Cleveland Events Calendar: Best Activities, Festivals, and Concerts

Cleveland, known for its vibrant cultural scene, offers a plethora of exciting events and festivals throughout the year. When it comes to summer festivities in 2023, the city is brimming with captivating activities that are sure to delight both locals and visitors alike. From music festivals to food celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the highlighted summer festivities that should not be missed in Cleveland this year.

One of the most anticipated events in Cleveland during the summer is Parade the Circle. This vibrant celebration takes place in University Circle, bringing together artists, performers, and community members for an unforgettable experience.

Imagine colorful floats adorned with intricate designs, larger-than-life puppets parading down streets, and energetic performances filling the air with joy. Parade the Circle embraces artistic expression in all its forms and showcases the creative spirit of Cleveland.

This annual event gives local artists an opportunity to share their talents by creating visually stunning floats and costumes. Each year, the parade follows a unique theme that sets the stage for imaginative displays. One year, the theme could be “A Journey through Time,” where participants bring historical figures to life with captivating visual storytelling. Another year might focus on celebrating different cultures through music, dance, and traditional attire.

Attending Parade the Circle is like stepping into a living art exhibition, where creativity knows no bounds and imagination becomes reality.

The parade route winds through University Circle, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Cleveland Museum of Art and Severance Hall. Spectators line the streets to witness this enchanting procession of artistry unfold before their eyes. Families come together to enjoy this free celebration, as children excitedly wave at performers while adults marvel at the ingenuity behind each display.

Beyond just watching from the sidelines, visitors have opportunities to actively participate in workshops leading up to the parade. Artists offer hands-on experiences for people of all ages, encouraging them to explore their artistic abilities and contribute to the vibrant spectacle.

Parade the Circle not only showcases Cleveland’s thriving arts community but also fosters a sense of unity and togetherness among participants and spectators alike. It serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to creativity and cultural diversity.

Now that we’ve explored Parade the Circle, let’s move on to another must-attend event in Cleveland, the “Taste of …” festivals.

One of the highlights of Cleveland’s vibrant event calendar is the series of “Taste of …” festivals that take place throughout the year. These festivals provide a delectable immersion into the city’s diverse culinary scene, allowing visitors to sample a wide array of local flavors in one convenient location. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in mouthwatering dishes or simply curious about Cleveland’s gastronomic offerings, these festivals are an absolute must-visit.

Imagine strolling through a bustling street lined with food stalls and vendors, enticing aromas wafting through the air, and plates of delicious bites just waiting to be savored. That’s the experience you can expect at a “Taste of …” festival in Cleveland. These events showcase the best restaurants and eateries across various neighborhoods, bringing together their signature dishes for attendees to enjoy. From gourmet delicacies to comforting classics, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

What makes these festivals truly special is their ability to encapsulate the spirit and flavors of each neighborhood. For example, “Taste of Tremont” offers a sampling of the trendy eateries located within this artistic enclave, while “Taste on the Bridge” features cuisines from both sides of the Cuyahoga River, providing a unique culinary experience.

Let’s say you attend “Taste of Lakewood,” an annual event hosted by the city’s vibrant Lakewood neighborhood. As you enter the festival grounds, your senses are immediately captivated by an enticing mixture of scents and sounds. The aroma of sizzling barbecue mingles with the sweet fragrance of freshly baked pastries. You can’t help but feel your mouth water as you catch sight of colorful plates being passed around. Driven by curiosity and hunger, you decide to start with crispy empanadas from a Latin American eatery, followed by creamy gelato in unique flavors that you can’t resist sampling. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, with live music in the background adding to the festive ambiance.

These “Taste of …” festivals also serve as a platform to celebrate local chefs and restaurants, allowing them to showcase their culinary talents and gain exposure. It’s not just about indulging in delicious food; it’s an opportunity to support the vibrant food scene in Cleveland.

As summer slowly transitions into fall, the events calendar in Cleveland continues to offer exciting experiences and cultural celebrations. Let’s now turn our attention to some noteworthy fall events that you won’t want to miss.

Cleveland truly comes alive with a diverse range of fall events that cater to various interests and provide an opportunity for everyone to engage with the city’s rich culture. As temperatures begin to cool down, the city remains abuzz with activities, festivals, and concerts that showcase Cleveland’s vibrant spirit and community engagement.

