Sure, your hands might get sticky and your face might get covered in sauce, but Berea’s 20th National Rib Cook Off is worth the mess. Choose from more than a dozen contenders – think spots like Old Carolina Barbecue Company, Jack on the Bone and more – all trying to out-slab one another for your vote. And if that’s not enough, live music performances will provide a soundtrack to your meaty conquest throughout the three-day event. Hear music from country artists Gary West, Morgan White and The Stickers. The cook-off is also kid friendly, with activities such as rock climbing, mechanical bull riding and inflatables that will have you and the kids ready for a nap when you get home. $5. May 25 12 p.m. – 11 p.m., May 27-27 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Road, Berea, 440-234-5181, berearib.com
Rebel Force Radio: Solo in Ohio
Run to Playhouse Square at light speed for a live recording of Rebel Force Radio, a podcast dedicated to talking all things Star Wars. This episode will be about the latest installment of the ever-growing Star Wars Universe and the hosts’ thoughts on Solo: A Star Wars Story. Special guests will join hosts Jimmy Mac and Jason Swank as they spend the night discussing what they liked and disliked about the film along with fan theories and character analysis. $25. May 25 7:30 p.m., Kennedy’s Theatre, 1501 Euclid Ave., 216-771-4444, playhousesquare.org
Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefers
If you’re ready to cruise on through Margaritaville this summer, Jimmy Buffett is here to help. Set to perform with his band The Coral Reefers for his Son of a Son of a Sailor Tour, Buffett will make Blossom Music Center the epicenter of beach vibes, performing hits such as “Come Monday” and “Cheeseburger In Paradise.” Active since the mid ‘70s, this band’s tropical, laid-back music will transport you to the beach – and not just the beaches on Lake Erie. $70-$146. May 27 8 p.m., Blossom Music Center, 1145 W Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com
The Royale
Based on real events, this latest drama written by Marco Ramirez focuses on Heavyweight Champion Jay “The Sport,” Jackson and his attempts to prove his worth in the ring. Set in 1910, this play discusses race, equality and what it was like to live in Jim Crow America. The production is directed by Robert Barry Fleming, the associate artistic director of Cleveland Playhouse Square who’s written, directed and acted in prominent works such as L.A. Confidential. $25 - $105. May 5-27 Visit website for times, Outcalt Theater, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, clevelandplayhouse.com
Catch Meaning Music Fest
Dive deeper than just the bass lines and chorus at the third annual Catch Meaning Music Fest. With a focus on bringing new local indie talent to the spotlight, it started in 2016 as a way to remember Alex Doody and Josh Weil, two students at Hawken School who passed away in 2015, and to show the power of healing in music. The festival includes a diverse range of music from bands such as The Floozies, Ripe, Aaron Benjamin, The Vindys and more. Proceeds of the event will go to organizations that help young adults such as the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Cleveland. $26-$35. May 27 3 p.m. – 11 p.m., Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd, Cleveland,, 216-781- 7625, rockhall.com