Photo of the sun setting on Cleveland's Edgewater Park with the skyline in the background

3 things to do in Cleveland in August

It’s not too late to enjoy summer on the North Coast. Outdoor events abound throughout the month of August, as temperatures remain warm in Cleveland.

With excitement building for the new academic year at Case Western Reserve later this month, we’ve put together some suggestions for how you can enjoy some local festivities, whether you’re new to the city or a lifelong Clevelander.

AIA Cleveland Sand Fest

Saturday, Aug. 6
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Edgewater Beach

Watch the sandy shores of Cleveland at Edgewater Beach transform during the annual AIA (American Institute of Architects) Cleveland Sand Fest. Put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic, the family-friendly AIA Cleveland Sand Fest returns this year for elaborate sand sculptures, beach volleyball and cornhole.

During the event, teams will create sculptures centered on the theme “All Opened Up & Everywhere To Go” as they vie for titles like “Best of the Beach.”

All proceeds from this event benefit AIA Cleveland’s ACE Mentor Program, an after-school program for Cleveland students to learn about engineering, architecture and construction.

Learn more about the AIA Cleveland Sand Fest.

Cuyahoga County Fair 

Tuesday, Aug. 9, to Sunday, Aug. 14
Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds (Berea)

Grab a funnel cake and celebrate 125 years of the Cuyahoga County Fair Aug. 9–14. The fair will feature food, rides, animals, exhibits, and grandstand events including a demolition derby, horse show and fireworks.

Horses, cattle, sheep, birds and rabbits will be among the animals shown during the fair. Also on display will be handicrafts, artiwork, photography, culinary items, antiques, hobby items and more. A Junior Fair for youth is part of the festivities.

Additionally, there will be a chance to meet actor Jerry O’Connell, who will host a game of Pictionary with fair attendees Saturday, Aug. 13, from 6 to 7 p.m. Pre-register to participate in the game.

Learn more about the fair and view the schedule.

Mission Botanica at the Holden Arboretum

Ongoing through Sept. 5

Go on an adventure at The Holden Arboretum and learn about biodiversity with Mission Botanica, a  special attraction taking place all month. Visitors to the arboretum can navigate through this maze with question-and-answer challenges to see highlighted plants and trees. The attraction will be open through Sept. 5.

While at The Holden Arboretum, check out the Kalberer Emergent Tower, Murch Canopy Walk and other attractions.

Admission to Mission Botanica is included with regular admission to the arboretum, which is $16 for adults, $12 for children 3-12 and free for those 2 and under.

Learn more about the Holden Arboretum and get tickets.