30 Things To Do In Cleveland This Weekend (Aug. 19-22)
Our weekly picks of the best things to do in Cleveland this weekend. Also check out our full Cleveland event calendar.
THU 08/19
The Century of the American Motorcycle Exhibit Opening
Beginning today, Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS) will launch The Year of the Motorcycle at the Cleveland History Center, headquarters for WRHS and home of the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum. The Year of the Motorcycle opens with a comprehensive exhibit of American motorcycle evolution produced by the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. This is only the second time the collection of over 30 American made motorcycles have been on exhibit outside of the Barber Museum and is made possible with presenting sponsorship from Progressive Insurance, the #1 motorcycle insurer in the country and Dan T. Moore. The opening party takes place today at 6 p.m. Opening remarks will start promptly at 6:30 with exhibit viewing until 8p.m. Tickets cost $25, or $20 for WRHS members.
10825 East Blvd., 216-721-5722, wrhs.org.
Asian Lantern Festival
Taking over parks and zoos across the country, the traveling Asian Lantern Festival shows off thousands of colorful handmade paper lanterns in open, green spaces. This year’s edition brings 70 “large-scale illuminated displays.” This year’s festival will mark the return of live performances every hour, and there will be acrobatics including foot juggling, contortion and martial arts. Throughout the festival, guests can shop at an Asian craft market and taste a variety of culturally-inspired cuisine. The event takes place from 6:30 to 10 tonight through Sunday. Check the Zoo website for ticket prices. Continues through Sept. 2.
3900 Wildlife Way, 216-661-6500, clemetzoo.com.
The Choir of Man
With most of the Broadway touring shows still on pause because of the pandemic, The Choir of Man represents the sole performance taking place at Playhouse Square this month. A press release promises the show is both a party and concert: “It’s a pint-filled good time set in a working pub that combines hair-raising harmonies, high-energy dance, and live Percussion with foot-stomping choreography.” Tonight’s show takes place at 7:30 in the Mimi Ohio Theatre. The run extends to Sept. 18. Check the Playhouse Square website for additional showtimes and ticket prices.
1511 Euclid Ave., 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org.
Indie Gathering International Film Festival
According to press materials, the annual Indie Gathering Film Festival exists to showcase the independent filmmaker. “Our mission is to inspire and encourage filmmakers through a competitive showcase,” reads a press release about the event that takes place today through Sunday at the DoubleTree hotel in Westlake. Filmmakers will participate in the screenings and after the films speak with audience members who seek a closer look into the creative process. Check the event’s website for a complete schedule and more info.
theindiegathering.com.
Tommy Lehman Quintet — A Tribute to Chet Baker
Up and coming trumpet player Tommy Lehman brings his quintet to Maiden Lane to pay tribute to the late Chet Baker. In addition to Lehman, the group also features pianist Jackie Warren, tenor saxophonist Johnny Cochran, bassist Eli Naragon and a special guest on drums. In case of rain the concert moves into Musica Club. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. It’s free.
51 East Market St., Akron, 330-374-1114, akronmusica.com.
Live and Local
As part of the Rock Hall’s summer concert series, there will be live music from 8 to 10:30 tonight and tomorrow night. Dubbed Live and Local, the concerts will feature a mix of local and national acts. Admission is free but reservations are requested. A separate ticket is required to tour the museum. Tonight, local rockers Falling Stars perform with local singer-songwriter Jack Harris. Tomorrow night, Tommy Stinson’s Cowboys in the Campfire play with opener John K.
1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., 216-515-8444, rockhall.com.
Lunch by the Lake
A summertime thing at the Rock Hall, Lunch by the Lake will feature free acoustic performances by the Rock Hall’s “Resident Rockers” and local artists from noon to 2 p.m. on today, tomorrow and Saturday at the beer garden. The event is free and no reservation is required. Continues through Aug. 26.
1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., 216-515-8444, rockhall.com.
Music Thursdays
This summertime event featuring local acts takes place tonight in the Cedar-Fairmont neighborhood at Luna Bakery & Cafe. “Bring your chairs and listen to Cleveland’s best!” reads the press release promoting the free concert. Tonight, IN2ATIVE and Dylan Moffitt perform. Find more information on the website.
cedarfairmount.org.
