Once autumn is in full swing, it’s a great time of year to enjoy fall festivities in Akron. Maybe you already have a few favorites but are looking for new diversions.
The possibilities on this list will point you in the right direction.
1. Holiday Tree Festival
Wrap up fall in style and get ready to transition into winter by going to the Holiday Tree Festival. The 2016 event takes place from Nov. 19 through 27 at the John S. Knight Center. You can expect to see more than 200 beautifully decorated holiday trees.
Although admission is free, you can still contribute to a good cause. All proceeds from the Holiday Tree Festival go toward the Akron Children’s Hospital. That organization has been the festival’s beneficiary for more than three decades. Last year, the festivities raised $257,000 that went toward education, research, and patient care.
2. DeBord Halloween Festival
Happening this year at Hardesty Park on Oct. 8, the DeBord Halloween Festival will be celebrating its 21st year. It’s a free event that’s open to everyone, and costumes are encouraged.
What can you expect at this year’s spooky shindig? Past events have included outdoor film screenings, games, live bands, belly dancers, and jugglers. Although the event is free, bring some cash to support the local vendors if you see a cool item or a good bargain you don’t want to pass up.
3. The Global Village Festival of Greater Akron
This festival will help you appreciate Akron’s ethnic diversity, even if you were born and raised here. While celebrating international culture, you can visit vendors to shop for food and merchandise that has an international flair, get immersed in exhibits that excite and educate, and take part in activities that are fun and appropriate for all ages.
This year the festival takes place on Sept. 17 outside of Jennings Community Learning Center. Now in its fifth year, this free festival launched in 2012 after committed community members started planning ways to boost awareness of Akron’s international culture. Each celebration has had a theme, such as 2015’s Elegance in Freedom.
4. Akron Square Fest
Head to Highland Square on Sept. 10 this year to get involved in the Akron Square Fest. It’ll take place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., so it’s easy for you to come for a few hours during part of the day or stay for the entire event. The festival is free, and parking is easy thanks to complimentary street parking.
This year’s festival will feature live performances, children’s activities, and visual art. Also, if you’re still up for more fun after the main festival is over, stick around for the concert immediately afterward that goes until 9 p.m.
Akron has plenty to offer as far as fall festivals go. Make plans now to hop in the car and enjoy at least one of them.
