Chalk the sidewalks
The sidewalks surrounding Wade Lagoon in University Circle become canvases for the community at the Cleveland Museum of Art’s annual Chalk Festival. Walk along the works of professional chalk artists or purchase a square of pavement (chalk pastels included) and create your own masterpiece. All ages and artistic abilities are invited to participate rain or shine Saturday and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m.
Light up Lorain
Downtown Lorain becomes a stage for music, art and dance during the 10th annual FireFish Festival. An artisan market lines Broadway Avenue while street performances pop up in unexpected places. A community parade led by fire dancers and jugglers begins at dusk and concludes with the traditional burning of the FireFish sculpture on the banks of the Black River. Join in the fun Saturday from 4-10 p.m.
‘Titan’ in Akron
The Akron Symphony tackles Gustav Mahler’s “Titan” Saturday to kick off its 72nd season at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. with Brahms’ “Academic Festival Overture,” continues with Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto and culminates with Mahler’s sweeping debut symphony.
Books & Blooms
Readers, writers and gardeners can come together for Books & Blooms at the Cleveland Botanical Garden. Discover your next great read by perusing local vendors, join in creative writing activities, participate in a community book swap or enjoy silent reading time in the gardens. Stop by Saturday, 6-9 p.m., or Sunday, noon – 5 p.m.
Birding on the beach
As birds prepare to migrate south for the fall, birders can migrate to Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor for the Headlands Birding Festival Friday – Sunday. Join bird experts for a hike around Mentor Marsh, Headlands Dunes and other nearby parks, and attend presentations on identification and migration patterns. There are also local artisans, food trucks and a keynote address from nature writer, painter and former All Things Considered commentator Julie Zickefoose.
