Good morning, Akron.

The JDM Fishing and Outdoor Show will run from March 13–15 at the Summit County Fairgrounds, offering over 100 vendors, interactive seminars on fishing and hunting, and family activities such as a trout pond and reptile displays.

The Akron Community Foundation distributed $4.4 million in quarterly grants today to 37 local organizations, including the Akron Area YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs, to support community and education programs.

The funding includes $695,500 for education initiatives that benefit local children and families.

Downtown Akron will host the free sixth annual Sakura Festival on Saturday, April 4 from 1 to 7 p.m. along the Towpath Trail (featuring live music, food vendors and cultural shows) that celebrates spring and Japanese traditions.

Country music star Thomas Rhett announced his 2026 'The Soundtrack to Life' tour on March 9.

The summer tour runs from July to October and includes stops in Columbus (Sept. 11, tickets from $156) and Cuyahoga Falls (Sept. 12, tickets from $117).

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad launches its 2026 season with two ride options—a four-hour roundtrip from Rockside and Akron Northside Stations and a one-hour ride from Peninsula Depot.

The railroad starts themed excursions on March 13, including a Patrick's Day Celebration leaving Rockside Station at 6:30 p.m., with tickets from $25.

Gas prices in Akron average $3.47 per gallon today, up over 50 cents from last week, as global tensions in the Middle East push oil prices higher (analysts say prices may keep rising if conflict deepens).

Summit County offers discounted Lyft rides next week through the Arrive Alive program.

Residents can use code SUMMITGREEN26 from 4 p.m. on March 16 to noon on March 18 for up to $20 off a ride (600 codes are available) to reduce drunken driving.

Therapy dog Nola brought calm to patients and staff during her visit at Akron Children's Hospital on Feb.

25, 2026 (part of the long-running Doggie Brigade program). Handler Matt Swinehart is turning her visits into a children’s book that shares her warm story.

Malaki Branham—a St. Vincent-St. Mary graduate—joined the Cleveland Charge on Monday, March 9 after being waived by the Charlotte Hornets last month.

He will play alongside Akron native Chris Livingston on the team.

High school basketball players and coaches from nine Northeast Inland District counties were honored by the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association on March 9 (recognizing standout performances in boys and girls basketball) as media panel selections, with awards spanning multiple divisions.

Sip & Stitch Craft Night

6:30-8 p.m. — HiHO Brewing Co. — Cost varies — Enjoy a cozy evening of knitting, crocheting, and sewing while sipping craft beers.

Iris Blue Live

8-11 p.m. — Musica — $12 online / $15 at the door — Enjoy an evening of indie rock with Chicago’s Iris Blue and support from local favorites.

Akron Mini Renaissance Festival

5 PM - 1 AM — The Green Dragon Inn — $15 per day — Celebrate with costumes, vendors, and live entertainment at Akron’s vibrant Renaissance Festival.

Ballet Excel Ohio Presents: Aladdin

2-5 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Family-friendly event — Experience the enchanting ballet adaptation of Aladdin with stunning performances and a journey of love and adventure.

An Evening with Terry Virts

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Canton Palace Theatre — $0.00 - $75.00 — Hear astronaut Terry Virts share insights from his space missions and photography adventures.

I’D LIKE TO GO HOME NOW Album Release

7-8 p.m. — The Rialto Theatre — $5 surcharge for under 21 — Experience the unique blend of folk and rock as I’d Like to Go Home Now celebrates their debut album with local acts.

Great Lakes Indoor Sectionals & National Series 2026 - Bounce Archery

12 p.m. — 5676 Manchester Rd, Akron, OH — Early registration required — Compete in the indoor archery sectional for national rankings with flexible shooting rounds.

Akron Singles Speed Dating Event

7-9 p.m. — P.F. Chang's — Ticket required — Connect with up to 12 potential matches during a fun evening of speed dating.

Vintage Record Clock Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Nauti Vine Winery — All supplies included — Create a unique vintage record clock while enjoying a fun and creative atmosphere.

Elmo's Got The Moves Photo Experience

6-9 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket required — Capture unforgettable family memories with Elmo in a fun photo op setting.