One such event worth mentioning is The Chalk Festival, which takes place in mid-September. This festival offers a captivating visual feast as artists create stunning chalk artworks on the sidewalks of Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll witness colorful murals coming to life before your eyes, each telling its own unique story. But it doesn’t stop there – attendees are encouraged to participate as well, wielding chalk themselves and adding their artistic touch to the pavement canvas.

Another highlight is Parade the Circle, which resurfaces after being canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. This extraordinary parade and arts festival takes place mid-June and embraces creativity of all forms. Expect intricate costumes, giant puppets, vibrant floats, and captivating performances weaving together a tapestry of art and culture.

Picture yourself amidst a crowd of excited spectators as ornate floats drift by adorned with eye-catching designs, while performers enchant with their mesmerizing dance routines. Vibrant colors surround you, and the air is alive with music and laughter. You find yourself entranced by the parade’s energy and the artistic expressions brought to life.

The Cleveland International Film Festival also falls in this season, captivating movie enthusiasts from near and far with a diverse selection of international, independent, and documentary films. It’s a chance to delve into thought-provoking storytelling, engage in post-screening discussions, and perhaps even discover hidden cinematic gems.

When it comes to fall events, you can’t overlook Cleveland’s Ethnic Festivals. Celebrations like Dyngus Day, Kurentovanje (Slovenian carnival celebration), and the Cleveland Asian Festival offer an immersive cultural experience. From traditional dances and music performances to authentic cuisine and crafts, these festivals celebrate the city’s vibrant multicultural heritage.

The fall events in Cleveland are just a taste of the excitement and cultural richness that awaits visitors during this season. So mark your calendars and prepare to immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of events that make Cleveland come alive each fall.

One of the most anticipated events in Cleveland is The Chalk Festival, a vibrant and interactive celebration of art that takes place in mid-September. This fascinating event brings together talented artists from near and far to create captivating works of art using chalk on the pavement. The main attraction is the presence of featured artists who showcase their incredible skills and imagination, transforming ordinary sidewalks into stunning masterpieces. These artists often draw inspiration from various themes, cultures, and social issues, resulting in an eclectic display of creativity.

The Chalk Festival isn’t just limited to professional artists; it’s also a chance for everyone to unleash their inner Picasso. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the fun by creating their own chalk art alongside the experts. It’s an incredible opportunity for people of all ages and artistic abilities to express themselves and contribute to the ever-changing canvas that is the festival grounds.

The atmosphere at The Chalk Festival is nothing short of enchanting. As you walk through the streets transformed into a vibrant gallery, you’ll be captivated by the intricate details, vivid colors, and diverse styles of artwork. The festival exudes a sense of community as visitors engage with artists, sharing stories, inspiration, and admiration for their craft. It’s an event that fosters connections between artists and spectators alike, encouraging dialogue about art forms and creative expression.

Imagine yourself immersed in this fascinating world of sidewalk masterpieces, surrounded by passionate artists bringing their visions to life right before your eyes. It’s an experience that transcends traditional galleries and museums, transporting you into a realm where art merges with everyday life.

If you have a love for art and want to indulge in a night of creativity, the 78th Street Studios Art Show is an event you won’t want to miss. Held every third Friday of the month, this art show brings together a wide range of artists, galleries, and studios under one roof. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just beginning to appreciate the beauty of artistic expressions, this event offers something for everyone.

As you step into the sprawling 78th Street Studios, you’ll be immersed in a world where art flourishes in every corner. The studios and galleries within the building showcase an incredible variety of genres, styles, and mediums. From paintings to sculptures, photography to installations, there’s an abundance of creativity to explore and admire. You’ll have the opportunity not only to view exquisite artworks but also to meet the artists themselves and gain insight into their creative process.

Picture yourself strolling through the well-lit hallways, marveling at stunning canvases that capture emotions and stories decades in the making. As you venture into different studios, you might encounter an abstract painting that sparks your curiosity or a sculpture that evokes a deep sense of wonder. The 78th Street Studios Art Show allows you to engage with art on a personal level, forging connections with both established and emerging artists who pour their hearts and souls into their work.

Envision spending an evening surrounded by captivating artwork that stimulates your senses and ignites conversations about creativity and inspiration. It’s an experience that can broaden your artistic horizons and leave you with lasting memories.

