Akron Recreation & Parks Announces 2022 Summer Schedule

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Akron Arts Expo, Taste of Akron, Summer Camps, Fitness Classes, and More

City of Akron Press Release
From the desk of City of Akron Press Office
Published: 05-03-2022

Akron, Ohio, May 3, 2022 — The City of Akron’s Recreation & Parks division is excited to announce another summer of no-cost and low-cost programming. From live musical acts throughout neighborhood parks and summer camps for kids of all ages to pools and splash pads, the City of Akron offers opportunities for everyone to enjoy the summer season!

"The line-up of events and activities prepared for this summer offers something for all ages and interests," said Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan. "Whether you're looking to cool off in a city pool, enjoy some live music, or bring your kids to camp, Recreation and Parks has something for you. These no-cost and low-cost programming options are so important to our residents, and we want to spread the word so everyone is aware of these awesome opportunities close to home all summer long."

Akron Arts Expo will be returning for its 43rd year at Hardesty Park on July 23 and 24, featuring over 100 juried artists from around the country. Also returning to Hardesty Park on July 21 is the Taste of Akron, a culinary event where visitors can sample foods from a variety of local restaurants and food trucks.

The Recreation & Parks division offers youth summer camps at most of its community center locations. Providing both day-long care and hands-on content, camp offerings range from week-long themed camps for $40 to summer-long, eight-week programs for $250. Visit www.AkronRecreationandParks.com to see a complete list of summer camp offerings and to register.

This summer, we are excited to bring no-cost health and wellness classes to our local parks. Fitness in the Parks will begin in June with free classes led by Recreation & Parks fitness instructors. These classes will include Tai Chi Easy, Pilates, and Yoga at various locations throughout the summer. In addition to Fitness in the Parks, Leisure Rider bike rides will take place on the first Friday of each month from July-October beginning at 6:30pm. These rides are for riders both new and experienced, with starting locations and routes announced on the City of Akron Recreation & Parks’ website.

City of Akron swimming pools will also be free and open to the public from June 6 through August 20. The city operates two outdoor swimming pools – at Perkins Park (899 Diagonal Rd. 44320) and Reservoir Park (1735 Hillside Terrace 44305). There is no cost for entry, but visitors must register for a free Open Swim membership by clicking here. Pools are open Monday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult when visiting the pool.

Finally, Recreation & Parks’ Concerts in The Parks series is returning to neighborhood parks throughout the city! These free concerts are offered every night of the week in rotating city parks during the summer. Cancelations due to inclement weather will be posted on the Recreation and Parks Facebook and website. This year, concerts will take place on the following days and times:

June 6 – July 1 (from 7:00-9:00pm)

Mondays – Hardesty Park (1615 W Market St. 44313)

Tuesdays – Firestone Park Community Center (1480 Girard St. 44301)

Wednesdays – Shadyside Park (1240 Kenmore Blvd. 44314)

Thursdays – Patterson Park (800 Patterson Ave. 44310)

Fridays – Reservoir Park (1735 Hillside Terrace 44305)

July 5 – August 5 (from 7:00-9:00pm)

Mondays – Lawton Street Community Center (1225 Lawton St. 44320)

Tuesdays – Joy Park Community Center (825 Fuller St. 44306)

Wednesdays – Summit Lake Community Center (380 Crosier St, 44311)

Thursdays – Balch Street Fitness Center (220 S Balch St. 44302)

Fridays – Ellet Community Center (2449 Wedgewood Dr. 44312)