Good morning, Akron.

Akron residents have over 25 summer events planned, including festivals and fairs running from April through September (covering family races, concerts, food fests and movie afternoons).

Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank received a $3 million donation from Cleveland Clinic Akron General on Wednesday + the gift will be spread over five years to expand meal programs and improve access to healthy food in the community.

Akron will host a free Arbor Day event at Lane Field Park on Friday, April 24 from 3-5 p.m. The event features a kid’s corner with food, tree planting, and a tree giveaway (part of a $1 million initiative) along with a community cleanup opportunity.

Ohio’s Garage Beer, co-owned by Travis and Jason Kelce (both local sports figures), joined the top 50 craft brewing companies by ranking 12th in the Brewers Association report released April 14.

Four other Ohio craft breweries also made the list despite a 2025 decline in production.

KSL Capital Partners is exploring a deal to buy Invited Clubs—a portfolio that includes Akron's Firestone Country Club—for about $3B including debt, a move that could affect the storied venue known for hosting PGA Tour Champions events since 1954.

Today, the world's largest rubber duck—standing six stories high—will be inflated in downtown Cuyahoga Falls to kick off the Ohio Rubber Duck Dash Festival running through Sunday.

Organized by local high school students, the event features an art walk, food trucks and a rubber duck race.

At the Summit County Public Education Community Forum (today), the Akron teachers union president and education leaders said state lawmakers are undermining public education and urged stronger backing for local schools.

More than 150 educators and community leaders met on April 21 at Firestone Community Learning Center in Akron, where panelists said state lawmakers broke promises for school funding.

They warned that budget cuts and misallocated funds are straining school operations and pushing districts toward new local levies.

Kent State graduate programs earned strong national rankings in U.S. News 2026 Best Graduate Schools list.

The university’s counseling, audiology (in partnership with Akron), and nursing programs were highlighted among the top performers, marking improved standing from last year.

The Browns are set to begin the NFL Draft today in Pittsburgh near Acrisure Stadium, and they hold nine picks—including two first-round selections aimed at adding a wide receiver and an offensive tackle—with fans from Northeast Ohio expected to drive roughly two hours for the event.

Curtain Up FUNraiser 50th Anniversary

6-2:30 p.m. — North Canton Playhouse — $26.13 — Enjoy a weekend of variety shows, games, and food while supporting a local cause.

3rd Annual CHESS FOR CURE Open

6 AM - 6 AM — The East End — Registration required — Engage in competitive chess while supporting a noble cause in Akron.

PBA Tournament of Champions

4-7 p.m. — AMF Riviera Lanes — Spectator passes available — Witness world-class bowlers compete for the prestigious PBA title at this iconic venue.

Baja Thunder Live Concert

7-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 online, $12 at the door — Catch live performances by Baja Thunder, Betzler, and Missy for an exciting night of music.

Soar Dance Competition

All day — Firestone Community Learning Center — Registration fees apply — Showcase your dancing skills and celebrate the art of dance in Akron.

Canton Comedy Night with Bill Boronkay

8-9:30 p.m. — Canton Comedy Boom — $16.50 online / $20 at door — Experience an evening of laughter with stand-up performances by Bill Boronkay and Nick Dlouhy.

Awakening Events — Christian Music Concerts

7-11 p.m. — EJ Thomas Hall — Tickets available — Experience uplifting performances at this exciting Christian music event.

SmokeFace Jam Session

9 p.m. — Musica — Free entry for performers — Bring your instrument and join in on a lively jam session atmosphere!

Daisypusher and Friends Live at Musica

8 PM — Musica — $10 online / $12 at the door — Enjoy an evening of live music with Daisypusher and I'd Like To Go Home Now featuring Bailey Jade.

Nexstar National Talent Competition

N/A — May 8-10 — Akron Civic Theatre — Registration fees apply — Celebrate young talent at this premier competition for performers of all levels.