Good morning, Akron.

Local voters in Akron can cast their ballots in the 2026 Best of the City contest that spotlights eateries such as pizza, burgers, brunch spots and cafes as the competition invites residents to celebrate our authentic dining scene.

Parents in Akron are adding five must-have back-to-school items — a pediatrician approved backpack, waterproof labels, a spill proof water bottle, AirTag insoles and a bento style lunchbox — to help their children thrive in school as seasonal deals heat up.

Akron native Jovani Ibrahim was accepted into the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and is raising funds through his GoFundMe for $50,000 in tuition; his campaign has already raised over $26,000 and will run until Aug.

20 as he prepares to start his studies.

A guide shows Akron families what to pack for weather emergencies and power outages.

Experts say a go-bag should have supplies for 72 hours, such as food, water, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.

Akron Children's Hospital partnered with Sonar Mental Health to offer 24/7 text support for kids and young adults while they wait for behavioral health care.

The free service is now available at five pediatric practices and will expand to all over the next year.

Akron’s new Roxbury Lounge, located in Buckeye Smoke Shop on North Portage Path, opened in June and offers kava tea, mushroom coffee, and THC drinks (via Cycling Frog) in an alcohol-free setting.

It hosts community events such as weekly karaoke and a paint-and-sip night on July 27.

Cade Smith was selected as an All-Star on Monday, July 6 after leading the league with 26 saves and a 2.97 ERA for the Guardians.

He joins teammates Travis Bazzana and Parker Messick in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.

The Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers will face off in the Hall of Fame Game on Thursday, Aug.

6 at 8 p.m. in Canton. Tickets are available on the Pro Football Hall of Fame website and enshrinement events follow with a Gold Jacket Dinner, parade, and concert.

Over 500 BMX racers gathered from across the US and Canada for the Stars & Stripes Nationals held July 3-5 at Derby Downs Drive, where Akron native Brandon Roharik won the final day race and boosted local pride.

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.

Richie Furay Concert

7:30 – 10:30 PM — The Kent Stage — $36.17 to $55.52 — Celebrate a music legend with Richie Furay's latest country album showcase after 60 years in the industry.

Thunderchief at The Matinee

7-11:30 p.m. — The Matinee — Ticket info pending — Thunderchief returns to Akron for an electrifying live performance with Radian.

Flight of the Heron 5K & Fun Run

Flight of the Heron 5K & Fun Run — Saturday — Akron, Ohio — Registration fee applies — A fun community run with options for kids and adults alike in a scenic road course.

BIG VINYL SALE! Cleveland South Record Riot

10 AM-4 PM — Woodside Event Center at St Michael's — Free entry — Dive into a vibrant vinyl digging party featuring LPs, CDs, and family fun.