Lock 3 is located next to the Akron Civic Theatre on Main Street downtown and is Akron's home for family-fun entertainment throughout the year. 

Since its opening in 2003, Lock 3 has hosted more than 2 million visitors. From May through September, Lock 3 features weekend concerts under the open skies. Akron's biggest festivals, a large number of community events and the City of Akron's official 4th of July fireworks display are hosted right here in Lock 3. 

Winter is also a blast at Lock 3, with a host of attractions including Ohio's largest seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink, ice bumper cars, polar putt-putt and more. Winter at Lock 3 kicks off with the Welcome Santa Parade, followed by the lighting of the City's tree and fireworks. The winter activities are located under the State St bridge, next to Canal Park Stadium.

Local non-profit organizations can apply to host a 5K, yoga session, or other unique activities in the heart of downtown Akron. 

Future of Lock 3

Lock 3 began as a pop-up concert venue along Akron’s Main Street. Over the years, it has evolved and now is known across the City as Akron’s ‘Central Park’. It is time to reinvest into Lock 3 and make it a permanent space for all Akronites to enjoy. 

The Lock 3 Vision Plan is a critical component of the resident-led Akron Civic Commons 2.0 project. The plan is to build on the success of Lock 3 Park as an event, concert, and festival space and develop a year-round park that is a destination for residents, guests, hikers, and bicyclists along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 
After listening to residents on what they want to see in Lock 3’s future, the City of Akron, in partnership with Akron Civic Commons and the Knight Foundation, has developed a plan that will include:

• Shaded seating
• Landscaped gardens 
• Artwork 
• Skating areas 
• A world-class performance pavilion