEST

The beloved Cleveland spot’s Westlake location serves up reputable Italian cuisine with a rustic ambiance. A courtyard-style patio centered by a wraparound bar brings a small,

Northern Italy feel to this bustling hotspot. Venture out of the ordinary to try the Sacchetti pasta ($36) stuffed with truffle-essenced ricotta cheese. Topped with a white truffle cream sauce and a fig balsamic glaze aged to perfection, this combination of flavors is hard to find anywhere else. 24600 Detroit Road, Westlake, 216-201-9600, lucawest.com

COLLISION BEND BREWING CO.

Lay back and ride with the current at this brewery’s riverside patio, serving comforting bar food and locally made draft beers. Stop in for a plate of their beer cheese mac ($18), filled generously with blackened pork belly and brussels sprouts, and topped with toasted bread crumbs and crispy pork rinds. Pair it with a Collision Bend-

original ale for the optimal meal. 1250 River Road, Cleveland, 216-273-7879, collisionbendbrewery.com

TRELLIS ROOFTOP BAR

Lakewood’s first rooftop bar boasts a tropical vibe, so you can feel like you’re on a getaway vacation while still in the Cleveland suburbs. Wood tables under cabanas, white chair cushions, and fire pits create a minimalist vibe. Sip on a margarita and try the street corn nachos ($14) as a starter, made with freshly fried tortilla chips. A mixture of cheese, chili-roasted corn, jalapenos and Mexican crema all come together in perfect harmony and can be topped with your choice of steak, chicken or shrimp. 1384 Hird Ave., Second Floor, Lakewood, 216-801-4286, studiowest117.com/trellis

LIFETIME MEMORIES ARE MADE AT CAMPS

Six experiences bring learning and nature together to form a wonderful mix.

NATURE’S ARTISTS CAMP

North Chagrin Reservation

At this camp, art imitates life, as kids go on hikes to find supplies for their next masterpiece, meeting wildlife along the way. Creativity and education inform each other throughout this brief-butimpactful three-day experience, giving campers the chance to sharpen their science and art skills. $130, July 1-3, clevelandmetroparks.com

YOUTH BACKPACKING CAMPOUT

Brecksville Reservation

Kids can be one with nature at this overnight excursion, made to teach campers the ways of an expert backcountry backpacker. Using their own tents and making their own meals, campers will learn the safety basics for a night in the woods, and get the chance to trek through the stunning reservation. $75, Aug. 7-8, clevelandmetroparks.com

GUARDIANS YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS

Various Locations

Major League wannabes can put their skills to the test as the Cleveland Guardians hit the road to bring beginner-level, world-class baseball and softball competition across Northeast Ohio. Kids can learn pro tips from expert instructors and sharpen their skills across the bases. $175+, various dates, mlb.com

LAUREL’S SCHOOL FOR WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDRY

Laurel School

Enter a world of magic in a week of spellbinding fun. Through trivia, scavenger hunts, crafts, writing exercises and other mystical activities, wizarding wannabes will develop valuable skills and find the potion for a perfect summer day. $425, July 8-12, laurelschool.org

WILDLIFE WONDERS CAMP

Great Lakes Science Center

Kids can learn the ways of a zookeeper as they build habitats for their favorite animals, based on what they need to survive. Zoologists will be on-site to guide campers as they build a safe and happy environment for their species. $315, June 17-21, greatscience.com

SKY HIGH ADVENTURE

Gilmour School

This all-day, adrenaline-filled adventure gives the ninja experience with ziplines and rope climbs. Gather up your courage and take the leap. $400, various dates, gilmour.org

May 28

STELLAR SHOWS, SPLASHY STARS

Cleveland returns some national headliners to the concert scene along with great local experiences, forming a musical solstice vibe.

CHAPPELL ROAN AT AGORA

Touring her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, drag queen and pop sensation Chappell Roan will grace fans with her infectious hits and colorful persona. Assigning each of her shows an attire theme, fans will be dressed to impress for a unique experience. $35+, 5000 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

May 28

NOAH KAHAN AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Grammy-nominated superstar Noah Kahan continues touring his charttopping album, Stick Season, as fans can’t stop craving more of his small-town sound. Articulating his experiences out of Stratford, Vermont, he elevates folk and country music to make something virtually anyone can relate.

