The Nightlight is gearing up for its 10th anniversary with a weekend of special events. Last month, I spoke to Executive Director Jenn Kidd about what the independent movie theater has in store for the big 1-0. Kidd also shared an update on the Nightlight’s second screen expansion plans.

Besides showing two days of films (including a one-night screening of the 4K restoration of “Amadeus”), the theater will also offer tours of its new space next door. Construction on the second screen is expected to begin this summer.
Can’t make it this weekend but still want to support the Nightlight? Snag a print from its ongoing poster sale. All proceeds go toward the second screen expansion.

Looking ahead to next week

Next week is the city’s annual Rib, White, and Blue Festival, and I’ve got the details on the annual event, including nightly music schedules and fireworks display. (With July Fourth falling on Thursday, there will not be an edition of AkronAlive! next week.)

Speaking of next week, be sure to check back Monday to see the results from our first Best of the City contest. Throughout the week, we’ll share profiles on the winners in each category as well.

Your weekend plans

Head to downtown Cuyahoga Falls Friday for a free outdoor screening of “Back to the Future.” The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with science activities from COSI, a roller rink, food trucks and inflatables. The movie will start at dusk in the amphitheater at 2085 Front St.

Stop by Akron Soul Train Saturday for Drawing “Bread and Butter” Issues, a special art workshop/food drive led by artist Katie Butler. Stop by between 2 and 4 p.m. with a food item to sketch and then donate to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. (Not sure what to bring? Check out this list of most-needed items from the food bank.) Drawing materials will be provided. Afterward, check out the gallery’s current exhibitions: Chen Peng’s “Mountains in My Living Room” and a member show featuring work from Akron Soul Train artists.

Join Yoga Squared and Akronym Brewing for Downdogs x Drafts at the downtown Akron brewery Sunday. The one-hour class begins at 10 a.m. and will take place on Akronym’s patio, weather permitting. Tickets are $18 and include one craft beer after practice. Attendees should bring their own mats and water.

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.

Culture & Arts Reporter (she/her)
Brittany is an accomplished journalist who’s passionate about the arts, civic engagement and great storytelling. She has more than a decade of experience covering culture and arts, both in Ohio and nationally. She previously served as the associate editor of Columbus Monthly, where she wrote community-focused stories about Central Ohio’s movers and shakers. A lifelong Ohioan, she grew up in Springfield and graduated from Kent State University.