FRI 08/20
78th Street Studios Third Friday Art Walk
Tonight, the Third Friday Art Walk returns to the cavernous 78th Street Studios. More than 50 studios and galleries will participate in this popular indoor art walk; be sure to check out spots like the Derek Hess Gallery, Tregoning & Company and Hilary Gent Studio. Look for food trucks out front and live music on the first floor. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. and admission is free.
1300 West 78th St., 78thstreetstudios.com.
Bill Bellamy
If comic Bill Bellamy did nothing more than coin the phrase “booty call,” he’d go down in comic history. But the guy has been a staple on the standup circuit for nearly 30 years now. His star power hasn’t diminished over that time, either. Currently the host of his own TV show, Who’s Got Jokes, he was also a regular on Chelsea Lately. His material tends to stick to tried-and-true topics like the differences between men and women when it comes to romantic love, and surviving the trials and tribulations of getting through security at the airport. Still, this guy is a pro storyteller who knows how to work the room. He performs tonight at 7:30 and 10 at the Improv, where he has shows scheduled through Sunday. Check the Improv website for ticket prices.
1148 Main Ave., 216-696-IMPROV, clevelandimprov.com.
The Big Bounce America
Big Bounce America 2021, reportedly the largest touring inflatable event in the world, will come to Victory Sports Park this weekend. This year’s version features a brand-new attraction, Sports Slam, a customized sports arena with goals, nets, hoops and balls of every size and type. It takes place today, tomorrow and Sunday. Check the website for ticket prices and times.
7777 Victory Lane, North Ridgeville, 440-954-8703, thebigbounceamerica.com.
Elektric Voodoo
Elektric Voodoo, the Afrobeat-inspired psych dance-rock ensemble founded by Scott Tournet, delivers a heavy funk and Afrobeat groove on “Telescope,” the title track from their latest album. The accessible song, which features a riveting mid-song guitar solo, also manages to show off the group’s pop sensibilities. The group first came together in 2016 around the time Tournet left the band he had built up for 12 years with Grace Potter and Nocturnals. Telescope is a concept album that presents a “tells a story of a journey through self-reflection, evaluation of mortality, confrontation of death and eventually dawns a new perspective.” Expect to hear songs from it when the band plays tonight at 8:30 at the Beachland Ballroom. Admission is free.
15711 Waterloo Rd., 216-383-1124, beachlandballroom.com.
Heathers: The Musical Presented by Millenial Theatre Project
In Heathers, a shoulder-padded, scrunchies-wearing Heather terrorizes a school, but the misfit Veronica Sawyer rejects their evil regime for a new boyfriend. That’s the plot of this musical presented by Millennial Theatre Project. Tonight’s performance takes place at the Akron Civic Theatre. Tickets cost $20.
182 South Main St., Akron, 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com.
Indians vs. Anaheim Angels
Though two of MLB’s best players (Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani) play for the Anaheim Angels, the team might actually miss the playoffs because it hasn’t played well enough despite the start-power. Still, the marquee players are a big draw, so you can expect a good crowd will be on hand when the Angels come to Progressive Field for the first time this season to take on the Tribe. The game begins at 7:10, and tickets start at $15.
2401 Ontario St., 216-420-4487, clevelandindians.com.
Roy Wood Jr.
With his extensive resume, comedian Roy Wood Jr. has started to make some serious noise. Rolling Stone magazine describes him as a “breakout.” Between performing on The Late Show with David Letterman, appearing on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson and routinely appearing as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, it’s hard to understand how Wood even has time to constantly tour the country. He performs at 7 and 9:30 tonight and tomorrow night at Hilarities. Consult the Hilarities website for ticket prices.
