The last time you went to a parade you were like, what, eight years old? Parade the Circle is totally different from anything you remember, as it is a completely striking celebration of the arts. For nearly three decades, the Cleveland Museum of Art has thrown this event, which is one of the most colorful, lively and eclectic summer celebrations just outside of its grounds on Wade Oval, the sweeping, green pedestrian mall that serves as the literal and spiritual center of the arts district.
What To Do There:
- Just look around. You needn't do much else. The parade is a mash-up of cultures and styles and themes, which usually translates into a lively and colorful display of costumes, dancing, puppets (some of which are absolutely enormous), masks, stilt-walkers and eye-catching floats. The main rule? No motorized vehicles or signage is permitted during the event - art only. Anything you see could've been made by a professional artist, or a creative local resident ... but everything you see will command your attention.
What Else to Do:
- This is not the kind of parade you watch pass by and then walk away. Parade the Circle is a day-long event that also sees the Wade Oval turn into what organizers call "Circle Village," which resembles a European outdoor market with vendors, food, kids' activities and, yes, beer. Huzzah!
Tips for Attending:
- As the city's signature summer arts event, these guys don't mess around: Parade the Circle goes off, every year, rain or shine. The artists, performers, vendors and organizers will be there whether you're worried about getting wet or not. So if you're planning on attending, but hesitate at the first sign of clouds ... keep going.