Family events in Cleveland, OH

This focused campus tour at CASTLE Parma High School gives families considering high school options a chance to explore the campus, connect with administrators and staff, and learn about academics and the experiences available to students. The visit includes time to ask about applying and registration and explains how the school supports preparation for college, career, and life after graduation.

Race into a friendly showdown at Ethlete Lab Academy’s monthly Mario Kart tournament. Arrive with a partner or be paired with a teammate on site, then compete to earn points, outpace rivals, and aim for the win. Entry is $10 per player. Legend Status and Elite All-Access members receive free entry, and all other membership levels get 20 percent off. Capacity is limited, so advance registration is encouraged.

Young athletes can take part in the second annual basketball camp led by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Max Strus at Lakewood High School in Cleveland. Designed for boys and girls of every skill level, the day features on-court instruction from Strus and a team of experienced coaches, along with appearances from special guests. Participants will work on their game, build confidence, and enjoy a supportive setting that emphasizes hard work, teamwork, and community. The experience includes opportunities for photos and autographs, plus giveaways and exclusive gear. Whether a child is brand new to the sport or aiming to sharpen fundamentals, the focus is on growth both on and off the court.

The Great American Truck Show brings classic American trucks, community, and automotive history together at St. Mary Magdalene Byzantine Catholic Church. This one-of-a-kind fundraising event is dedicated exclusively to pre-2000 American-made trucks and SUVs. Expect classic and custom vehicles on display, food and drinks available for purchase, truck awards and recognition, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Admission is $5 per adult, and kids 12 and under are free. Registered truck owners and sponsors receive free admission. Truck registration is $15 per vehicle. Sponsorship options include a Classic Sponsorship at $60 with a name listed in the event program and one truck registration, a Signature Sponsorship at $120 with a half-page program ad and one truck registration, and a Founder Sponsorship at $250 that includes a full-page program ad, name placement on event signage, vendor space, and one truck registration.

A free Children's Closet offers families a chance to pick up what they need for their children. It is available on First Fridays, Second Saturdays, and Third Fridays. For any questions, send a message or call.

Sponsored by Cargill, the Cuyahoga River Rally is a free community celebration of the Cuyahoga River’s renewal at Hart Crane Park. It features complimentary walking, biking, and boat tours. A lively festival area offers kids’ crafts, water-themed activities, free rides on the Holiday Boat, live music, a beer garden, and more. Additional details will be shared as the event approaches.

Colors+ brings back its Drag Story Hour in collaboration with Drag Queen Story Hour Cleveland, featuring Veranda L'Ni, Sassy Sascha, King Jace Blaze, and more. This family friendly reading program offers affirming, inclusive fun for everyone, with stories that share positive messages, encourage young people to celebrate diversity, and challenge restrictive ideas about gender roles and expression. Guests of every age are encouraged to attend. Hosted at Lakewood Congregational Church. Supported by Cuyahoga Arts & Culture. Registration is available through the organizer.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire returns with an all-new ride, Rhinomite, a rhino themed powerhouse that charges into challenges with a mission to crush the competition. The tour delivers fresh, never-before-seen stunts from the trucks and debuts the No-Handed Front Flip from the FMX team. The show brings high energy to Rocket Arena. Fan favorites roll in, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, and Skelesaurus, alongside FMX riders launching into big-air tricks and a fire-breathing, car crushing robot dinosaur. Special pricing for kids is offered at every performance to create great value for families. For an upgraded experience, three VIP options are available for the Glow-N-Fire tour. Full Throttle VIP, Pedal to the Metal VIP, and Start Your Engine VIP include exclusive access to the Pre-Show Party, official VIP merchandise, and a chance to see the trucks up close before the smashing and crashing begins. The Full Throttle VIP package adds front row seats, a backstage tour with the host of the show, and a meet and greet with a Monster Truck driver and an FMX rider. Packages are limited and offered while supplies last. The Pre-Show Party opens the arena floor so fans can get close to the massive machines, check out their wild designs, and collect autographs from drivers and performers. Each pass comes with an autograph card that is only available to party attendees, with passes offered while supplies last. Glow-N-Fire is produced by Family Entertainment Live in partnership with Mattel, Inc. and Raycom-Legacy Content Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Family Entertainment Holdings, LLC.

