Good morning, Akron.

The Akron Zoo announced that two snowy owl chicks hatched on June 10 and are off exhibit in the Garden View Place building under close care of zookeepers.

The vulnerable owlets will return to public view once they are older.

Summit County Children Services and the Early Childhood Resource Center announced a program that places Akron’s father engagement coordinator, Jamahl Id-Deen, on-site to guide dads through one-on-one sessions and Thursday evening classes (funded by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth) to help strengthen family bonds.

Akron will host the Blue Heron Homecoming festival on July 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ohio Canal Interceptor Tunnel and Mustill Store (168 Otto St.) where free, family-friendly events like fun runs, a beer garden, and exhibits celebrate the return of the great blue heron.

Hoppin’ Frog Brewery announced a leadership change as Fred Karm shifts to an advisory role while longtime colleague Zachary Bastin becomes president to guide the new strategy and operational improvements (with support from unnamed ownership partners) on July 10.

The two-day Summit County Italian-American Festival continues today at Lock 3 Park on South Main Street, featuring Italian food, live tribute bands, and fireworks at 10 p.m. organized by the Council of Italian American Societies.

Ohio health officials report that cases of cyclosporiasis, an infection causing explosive diarrhea, have more than doubled statewide to 364 cases, including 4 in Summit County.

They stress that washing produce and hands is key to lowering the risk of infection.

Charlie Schrader of Walsh Jesuit was named Akron Area Girls Coach of the Year for the 2025-26 school year after earning 53.53% of 7,121 votes — he led his softball team to a 23-2 season and a Division II state semifinals run.

John Daly received the 2026 Ambassador of Golf award at House Three Thirty in Akron on Thursday, Jul.

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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.

Dance Intensive Program

All day — Weathervane Playhouse — Prices vary — Enhance your dance skills with personalized instruction from professional choreographers.

Santino Sings Live

7-11 p.m. — Firestone Country Club — Tickets available — Experience powerhouse vocals and soulful songwriting from international artist Santino Tomasetti.