Good morning, Akron.

Akron is hosting its annual Founders’ Day weekend from June 12-14 to celebrate the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous, with about 9,000 visitors expected.

The University of Akron leads free tours of the Gate Lodge at Stan Hywet Hall and Dr. Bob’s museum and gravesite—boosting the local economy.

Akron Zoo broke ground on the Lehner Family Foundation Giraffe Journey on June 4 to create a 9.25-acre expansion featuring new species such as giraffes and ostriches; the project will include a conservation center, gift shop, and event space and is set to open in 2028.

Akron’s first-ever reggae festival, Rasta Vibe Fest, starts today at Lock 3 with DJ Ace Epps at 6 p.m. and live performances follow; tomorrow features a ceremonial drum circle and more acts.

The free event is presented by the city and Nappy Grooves Entertainment.

Dominic Jackson, a top student, plans to study civil engineering at Ohio State University as he prepares for his next academic chapter.

His decision promises new opportunities for learning in his future college life.

A panel of judges selected 25 graduating seniors for the 2026 Star Student recognition on June 11 from high schools in Akron-Canton.

The list honors top performers from schools such as Alliance, Jackson, and Hudson.

Patience Kenimond, who faced homelessness and long bus rides, was named the top Star Student at Ellet Community Learning Center on June 11.

She will attend the University of Toledo to study pharmaceutical science and develop an epilepsy drug (her family inspires her research).

Stark State College president Para Jones announced her retirement effective 2027 after 22 years at the college (including 14 years at the helm and the launch of its Akron campus in 2018 to boost local access to education).

Jackson High School graduate Manav Rawal maintained a 6.0 GPA and co-founded nonprofit One Court to support autism awareness nationally; he will attend the University of Michigan this fall, and his teacher praised his hard work & leadership.

Sow and Grow Festival

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Hale Farm & Village — $15 adults, $8 children — Experience a 19th-century farm with historic crafts, plant sales, and local artisan goods.

Akron Epilepsy Support Group

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Fairlawn Kiwanis Community Center — Free entry — Connect with others in the Akron area to share experiences and strategies for managing epilepsy.

Grease at Porthouse Theatre

8:00 – 10:30 PM — Porthouse Theatre — Tickets vary — Experience the lively musical ‘Grease’ bringing back the spirit of Rydell High’s Class of 1959.

Chevy Terrill Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-7:30 p.m. — The Killbox Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedian Chevy Terrill, who brings humor to life with a unique perspective.

Family Storytime at the Library

10:30 – 11:30 AM — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Free entry — Experience a delightful morning of storytelling and learning for families in the community.

Parade

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Weathervane Playhouse — Tickets starting at $95 — Experience the unforgettable live performance of Parade in Akron, OH.

Live Music with Teddy Rob

6-9 p.m. — The Piazza at Gervasi Vineyard — Cost info not provided — Experience the rising country star Teddy Robb as he performs in a beautiful vineyard setting.

Canton Comedy Boom Variety Show

8-9:30 p.m. — Canton Comedy Boom — $16.50 online / $20 at door — Experience a high-energy mix of stand-up, sketch, improv, and musical comedy featuring talented local performers.

Preschool Field Day

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Free entry — Enjoy outdoor lawn games and water activities at this family-friendly event.

R&B Sing-Along Night at House Three Thirty

7:30-11 p.m. — House Three Thirty — General Admission — Enjoy a lively R&B sing-along led by DJ Mr. King with food and drink options available.