The tight-knit community of Northeast Ohio will certainly feel right at home with his melodies this summer. $242+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

June 12-15

COUNTRY FEST

Thomas Rhett, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson and Chris Janson headline a 14-act lineup over four days of classic country talent at Jellystone Park. The shows start in the afternoon each day. There are also other activities available at the resort. $129+, Clay’s Resort, 5050 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, thecountryfest.com

June 15

ROLLING STONES AT CLEVELAND BROWNS STADIUM

Whether you’re a fan of the oldies, like “Start Me Up," or newbies off their 2023 album like Angry, there will be a song for everyone at the Rolling Stones’ reunion tour. Take a trip back a few decades to the '60s for one night as the home of rock 'n' roll welcomes one of its most coveted bands and legendary performers on its Hackney Diamonds tour. $114+, 100 Alfred Lerner Way, Cleveland, clevelandbrownsstadium.com

Chappell Roan

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June 20-22

TRI-C JAZZFEST

Catch an accoladed lineup of jazz icons like Take 6, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Ledisi and other Grammy-nominated composers in the heart of Playhouse Square for a weekend of true class. In addition to their indoor concerts, local, up-andcoming jazz talents will also be putting on free, outdoor shows in the Square. Free$300+, Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, tri-c.edu/jazzfest

June 25

JANET JACKSON AT ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE

Embarking on her ninth headlining tour, Janet Jackson will celebrate her illustrious career one more time in Cleveland this summer. Joined by

fellow music sensation Nelly, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee will prove that she surely hasn’t gone out of style. $86+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse. com

June 26

NIALL

HORAN AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Originating from the X-Factor iconic boyband One Direction, Niall Horan is now a solo success that continues to wow crowds with deep-cut pop music you can dance to. $29+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

June 29

LARCHMERE PORCHFEST

Kick back and relax for a laidback showcase of sounds from around Cleveland. The

festival lineup consistently features performances from dozens of local bands and musicians across various genres, right from the comfort of Larchmere residents' front yards. The family-friendly event will also have activities in store for kids, so everyone can get involved in the local music scene. Free, Larchmere Boulevard, Cleveland, larchmereporchfest.org

July 7

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE AT ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE

Justin Timberlake is bringing sexy back, but did it ever really leave? A mainstay in the world of pop music, he’s churned out years of chart-topping hits, and he will continue to in anticipation of his newest album, Everything I Thought It Was. Touring for the first time since 2019,

Tri-C Jazzfest

Timberlake has his “Suit & Tie” ready to go for his long-awaited return. $112+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse. com

July 11

NORAH JONES & MAVIS STAPLES AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Tearing at heartstrings with her sensual soul and blues sound, Norah Jones has made a roaring return with her 2024 release, Visions. Joined by Mavis Staples, a reassuring voice of soul since the '70s, this pairing will stun crowds. $74+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

July 12

LUKE BRYAN AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

A country concert at Blossom is one of Cleveland’s favorite summer activities, and Luke Bryan returns to provide that. Curating a lineup of his greatest hits, dust off your cowboy boots and get ready to dance! Bryan’s pop-country fusion will have everyone saying “I Don’t Want This Night to End." $78+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

July 22

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Anticipation for a Red Hot Chili Peppers reunion is finally “Under the Bridge,” as it gears up to tour its latest album Return of the Dream

Canteen, providing the retro sound the band has always been remembered for. $100+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

July 29

SAD SUMMER FESTIVAL AT JACOB’S PAVILION

Emo kids unite: Though the name suggests a gloom in the midst of a bright summer, this lineup of legendary pop punk artists will have fans smiling ear to ear, as they get to relive the soundtrack of their teenage years. Heralded names like The Maine, Mayday Parade and We the Kings are slated to storm the shores of the Cuyahoga River. $59+, 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, jacobspavilion.com

