Family events in Akron, OH

In historic downtown Silverton, the First Friday Art Walk shines a light on local creativity, from original artwork to hands-on studios that reflect the community’s mountain heritage. As part of a nationwide First Friday tradition that highlights artists, galleries, and maker spaces, over a dozen shops and galleries open for an evening of live art demonstrations, kid friendly activities, live music, shopping, and refreshments, with a new theme each month. Look for flags marking participating businesses, pick up a map at event headquarters, The 9318 Collective, or use a digital map to guide your stroll.

Bring your card binders and connect with fellow fans for Pokemon trading and conversation. Whether you are new and want to learn more or already collecting, this gathering supports both newcomers and experienced traders. Complimentary food will be available, and the event is open to all ages.

This local auto show welcomes anyone with a cool car to put on display. Car owners can showcase their vehicles for others to see.

This after-hours lock-in celebrates the close of Summer Reading and is open to participants in grades 4 through 12. Attendance is limited to those who took part in the program, and registration is required.

Inlet Dance Theatre performs at Firestone Park as part of the Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival in Akron. The program includes an interactive pre-show for children followed by the main performance. Admission is free and open to everyone. Audience members are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket, and a picnic to enjoy with friends. Founded in 2001 by executive and artistic director Bill Wade, Inlet Dance Theatre is a professional contemporary company with roots in American modern dance. The company advances the idea that watching, training, and performing in dance can foster personal growth, and it has expanded from a small local ensemble into an organization with international reach. Now in its 52nd season, the Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival honors the legacy of Heinz Poll, the founding artistic director of Ohio Ballet. Each summer it presents free performances by noted regional and national companies in Akron parks, reflecting a commitment to artistic excellence and community connection, and is sponsored by the City of Akron.

A free celebration of pop culture open to all ages, welcoming fans of comics, movies, manga, gaming, and television. Enjoy a mix of panel discussions, vendor offerings, and games, along with a cosplay contest and an art contest. All fandoms are invited. The event schedule and map will be announced later. Weekend parking is complimentary in the High St parking deck next to Main Library.

Meet adoptable pets at Chapel Hill Tractor Supply and learn more about the process. If there is a specific pet you hope to see, please contact the foster in advance to confirm they will attend. Paws and Prayers requires pre-approval and follows its adoption standards for all applicants, and adoptions are not completed on site.

Hosted by L.I.N.K.S. Community & Family Services, the third annual Middlebury Neighborhood Picnic brings neighbors together at Jewett City Park for a free, family-friendly celebration of community spirit. Enjoy complimentary food while supplies last, music and entertainment, games and activities for all ages, a foam pit for kids, raffles and giveaways, and opportunities for outdoor recreation and community engagement. It is a welcoming setting to reconnect with friends, meet new neighbors, and enjoy a day of fun. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, contact L.I.N.K.S. Community & Family Services at 330-794-5230.

Superfly returns to the East Campus Deck with an even bigger showcase of automotive culture and entertainment. Expect hundreds of cars to explore, live performances that keep the atmosphere buzzing, and a full lineup of activities from start to finish. Look for a Paul Walker themed R34 with a manga style twist and the chance to grab raffle tickets, plus a high energy set from DJ Shagoki. Classic gaming stations bring nostalgic favorites like GoldenEye and Mario Kart, creating a fun break between checking out rides. Throughout the program there is an early access window, awards are presented, and the music carries the crowd through the finale. Food and drinks are available from Komfort Zone, Sips and Licks, Southern Thangz, and more.

A family-friendly festival in central Tallmadge features live music, activities for all ages, a variety of local food vendors, and showcases from community organizations. The Circle Fest Parade returns and is followed by a fireworks display that brings the evening to a close. This longstanding summer tradition highlights local pride with lively entertainment and plenty to enjoy.

