Opera at the Italian Garden
Take in the tastes and sounds of Italy while surrounded by the stunning Renaissance architecture of the Italian Cultural Garden. Listen to Cleveland Opera and the Cleveland Ballet members perform Andrea Bocelli favorites in front of a crowd that’s expected to reach more than 2,000. Indulge in free wine tastings, wood-fired pizza and gelato or pack your own picnic feast while the music takes you away to Italy. Free, July 30, 6-7:30 p.m., 990 East Blvd., Cleveland, clevelandculturalgardens.org
Clean Transportation Cruise-In
The Prius isn’t the only green car out there. Head to Edgewater Park this Friday to check out the latest eco-friendly, alternative-fuel rides, from Segways to motorcycles to full-size cars. There’s even the chance to test-drive a vehicle from Midwest Evolve. Although alt-fuel vehicles may be the way of the future, you can also partake in classic cruise-in activities like live music, kids’ games and food trucks. Proceeds benefit the Earth Day Coalition. Free, July 28, 4-9 p.m., 6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland, earthdaycoalition.org
Katz and Cocktails: Paint Night
Alex Katz’s work influenced the pop art movement, and now, you can bring some of that pizazz to the canvas. Got jitters about stepping up to the easel? Teaching artists offer an assist as they coach you through creating a work inspired by Katz’s impactful collection of landscapes, portraits and still lifes on display in the Cleveland Museum of Art’s Brand-New & Terrific: Alex Katz in the 1950s exhibit (the last day to view it is Aug. 6). Plus, there’s always liquid encouragement waiting for you at the bar. $30-45, July 28, 6-8:30 p.m., 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, clevelandart.org
Cabaret Cleveland
Step into an elegant, intimate downtown venue and back in time. At The 9’s Alex Theater this Friday, sit back in the theater’s posh, plush seats and watch retro singers and dancers from an original Cleveland dance company bring the ‘40s and ‘50s back to life. $25-140, July 28, 7:30-8:30 p.m., 2017 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, alextheatercleveland.com
Kent PotterFest
With a little planning and lots of magic, Kent becomes a wizard world this Saturday. Kent’s cobblestone Acorn Alley is transformed into Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series. The Forbidden Forest takes the place of the community garden and Gringotts goblins move into the Hometown Bank Plaza. Catch a ride on the Hogwarts Express or flock to local businesses for theme treats and games. Although events like costume contests, magic shows and potion classes are free, don’t forget to pack some cash (with your wand) for the wizard rock concert, featuring bands Blibbering Humdingers and Muggle Snuggle, and other events. Free, July 29, noon-9 p.m., 138 E. Main St., Kent, mainstreetkent.org