July 30

BOWLING FOR SOUP AT HOUSE OF BLUES

Party like it’s 1985! Commemorating 30 years as a band, Bowling for Soup returns to the road to perform its greatest pop punk hits. And with the release of new music earlier this year, they’ve definitely still got it going on. $48+, 308 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, houseofblues.com

July 31

KID CUDI AT ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE

Shaker Heights’ very own takes the big stage in the heart of Downtown Cleveland to celebrate the release of his 10th studio album,

Norah Jones

MUST DO

Explore 50+ indoor shops in the MarketPlace and the weekly Hartville Flea Market

MUST SEE Tour the Idea House inside Hartville Hardware, America’s Largest Hardware Store

MUST EAT Homestyle cooking and baking at Hartville Kitchen

MUST SHOP

Discover a shopping experience like no other

Kid Cudi

INSANO — and to establish a new iteration of his Moon Man's Landing music festival, after canceling it last June due to venue concerns related to RMFH. Joined by other rap icons Pusha T. and Earthgang, local rising stars Siena Bella and Chelsea Pastel will also perform. $49+, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, rocketmortgagefieldhouse. com

Aug. 6

HOZIER AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Following the release of his third album, Unreal Unearth, the Irishman will grace the United States with his spinechilling ballads and deep baritone belting. His tour will swing into one of his largest

performances in Northeast Ohio yet, when he gets set tp perform at the Blossom Music Center in August. Experimental hits like “Eat Your Young” and “Francesca” will join classics like “Take Me to Church” and “Work Song” for a performance of indie-folk excellence, outside and under the summer stars. $65+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation com

Aug. 12

BARBIE

THE

MOVIE: IN CONCERT AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Take your next movie night out of the living room as Greta Gerwig’s Oscar awardwinning blockbuster travels

across the United States. On this one-of-a-kind tour, the film you love comes to life, as each musical number gets elevated by a live ensemble. The ensemble, The Sinfonietta, is an all-women and majority women-of-color orchestra that brings diversity and flair to instrumental music, including this iconic soundtrack. $35+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation. com

Aug. 17

PORCHROKR FESTIVAL

Akron’s Highland Square neighborhood comes together for a jam-packed day of food and music at this unique outdoor festival

FOR EVERYONE THIS SUMMER AT THE GROG SHOP

experience. Stroll through the streets to hear from a host of regional bands and artists, live from the front porch. Free, Highland Square, highlandsquareakron.org

Sept. 3

MITSKI AT JACOBS PAVILION

Touring her new album, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, Mitski calls this body of work her most American. $105+, 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, jacobspavilion.com

Sept. 6

AVRIL LAVIGNE AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Here’s to never growing up! Avril Lavigne brings her

Barbie the Movie: In Concert

greatest hits on the road for a show out of every pop-punk teen's dreams. Hear timeless classics like “Sk8er Boi," “Complicated” and “Girlfriend." $67+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Sept. 9

CAGE THE ELEPHANT AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

Already boasting an established repertoire with mainstream hits like “Cigarette Daydreams” and “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked”, Cage the Elephant is still going for more, as they tour for their sixth album, Neon Pill. $49+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Sept. 13

BILLY

JOEL &

ROD STEWART AT CLEVELAND BROWNS STADIUM

As the "Piano Man" embarks on a nationwide tour, he’s keeping lots of surprises up his sleeve, and one will be unveiled right here. Only at Browns Stadium, he will be joined by fellow legend Rod Stewart. $80+, 100 Alfred Lerner Way, Cleveland, clevelandbrownsstadium.com

Sept. 19

VAMPIRE WEEKEND AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

The longtime indie-rock group Vampire Weekend is

back on tour to commence the release of its fifth album, Only God Was Above Us. Fan favorites like “A-Punk” will complement new hits. $35+, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com

Sept. 19

SOMETHING CORPORATE AT HOUSE OF BLUES

Grunge is back in style, and Something Corporate is here just in time for the revival. One of the most prominent altrock bands out of the 2000s, the group is joining forces for a grandiose reunion tour to share their greatest hits. It's The Out of Office Tour is the perfect excuse to take a sick day. $143+, 308 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, houseofblues.com

4.8-MILE LAKE TO LAKE TRAIL

Big Creek Reservation

True to its name, this paved trail passes two lake marshes, making for a plethora of waterfront views. Along the way, you can read educational signage about glaciers that once swept the area.