Power up your day at a traveling video game celebration that also provides an opportunity to learn about the schools. The event features advanced gaming systems, inflatable activities, and a selection of the newest video games.

NuDay At the Park brings the community back together for a summertime celebration at Luke Easter Park. Formerly known as Family Unity Day in the Park, it focuses on culture, connection, small businesses, and family while honoring the resilience of the Southeast Side. The program features live performances by Grammy recording artist Chrisette Michelle and showcases local talent including @von_vj, The Band With No Name, @melroseevemusic, and @rayrimageband. It is hosted by @robertjohnsonjr1950, also known as the Line Dance King, with music by @djprofessional216. Vendor participation is encouraged for nonprofits, food vendors, and local businesses, offering a chance to share products and services, present creative work, serve food, and engage directly with the community at one of the Southeast Side’s largest celebrations.

Marking its 20th season, this open air farmers market spotlights local growers and makers, with live music, family friendly activities, and other offerings.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire revs into Rocket Arena in Cleveland, formerly known as Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, bringing giant trucks, soaring jumps, and stunt-centered action to an indoor stage. Glow and flame themed visuals pair with a brisk, family friendly pace that appeals to families and longtime monster truck fans, offering an up-close view of loud machines pulling off improbable maneuvers.

The fourth annual Rainbow Potluck brings the community together for a fundraiser and shared meal, welcoming LGBTQIA+ friends, allies, and families. It is a kid friendly space where everyone can meet new people and connect. Soda and water will be available, along with burgers, hot dogs, and chicken, plus vegetarian and vegan options. Guests are invited to bring an appetizer, side dish, or dessert to share. The afternoon features conversations, games, and giveaways, a bouncy house, yard games, and an ice cream truck, as well as over 100 raffle baskets and a 50/50.

A campfire jam led by Guggy happens in any weather and features a barbecue menu along with complimentary s'mores.

Little Diggers offers a weekly low-stimulation playtime designed for children who are sensitive to sensory input and for families who prefer a calmer experience. Lighting is kept soft and music stays low to help reduce overwhelm. The environment remains consistent each week so routines feel familiar. Children can enjoy the signature hands-on construction activities from Little Diggers at a slower, gentler pace. This session is intended for children with sensory processing differences, autism, ADHD, or anxiety, and is also suitable for families referred by pediatric occupational therapists, speech therapists, or special educators. It is a good fit for any child who thrives in a quieter setting, and it accommodates siblings and caregivers who want a more relaxed visit for everyone.

Older Siblings Day invites big brothers and sisters into the playspace so they can build, dig, and explore alongside their younger sibling. Older kids of any age may attend when accompanied by a sibling who is 7 or under. Admission for the older sibling follows the same policy as for children 7 and under. No special reservation is needed. This shared playtime supports confidence, problem solving, and resilience at every age, keeps families together instead of splitting up, and gives older kids a chance to lead, be positive role models, and grow their creative skills. All older participants must be accompanied by a sibling age 7 or under.

The outing takes place at the Cleveland Zoo, with a gathering point inside near the elephant area once the zoo is open. This is a ticketed activity, and zoo tickets are required.

The Old Brooklyn Farmers Market brings a summer celebration of local food and community to Loew Park. Each week features a blend of returning favorites and new vendors offering seasonal produce, baked treats, pantry essentials, and more, making it easy to support nearby businesses while shopping close to home. Beyond the tents, look for musical performances, hands-on art, cooking demos, community resource tables, and activities for all ages. Dinner options are available from local food trucks, and a weekly beer garden presented by Schnitz Ale adds to the experience. SNAP, WIC, Produce Perks, and other incentives are accepted to help make fresh, local food accessible.