What’s Happening in Downtown Akron?
Enjoy Downtown Akron with free and low-cost events, vibrant festivals, live music, local food, and more—something fun is happening every week for all ages.
Featured Upcoming Event
SHOP LOCAL Downtown Akron Holiday Promotion
We invite the community to celebrate and support local businesses through the SHOP LOCAL Downtown Akron Holiday Promotion. From early November through late December, visitors can pick up one of 1,000 Shop Local Pins at participating businesses and join in for a chance to win prizes. Keep an eye out for signage throughout downtown and follow DAP on Facebook for the latest updates!
- November 1 - December 31, 2025
Upcoming Events
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All Events in Downtown Akron
Downtown Akron is alive with events, culture, and entertainment all year long. From family outings and live performances to art shows and local festivals, there’s always something to see and do.
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SHOP LOCAL Downtown Akron Holiday Promotion
We invite the community to celebrate and support local businesses through the SHOP LOCAL Downtown Akron Holiday Promotion. From early November through late December, visitors can pick up one of 1,000 Shop Local Pins at participating businesses and join in for a chance to win prizes. Keep an eye out for signage throughout downtown and follow DAP on Facebook for the latest updates!
- November 1 - December 31, 2025
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Myers School of Art Holiday Shop
Dec 4: 10am - 7pm | Dec 5: 10am - 5pm Shop for handmade art, crafts, jewelry, pottery, and much more created by the students and faculty of The University of Akron Myers School of Art's annual Holiday Shop.
- December 4 - 5
- Free!
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45th Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show at E.J. Thomas
Dec 5: 12pm - 7pm | Dec 6: 10am -6pm | Dec 7: 10am - 4pm | Featuring 110 artists and craftspeople...many of them local favorites
- December 5 - 7
- $5 general admission
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Akron Arts and Crafts Market
Come support over 50 local, handmade and boutique businesses! All vendors will be setup downstairs at John S Knight Center.
- Saturday, December 6, 2025
- 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
- 3
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720 DEC MKT Shopping Party
With over 130 local makers, bakers, brewers, and growers, you’ll enjoy a unique shopping experience and find everything you need for the holiday season.
- Sunday, December 7, 2025
- 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
- 9am Early Bird: $10 / 10:30am General Admission: $5
There’s Always
Something Fun
Happening!
Even without a festival or concert, Downtown Akron stays lively with something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family outing or looking for things to do in Akron at night, you’ll find art, music, food, and fun around every corner.
Downtown Akron Fall Guide
Living in Northeast Ohio means enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons. Looking for ways to make the most of autumn in downtown Akron? Check out our guide to plan the perfect fall day.
DORA: Sip While You Stroll
Enjoy your favorite drink while taking in all downtown Akron has to offer! In the area’s largest Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), you can carry up to 16 ounces of an open alcoholic beverage between participating bars, restaurants, and venues.
Where To Park
Downtown Akron provides a variety of convenient parking options including meters, public surface lots, and parking decks—just steps from your favorite attractions.
Things to Do in Downtown Akron
Explore arts, entertainment, sports, and outdoor fun—all within walking distance.
Canal Park Stadium
Catch an Akron RubberDucks game and enjoy fireworks, theme nights, and fun for the whole family.
Akron Art Museum
Explore modern and contemporary art exhibits in a stunning downtown space with free community programs.
Lock 3
Enjoy free concerts, festivals, food trucks, and seasonal activities in the heart of Downtown Akron.
The Towpath Trail
Walk, bike, or run through scenic views and historic canalways connecting Akron to the great outdoors.
Akron Civic Theatre
This historic theatre hosts live music, comedy, and more under a twinkling ceiling in a Moorish-style setting.
Eat & Drink Downtown
From quick bites to fine dining, Downtown Akron offers 50+ spots with flavor, variety, and great atmosphere. Visit this page to view Downtown Akron restaurant specials and happy hours.
Never Miss a Downtown Moment
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