2.8-MILE HEMLOCK TRAIL

Brecksville Reservation

Public Cruises

For those that like a challenge, this scenic dirt trail has an elevation change of 175 feet, making for a joyride on the way down. But don’t forget to save some energy for the climb back to the car!

1.5-MILE JEWELWING LOOP

Offering narrated sightseeing tours, happy hour cruises, lunch & dinner cruises and entertainment cruises weekly. Exquisite cuisine and the best mententertain in The“ Land”.

BEING OUTSIDE AND ENJOYING NATURE ADDS UP TO FUN

West Creek Reservation

Get three trails in one, as this Cleveland Metroparks app-exclusive links various routes together to make for one scenic hike, featuring water views, prairie land and wildlife.

1.6-MILE EDGEWATER TRAIL

A mix of challenges, these trails require different levels of effort and expertise.

2.4-MILE

HATCHET RIDGE LOOP

South Chagrin Reservation

See the sights of four different trails across the reservation, including the Henry Church Rock Loop, where you can find the work of blacksmith Henry Church Jr. himself: a massive sandstone rock dating back to the late 1800s, featuring handmade carvings of various images. Take the hike and see how many of the pictures you can find.

5.5-MILE

Lakefront Reservation

Traverse past the lake we know and love as you take in the sites of Edgewater Beach, backdropped by the Downtown skyline. Ending conveniently at Edgewater Park’s Cleveland script sign, the finish line is a built-in photo op to remember your journey.

1.0-MILE

EASTERN LEDGE

TRAIL

Euclid Creek Reservation

This trail’s suspension bridge and timber stairs make this hike as interactive as it is invigorating. Also featuring an overlook, you can find breathtaking sights unlike any other spot in the city.

ROYALVIEW RED LOOP

Mill Stream Run Reservation

This shared-use mountain bike trail may be lengthy, but deems perfect for any runner, walker or biker looking for a true adrenaline rush.

2.0-MILE

BRIDLE TRAIL

Hinckley Reservation

Whether on foot or on a horse, this equestrian trail leaves much to explore, promising a scenic route and a run-in with some furry friends.

1.8-MILE EMERALD NECKLACE MARINA PADDLE

Rocky River Reservation

Embark on an easy, breezy paddle past boats and fisherman for a laid-back exercise on the water, and take in some stunning views of Lake Erie along the way.

1.7-MILE

WOODPECKER WAY

Acadia Reservation

This trail is one of the longer paved options, but it still makes a great option for those looking for something more accessible. Walk, run or bring a bike — whichever way suits your needs.

Public Cruises

PUT ON YOUR RUNNING SHOES

Whether you are just starting out or run marathons multiple times per year, these six races provide challenges and good times for all.

May 18-19

CLEVELAND MARATHON

Whether you plan to run a 3.1-mile 5k or a 26.2-mile marathon, immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere as you conquer an incredible feat of endurance. clevelandmarathon.com

June 8

4 MILES 4 WATER

Four miles signifies the average distance a person will have to walk to find water, and many times, this water is still unfit for drinking. 4 Miles 4 Water raises funds and awareness of global water scarcities. Run or walk your way across the Flats East Bank for this refreshing cause. runsignup.com

July 27-28

BURNING RIVER ENDURANCE RUN & RELAY

Run with the sounds and sights of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Summit Metro Parks, whether you opt for the full marathon or can knock out the ultimate 100M challenge. westernreserveracing.com

August 18

TRI-CLE ROCK ROLL RUN TRIATHLON

This Olympic swim, run and bike course features live entertainment throughout. The event features a one transition layout throughout Edgewater Park. rockrollrun.com

August 24

OHIO BREWERY RUNNING SERIES: MARKET GARDEN BREWERY

Run for beer (literally) at this laid-back 5k, whose mission started simply as a way to incorporate exercise into drinking beer. breweryrunningseries.com

September 8

LIFEACT MOVE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Commencing for its second year at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, this short race’s impact goes a long way. You will be aiding in LifeAct’s mission to aid teens and others in further suicide prevention. runsignup.com

Bibibop

Condado Tacos

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

First Watch

Graeters

Heartwood Co ee

Kitchen Social

Pinstripes

Red, the Steakhouse

Sand Pebbles

Saucy Brew Works

Shake Shack

The Last Page

Leashed furry friends allowed Indoor/Outdoor Seating

Lao Sze Chuan

OUT ON THE WATER

We have one very Great Lake, and a variety of other bodies of water to make sure you can cool off or play in the sun and sand — whether you're floating in a boat, a raft or just a bathing suit.

