It's finally summer in Northeast Ohio. At least it feels like summer, and that's good enough for us! Time to get outside and get moving.
Luckily, we'll have plenty of opportunities to do just that in the Cleveland, Akron, and Canton areas over the coming months. Lace up your running shoes and get ready for these exciting summer races in Northeast Ohio this season!
4524 E. 49th St., Cleveland, OH 44125
You'll have multiple opportunities to participate in the Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation Parkrun throughout the summer. This weekly 5k takes place every Saturday at 9 am in Cleveland's Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation. It's a fun, family-friendly event that's always free to participants. Whether you want to run, walk, jog, volunteer, or simply cheer on the participants, it's a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Stick around afterward for post-Parkrun coffee at the Canalway Center Café.
5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
View this post on Instagram
The Sippo Lake Parkrun is another event that takes place weekly throughout the summer months, giving you numerous chances to participate. Starting every Saturday at 8 am, the Sippo Lake Parkrun follows a picturesque route through Sippo Lake Park in Canton. The course utilizes a combination of paved roads, crushed limestone paths, and hiking trails and offers some beautiful scenery. This weekly run is entirely volunteer-organized, and anyone is welcome to participate free of charge.
288 Spicer St., Akron, OH 44304
Summa Health's Akron Marathon Race Series includes several much-anticipated races and runs throughout the summer months in Akron. First on the schedule this year is the National Interstate 8k and 1 Mile race. The event spans two days, with the 1-mile race kicking off at 7 pm on June 24, followed by the 8k run at 7:30 am on June 25. Both races begin on The University of Akron college campus and follow a course that provides a scenic tour of Downtown Akron. Registration is still open, and awards will be given to top finishers in various categories.
2425 W. 11th St. #2, Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Would you run a 5k for a taco? On Saturday, July 16, you can do just that and help fight hunger in Cleveland while you're at it. Will Run For Tacos is a 5k run/walk that helps raise money for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. Participants will be rewarded at the end of the race with a finisher medal, t-shirt, and free taco courtesy of The South Side (additional prizes will be given to top finishers). Race day registration and packet pickup is at 7:30 on the morning of the 16th, and the walk/run gets underway at 8:30, beginning at Hermes Sports & Events.
499 Memorial Pkwy., Akron, OH 44310
Also taking place on July 16, the Akron Trail Marathon is a challenging race that takes participants through some of the most beautiful parklands in the Akron area. Whether you choose to run the course as a marathon, half marathon, or 10k—the event includes all three—you'll be treated to scenery including woodlands, waterfalls, historic canal locks, and sweeping meadows. The Akron Trail Marathon helps support the Summit Metro Parks Foundation trail fund and follows a portion of the (mostly paved) Towpath Trail over varied terrain, with plenty of hills to keep things interesting!
1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114
View this post on Instagram
Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is an amazing local German microbrewery and beer garden in Downtown Cleveland, and every year they host the Hofbräuhaus Cleveland Half Marathon, 10k and 5k run/walk. The festivities begin bright and early on Sunday, August 7, with registration and packet pickup beginning at 6 am, followed by the half marathon at 7, and then the 10k and 5k at 8. The races begin and end at the brewery, and all participants will receive a complimentary beer and bratwurst, in addition to t-shirts and finisher medals.
Front Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Returning for its 16th year in 2022, the Burning River Endurance Run & Relay is not for the faint of heart. This grueling run and relay race follows a wide range of roads and trails from Cuyahoga Falls through some of Northeast Ohio's most beautiful and rugged landscapes, including Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Stretching from Saturday, July 30 to Sunday, July 31, the event includes 100-mile and 50-mile solo runs, as well as a 100-mile relay.
200 Innovation Way, Akron, OH 44316
View this post on Instagram
Akron has long been known as the "Rubber Capital of the World," in large part because the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has been headquartered here since 1898. This year, August 13 will bring about the return of the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k, one of several summer events that are part of the Akron Marathon Race Series. The race starts at 6:30 am, with the starting line at the Goodyear Proving Grounds and the finish line at Goodyear World Headquarters.
