Good morning, Akron.

A guide lists Fourth of July celebrations in Greater Akron, featuring fireworks, festivals and parades across local communities.

In Akron, the official fireworks display is set for July 4 at Lock 3 (the schedule also includes food vendors, live music and family activities in surrounding areas).

Construction is nearly done on upgrades including a new press box, concession stand, restrooms and track improvements at Buchtel Community Learning Center.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 10:40 a.m. Sept. 5 at 1040 Copley Road in Akron as the football team plays its first home game later that day.

Kroger announced on July 1, 2026 it will purchase Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, and the more than a dozen local stores will keep their name despite an ownership change scheduled for next year (per Kroger officials).

Kroger announced its $1.65B acquisition of Giant Eagle, taking over 197 supermarkets and 11 pharmacies in northern Ohio and nearby regions — the deal will close in 2027 and is expected to expand service offerings.

On June 24, FirstEnergy employees and wildlife experts rescued a bald eagle eaglet that freed itself from a transmission tower near Nimisila Reservoir in Green, and crews plan to remove the vacant nest after nesting season ends to help prevent future risks.

Akron’s stray dog management cost is set to climb to nearly $1.5 million this year under a new contract with Summit County Animal Control (which charges $60 per kennel daily) running through December; the city is also seeking an independent contractor to handle overflow when space is tight.

Akron Children's Hospital launched (at its Celeste Myers Dental Clinic) a new dental residency program for pediatric dentists on July 1.

Three residents began a two-year program designed to boost clinic capacity and improve oral care access for Akron families.

Five Walsh Jesuit baseball graduates could be picked in the upcoming two-day MLB Draft ending July 14.

The selections would break the school record as analysts highlighted standouts like Ryan Piech and Shawn Sullivan for potential MLB teams.

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.

Star Spangled Bangerz 3

9 p.m.-3 a.m. — The Vortex — Refunds available up to 7 days before — Akron's annual 4th of July bash featuring M8TRX and more!

Parade The Musical

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Weathervane Playhouse — Tickets from $64 — Experience the unforgettable live musical Parade in Akron.

Space Exploration Camp

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Akron Fossils & Science Center — Fees apply — Discover the exciting history of the space race through interactive activities and learning.

The James Hunter Six Live in Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Tickets available — Experience the soulful rhythms of James Hunter and his six-piece band as they perform songs from their new album.

Dave Banks Big Band Performs Bond Themes

8-11 p.m. — BLU Jazz+ — $— Experience the exciting music of '007' with the 17-piece Dave Banks Big Band at BluJazz.

The Desert Song

3:00 – 5:30 PM — Firestone Theatre — Check event page for ticket prices — Experience a musical masterpiece for the first time in Akron in 75 years.

Art in Motion

2-3 p.m. — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Registration required — Enjoy a creative afternoon of exploration through various art techniques for children.

Derek Hough Performance

8 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket options available — Enjoy an evening with acclaimed performer Derek Hough.

Derek Hough Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of dancing and entertainment with Derek Hough.