The Chalk Festival and the 78th Street Studios Art Show are just two examples of the diverse range of cultural events that Cleveland has to offer throughout the year. From sidewalk art to studio exhibitions, these events serve as a testament to the city’s vibrant art scene and its commitment to fostering artistic expression and community engagement.

Cleveland may be known for its vibrant summer scene, but that doesn’t mean the city hibernates during the winter months. In fact, there are several must-attend winter events that will keep you entertained and warm throughout the season. From outdoor festivals to cultural celebrations, Cleveland offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests.

Brite Winter

One event that should not be missed is Brite Winter, an annual outdoor music festival held in the middle of winter. This unique festival aims to break up the monotony of the season by bringing together local musicians and artists to showcase their talents. The festival features multiple stages with performances ranging from live bands to DJs.

What sets Brite Winter apart is its unconventional location – it takes place on the streets of Ohio City, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere for attendees. With food trucks, art installations, and interactive experiences scattered throughout the festival grounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

While Brite Winter brings music and art together during winter, another exceptional event in Cleveland is Final Fantasy Distant Worlds Orchestra.

If you’re a fan of video game music and the iconic Final Fantasy series, then attending the Final Fantasy Distant Worlds Orchestra performance in Cleveland is an absolute must. This extraordinary orchestral concert brings together world-class musicians who perform scores from various Final Fantasy games.

Imagine sitting in a majestic concert hall as a full orchestra fills the room with enchanting melodies that instantly transport you into captivating video game worlds. The nostalgia and emotions brought on by this musical experience are unmatched.

The concert showcases breathtaking arrangements of familiar tunes from renowned composer Nobuo Uematsu and other composers who have contributed to the series over the years. From epic battle themes to heartfelt character themes, each piece performed by the orchestra captures the essence and magic of the Final Fantasy universe.

The combination of awe-inspiring music, live performances, and stunning visuals displayed on large screens creates an immersive experience for both avid gamers and music enthusiasts alike. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating video game soundtracks.

Attending the Final Fantasy Distant Worlds Orchestra in Cleveland not only allows you to enjoy spectacular music but also provides a sense of community among fellow fans who share the same appreciation for this iconic franchise. It’s a gathering that unites people through their love of gaming and music.

As we conclude our exploration of winter events in Cleveland, it’s clear that these diverse and captivating experiences offer a way to embrace the season while enjoying remarkable cultural and artistic expressions.

One of the most anticipated events on Cleveland’s calendar is the Brite Winter festival. Held annually in February, this unique celebration brings together music, art, and winter fun in a vibrant display. As the name suggests, Brite Winter aims to brighten up the cold winter months by showcasing local talent and providing an immersive experience for attendees.

The festival takes place in the Flats neighborhood, transforming outdoor spaces into lively stages and art installations. It’s a true celebration of the city’s creative spirit and showcases a diverse range of musical genres, from alternative rock to electronic beats and everything in between. The lineup features both established artists and emerging acts, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

But it’s not just about the music – Brite Winter also emphasizes interactive art installations that engage festival-goers throughout the event. From massive ice sculptures to captivating light displays, every corner of the festival grounds is adorned with visual delights that add to the overall enchanting atmosphere.

Picture yourself strolling through an illuminated wonderland while listening to your favorite local band play their heart out. The energy is palpable as people of all ages come together to appreciate art, music, and winter in this vibrant celebration.

Apart from live performances and art installations, Brite Winter offers a plethora of culinary delights from various food trucks and vendors. Whether you’re craving comfort food like warm grilled cheese sandwiches or seeking out unique flavors like gourmet tacos or vegan creations, you won’t be disappointed by the diverse food options available.

With Brite Winter being just one example of Cleveland’s thriving event scene, let’s now explore some of the annual cultural festivals that take place in the city.

Cleveland takes great pride in its rich cultural heritage, which is beautifully showcased through its annual festivals. These celebrations provide an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience the city’s diverse traditions, vibrant music, delicious food, and colorful customs.

One such festival is Kurentovanje, which is a Slovenian tradition that finds its home in Cleveland. This joyful event celebrates ancient folklore through parades, dances, and the presence of the Kurent – a traditional character dressed in sheepskin that is believed to chase away winter and bring good fortune. The festival also features traditional Slovenian cuisine, music, and performances, creating an immersive cultural experience.