Where will you hit the ground running this summer around Northeast Ohio?
With a charming mix of carnival rides, farm animals, and tasty food treats, county fairs are an iconic part of Midwest summers. In Ohio, these lively events date back literally hundreds of years. Mark your calendar for these must-see county fairs in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
735 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
Better late than never! After a year off, the Medina County Fair is celebrating its 175th anniversary during its 176th year. Traditional events, such as the popular livestock shows and bull riding contest, pay tribute to the fair's past. Live concerts, drag racing, and motocross are some of the entertainment options that highlight Medina's present. Kids can show off their creativity in coloring, art, writing, and hay bale decorating contests. The Medina County Fair runs from Monday, August 2 through Sunday, August 8. Admission is $7 for everyone 12 and over and $3 for kids aged 2-11.
23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090
View this post on Instagram
Another Northeast Ohio tradition observes a milestone as the Lorain County Fair, second largest in the state, reaches its 175th year. Each summer, people head to the fair for one last celebration before Labor Day leads into fall. One of the event's goals is to educate the public about animals with showings of horses, sheep, and poultry, along with auctions and skill demonstrations. Evening entertainment includes live music, derbies, and a rodeo. Enjoy thrilling midway rides for only $1 each or $20 for unlimited rides. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day from Sunday, August 22 to Sunday, August 29. Admission is $6, with no charge for kids aged 8 and under. A $30 season pass is good for seven admissions.
14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, OH 44021
The Great Geauga County Fair is just shy of two centuries, but it's twice as much fun as fairs half its age. Founded in 1823, the Great Geauga is the oldest continuous county fair in the state as well as one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States. There's fun for the whole family at the Natural Resource Area, which features demonstrations and activities centered around wildlife and environmental awareness. And what's a fair without an apple pie-eating contest? If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the other family-friendly competitions, including Diaper Dash, Kiddie Tractor Pull, and 4-H 5K. The fair takes place Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6. Admission is $10 for ages 7 and above. Buy advance tickets online to save $2 and avoid the lines.
14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013
View this post on Instagram
Billed as the "Biggest Little Fair in the World," the Hartford Fair encompasses Licking County along with portions of Delaware and Knox counties. The fair also has a reputation as a reunion spot, as families use the occasion for annual gatherings of relatives from across the distance. Fans of motorsports are in seventh heaven with truck and tractor pulls, autocross, demolition derbies, and monster truck rallies. Even during the fair's earlier days, racing was the main attraction, including a foot race when Maggie McComb beat out William Lane. Fair days run from Sunday, August 8 through Saturday, August 14. Admission is $8 for ages 8 and above.
236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, OH 43015
Who says the outdoor fun has to end with summer? Enjoy some post-Labor Day delights at the Delaware County Fair. Horses are the main event here, starting with the parade that kicks off the festivities and right up to the Little Brown Jug, the fair's signature harness race. The impressive motorsports complex is the site of demolition derbies, truck pulls, and even school bus races. With a wide range of activities from eating contests and putt-putt golf to scavenger hunts and kids' crafts, there's something for everyone. This year's fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 18 through Saturday, September 25.
14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326
View this post on Instagram
September means back to school, and kids won't need any encouragement to attend the "classroom" at the Hardin County Fair. One of the top activities is COSI on Wheels, a traveling outreach program that offers a variety of dynamic interactive experiments. A petting zoo and Columbus Zoo exhibit provide opportunities to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals and birds. Eli the Magician stars in two shows a day and strolls the grounds, delighting fairgoers with amazing tricks. These activities are all included in fair admission, which is $10 for everyone aged 9 and older. Fair dates are Tuesday, September 7 through Sunday, September 12.
