By: Braydon Salomon
Dalí Beyond Time: Fashioning the Future
Get ready for a surreal experience! From June 12–Sept. 27, the Peg’s Foundation & Gallery transforms into a Dalí wonderland, showcasing 12 original Salvador Dalí paintings (on view June 12–July 5), along with his gold jewelry designs and high-fashion creations by Kent State University students. The entire exhibit is backed by luxury fabric legend Scabal.
pegsgallery.org
The Ascent International Music Festivals
This summer, Hudson’s Western Reserve Academy becomes a global stage for world-class musicians and rising stars at the Ascent International Music Festivals. From June 15 to July 12, experience over 25 free concerts featuring Grammy-winning ensembles, faculty recitals, and rising artists from around the world. Highlights include performances by Catalyst Quartet, Galvin Cello Quartet, and Black Oak Ensemble, plus a newly commissioned work for cellist Sarah Kim. All concerts are free to attend and advanced tickets are not required.
ascentmusic.org
Hamilton
The musical that reshaped Broadway is back! Hamilton returns to KeyBank State Theatre in Playhouse Square June 17–July 6, charting the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton through a dazzling mix of hip-hop, jazz, and showstopping ballads.
playhousesquare.org
WOW – Wade Oval Wednesdays
Every Wednesday from June 18 to August 20 (5:30–8:30 PM), University Circle’s Wade Oval transforms into a hub of free live music, local food, and community vibes. Catch a different lineup of bands and performers each week, with plenty of room to hang out and soak it all in. Bonus: This year on August 6th, enjoy free admission to the Cleveland Botanical Garden through the Kohl Gate.
tinyurl.com/4se7msdc
Murder at the Museum: A 1935 Cleveland Whodunit
Step into 1935 Cleveland and immerse yourself in a thrilling interactive murder mystery at the Cleveland History Center. Every Thursday evening from June 26 through August 14, join the investigation, play a role, and uncover clues to solve the crime before time runs out—and your name lands in the headlines. Costumes encouraged for this unforgettable summer night out!
Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland
The city’s biggest jazz bash returns to Playhouse Square, June 26–28, with nearly 500 artists performing day and night, indoors and out. This year’s lineup honors legends like Oscar Peterson and Chick Corea while showcasing boundary-pushing acts like the Sun Ra Arkestra and global stars including Dianne Reeves and Trombone Shorty. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to jazz, it’s a must-attend annual event that showcases the genre’s continuing evolution.
www.playhousesquare.org
Larchmere Porchfest
The 17th Annual Larchmere PorchFest comes alive June 28, 2025, turning front porches into intimate stages for 30 local bands across the boulevard. Designed to strengthen community ties and support local arts, the festival offers a seamless flow of performances—from afternoon sets to evening finales on 126th Street and late-night shows at neighborhood restaurants. Whether you’re exploring new sounds or catching favorites, PorchFest invites you to experience music in a way that’s as personal as it is unforgettable.
larchmere.com
Cain Park Arts Festival
The annual Cain Park Arts Festival returns July 11–13, showcasing the works of hundreds of artists from across the country. From woodwork to jewelry, sculpture to painting, the festival offers a chance to find that perfect piece—whether for your home, a gift, or just to admire. With live entertainment, interactive mural painting for kids, and plenty of food trucks and concessions, it’s a lively celebration of creativity for all ages.
cainpark.com
Blazing Paddles Paddlefest
On Saturday, July 19, Blazing Paddles Paddlefest turns the Cuyahoga River into a playground for paddlers of all levels. Choose from leisurely floats or competitive races along scenic routes, while enjoying exclusive river access for over four hours. The day features live reggae, Caribbean-inspired eats, and an opportunity to experience Cleveland’s evolving riverfront like never before.
sharetheriver.com/blazing-paddles
Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival is an annual celebration in Canton, Ohio, honoring the newest inductees into the Hall of Fame. This year’s festival is scheduled for July 31 to August 3 and will include a variety of events, such as the Hall of Fame Game on July 31, featuring the Detroit Lions vs. Los Angeles Chargers, kicking off the 2025 NFL season. Festivities will also include the Enshrinement Ceremony, a performance by Canadian rock band Nickelback, and more.
profootballhoffestival.com
Feast of the Assumption
Little Italy’s 120th Annual Feast of the Assumption brings four days of music, food, and community spirit to Cleveland from August 15 to 18. This free, family-friendly event takes over Mayfield Road with traditional Italian cuisine, carnival rides, live performances, and a casino beneath Holy Rosary Church. Just follow the smell of fresh cannoli, and you’ll know you’re in the right place.
holy-rosary.org
Tennis in the Land
Tennis in the Land returns to Cleveland this August, bringing top-tier professional women’s tennis to the Nautica Entertainment Complex from August 16-23, 2025. Featuring stars like Sloane Stephens, Sofia Kenin, and Caroline Garcia, this WTA 250 event transforms the city’s waterfront into an intimate venue for world-class competition. With seating for just 2,000 fans, every match offers a close-up experience of athletic precision and power.
tennisintheland.com
Rock Hall Half Marathon
On August 17, the Rock Hall Half Marathon invites runners to take on Cleveland’s streets, starting and finishing at the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Choose from a half marathon, 5K, 10K, or relay, each offering scenic lake views and a route through the city’s cultural heart. Finishers receive medals, participant shirts, and half marathoners get free Rock Hall admission. Registration is now open.
rockhallhalfmarathon.com
Cleveland Garlic Festival
The Cleveland Garlic Festival takes over Shaker Square August 24–25, spotlighting the Midwest’s best in all things garlic. From inventive dishes like garlic ice cream and fries crafted by local chefs to a celebrity chef Grill-Off, live music, cooking demos, and interactive family activities, there’s something for every garlic lover. Don’t forget to mark your calendar—and maybe pack some breath mints.
clevelandgarlicfestival.org
One World Day
Celebrate Cleveland’s rich cultural tapestry at the 79th Annual One World Day on August 24! This beloved event showcases vibrant traditions from 37+ cultures with a Parade of Flags, live performances, garden tours, and a naturalization ceremony for new U.S. citizens. Savor international flavors, immerse yourself in music and dance, and join the fun for all ages in the historic Cleveland Cultural Gardens.
Great Geauga County Fair
The Great Geauga County Fair celebrates its 203rd year this Labor Day weekend Aug 28–Sept 1. It’s Ohio’s oldest fair. It’s also one of the largest, featuring rides, games, shows and lots of food – fried Oreos anyone? There’s also horse races, demolition derbies, and tractor pulls. It’s as American as apple pie –speaking of which, don’t miss that competition!
Cleveland National Air Show
Aug 30–Sept 1: Experience Cleveland’s iconic Labor Day Weekend tradition at the Cleveland National Air Show—voted a Top Ten air show in the nation by USA Today readers! For three thrilling days, witness jaw-dropping performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, cutting-edge jets like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, gravity-defying aerobatics, and unique attractions including jet truck races and interactive exhibits. Secure your tickets online in advance for an unforgettable sky-high adventure with unbeatable views and excitement for all ages.
Walkabout Tremont
Walkabout Tremont is a lively monthly celebration of Cleveland’s artistic spirit, which is held on the second Friday of every month from 5 to 10 p.m. This family-friendly event transforms Tremont’s historic neighborhood, featuring extended hours of galleries and boutiques, live street performances, pop-up vendors, and themed activities that showcase the area’s diverse creative culture.
experiencetremont.com