ANYTHING THAT FLOATS

41 NORTH COASTAL ADVENTURES

Part of the Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Reservation, this comprehensive servicer provides a myriad of resources for the most experienced athletes, and those just looking to have fun. Take a guided kayak tour of Rocky River and Lake Erie, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and choose your own route. Rentals are also provided for novices in one of their many watersport classes. Pricing varies by service, 41n.com

FLOAT THE RIVER

Peacefully glide away from the hustle and bustle of life with this lazy river experience. The full-service outfitter sends groupings of inner tubes on a one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for a fun family outing, romantic getaway or afternoon hang with friends. $25, floattheriver.net

BREWBOAT CLEVELAND

Tap into BrewCLE’s pedal-powered cycleboats, which accommodate up to 16 people, or the all-electric, 12passenger Duffy boats for a memorable summer day. The machines include coolers, Bluetooth sound systems and ample space to party. $225+, brewcle.com

HINCKLEY LAKE BOATHOUSE & STORE

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. This Metroparksoperated shop is the ideal starting point for anyone renting stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and pontoon boats to explore the picturesque lake. It also offers food, beverages, fishing bait and tackle, apparel, books and more. $20-$80, clevelandmetroparks.com

A DAY AT THE BEACH

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach

Home to the iconic Lighthouse Hill, this 21-acre park features sandy shores for sunbathing along the Lake Erie coast, an accessible boardwalk, paved hiking trails and picnicking areas. Dedicated spots for boating, swimming, fishing and canoeing make this the perfect place for all your summer activity needs. For those looking to take a break from the sun, the nearby Marine Museum provides an expansive history of the Lighthouse and park as a whole.

Euclid Beach Park

Once the site of an amusement park, this quaint spot is now 650 feet of pure beach, with remnants of the park’s attractions still peeking through the area. Take a swim, or stroll down the 315-foot pier, spanning directly over Lake Erie, for breathtaking water views. Other picnicking and walking areas make this a great hub for a summer party.

Main Street Beach

This not-so-secret hotspot in the heart of small-town Vermillion has everything you need for an all-day summer getaway. The pet-friendly beach offers unobstructed views of the lake and is the ideal spot for swimming, fishing, boating and bird watching. Then, when you’re ready to dry off, scour the nearby shops and restaurants Vermillion’s shoreside has to offer.

May 24 - 27

FESTIVALS BRING OUT SUMMER'S BEST

A summer of fun with friends and families almost always includes food and music, and these celebrations won't disappoint.

BEREA’S NATIONAL RIB COOK-OFF & BEERFEST

Berea is the place to be for rib lovers this Memorial Day weekend, as Cleveland’s best BBQ rib makers gather for the city’s annual cookoff. Whether you like them smoked, charred, spicy or

saucy, there’s a palette for everyone to sample, as each team competes for the Best Ribs, Best Sauce and People’s Choice awards. Then, quench your thirst at the craft beer garden, which features a selection of local brews and seltzers. Live music and other kid activities will be available. $10, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Road, Berea, berearib.com

June 13-15

KIRTLAND KIWANIS STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Commencing for its 63rd year, Kirtland Schools presents a weekend of live music, crafts, games, parades, rides, contests and of course: strawberries. Take them fresh, or find them

in the form of shortcakes, lemonade, sundaes or covered in chocolate. Free, 9252 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, kirtlandohio.com

