6 things to do around Cleveland this summer
Whether you're staying on campus, visiting Cleveland for the first time or looking for new ways to explore Northeast Ohio, summer offers countless opportunities for members of the Case Western Reserve University community to enjoy.
Looking to add some experiences to your summer bucket list? We’ve got you covered.
In recognition of the first day of summer (June 21), read on to discover six things you can do throughout the season. And, visit the Destination Cleveland website for more ideas of things to do in The Land.
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
Join nationwide celebrations of America's 250th anniversary at special events hosted across Cleveland. Enjoy food, entertainment and local history at Picnic in the Park (June 27), watch fireworks and live music at Light Up the Lake (July 4), or experience patriotic performances and a fireworks finale at Salute to America (July 4). Art lovers can also explore 250 years of American creativity at an American art history tour, now through July 26.
Discover more local events celebrating America’s 250 birthday.
2. Make an impact through summer community service opportunities.
Looking for a meaningful way to spend your summer? Give back alongside fellow members of the CWRU community through volunteer opportunities organized by the Center for Civic Engagement and Learning. From helping restore an urban farm to sorting books for local children through Kids' Book Bank, volunteers can support organizations making a difference throughout Greater Cleveland. Students can also participate in Trike and Bike, a community bike ride that raises funds for pediatric cancer research.
View a full list of summer 2026 service opportunities.
3. Enjoy music and culture at Wade Oval Wednesdays.
A short walk from campus, members of the CWRU community are invited to bring a blanket, gather friends and enjoy live music at this weekly series hosted by University Circle. Held now through mid-August, this event features free outdoor concerts, food vendors and themed cultural celebrations. Graduate students are invited to join the Office of Graduate Student Life at Wade Oval Wednesdays Concert and Pride Night (June 24).
See the full 2026 Wade Oval Wednesdays headliner lineup.
4. Release your inner child at the Cuyahoga County Fair.
From Tuesday, Aug. 11 through Sunday, Aug. 16, the Cuyahoga County Fair will bring together amusement rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits and fair food favorites. Experience thrills of the hurricane roller coaster, drop zone and super slide, cheer on horse shows and harness races, explore livestock exhibits or enjoy classic treats such as funnel cakes, turkey legs and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
Find more details about the Cuyahoga County Fair.
5. Attend the 80th annual One World Day.
Interact with cultures from around the world without leaving Cleveland at One World Day (Aug. 30), an annual celebration of the various heritages that make up Northeast Ohio. Hosted by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation, the day features a parade of flags of over 50 nationalities—from Ethiopia, Japan and the Philippines to Greece, Russia and Puerto Rico.
Watch highlights from the 2025 One World Day.
6. Look to the skies at the Cleveland National Air Show.
Returning Labor Day weekend (Sept. 5–7), this high-flying event features aerial performances, military jet demonstrations, parachuting and appearances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Visitors can also explore an aircraft up close, interact with a pilot and enjoy other exhibits designed for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
Get more information about the 2026 Cleveland National Air Show.
