Family events in Canton, OH

Kids Paint Camp at Painting with a Twist is a fun, screen-free art activity where kids learn step-by-step creative techniques and make a chunky hand-knit pouf project to take home. Camp runs as a guided session for young artists, with all supplies included. Drop-off starts 15 minutes before the session begins, and pickup is at the end time plus a 15-minute window.

Canton First Friday in downtown Canton features The Little Glass Kitchen, serving a variety of delicious food. Attendees can enjoy tasty offerings from The Little Glass Kitchen while taking in the celebration.

Enjoy a lively First Friday celebration downtown, with special attention on the Hall of Fame theme. While there will be other performances around downtown, Funk YardX will be on the Plaza stage, performing from 7:30 PM until 9:30 PM.

A marching band marches in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Parade.

In Canton, Ohio, this cherished parade tradition has brought the community together since 1963. Crowds line the route well before the procession begins, and it now draws around 100,000 people each year, making it the city’s largest free event. Limited reserved seating is available for purchase. The 2.2-mile spectacle features towering helium balloons, lively marching bands, colorful floats, energetic dance troupes, and plenty of football spirit. The spotlight shines on the 2026 Enshrinees and returning Hall of Famers as they travel the route.

Wash your car while backing the Lady Tigers girls soccer team at their yearly fundraiser. This donation driven car wash raises money for training equipment, uniforms, travel, and tournament fees. Every contribution makes a difference and is gratefully received by the team.

This community back to school kickoff with Odyssey Group at KW Legacy Group Realty features a Touch-A-Truck experience where kids can explore vehicles up close and meet the people who operate them. Families can pick up free school supplies while supplies last, with each child able to select one item from each supply category. The event also offers free hot dogs plus kids activities and games, and it is open to the public. Eventbrite registration is required for all attendees to help with planning and supply preparation.

In honor of World Farmers' Market Week, this market day features delayed hours after the HOF Parade and an extra emphasis on fresh produce. The day includes plentiful sampling from many vendors, live music by Samuel John, and food and drink from Rambling Rose Kitchenette, Three33 Coffee Bar, and Mamas & a Mixer. Nearby attractions add to the experience, including the First Ladies National Historic Site along with Silo Arts Studio and Second April Studios. Families will find a Kids Connection area with coloring pages, games, and more. More than 35 local vendors will offer pastured meats, baked goods, snacks, preserved items, plants, gifts, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. A free Know Your Roots market sticker is available. The Commercial & Savings Bank sponsors a playful Find the Pig game with a prize. Hands-on make and take activities are available with Boomdyada, Cantonology, and Miss Larana's Apothecary. DORA beverages and brunch are offered at Bar Lost One and Fromage du Monde Cheese & Wine Shop, and the amenities of neighboring Canton Centennial Plaza, along with the many shops, eateries, and museums throughout downtown Canton, round out the visit. The market takes place rain or shine unless an inclement weather warning is issued. SNAP, WIC, Produce Perks, and Senior Nutrition benefits are accepted. Most vendors accept credit and app-based payments, and cash is appreciated. Public restrooms are available at Canton Centennial Plaza, and parking is free at street meters and in the attached Eric Snow YMCA parking lot.

Akron Picklefest is a fun day celebrating all things pickle, with a big lineup of artists and crafters, plus lots of vendors. You’ll also find pickle games, contests, tournaments, and a pickle parade, along with food trucks serving up pickles and other tasty treats. Come out for a playful, pickle-filled festival from late morning into the afternoon.

A relaxed coffee hour designed for parents, caregivers, and grandparents to connect, share stories, and discover local resources in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. While adults chat, children can enjoy supervised activities in the Inspiration Station play area. Held at a Canton office, this growing community gathering centers on conversation, support, and time together over a cup of coffee.

Explore native Ohio plants with Master Gardener Jane Schultz during a Littles Lunch & Learn session. Participants will wrap up by planting seeds to take home in their own pots. Lemonade and cookies are provided. The program is designed for early and middle childhood learners, and all ages are welcome. An ASL interpreter will be available. Registration is requested through Humanitix or by calling 330-833-4061.

Celebrate the Centennial Block Party at Canton Centennial Plaza with free, family friendly activities and a chance to learn more about the school. Enjoy live music, a soul food truck, face painting, hair services from a barber and braider, a game truck, an ice cream truck, a bounce house, and more.

Kids can use glue and watercolors to create their own suncatcher, which they can hang at home. This craft session runs in the library meeting room, and registration opens July 22.

Summer Serenades makes its return in 2026 as a free, collaborative series presented by the Canton Symphony Orchestra in partnership with Stark Parks, Friends of Stark Parks, ArtsinStark, Visit Canton, the Mary Renkert Wendling Foundation, and Rotary Clubs of Stark County. Expect intimate instrumental performances set amid natural surroundings, offering a mix of park sounds and live music. This family friendly experience encourages bringing a chair or blanket, favorite picnic foods, and a few games, taking time to explore the green space, and enjoying the performance. No registration is required.

Springbrook Plaza hosts the 19th annual AultCare Wish-A-Thon in support of Wishes Can Happen, with participation from News-Talk 1480 WHBC and MIX 94.1. The event centers on community involvement, and organizers note an especially strong need for support this year.

In the Heartland pays homage to Michael Stanley with an uplifting tribute packed with enduring hits and heartfelt rock anthems. The performance spotlights the songs that defined a revered Northeast Ohio artist, rekindling memories, energy, and unmistakable hometown spirit. From crowd singalongs to classic rock favorites, it welcomes longtime admirers and new listeners to celebrate the music that helped shape the region.

Catch Tusk, the Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute, featuring five performers with long-standing experience and a close chemistry, including vocal similarities and costume details. The amphitheater opens at 5:00 PM, with the show starting at 7:30 PM. Tickets are required for guests ages 13 and up, while children 12 and under can attend free of charge.