7700 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216
Situated on 30 acres just north of Cincinnati, the Hamilton County Fair creates an interesting juxtaposition of agricultural and urban landscapes. City slickers get to learn about life on the farm, including a chance to try their hand at milking a cow. This year's grandstand events include go-kart racing and a soccer mom derby. Fire up your oven and prepare your best pies, cookies, breads, and cakes for the baking competitions. The Hamilton County Fair runs from Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15. Admission is $10 per person, which includes all rides.
2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804
View this post on Instagram
On October 21, 1851, it was reported that a "vast throng" attended the first Allen County Fair at Faurot Farm. Today, more than 200,000 visitors attend the annual event, making it one of the top fairs in the state. One of the biggest draws is the top-name entertainment that takes the main stage each year. Vince Gill, Def Leppard, Alabama, and Reba McEntire are just a few of the stars who have appeared at the Allen County Fair. 2021 is no exception, with Brad Paisley as the headliner. Fair days are Friday, August 20 through Saturday, August 28. Admission is $7 for ages 7 and up.
384 Park Ave., Urbana, OH 43078
The Champaign County Fair includes livestock shows, craft exhibits, and other traditional fair activities, but this year's event will also be a classic rock lover's dream. Opening night features a three-hour extravaganza with Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. Fair dates are Friday, August 6 through Friday, August 13. Admission of $8 includes rides, while tickets for Rock the Fair are an additional $10.
Fair food is so popular that it has its own show on Food Network. What's the most memorable food you've eaten at a fair?
Road races aren't just for serious, lifelong athletes. Most are welcoming to people at all levels of fitness. Training for a road race is a great way to improve your stamina and maybe even lose a few pounds this summer! Luckily, there are plenty of great road races coming up in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few to consider signing up for.
Scheduled for Sunday, August 8th, this race begins at Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. The half marathon begins at 7 am, and the 5K and 10K races begin at 8 am. You can pre-register online, and packet pickup takes place beginning at 6 am on race day.
The Hofbrauhaus half marathon course winds through the city of Cleveland, even passing through Rockefeller Park. The 5K and 10K racecourses take runners through the downtown area near Cleveland State University. All runners over the age of 21 get a free beer with registration, and runners of all ages get a free bratwurst and technical t-shirt.
View this post on Instagram
On August 14th, the Run for Recovery begins at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. There's also a One Mile Wellness Walk and a shorter kids' fun run. Proceeds from the race go to support charities that help those struggling with alcoholism, drug abuse, and other addictions.
This year, the organizers' goal is to raise $65,000 for charity. To help them reach this goal, you can register online for the race of your choice. Register for the 5K, and you'll also get a free pass to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Registrants for all races get a free t-shirt. You can raise even more money for the cause by fundraising with a team, which you can learn more about on the race website.
Nurses put so much love and care into their profession, especially over this past year. Scheduled for September 26th in Edgewater Park, this race is a good opportunity to show nurses how much you appreciate them. There's a 5K race and a 1-mile run/walk. You can pre-register online or register on race day for an extra $5.
After the race, there will be a ceremony to recognize all nurses who are present. Post-race refreshments will also be provided.
View this post on Instagram
Scheduled for September 10th, this race begins at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. It's a local tradition to honor Oktoberfest, and all participants get free sausage and beer. You can pre-register for the race online and pick your packet up at the local Fleet Feet the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the race.
All participants get a free t-shirt, and finishers get a medal. The race doesn't start until 6:15 pm, which is good news if you're not a morning person.
If you're looking for a unique race in Columbus, then the Big Bad Wolfe Run is a great choice. There's a fun backstory associated with the race name, which you can read on the signup page. You'll feel like Little Red Riding Hood as you run down the trail.
This race is scheduled for September 26th. There are 5K, 10-mile, and 20-mile options, and all courses begin in Wolfe Park and follow the Alum Creek Trail, which is asphalt paved. Every finisher gets a medal and a swag bag.