2035 East Fourth St., 216-241-7425, pickwickandfrolic.com.
Zac Brown Band
Known for live shows that often feature a slew of oddball covers in addition to original material, the versatile Zac Brown Band returns to Blossom tonight. On its last effort, 2019’s, The Owl, the country/rock band dipped its musical toe into pop and EDM waters and worked with writer and producers such as Poo Bear, Shawn Mendes, Max Martin, Benny Blanco, Ryan Tedder and Skrillex. As a result, songs such as “The Woods” feature more synthetic instrumentation, though Brown’s drawl remains intact. The show starts at 7 p.m. at Blossom. Singer-songwriter Teddy Swims opens the show. He released his debut EP, Unlearning, earlier this year, and the soulful single “Bed on Fire” has become a smash hit. Check the Live Nation website for ticket prices to the concert.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, livenation.com.
SAT 08/21
Cleveland Bazaar in Market Square Park
Cleveland Bazaar has organized pop-up retail events for makers, artists and small businesses in northeast Ohio since 2004. Its summer shows at Market Square Park across from the West Side Market are a great way to shop local. Today’s event, which is free, takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
W. 25th St. and Lorain Ave., loc8nearme.com/ohio/cleveland/cleveland-bazaar/6206878/.
G.L.O.W. 12 Featuring Ya-Ya
Y.A.Y.A. (nee Justin Epstein) is a 25-year-old Cleveland-based rap artist who has been making music for a healthy chunk of his life and opened up for Mike Jones at Peabody’s when he was 15. Following a short hiatus, Y.A.Y.A. returned to performing and will culminate with a headlining slot at the twelfth installment of GLOW (one of the biggest showcases for up and coming hip-hop talent in the city) at the Grog Shop. Some of Y.A.Y.A.’s most popular songs include “In the Grave,” “High,” and “Groovy.” In a press release, Y.A.Y.A. reveals that everything he does is for his dearly departed father and who passed away when he was 10. In addition to his work as a solo artist, Y.A.Y.A. is also a member of Lonely Boyz, a group based in Canada. Other artists slated to perform at GLOW 12 include G. Khan, Illest Villains, Baby Draco, Hunnitz and Mos3s among others. The show will be hosted by Marquis Storm. The show starts at 8 tonight, and tickets cost $15. (Emanuel Wallace)
2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-321-5588, grogshop.gs.
Italian Bred
Italian Bred offers a funny but heartfelt look at Candice Guardino’s quirky childhood on Staten Island. Guardino impersonates all the members of her family, from her matter-of-fact father to her outspoken, chain-smoking grandmother. Italian Bred features virtual celebrity cameos by Steve Schirripa (Blue Bloods and Sopranos), Mario Cantone (Sex and the City and The View) and Emmy-winner Leslie Jordan. Today’s performance takes place at 3 p.m. at Hilarities. Check the Hilarities website for ticket prices.
2035 East Fourth St., 216-241-7425, pickwickandfrolic.com.
KOLÂDE-XCOPE
Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, Raphael Xavier is an award-winning artist and alumnus of the world-renowned hip-hop dance company. For KOLÂDE-XCOPE, which originated as an outdoor experience at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, Xavier will team up with members of Northeast Ohio’s hip-hop scene to explore “new ways to expand the vocabulary of the dance form and how it fits onto an aging body.” Performances of KOLÂDE-XCOPE take place today at 3 and 5:30 at the Alma Courtyard at Cain Park. Admission is free.
14591 Superior Rd., Cleveland Heights, 216-371-3000, cainpark.com.
Legacy Live
One of Northeast Ohio’s most popular free concert series, Legacy Live has become a tradition that families and couples look forward to each summer. The concerts, which take place on the Legacy Village lawn at 5 each Saturday night throughout the warmer months, feature local bands that play everything from blues to jazz and rock. Admission is free. Continues through Sept. 11.
25333 Cedar Rd., Lyndhurst, 216-382-3871, legacy-village.com.
Musical Memories
In 1921, Cleveland Heights was established as a city in 1921. Just 17 years later, Cain Park was created, and Cleveland Heights soon became known as “home to the arts.” To celebrate Cleveland Heights’ centennial, this concert will reunite cast members for showstopping numbers from decades of musical productions. The concert begins at 8 tonight. Consult the Cain Park website for ticket prices and more info.
