Series: Local bands, from bluegrass to rock to reggae, perform in University Circle's Wade Oval. Music: Bands include Mary's Lane and Nick Tolford and Co. Extras: Stay for a free movie on special nights — Frozen July 9 and tentatively Draft Day Aug. 13. Why go: "The experience is multicultural, it's multi-institutional, it's all local," says Chris Ronayne, University Circle Inc. president.
Series: National tribute bands at Akron's Lock 3 play familiar tunes. (Tribute bands are free, while Saturday nights with national acts can cost up to $10.) Music: Bands include Almost Queen, a tribute to Queen, Aug. 15. Extras: Enter a cornhole tournament (for a fee), from June 6 until Aug. 8, for a chance to win $1,000. Why go: "It's very family-friendly,"says Maria Nagel, Lock 3 marketing director.
Series: Enjoy diverse national and local acts chosen by Lisa Vinciquerra, production manager for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Music: College-radio acts perform, such as guitar-wielding blues-rocker Reignwolf July 23. Extras: Concessions, food trucks from local restaurants and alcoholic beverages. Why go: "To be exposed to bands [you] may not have heard of," says Vinciquerra.
