11 Things to Do This Weekend in Cleveland: Nov. 17-20

Cheer on the Cleveland Cavaliers, see the lights at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, jam out for a cause at Happy Dog and more this weekend in The Land. 

by Anthony Elder | Nov. 16, 2022 | 1:00 PM

Courtesy Erik Drost via Flickr

Courtesy Erik Drost via Flickr

Cats at KeyBank State Theatre
The classic musical boasts a revamped form with an updated sound design and choreography. Move on from the viral sideshow that was the 2019 film and experience Cats the traditional way, in the fur-adorned flesh. $20-$100, through Nov. 20, various times, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesqusre.org

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Charlotte Hornets at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse
The season goes on this weekend as the Cavs go toe-to-toe with the Hornets. As the weather gets colder, there aren’t many better ways to have fun indoors in The Land. This weekend’s game boasts Salute to Service night. Tickets starting at $21, Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m., 1 Center Court, Cleveland, nba.com/cavaliers

Crocker Park Tree Lighting at Crocker Park
The first hints of snow flicker through the air and Santa’s sleigh bells sound closer by the day. Gather up the family for an evening of holiday lights, cheer, music and more at Crocker Park for its annual Tree Lighting — festivities range from dance performances to the exciting final countdown with Santa. Free, Nov. 19, 12-9 p.m., 177 Market St., Westlake, crockerpark.com

Fall Fest at Tower City Center
Yes, Christmas comes earlier every year. But we still love and honor fall here in The Land. This weekend, head to Tower City for an autumnal bash, featuring stilt walkers, costumed figures, music and more in Skylight Park. Don’t miss the pumpkin-themed games and crafts between parades. Free, Nov. 19, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland, towercitycenter.com 

J.B. Smoove at the Agora Theater & Ballroom
The actor and comedy icon known for his hit roles like Leon on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm graces the Agora as part of his Physical Therapy Tour. Catch the comic in the recently released Netflix original series, Blockbuster. Tickets starting at $38, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., 5000 Euclid Ave. #101, Cleveland, agoracleveland.com

Lorna Shore at House of Blues
For fans of demonic wails, malevolent guitar work and chaotic crowds, don’t miss Lorna Shore this weekend alongside a vicious lineup, including Ingested, Angel Maker and Aborted. Metal-head Clevelanders should feel right at home. $22.50-$35.50, Nov. 17, 6 p.m., 308 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, houseofblues.com/cleveland

Panza Foundation Benefit Concert at Happy Dog
Support local, independent music this weekend with cereal-covered hot dogs and the tasty tunes of Marcus Alan Ward, Biitchseat and members of Oregon Space Trail of Doom. The annual raffle boasts $3,000 worth of music gear and other goodies. $10, Nov. 19, 7-11:30 p.m., 5801 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, eventbrite.com

Royal Comedy Tour at Playhouse Square
Head downtown for a star-studded night of comedy at KeyBank State Theatre. The Royal Comedy Tour includes the comic chops of Bruce Bruce, Sommore, Lavell Crawford and Ali Sadiq. Grab a drink and get ready for a laugh-filled evening. $61-$127, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

Third Fridays Art Walk at 78th Street Studios
Explore four levels of unique galleries, studios and performances at this free showcase. Perfect for a date night, the event often hosts food trucks, musicians and pop-up stores, making for a well-rounded evening of art and exploration. Free, Nov. 18, 5 p.m., 1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland, 78thstreetstudios.com 

Twinkle in the 216 at the Cleveland Botanical Garden
Bask in the star-like holiday lights entwined in the gardens and greenhouses. The exhibit celebrates Cleveland with vignettes of local architecture and seasonal décor running through beautifully lit trails, handmade gingerbread houses and more. Free-$19, Nov. 19-Dec. 31, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, holdenfg.org

Wild Winter Lights at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Lights dance across the zoo in this festive seasonal display filled with holiday cheer. Exploring the grounds takes you through giant illuminated gifts, by glowing trees and under shooting stars that arch over the walkways. $19-$75, through Dec. 30, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, clevelandmetroparks.com

Get ahead of the weekend by signing up for our free weekly “In the CLE” newsletter — your guide to fun throughout The Land. Arriving in your inbox every Wednesday, this weekend to-do list fills you in on everything from concerts to museum exhibits — and more. Click here to subscribe.

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