View this post on Instagram
Scheduled for October 3rd, the 31st annual Dog Jog is a fundraiser for the CHA Animal Shelter. All proceeds go toward caring for and finding homes for animals at the shelter.
The 5K race and 1-mile fun run begin in Genoa Park at 9 am. After the race, multiple vendor booths, games, and activities for participants and fans are available. There's also a virtual race option for anyone who doesn't feel comfortable participating in person.
If you'll be in Cincinnati in August and want to run a race while you're there, the Egghead 5K is definitely a top choice. It's scheduled for August 14th, 2021. At 4 pm, willing participants will shave their heads to show support for cancer patients and raise money for the Eggstrong Foundation. Then, at 5 pm, these eggheads will run the 5K race.
50 West Cycling Company is hosting this event. The course is an out and back route on the Little Miami Bike Trail. You can pre-register online, and race day registration is also available for an added fee. If you refer three friends to register, you can save $15 on your own registration. You do not have to shave your head to run the race!
View this post on Instagram
The 15th Annual Sophie's Angel Run is scheduled for September 26, 2021. This race starts at St. Jude Parish in Bridgetown, and the 5K course weaves through the local neighborhood. The 1 pm start time is great for late risers.
Sophie's Angel Run is a charity event to raise funds to support research into pediatric brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. If you pre-register online, you'll receive a free t-shirt. There's also a family plan registration option, which includes two adults and their children, plus shirts and goodie bags for all for $65.
Why not balance out your love for ice cream with some running? The Ice Cream 5K and 10K is scheduled for October 16th, 2021. This race begins at Sawyer Point Park. The 5K and 10K races begin at 8:45 am, and the kids' 1-mile fun run begins at 8 am. There's also a baby/toddler crawl at 10 am or whenever the 10K wraps up.
After the race, there will be a family-friendly party with face painting, dancing, and games. Of course, all participants get a free ice cream cone and t-shirt. Proceeds from the race and associated party go to benefit Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. You can register online. Details for packet pickup will be posted closer to race day.
Which one of these Northeast Ohio road races do you plan on training for in 2021?
Photo courtesy of the T. So-Asian Festival
This free festival welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually and continues to grow in popularity. Boasting sports, games, cultural exhibits, delicious food, shopping, martial arts and stunning performances — the festival showcases the best of Asian culture and promotes the importance of diversity. Don't miss it!Photo courtesy of the Dublin Irish Festival
The Dublin Irish Festival is the largest-three day Irish festival on the planet, offering a plethora of acts and performers each year. The event has been held on the first weekend in August for over 30 years and more than 100,000 guests attend each year!Photo courtesy of Spirit Photography via the Columbus Oktoberfest
Put on your lederhosen and raise your beer stein for Columbus Oktoberfest! This fun, annual celebration puts Columbus' German heritage on display with plenty of beer, polka and delicious food. Even the kiddos are invited to hang out in the Kinderplatz while you enjoy beer-hall style dining with the adults. PROST!Photo courtesy of Fire Truck Pizza Company
Housed in old fire trucks, Fire Truck Pizza Company is serving up some of the best pizza in Cleveland. Their refurbished trucks are equipped with a wood-burning oven, directly imported from Italy, that cook at temperatures over 800 degrees. Grab a piece of their signature pizza, the Bacon Honey, made with house-made garlic white sauce topped with bacon, mozzarella, and a blend of secret spices, drizzled with honey. Add a scoop of their homemade ice cream to your order and you'll have yourself a perfect summer afternoon!Photo courtesy of Proper Pig Smokehouse
Texas BBQ, home-smoked meats and bacon on a stick — need we say more? The Proper Pig Smokehouse started out with just two friends and a utility truck they purchased off of Craigslist. Today, it's one of the most popular food trucks in the area and an extremely successful restaurant in Lakewood. Don't miss their tantalizing selections like the Lake Erie Crusher, a hot sausage sandwich with slaw, or any of their juicy smoked meats that you can buy by the pound.Photo courtesy of Slyman's Tavern