July 21

TASTE OF TREMONT

Park in the heart of Tremont for a lovely Sunday afternoon and evening, and get a taste of all the local flare this trendy neighborhood has to offer. Sample delcious and savory food from some of the best chefs in Northeast Ohio while shopping for merchandise from local artists, makers and vendors, all backdropped by live music, courtesy of up-andcoming talents. Free, 2406 Professor Ave., Cleveland, experiencetremont.com

July 24-27

BORDERLIGHT THEATRE FESTIVAL

Over 100 artists in the world of theatre come together for a weekend of singing, dancing, acting and good memories. Immerse yourself in more than 30 local and national performances, covering a wide range of genres and cultures. TBA, Various locations, borderlightcle.org

Aug. 2 - 4

TWINS DAYS FESTIVAL

The 49th Twinsburg Twins Days Festival celebrates everything in pairs, as twins, triplets and more from around the globe gather for

a weekend of double takes. After a parade of multiples kicks off the weekend, tournaments, talent shows, food, music and fireworks are all in store for siblings looking to celebrate their lookalikes. The thrill will stay alive all three days. $12.50+, Twinsburg Community Center, 10260 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg, twinsdays.org

Aug. 15-18

LITTLE ITALY’S FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION

Fill your stomach and your soul as you wander the streets of Little Italy during this tight-knit community’s celebration of the Catholic Feast of the Assumption. Free, 12021 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, littleitalyfeast.com

Aug. 17

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

Kent presents a dog-lover's paradise at the annual Dog Days of Summer festival. Celebrate the furry companions in your life with toys, merchandise, food, live music and lots of free cuddles. Free, Donations encouraged, 142 N. Water St., Kent, madonio-animal-trust.org

Aug. 30-Sept. 7

CLEVELAND OKTOBERFEST

Immerse yourself in a world of wiener dog races and bustling Biergartens at USA Today’s “Best Oktoberfest” in

the nation. The festival, which honors Germany’s vibrant and colorful culture, promises art, crafts, Bavarian collectibles, authentic German cuisine and of course: lots of beer TBA, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, clevelandoktoberfest.com

Sept. 14

WATERLOO ARTS FEST

A music, arts and food festival all in one, this historic lakeside neighborhood has put its entertainment scene on display for over two decades. Marvel at the work of 90+ art galleries, and get the chance to make crafts Free, 15605 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, waterlooartsfest.org

EASY ON THE WALLET

When looking for things to do this summer, these ideas don't require digging deep into your pocketbook to cover the costs.

Be proud, or proud to be an ally, at Pride in the CLE. Less than 10 years after gay marriage became legal in Ohio, nearly 20,000 members of the LGBTQ community and their allies gather Downtown on June 1 for parades, games, live music, vendors, after parties and a show of solidarity. lgbtcleveland.org/pride

See blight turn to beauty at Rooms to Let. For the past decade, the community development group at Slavic Village, one of the hardesthit areas in the country during the Great Recession of 2008, has helped Cleveland reconsider vacancies with this art festival. Since its inception, nearly 20 empty houses and historic buildings have been temporarily

reimagined into immersive exhibits by more than 300 of Cleveland’s best artists. slavicvillage.org

Don't forget to celebrate Cleveland's birthday on July 22. In 1796, General Moses Cleaveland founded the city on the mouth of the Cuyahoga River as a port connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the St. Lawrence Seaway. earlysettlers.org

See top NFL talent at Browns Training Camp. Face it: It’s nearly impossible to get in and out of Cleveland Browns Stadium for less than $100 a head. Even with free tickets, a beer and a dog runs you $20. Luckily, you can get a taste of NFL action at the Browns Training Facility in Berea. Last year, fans

got eight chances to watch position battles, meet the team’s newest stars, and get food from food trucks, and snag complimentary Browns swag. Don’t miss Youth Football Day, where youngsters get to play in a flag football competition on the same turf as the pros. You also could adopt a puppy from the Northeast Ohio Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. clevelandbrowns.com/training-camp

Recognize Cleveland culture at One World Day. Since 1946, Cleveland has celebrated its 254-acre Cultural Gardens, which features more than 40 monuments honoring the city’s farranging heritage, with a naturalization ceremony, a parade of flags and live music. clevelandculturalgardens.org

JULY 8-14, 2024