Major Events & Festivals in Akron, Ohio, United States

Akron, United States, Akron, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in Akron, Ohio, United States

1. Akron Marathon Race

Annual road race with options for full marathon, half-marathon, and relay. Attracts thousands of runners from around the world.
  • Diverse Distances: Offers a variety of distances to cater to different levels of athleticism.
  • Community Involvement: Brings together the Akron community in support of runners and promotes health and wellness.
  • Scenic Course: Runs through beautiful parks and neighborhoods, showcasing Akron's natural beauty.

2. First Night Akron

Annual New Year's Eve celebration featuring family-friendly activities, music, food, and a spectacular fireworks display.
  • Entertainment for All Ages: Offers diverse entertainment options appealing to both children and adults.
  • Safe Environment: Provides a safe, supervised environment for families to ring in the New Year together.
  • Community Unity: Brings together the Akron community to celebrate the beginning of a new year.

3. Akron RubberDucks Balloon Glow

An annual event where giant hot air balloons light up simultaneously creating a mesmerizing sight.
  • Unique Experience: Offers a rare and captivating experience for spectators.
  • Family-Friendly Event: Provides a fun, safe environment for families to enjoy together.
  • Community Gathering: Brings the Akron community together to celebrate and create memories.

4. Akron Folk Festival

Annual event featuring live music, crafts, food vendors, and workshops showcasing folk culture.
  • Cultural Education: Provides opportunities to learn about various folk cultures.
  • Live Performances: Showcases live music performances from a variety of folk artists.
  • Artisan Marketplace: Features a marketplace where attendees can purchase handmade crafts and artwork.

5. Lock 3 Live Music Series

Summer concert series featuring popular local and national musical acts.
  • Diverse Lineup: Offers a mix of genres to appeal to a wide range of music fans.
  • Outdoor Venue: Takes place at Lock 3 Park, offering beautiful views and a lively atmosphere.
  • Community Engagement: Brings the Akron community together for nights of great music and camaraderie.

6. Akron Film Festival

Annual film festival showcasing short films from local, national, and international filmmakers.
  • Film Variety: Offers a wide variety of genres, styles, and themes in the film selection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Provides opportunities for filmmakers to network with industry professionals.
  • Cultural Exchange: Allows for the cultural exchange of ideas and perspectives through film.

7. Akron Artwalk

Monthly event showcasing local artists, live music, and food trucks.
  • Artistic Showcase: Provides a platform for local artists to display and sell their work.
  • Community Involvement: Engages the Akron community in support of local art and culture.
  • Diverse Art Forms: Features a variety of artistic mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and more.

8. Akron Food Truck Fridays

Weekly event featuring a rotating selection of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines.
  • Culinary Diversity: Offers a wide range of culinary options from various cultures and cuisines.
  • Community Gathering: Brings the Akron community together for a fun, food-filled evening.
  • Support Local Businesses: Supports local food trucks and small businesses.

9. Akron Greek Festival

Annual festival celebrating Greek culture with food, music, dance, and educational workshops.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into Greek culture through traditional activities and experiences.
  • Delicious Food: Features authentic Greek cuisine, including gyros, moussaka, and baklava.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational workshops on Greek history, language, and traditions.

10. Akron Zoo's Wild Winter Weekends

Winter event featuring animal encounters, interactive activities, and holiday-themed entertainment.
  • Animal Interaction: Allows for close encounters with various animals, including zookeeper talks and feedings.
  • Holiday Spirit: Celebrates the holiday season with festive decorations, music, and activities.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Provides a fun, educational experience for families during the winter months.

11. Akron Indian Summer Festival

Annual festival celebrating Indian culture with food, music, dance, and educational workshops.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into Indian culture through traditional activities and experiences.
  • Delicious Food: Features authentic Indian cuisine, including samosas, biryani, and naan bread.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational workshops on Indian history, language, and traditions.

12. Akron Irish Festival

Annual festival celebrating Irish culture with food, music, dance, and educational workshops.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into Irish culture through traditional activities and experiences.
  • Delicious Food: Features authentic Irish cuisine, including corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, and soda bread.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational workshops on Irish history, language, and traditions.

13. Akron Pride Parade & Festival

Annual event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, festival, and family-friendly activities.
  • Community Support: Showcases the strength and unity of the Akron LGBTQ+ community.
  • Inclusive Environment: Provides a safe, welcoming environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies.
  • Cultural Exchange: Allows for the cultural exchange of ideas and perspectives within the LGBTQ+ community.

14. Akron Holiday Lights at LanternLand

Holiday event featuring a drive-through display of over 200 illuminated lanterns.
  • Unique Experience: Offers a unique and enchanting holiday experience.
  • Family-Friendly Event: Provides a fun, festive event for families to enjoy together during the holiday season.
  • Support Local Businesses: Supports local businesses by offering an additional holiday attraction in Akron.

15. Akron Celtic Festival

Annual festival celebrating Celtic culture with food, music, dance, and educational workshops.
  • Cultural Immersion: Offers a deep dive into Celtic culture through traditional activities and experiences.
  • Delicious Food: Features authentic Celtic cuisine, including fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and scones.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational workshops on Celtic history, language, and traditions.