Things to do

Make reading fun this summer. Children and teens — and their parents — can participate in their local library's summer reading program. We provide a list of some of the region's program offerings. Need books? We have a few to explore to put on your summer reading list, thanks to recommendations from local libraries. ...

Tickets are on sale for this new summer evening event with a 3-D projection show as its centerpiece. The night events take place between Aug. 17-Sept. 17. Guests can also enjoy the lighted gardens and grounds, as well as music and refreshments throughout the Akron estate. ...

Come summertime, many families want to leave their kitchens behind in favor of an outdoor meal so they can enjoy the weather. The problem is that it isn’t always apparent which restaurants are kid-friendly — and whether or not there’s a patio to enjoy the weather. Here are some local restaurants where everyone will enjoy the food, interesting atmosphere and family. ...

Prepare for another fun-filled summer, as Northeast Ohio Parent's event series — Crocker Kids, Eton Explorers and Fun at First & Main — return with free, family-friendly entertainment this year. The monthly events at each venue will carry a different adventurous theme and will feature interactive activities targeted for kids ages 2 to 9. Save the dates to make your family's summer the best yet! ...

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is inviting guests to take a closer look at Cleveland’s Cuyahoga River from its family-friendly River Hut thanks to support from Cleveland Clinic Children’s. Weather permitting, the hut will be open weekends through Labor Day and will offer insight into history and ecology of the Cuyahoga River. ...

When you walk into the store, are you quickly reminded of all the things dad does not need this Father’s Day? Cologne or another quirky tie? Instead of taking a trek to the store, perhaps it's time to take him on an adventure that he will love. Northeast Ohio offers plenty of options for golfers, gamers, outdoor enthusiasts and more. ...

The Ohio State Park Lodges and Conference Centers at Punderson Manor, Mohican, Deer Creek, Salt Fork and Maumee Bay are offering summer-vacation-bound travelers a third night free to enjoy the state park of their choice. Whether your family wants to fish in Lake Erie, paddle-board in Deer Creek Lake, or canoe down the Mohican River, there’s a state park waiting. ...

The Fun at First & Main summer event series launches next Wednesday, June 7 with Crafty Kids. Registration is open for this free, family-friendly event held at First & Main in Hudson and presented by Akron Children's Hospital. In addition to crafts and many activities, the event includes rock painting with Northeast Ohio Rocks, custom balloon creations by the Twister Girl Balloon Company, face painting by 5 Star Talent, and much more. 95.5 The Fish also will be on site with music and entertainment. ...

Honor those who have sacrificed for our country by attending one of the many ceremonies and events taking place throughout Memorial Day weekend in Northeast Ohio. From parades, speeches and cemetery services to special concerts and community events, there are plenty of options to help your family commemorate the holiday. ...

Today marks the start of Mentor Public Library's teen art contest. Students in seventh through 12th grades are invited to enter any work of art that goes along with the theme of the library's summer reading program, "Build a Better World." The artwork will be on display at the library’s Main Branch this summer, and the winning artist will earn a prize. ...