Another prominent cultural event in Cleveland is Dyngus Day. Known as the “Polish Mardi Gras,” Dyngus Day commemorates the end of Lent with a day filled with festivities. Participants engage in water fights, polka dancing, and indulge in Polish delicacies like pierogi and kielbasa. The streets come alive with colorful costumes, lively music, and a contagious atmosphere of merriment.

These are just two examples of the many annual cultural festivals that take place in Cleveland throughout the year. Each festival holds its unique charm and provides an opportunity for people to connect with different cultures and traditions.

Just like a kaleidoscope of colors blending together to create a beautiful image, these cultural festivals in Cleveland bring together people from different backgrounds to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of unity.

As we continue exploring the vibrant events calendar of Cleveland, let’s uncover more exciting festivals and concerts that await us.

Two vibrant cultural celebrations that are not to be missed in Cleveland are Kurentovanje and Dyngus Day.

Kurentovanje is a Slovenian carnival celebration that brings the energy and spirit of Eastern Europe to the streets of Cleveland. It takes place in late February or early March and marks the end of winter, welcoming the arrival of spring. The highlight of this festival is the colorful parade, filled with people wearing sheepskin costumes known as “kurents,” who chase away winter and invite good fortune for the year ahead. The streets come alive with music, dancing, and delicious traditional Slovenian food.

Picture yourself in the midst of Kurentovanje, surrounded by lively music resonating from accordions and tambourines. The vibrant colors of the parade float through the air, capturing your attention as you witness both locals and visitors immersing themselves in this joyous celebration. As you explore the festivities, make sure to indulge in delicious traditional Slovenian dishes like kranjska klobasa sausage or potica cake. This cultural event provides a unique experience that allows you to connect with Slovenia’s rich heritage while enjoying a lively atmosphere.

From Eastern Europe, let’s now turn our attention to another cultural extravaganza known as Dyngus Day.

Dyngus Day is celebrated on Easter Monday and embraces Polish traditions. What started as a way to playfully tease young adults has transformed into a community-wide celebration of Polish culture. This festival offers a range of attractions and activities such as polka music performances, traditional dance groups showcasing their skills, delicious Polish food stalls serving pierogis and kielbasa, and even a parade featuring colorful floats.

Imagine yourself amidst the joyful chaos of Dyngus Day, with the sound of polka music filling the streets and the aroma of mouthwatering pierogis wafting through the air. You can join in lively dance circles or witness traditional Polish dancers gracefully moving to the music. The vibrant colors of flags and costumes create a festive ambiance, while the energetic spirit of the crowd makes it impossible not to feel caught up in the excitement.

Now that we have explored Kurentovanje and Dyngus Day, let’s move on to two more remarkable events on Cleveland’s calendar: Cleveland Asian Festival and International Film Festival.

The Cleveland Asian Festival is an annual event that celebrates the diverse cultures and contributions of Asian communities in Cleveland. Held in May, this festival offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Asian traditions, art, food, and live performances. From Chinese lion dances to Indian Bollywood dances, martial arts demonstrations to cultural exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Take a moment to envision yourself wandering through stalls filled with colorful crafts and clothing from different Asian countries. The tantalizing aroma of various cuisines fills the air as vendors offer delectable dishes like sushi, stir-fried noodles, and dumplings. You may find yourself captivated by a mesmerizing traditional dance performance or participating in a tai chi session to embrace the serenity of Asian culture. The Cleveland Asian Festival provides valuable insights into the vibrant Asian community present in Cleveland while fostering cross-cultural connections.

The Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) is an eagerly anticipated event that showcases hundreds of films from all over the world. Movie enthusiasts gather each spring for this eleven-day cinematic celebration, eager to be captivated by narratives that span cultures, genres, and themes. CIFF is renowned for its diverse lineup of thought-provoking films, representing compelling stories told by talented filmmakers.

Imagine you are seated in a dimly lit theater, eagerly awaiting the start of a film from a country you’ve never visited. As the opening credits roll, you are transported to a different time and place, completely engrossed in the characters’ journeys. The power of storytelling hits you on a profound level, as films from various cultures take you on emotional roller coasters or open your eyes to global issues. The Cleveland International Film Festival is a haven for those seeking cinematic experiences beyond the mainstream.

With Kurentovanje, Dyngus Day, Cleveland Asian Festival, and International Film Festival, Cleveland’s events calendar is filled with remarkable cultural experiences. This vibrant city continuously offers opportunities for cultural immersion, artistic exploration, and community engagement.