3 things to do in Cleveland in July

As recent sweltering temperatures have shown, summer is in full swing in Cleveland. There are countless ways to enjoy some of the city’s best offerings in the coming weeks, whether you need to step inside to cool down or want to soak up the sun (safely, of course).

The options can be overwhelming, so we pulled together three suggestions for members of the Case Western Reserve University community to explore CLE in July. 

Want to try even more? Check out the Destination Cleveland website.

July 4

Where better to watch fireworks on the Fourth of July than with a view of Lake Erie and Cleveland’s skyline? Light Up the Lake takes place Thursday, July 4, at sundown. The display will last 20 minutes and is visible from popular sites such as Settlers Landing, Flats East Bank, Superior Viaduct, Voinovich Bicentennial Park, Kirtland Park, Gordon Park, Edgewater Park and Whiskey Island.

Those who want the celebration to begin even earlier can stop by Voinovich Bicentennial Park for food trucks and entertainment beginning at 5 p.m. Learn more about the festivities.

Find out more about special experiences to see the display.

July 12–21

Before all eyes turn to Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games later this month, Cleveland will have a moment in the spotlight as the host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games July 12–21.

The games—a “celebration of health, vitality, friendship, and an active lifestyle at any age”—will bring thousands of masters-level athletes ages 30+ from around the world to The Land. Competitions will be held in 24 sports, including archery, pickleball, track and field, soccer, swimming, table tennis and more.

Members of the community can get in on the action as spectators at venues across the Greater Cleveland area. 

View a schedule of the competitions.

July 24–27

Whether you’re more drawn to comedy, poetry, dance, theater or a completely different form of performing arts, there’s something to entertain you during the Borderlight Theatre Festival. Held July 24–27, this four-day event is an innovative festival featuring performances, workshops, international touring productions and more to grow Cleveland’s arts and culture scene.

Considered a fringe festival, the event celebrates independent artists and companies that are on the edges of the mainstream. As a result, these diverse performances push the boundaries of what is expected in the arts and treat attendees to creative experiences.

Learn more about the festival and find out what to expect.