14591 Superior Rd., Cleveland Heights, 216-371-3000, cainpark.com.
Peninsula Flea
It’s not just a city thing: Good fleas can be found beyond Cleveland’s city limits. To wit: The Peninsula Flea, which is held on the first Saturday of every month from June to September at the beautiful Heritage Farms, in the Cuyahoga Valley. The location provides a perfect escape from the crush of city life, perhaps best enjoyed by taking a hike in the surrounding Cuyahoga Valley National Park — the third most-visited national park in the country. A slew of local vendors will be on the lawn, with indoor sales taking place in two of the barns on site. The flea is the perfect opportunity to get some antiques, handmade collectibles, local gear and delicious fresh food while taking in all that Peninsula has to offer. Shoppers are welcome from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, heritagefarms.com/peninsula-flea.
SUN 08/22
Tab Benoit
Louisiana-born blues guitarist Tab Benoit started up “Voice of the Wetlands,” a charity focusing on coastal preservation, back in 2003. Thing is, that moniker is also apropos for Benoit. With the grit of the delta blues in his guitar work and the thick atmosphere of his vocals, Benoit’s commitment to the South’s fine legacy of all things Cajun is quite strong. And it’s all very exciting to listen to on the muggy days of summer. Of course, all we’ve got up here in Cleveland are bitter winters, so Benoit’s blues will have to contend with that tonight. Shouldn’t be a problem. Pick up a copy of 1992’s Nice and Warm or 2011’s Medicine for perspectives on his early and late career points, respectively. He takes the stage tonight at 8 at Kent Stage. Check the Kent Stage website for ticket prices.
175 E. Main St., Kent, 330-677-5005, kentstage.org.
Browns vs. New York Giants
The Browns play their first preseason game of the year today when they take on the New York Giants at 1 p.m. at FirstEnergy Stadium. Given that it’s a preseason game, don’t expect to see the stars getting too much playing time. Consult the Browns website for ticket prices.
100 Alfred Lerner Way, 440-891-5000, clevelandbrowns.com.
Maker Town Market
Maker Town and Saucy Brew Works have teamed up to present free outdoor markets every Sunday at Saucy’s Vibe Garden. The weekly event will feature handmade jewelry, home decor, wall art, fashion, pet products, wellness items, furniture and paper goods. Located at W. 28th St. and Church Ave., Saucy’s Vibe Garden features picnic tables and an outdoor bar. Food can be ordered from the brewery via an app. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s free.
2807 Church Ave., 216-666-2568, makertownusa.com/market/.
Reggae Sundays
This special Reggae Sunday Happy Hour Concert series is a summertime tradition at the Music Box Supper Club The indoor/outdoor concert series will take place rain or shine with live music from 4 to 7 p.m. Music Box will also offer food and drink specials exclusive to the series. Continues through Sept. 5.
1148 Main Ave., 216-242-1250, musicboxcle.com.
Romantic Brahms
Today at 7 p.m. at Blossom, the Cleveland Orchestra takes on two pieces by Brahms in a program dubbed Romantic Brahms. The orchestra will perform Brahms’s Third Symphony (the third movement was “borrowed” for the 1951 pop song “Take My Love” that was recorded and co-written by Frank Sinatra and is a favorite of Carlos Santana, who used it as inspiration for “Love of My Life”) as well as Violin Concerto. Consult the Cleveland Orchestra website for ticket prices.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, clevelandorchestra.com.
Tennis in the Land
Tennis in the Land, a WTA 250 Tour event, kicking off today at in the Nautica Complex parking lot, making it Cleveland’s largest women-only event. It’s reportedly the first time in history bringing a professional women’s tennis tournament. This is an extremely high-level event featuring stars such as Cleveland’s Lauren Davis and American Jennifer Brady. As part of the U.S Open Series and taking place a week prior to the U.S Open (NYC Grand Slam), this tournament will be an extremely crucial week on the WTA schedule for years to come. Consult the website for more information.
tennisintheland.com.
Y2KRAY
This 2000s-themed dance night at the Foundry features popular rap, pop, rock, emo and R&B hits from 1999-2009. The event begins at 9 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. The Foundry kitchen will stay open until midnight. Admission is free.
11729 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-555-6669, facebook.com/foundrycleveland.