If you've ever looked up the hashtag #CleFoodie on Instagram, then you've probably seen hundreds of drool-inducing photos of Slyman's famous corned beef sandwich. The hefty dish is several inches thick, layered with 12-14 ounces of corned beef. So clear your day and head to Slyman's food truck, which you can usually find tucked away in a Cleveland suburb or feeding crowds at a local festival, and indulge in the best sandwich you'll ever have — we promise.Photo courtesy of Matt West via DonutLab
Cleveland's first and only mobile mini donut kitchen, the DonutLab is a dessert food truck where you can get a bag of hot, fresh donuts or even a donut parfait. We recommend ordering a bag of their simple, yet amazing, powdered sugar mini donuts and a side of their raspberry sauce for dipping!Photo courtesy of the Great Lakes Science Center
Celebrate Independence Day from the most patriotic vantage point in Cleveland: aboard the William G. Mather steamship! Food and drinks will be available for purchase in the Great Lakes Science Center café. Tickets start at $16, and are just $13 if you're a museum member. Guests are welcome (and encouraged!) to bring blankets and chairs aboard to watch the show.Photo courtesy of L. Putka via Homedays on the Green
Make your Independence Day celebration last an extra week or so by heading out to Broadview Heights for one of the region's biggest Fourth of July festivals. Enjoy carnival games, delicious food, local vendor booths, live music and, of course, fireworks!Photo courtesy of Worthington Hills Civic Association
This annual Independence Day event stretches the festivities to last almost an entire week! On June 29th, join the city of Worthington Hills for a fun-filled 5K run/walk through the Hills and then participate in a family-friendly game of softball at Worthington Hills Elementary School. On June 30th, head out once more for the Fun Fest, a family carnival full of all of your favorite activities. And finally, on the big day itself, July 4th, watch the festive neighborhood parade and experience the most unique patriotic display around — a drone show!Photo courtesy of Red, White & BOOM!
Red, White & BOOM! began in 1981 when 30,000 locals gathered in Bicentennial Park to watch a small fireworks display. Since then, it has grown into the largest Fourth of July event in Columbus and one of the most widely recognized fireworks displays in the entire Midwest region!Photo courtesy of Civitan Club of North Columbus
For over 62 years, the Civitan Club of North Columbus has been providing opportunities for local musical groups to showcase their talents in the park. This season, head out to the picturesque gazebo in Whetstone Park of Rose every Sunday to enjoy the best live performances the north Columbus area has to offer. The event is completely free each week and promises a fun-filled evening complete with free snow cones!Photo courtesy of the Dublin Arts Council
Sundays at Scioto concerts are a popular Dublin event that has been around since 1983 when Scioto Park opened to the public. This annual event showcases local and regional performing artists from all walks of music — from pop, country and rock to traditional Celtic music. Make sure to get there ahead of time to find your perfect spot and to get a good look at Leatherlips, the breathtaking sculpture in the heart of the park.Photo courtesy of Canal Winchester Staff
This free summer concert is held on the third Friday of June and July and features live music and plenty of family-friendly activities! This year, head out to Stradley Place in downtown Canal Winchester for a spectacular lineup of local musicians. On June 21, enjoy watching Jack Fox & The County Line Band and let the kids explore tractors and other professional vehicles at the Touch-A-Tractor activity. On July 19, listen to the sounds of the Gas Pump Jockeys while perusing cars at the Cruise-In Car Show!Photo courtesy of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department
Two words: jazz and ribs — need we say more? This highly anticipated summertime event offers a little something for both jazz and rib connoisseurs, providing the Columbus area with the best of both. Plus, this unique festival is held along the Scioto Mile; this revitalized downtown riverfront provides the perfect location for hot ribs and cool jazz.