Presented by Thanks, It’s Thrifted Podcast, this community housewares swap at Hardesty Park brings registered participants together to trade gently used household goods and keep quality items in circulation. Registration is required for each individual, and a $10 fee per swapper helps cover the venue, supplies, and event coordination. This is a swap rather than a sale, so no money is exchanged and shopping is limited to registered swappers. Participants may bring up to 30 clean items from home. At check in, one ticket is issued for each item, up to 30, and tickets can be exchanged for finds from other participants. Plan to set up your items before swapping begins. Limited park tables may be available, and bringing a personal table up to 10 feet or a blanket is welcome. The event flows from browsing to a ticketed exchange, then into an open swapping period where remaining pieces can be claimed. At the end, take home any leftovers or donate them on site to the nonprofit partner. Suitable items include mugs and drinkware, plates and bowls, serving pieces, kitchen gadgets and utensils, small working appliances, artwork and frames, vases and decor, unused candles, baskets and storage solutions, and small quantities of books. Please do not bring clothing or shoes, large furniture, broken or damaged goods, mattresses or large fixtures, hazardous materials, nonworking electronics, or toys. Items should come from personal use and be intended for swapping rather than resale inventory. Prompt arrival is recommended to allow time for setup, participants manage their own displays, and a wagon, tote, laundry basket, or box can make transport easier. This gathering is planned outdoors in most weather, with cancellation only in the case of severe conditions.

Now in its second year, the Cruzin’ with Christ car gathering brings together vehicle lovers and neighbors for food, fellowship and fun. Enthusiasts can showcase new or vintage cars, trucks or motorcycles, and everyone is welcome even without a vehicle. Hot dogs are provided by RW Haulers, with chips, desserts and drinks available. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and relax. A St. Mark All the Meats raffle featuring Dumas Meats gift cards will award three prizes valued at $100, $200 and $400. Raffle tickets are $10 each, and winners do not need to be present to win. Fifteen percent of event proceeds support Safe Landing Youth Shelter, and fifteen percent of raffle ticket sales benefit Heifer International. Admission is free and open to all.

This event offers a relaxing afternoon with food, plenty of fun, and music featuring all-time favorites.

Akron Civic Theatre in Akron hosts a family-friendly Princess Concert filled with music from favorites such as Frozen, Wicked, Moana, KPOP Demon Hunters, Taylor Swift, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Anastasia, Pocahontas, and more. The show features powerful vocals from West End performers, aerial artistry, and energetic dance, celebrating uplifting themes and a touch of magic. Presented during summer recess, this event is suitable for all ages.

The ASO returns with music on the lawn, filling the park with classical favorites and popular selections. The program features works by Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Scott Joplin, and Charles Ives. Akron vocalist Stephanie Childers-White appears with Gospel Meets Symphony choirmaster Jonathon Turner for a set of soulful pop selections backed by the orchestra. The Soap Box Derby Rag by Eric Benjamin also makes a welcome return. These concerts are free for everyone, so pack a blanket, bring a picnic, and make it a family outing.

Enjoy a free evening of classical music outdoors with the Akron Symphony Orchestra. The lineup includes well-known composers such as Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Scott Joplin, and Charles Ives, with special performances from Stephanie Childers-White and Jonathon Turner. The concert also features Eric Benjamin’s Soap Box Derby Rag. Bring a relaxed evening vibe to the park for music under the stars.

Support local makers and growers at a market featuring craft vendors, food vendors, and local farmers. Cold beer will be available.

Families and individuals can take part in a recurring trivia night on the second Monday from February through November. Compete as a family team or go head to head while tackling questions in science, music, and geography. All ages are welcome, with most questions designed for participants ages 12 and older.

Enjoy a free movie screening at Northampton United Methodist Church that features the previous week’s film. Popcorn and admission are complimentary. The event welcomes church members, first-time visitors, and families, and children are welcome. Friends are welcome too, and attendees can bring a portable chair or a blanket for added comfort. The atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive, with space for everyone.

Part of the Picnic in the Park series, this stop at Lions Park offers a relaxed outdoor get-together for neighbors and friends. Visitors can unwind on the grass and enjoy complimentary hot dogs, chips, and water courtesy of the Cuyahoga Falls Parks & Recreation Department. The series rotates through community parks, and families can bring a picnic blanket for an easygoing time together.

Settle in by the lake at Silver Creek Metro Park for a free concert featuring the Metro Parks Ensemble. Bring chairs, blankets, and an optional picnic for a comfortable experience. The music will be presented near the Sherman Shelter in the Lake House Area. If rain is in the forecast, the concert will be canceled; for weather-related updates, call 330-865-8060. Presented by Wayside Furniture, this event marks the Ensemble’s 25th anniversary of sharing music throughout the Metro Parks.

Enjoy a relaxed crafting session where you can work on projects at your own pace while connecting with others in the community. This casual, drop in gathering welcomes participants of every age and skill level. Attendance requires registration. If signing up a group, include a complete head count so there are enough supplies and materials for everyone.

Youth Suncatchers is an art and craft session where participants use glue and watercolors to create their own suncatcher, which they can hang at home afterward. The program runs in the library meeting room.