Last weekend, I attended the Soap Box Derby and had a blast experiencing this Akron tradition for the first time. From the racers to their parents to the staff, everyone was welcoming and happy to chat. (Which is a dream scenario for a journalist.) Plus, I got to spend most of the day outside, which is always a plus during the summer months.
Speaking of outside, that’s the theme of this week’s roundup of weekend events. As we prepare to enter August, these long summer days feel even more precious. I plan to enjoy as many of them as I can — and I hope you get to as well. (Just don’t forget the sunscreen!)
The long-running Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival returns this Friday and Saturday for the first of three weekends of performances. The local tradition celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. This weekend features two nights of performances from the Ohio Contemporary Ballet at Forest Lodge Park (260 Greenwood Ave., Akron). Performances begin at 8:45 p.m. each day. Coming with kids? Arrive early for the children’s pre-show program at 7:45 p.m., offered by the University of Akron’s Dance Institute.
On Saturday, gather the kiddos and head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a Family Fun Day. The free event includes hiking, music, activities and field games. The event will take place in the Boston area of the park. Guests should park at the Boston Trailhead (1508 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula) or Boston Mills Visitor Center (6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula). Family Fun Day goes from 1 to 4 p.m.
The Akron Symphony’s 2024 Summer Park Series kicks off Sunday at Forest Lodge Park in the Wallhaven neighborhood. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnics. The free concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Can’t make it Sunday? The orchestra will be at Firestone Park Community Center Sunday, Aug. 4, and Goodyear Heights Metro Park Sunday, Aug. 11.
Looking for more things to do this weekend and throughout the summer? Check out our guide to summer events in Akron and the surrounding area.
